​Finding a quote for hundreds or thousands less for your project might sound like a great deal, but the reality is, you’re risking more than it’s worth. According to the Better Business Bureau, “hiring an unlicensed contractor is too great for homeowners.” ​
​You might be thinking, but my friend does great work, he just doesn’t to pay all those extra costs like workers compensation Insurance, liability insurance, or bonds to protect their work. But that’s the problem, without these insurances and protections, homeowners and business owners are at risk. Here’s why:

​·      Injury Protection: This is probably the scariest thing to consider. If you hire an unlicensed contractor, you essentially become the employer and therefore are liable for any injuries or accidents that might occur during the construction job. You are no responsible for the medical bills and other potential expenses related to the injury. With a licensed contractor, you are released of this liability.
·      Third Party Liability: Just like in the case of on-the-job injuries, you become responsible for any problems or damage incurred by your unlicensed contractor that may occur during the construction process. For example, let’s say your unlicensed contractor is building an awning and is negligent in his work and smashes a neighbor’s window, drops a hammer on his car, or accidently conducts some other random act of mayhem; well guess what, you’re now responsible for the costs associated with repairing the damage.
·      Property Value Protection: This is something you should truly keep in mind.  You want to be sure that your construction project adds value to your home and doesn’t take away from it or cause you problems down the road. So what does that mean? Let’s say you used an unlicensed contractor and he/she didn’t apply for the right permits, didn’t keep up to code with the project, and the right paperwork wasn’t filed with your city, well guess what? You’re now liable for any work that has to be re-done and your property value can be affected.
·      Knowledge & Experience: When you hire an unlicensed contractor, that means he/she may not have the experience a licensed one does. For example, a licensed contractor is required to participate in arbitration hearings if there is a dispute, according to the Better Business Bureau. Also, a licensed contractor has knowledge and experience that he’s studied for and obtained his credentials with. 

​​As you can see, the risks and costs that you become liable for when hiring an unlicensed contractor are very high. Why risk paying thousands more and possible penalties or fees? Hiring a licensed contractor gives you peace of mind and the knowledge that your project is being handled by a professional. 

​Now that you know a little more about why you should hire a licensed contractor, let us know how we can help you with your next shade structure project. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. (Our California Contractors License is #999050). Or give us a call at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​When it comes to your business or home, doing any kind of exterior construction often requires a permit; especially if you occupy a commercial space. So, what does this mean? 

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If you own a restaurant, store, or other business, this means you need to apply for a permit to construct and install an awning or other shade structure like a canopy. Before you do anything, check with your city to see which department you must contact to obtain all the right documents and application materials. 

​In fact, here’s a quick list of basic things you should know or do when it comes to awning installation and permits:
 
·      Contact your City: Find out which department handles construction permits; not every city uses the same department for this process.
·      Plans: Be sure you have your plans ready and perfected. Without these, you don’t have much of a project. Your plans should at least include the dimensions of your project, type, color, materials, timeline, and a budget.
·      Gather Application Materials: Once you’ve found out the right department to contact, gather all the necessary documents and papers and read them. Thoroughly go through the city’s requirements for your application and be sure you are prepared!
·      Consult a Professional: At the end of the day, you can always save yourself the headache and consult an awning professional like American Awning & Blind Co. who will handle the rendering of your designs and the permitting process for you! 

​Awning installation/construction involves more than just the steps described above; those are just the basics. That’s why doing your homework and learning about the awning construction procedure could save you time, stress, and money. Remember, you can always rely on a professional to handle the whole process for you. At American Awning & Blind Co., that’s what we do, from rending, permitting, to installation, we’re here to help you with your project. 

​Now that you know a little more about awnings and the construction and permitting process talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​We all know about awnings and patio covers. We know that these shade structures provide energy savings and the ability to expand your lounge or dining areas. But, what about shade sails? What are these and how can you use them?

​​Shade sails are visually stunning, creative structures that you will see used on commercial buildings restaurants, or as standalone shade structures at parks, and other open areas. The material of a shade sail is made of specialty fabrics like polyester, vinyl, and acrylics. The textiles are shaped in the form of a sail – like on a boat – and that’s when the fun starts. 

