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Shade Sails: Summer Fun

6/30/2016

It’s summer. It’s hot. It’s sunny. We’re thinking about shade and staying cool in this crazy heat. For businesses, schools, and restaurants, this means utilizing a variety of creative ways to keep folks cool, entertained, and happy. One way to catch the attention of your customers is with unique shade structures like a shade sail.

Shade sails are shade structures that you can use to on playgrounds, at restaurants (for outdoor dining) and even businesses and hotels for outdoor shaded lounge areas. Shade sails can be layers, single, multiple tiered, and utilize fabrics of different types and colors.

Kids and adults alike can enjoy the aesthetics of the shade structure and have fun playing, lounging, and relaxing outdoors, even in the summer. Remember, shade structures allow your guests and clients to be outside, even when it’s sunny and hot. It’s like installing an extension to your home, office, restaurant, or building without buying more land. The revenue generating opportunities you create while your guests enjoy the outdoors is worth it alone.

Here are some fun summer things your guests can enjoy if you have shade sails:

Activity area for adults or kids. Think water stations, water slides, and misting.
Playground activities for kids like sand boxes and portable pools.
Lounge area for reading, napping, tanning, or socializing.
Dining/Snack area for restaurants.

Truly, the kinds of activities and summer fun you can have outdoors because of the use of a shade sail are limited by your imagination and of course, feasibility. Remember, a shade sail is a tension structure so it’s freestanding and doesn’t have to be attached to your building or office; it’s a great choice for summer shade.

For more information about shade sails, contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Awning Recovery & Restoration

6/27/2016

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So you’ve had your awning for years now and it’s starting to look worn and old. You’re probably thinking, I don’t want to spend too much on a new awning, what can I do? Well, you have options!

Did you know you can actually “recover” and “restore” your awning? What does that actually mean? For starters, it means you can restore your current awning – as long as it’s not damaged beyond repair – and save yourself the burden of installing a new shade structure.

Here’s what you need to know:

Most of the time, an awning frame can be reused, it’s the fabric that will be replaced.
You can recover a patio cover, awning, canopy or other shade structure.
You can choose to replace the fabric with a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles. You don’t have to use the same pattern or fabric you used last time. This means you can upgrade your fabric!
Some awning shops – like us here at American Awning & Blind Co. – offer a warranty on the fabric. We offer a 10 year warranty on the fabric which means peace of mind for a whole decade!
The awning frame can be sanded, primed, and repainted.

Sounds pretty cool right? It’s as simple as calling your local awning shop to see how you can “recover” your existing awning or shade structure. This is a great option for restaurants and businesses who want to update exterior looks with modern fabrics, styles and colors. It’s also cost effective for homeowners, commercial real estate properties, and apartment complexes. Remember, you don’t have to replace your entire shade structure just because you have a rip or tear in the fabric or the color’s faded, you can always “restore” it and save yourself some money.

For more information about awning recovery contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Awning Valance Shape Options: Scalloped. Straight. Curved

6/21/2016

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So, we know what an awning is; it’s a shade structure you can attach to a building, home, or business. But did you know awnings can be designed with valance options?

Before we go any further, let’s first define what a valance is. A valance is a decorative piece of fabric that is hung from an awning, a canopy, patio cover, or other shade structure. The valance adds a creative flare or aesthetic to your awning/shade structure.

Now that we know what a valance is, let’s talk about the options you have. Often times we forget that we can create a valance that is different in color or shape than the awning or shade structure. In fact, you can install a valance with stripes and other color variations to give your home a little more pop and pizzazz.

Awning with a Scalloped Valance

Awning with a Hard Valance Using a Different Colored Fabric

So what are you options when it comes to valances? Here’s a quick list:

Rigid: hard valances are framed with steel so they have a straight, taut look.
Soft: these valances hang loosely from the frame and move with the wind. Soft valances come with a cutout pattern known as a scallop.
Scalloped: The fabric is designed with a pattern that’s cut into the fabric’s edge giving it a scalloped or wavy look.
Colors: valances can be made into a variety of colors, it’s really up to your creative taste.
Fabric: valances, like awnings, are developed using specialty fabrics that are designed to withstand the elements: wind and rain, and also UV rays. There are a variety of fabrics you can choose from including poly vinyl composites, vinyl, acrylics, and more.

