Awnings & Winter: What you Need to Know

​Winter is here and the weather is cold, wet, and windy. Leaves are gathering in the yard and wearing sweaters and jackets is in season. But what does all this have to do with your shade structure? Why should you even care? The answers are multifaceted.

​​If you have a retractable awning, it’s important that you keep it in good working order and clean as well. During rainy days, you can retract your shade structure but remember, you can still use it when it’s just cold out. If you have questions or concerns about your shade structure and how to properly store it, do contact your awning installer for assistance.
 
If you have shade sails you can also take these down and store them in a cool, dry place where it won’t get damaged. The same applies to curtains. For drop screens, you can roll them up and keep them put away if you want to. 

​To start, just because it’s cold and wet outside doesn’t mean that your awning isn’t useful or should be neglected. In fact, UV rays still penetrate the earth’s surface even when there are clouds. Staying shaded and protected even in the winter is still important.
 
Also, it’s important to remember that keeping your awning clean, free of debris, and out of the way of branches and other foliage is important. If you have a fixed awning, this is especially true because your awning is up year-round. Remember, random debris and overgrowing plants can damage the fabric of your awning. 

​Keep in mind, you can always contact your awning professional for advice on how to store your awning or shade structure. But remember, just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to put away your awning; especially if you live in Southern California where the weather is sunny and bright most of the year.
 
For more information about awnings and 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.