​​The sails can be layered, crossed over, zig-zagged, and designed into a beautiful structure that is eye catching. (As you can see from the pictures, shade sails are versatile). Using poles and tension, shade sails can be created with various colors and patterns. So, if you’re putting one up on a playground, you can use a ladybug color theme, or even a customized pattern that kids will love. 

​Shade sails are also great for restaurants and businesses who want to add a level of class and flare that others don’t have. The sails can really set your business apart with the layered creativity of an architectural piece you create with these shade pieces.
 
Shade sails are also great for parking lots. You might see these covering parking spaces at various locations. In fact, shade sails are great for rooftop parking lots because they add an extra layer of architectural design to your building, not to mention value. 

​Now that you know a little more about shade sails, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​Summer is coming! The heat is near! So, how can you save on energy costs for your home or business? The answer is simple: use a shade structure like an awning, shade sail, drop screens, or patio covers.
 
So, how do awnings and the various types of shade structures actually help reduce your energy bills in the summer? Well it’s pretty straight forward: shade reduces heat and that means the load on your air conditioning unit is less. Your electric/energy bill won’t be as high because you’re using shade to help reduce solar heat gain on your home, office, restaurant, or other business.

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In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy states that window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65 percent on south-facing windows and a whopping 77 percent on west-facing windows! That means your family, your customers, and your guests are staying cooler without the need to crank up the a/c.

​​An awning’s uses are versatile and the shade it provides, the beauty, and added value are just a few of the benefits of this shade structure. In fact, awnings can also save up to $200 a year on air condition costs for many homes, according to the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association. Now imagine what an awning can do for a business like a restaurant or clothing store?

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​The shade an awning provide also helps protect the interior of your home or business as well. Remember, UV rays and sunlight can degrade fabric colors on couches and other materials. So, remember, when you’re thinking of an awning, just keep in mind that it’s not just an energy saver, but a great way to keep things protected from the harmful rays of the sun. 

​Now that you know a little more about energy saving awnings, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​The concept of an awning is old. Since the days of the ancient Egyptians, the idea of this shade structure has changed, evolved, and developed into various types, forms, and sizes.
 
When awnings were first used, they were woven mats that shaded market stalls and dwellings. During the Roman Empire, large retractable awnings shaded amphitheaters and stadiums like the Coliseum. The construction and materials of early awnings were simple. Often, wood or cast-iron posts were used as the frame and canvas was the fabric used as the shade material. Over time, the construction and materials used in awnings developed and new fabrics like polyester and acrylics were used. 

​Awnings also became more versatile and we began to see operable awnings in the second half of the 19th century, according to an article by Chad Randl which was published by the National Park Service. Roller awnings became available and the use of patterned and striped fabrics became more common.
 
By the 20th century, awnings became more focused on improvements in operation as well as customizing configurations to accommodate store-fronts. In fact, during this period, folding-arm and lateral arm awnings were developed and this helped to advance the versatility of the product.

​Today, awnings come in a variety of shapes, sizes and textiles. They have come a long way from the days of woven mats and cast-iron posts. Aluminum, steel, plastics, and other materials are used for awning posts. Fabrics are now coated with various UV ray, mold and mildew resistant chemicals. Awnings are also motorized and can be customized.
 
So, what’s the future of the awning? Down the road, we will start to see the incorporation of technology into our shade structures. We will see the use of solar films – today we have solar panels – and awnings will also evolve with technological advances like new motorized systems, automated functions, and more. The fabrics used in awnings are also set to develop further with new coatings being developed.
 
The awning industry is always developing and seeing how far this shade structure has evolved since the days of the Coliseum, is amazing. 

​Now that you know a little more about awnings talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​Awnings are made of various parts and one of the most important components is the fabric of the shade structure. The textile an awning is made from is a specialty fabric that is coated and designed to withstand the elements. Choosing the right awning textile takes time and consideration.

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​To start off, awning fabrics come in a variety of types including but not limited to acrylics, canvas, vinyl, and polyvinyl. Your awning fabric selection is also dependent on your environment – rainy, sunny, snowy. If you live in an area where there is a lot of rain, you will want a fabric that is coated with water repellents and is naturally water resistant like an acrylic textile. 

