In the specialty fabrics industry, textiles are designed to withstand sweat, the rigors of the outdoors, and even fire. But why should you care or why does it even really matter what kind of fabric your awning is made of?

​For starters, the fabric of your awning is the centerpiece of your outdoor shade structure. Without this fabric, you have no shade. Thus, it is essential that the quality of the fabric you install as part of your awning is designed to withstand the element. Rain, sunshine, and even wind can wear down the integrity of the fabric. That’s why awning textiles are designed and developed with features that will help your awning last. 

Here are some things that your awning fabric should feature:

• Mold and mildew resistance
• Tear resistance
• UV ray resistance
• Fire retardant (this can vary from location to location, for example if you live in a rainy area, you may not need this)
• Waterproof
• Scratch resistance

​Some specialty fabric manufacturers feature a variety of the above mentioned awning textile qualities. Check with your awning installer and ask about the type of fabric used in their shade structures. After all, you’re making a big investment in your home and you want it to last. 

​If you have a shade structure like an awning or pergola, you can convert your backyard into a lounge and play area. Often, we under utilize our backyards and leave it to the weeds and dogs. But with some creativity and a little work, you can turn your backyard into something humans, animals, and foliage can enjoy.

And remember, installing a beautifully constructed pergola or awning will accentuate your backyard and make it feel even more welcoming. Best of all, a shade structure will also keep you cool and protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

Put in a slip-and-slide

• Blow up an inflatable pool
• Gardening – plant herbs and vegetables and flowers
• Play a game of croquet
• Put together a large puzzle
• Have a spring themed crafts session with the kids
• Have a barbeque – but remember not to cook under your shade structure as the smoke and heat can ruin the fabric
• Have a treasure hunt
• Play a game of mini golf; place plastic cups around the backyard to use as the holes
• Put up a tent and have a camping adventure

​​The type of activities you do are limited by only your imagination and safety. Remember, always keep the safety of your family in mind when planning any kind of activity. Otherwise, use your creative ideas and your family’s interests to create a backyard playground. 

​First, let’s compare retractable screens to your traditional curtains, shutters, and blinds. To start, retractable screens look like a see through mesh that you can raise up and down to suit your needs. Whereas, curtains are pulled to the sides and shutters and blinds are closed to let in or block out sunlight.

​​Retractable screens are often used at businesses including restaurants where controlling the amount of sunlight/shade is important for your guests and customers’ needs. Retractable screens are made of specialty fabrics that are UV ray resistant and offer you the option of a variety of colors and even styles.

Remember, UV rays fade fabrics and cause solar heat gain in your home or office. Installing a shade product helps reduce UV ray exposure and solar heat gain. And keep in mind, retractable screens are a tasteful way to enhance the look and feel of your business while still showing your customers you care about their well-being.