​Let’s talk about awning fabrics, what they are, why it matters when it comes to quality, and the other small details we often don’t think about when we’re purchasing this energy saving shade structure. 

​Awning fabrics come in various materials, colors, and styles. The quality of the fabric you use and choose is important. Whether you decide on an acrylic, vinyl, polyvinyl composite, canvas, or other material, you should do your research. Some fabrics are not coated to withstand the elements including UV Rays. Some textiles, however, like Sunbrella or Trivantage, or PolyFab fabrics are. Quality textiles are made to last and include things like mold and mildew resistance, UV ray protection, waterproofing, tear resistance, and warranties that back up those features.

​So, when you’re thinking about an awning fabric and changing it from a low-quality textile to a higher quality material, and you’re weighing the costs, remember, it’s worth it in the long run. For example, if you install a cheap vinyl fabric that might cost about $200 for around 50 square feet, instead of the quality fabric that might cost $300, you will be replacing that cheaper fabric faster than you might think. Here’s why:
 
Cheaper Fabrics can degrade faster, rip, tear, and become unsightly because they are not made to last. Cheaper fabrics don’t have the extra coatings that make the fabric last years. You might have to replace that $200 fabric in one year. But, if you go with that quality fabric for $300, you get a warranty (often it’s up to two-years by the supplier) and it lasts for two to -three years. You’re saving yourself $200 in fabric costs plus the replacement installation costs. 

​When you start thinking about commercial buildings and the size of those awnings, using a quality fabric is important as well. You don’t want to interrupt your business with the inconvenience of construction every year because you have a cheap awing fabric. You want that textile to last and using a high-quality fabric is the first step in making sure you’re not just making a good investment, but saving money. 

​Now that you know a little more about changing your awning fabrics and how it can save you in the long run, 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. 

​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.