​If you live in a sunny area with little rain, then using a vinyl composite or plain vinyl option is viable as well. Vinyl is cost efficient and is waterproof. This is a common textile used in awning construction and is also inherently fire retardant. 

​​If you’re thinking about using something sturdy like a metal, that’s also an option as well. Some awnings can be created using metal, but this is not something you often see. Metal awnings are big and might be good for commercial use but keep in mind, these are costly and take a lot of maintenance to help keep it from rusting.

​​The important thing to remember is that awning fabrics are designed to repel water, be uv ray resistant, mold and mildew resistant, and tear resistant among other features. Also, keep in mind that not all awning fabrics are created equally. That’s why doing your research, understanding both your operating and weather environment – whether it’s for business, office, or home or rain or shine – and consulting a professional is an important step in choosing the right awning fabric. 

​Now that you know a little more about awning fabrics, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​Ultraviolet rays can be harmful and protecting yourself against them involves more than just putting on sunscreen or wearing long sleeves and hats. In fact, we often forget that UV rays not only effect human beings, but also objects and fabrics.
 
For homeowners and businesses, this translates into faded textiles and other fabric damage resulting from sunlight. That’s why when it comes to an awning, UV ray resistance is a must. But, what does this really mean? 

​To begin with, awnings that are made with quality textiles are typically UV ray resistant. This means that not only does your awning provide shade and an extended outdoor area, it also provides protection for the interior of your home, your backyard furniture, and your family or patrons.
 
So, what does UV ray resistance mean? Technically, it means that the fabric is able to repel the sun’s harmful rays. This means that the fabric, like sunscreen, blocks out the UV rays that would normally come through. Your awning’s ability to repel those rays also means it’s fabric is strong and can last longer than things like basic cotton or canvas. 

​So, what should you look for when you’re thinking about installing or purchasing a UV ray resistant awning? Here’s a quick list:
 
·      Quality of the Fabric: Make sure you find an installer that understand the different types of textiles available and that you get the one that fits your needs and includes UV ray resistance.
·      Color: Think about the color your going to use and ask your installer if using opaque or other neutral colors is okay when it comes to UV ray resistance. (Typically, well-made opaque fabrics are UV ray resistant).
·      Warranty: Make sure your fabric has a warranty.
·      Strength/Tear Resistance: Make sure your fabric is strong and tear resistant. Holes and other tears can let sunlight through and UV rays.

​Remember, always inspect your awning to be sure there is no damage, rips, tears, or other problems like fading. Also, keep in mind that you can always talk to your local professional awning installer about your awning and what features – like UV ray resistance – you should have when it comes to installing a shade structure.
 
Now that you know a little more about UV ray resistance and your awning, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​​Shade structures come in various shapes, sizes, and types. The most common and probably one of the oldest types is the awning. In its simplest construction, an awning is simply a piece of fabric held up by a frame used to provide shade. But, what are some awning facts that you should know, especially if you’re considering installing one for your business or home?

​Here’s a quick list of some useful awning facts:
 
·      Various Types: Awnings come in various types including but not limited to retractable, fixed, and temporary.
·      Different Frames: Awning frames come in different types including steel, aluminum, wood, and even hard plastics.
·      Specialty Fabrics: The textile of an awning is special and designed with several features including mold and mildew resistance, tear resistance, and more. (Check with your awning installer about the different textiles on the market you can choose from).
·      UV Ray Resistant: This is an important quality of an awning; protection from the harmful rays of the sun is essential and can help keep your customers or family safe from skin damage. 

​·      Extension of your Outdoor Area: Awnings extend your outdoor dining area and your revenue generating seats. Awnings also extend lounge areas and space in backyards and places like hotels, shops, and other businesses.
·      Fabric Replacement: The textile of your awning is replaceable. In fact, many awning owners don’t realize they do not have to replace the whole awning if the frame is still in good condition. (Ask your local professional awning installer about fabric replacement and have them inspect your shade structure to see if you can choose this option).
·      Modified: Awnings can be modified with drop screens, outdoor curtains, and enclosures to create an outdoor space for diners or for your family. 

​​Awnings have been around since ancient Egyptian times when they were used to shade crowds and provide relief from the harsh desert sun. Since then, awnings have evolved and include various colors, shapes, styles, and sizes that you can choose from. You can even specially engineer an awning to suit your taste. 

​Now that you know a little more about awnings, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​Awnings are a great way to spruce up and add value to your building. Here’s a quick look at what you should know when it comes to an awning for your home or business:

Awnings for Business:
 
·      Bigger: Awnings for your business tend to be larger simply because the shaded area is larger than your average home’s front or backyard.
·      Expands Dining or Lounge Area: For restaurants, awnings can expand the footprint of your business and create revenue generating space. This is a great way to invest in your business and see a return on that money. For businesses that don’t offer dining experiences, you can expand your lounging area and offer guests an outdoor experience. 

​·      Can be Modified with Curtains & Enclosures: Drop screens, curtains, vinyl enclosures, and other types of modifications can be made to your business’ awning. Enclosures can offer outdoor guests and diners protection from inclement weather. Curtains and drop screens also offer added shade and protection from the sun. Modifications to your awning can add a level of class that your competition might not have.
·      Graphic Printing: Using a logo or other graphic printed on your awning is a great way to advertise your business without buying ad spots in newspapers, radio, or television commercials. In fact, graphic printing on your awning is a great way to attract foot and car traffic.
·      Added Visibility: An awning can be a stunning visual experience that can make your business visible from afar. Visibility is a key component in attracting customers to your business. (Think of those awnings that incorporate design elements, like layers, curves, colors, and shapes; how much more are you going to notice something like that versus a business with just a marquee sign?). 

​Awnings for Home:
 
·      Smaller: Awnings for your home tend to be smaller than for businesses because the coverage area is much less.
·      Expands Backyard Lounging Area: An awning can expand your backyard lounge area and allow you some creative space. You can add chairs, dining tables, couches, and other fun things you and your family can enjoy.
·      Can be Modified with Drop Screens: You can add drop screens and curtains to give your backyard awning area a more intimate, enclosed feel. It’s like creating an outdoor room.
·      Adds Value: An awning, when kept up and maintained, can add value to your home. It’s an investment that also protects and shades your home and can help you save on cooling costs in the summer by reducing your home’s solar heat gain. 

​Now that you know the differences between home and business awnings, talk to your local professional about installing one today. For more information about awnings, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com. 

​When it comes to your awning and replacing it, you should know that you have the money-saving option of just replacing the structure’s fabric. In fact, this is a common way that most homeowners and businesses can extend the life of their shade structure. 

​But, what does awning fabric replacement even mean? For starters, it’s as simple as it sounds. Here’s a quick list of what you really need to know:
 
·      Frame: As long as the frame of your awning is in good working order and not rusted to uselessness, you can keep it! This means that you don’t have to replace it and can save some money. You can also have the frame restored with a new coat of paint and new parts like screws and connectors. Remember, always inspect your frame for any problems so you can fix them before they get out of hand. 
·      Fabric: The fabric of your awning is inevitably the first thing that gets worn. Remember, it’s outside 24-hours a day, seven-days a week. This means, after a few years, the fabric will lose its color, can get damaged by debris or the weather, and can tear. That’s why it’s important you inspect it often and make sure that you clean it. The fabric of your awning is a specialty textile and is designed to last but, like most things and time, it will deteriorate. 
·      How it Works: Basically, your installer will come and remove the old awning fabric without taking down your frame. He will inspect the structure to be sure there are no hidden damages or problems. Then he will bring a new fabric, of your choice, and replace your old textile. Remember, you can change the color and style of your fabric. 

​​Awning fabric replacement is pretty straightforward and if done right, can add a new look to your home or business without having to spend a whole lot on installing a new shade structure. Keep in mind, using high quality textiles in your awning is one way to help it last. Not all fabrics are the same, so talk to your installer about your options before you make a decision. 

​For more information about awning fabric replacement, feel free to contact us at American Awning & Blind Co. by visiting us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. Or call us at 800-654-5933. You can also email us at info@americanawningabc.com.