As you can see, you can get your valance in a variety of styles and colors, it’s up to you what you want to choose. And while a valance is not an essential part of an awning, it adds a level of creativity and ambience to your home, office building, or restaurant that people will remember.

American Awning's Scallop Patterns

For more information about valance options contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Spear Awnings

6/14/2016

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Have you ever passed by a building in Southern California and thought, what is that beautiful awning structure? Well, chances are you were looking at a spear awning.

In Southern California, spear awnings have become popular because of the Spanish and Mediterranean architecture influences. These awnings are decorative accents and are typically mounted over windows.

Spear awnings feature metal spears that thrust through the shade structure and mounts to the wall. (See below for a picture). The decorative accents to the awning add a flare and style to the home that recalls Mediterranean architecture.

If you’re considering adding spear awnings to your home here are some things to think about before you install:

What kind of finish and material do you want to use? Black or bronze? Wrought iron?
Do you have lamps or gates that should be considered when it comes to the design of the spears? (These should match in color/tone).
What kind of spears do you want?
- Ball ends
- Four de Lis
- Point ends
- Round tubing shafts/projections
- Twisted tubing
- Or customized options
Where do you want to place the spear awnings?
What color do you want the fabric of the awning to be? Remember, you don’t want the color to clash with your home or office building’s color.

Spear awnings are a great way to accent any home or office. Remember, awnings have come a long way since ancient times and are versatile, creative, and aesthetically pleasing to look at. Awnings add value to your home and can really make your house stand out from the rest.

For more information about spear awnings contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Patio Curtains: Keeping Heat in and the Rain Out

6/12/2016

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Patio covers are great for protection against rain and wind. For businesses and restaurants patio covers are a great way to keep diners happy and create an extended revenue generating area for your shop. But, did you know you can accentuate your patio cover with vinyl windows/curtains?

Drop Curtains with Vinyl Windows at the Wilshire Country Club

You might be asking, what in the world are vinyl windows/curtains? Basically, these are clear pieces of vinyl that are attached to a patio cover to create and enclosed environment for your guests who want to dine outside but still be protected from the sun and rain.

The vinyl windows create a sealed space that during winter keep the heat in and the rain out. The windows are clear, allowing guests to see out and traffic to see in. The windows are also waterproof and help keep moisture out. The vinyl windows are attached to the patio cover and can be drawn open or closed like curtains.

In fact, you’ve probably seen patio curtains but haven’t realized what they were. Think about a time you went to a nice restaurant on a cold winter day or even a hot summer afternoon. If you dined outside, you probably were dining on the patio with vinyl curtains. The beauty of the curtains is that you probably didn’t even notice them because that’s how clear and inconspicuous these can be when done right.

Drop Curtains with Vinyl Windows at Public School 818

Drop Curtains at the Bellwether

Guests stay warm and dry and still get the outdoor experience they’re looking for with vinyl curtains. The rain stays out, the heat stays in, and the guests don’t even notice the bad weather.

For more information about vinyl windows and curtains contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Slide on Wire Canvas Options - Mesh vs. Acrylic Awning Fabric

6/8/2016

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Let’s talk about slide-on-wire awnings and the options you have for the fabric of the shade structure.

Slide-on-wire awnings are versatile, they allow you to control the amount of light and shade you get by sliding fabric panels open and close. These products are great for outdoor dining areas and even your backyard.

But, what kind of fabric should you use for the fabric panels? What are your options? In this blog we’re going to talk about two options: Mesh and Acrylic.

Mesh fabric allows for air/wind/breeze to pass through while still providing shade and UV ray protection. This fabric also allows a little bit of light to come through but not so much that you’re not being shaded. Mesh fabric is ideal for areas that need air to circulate, like at restaurants and other outdoor areas. (Think bars and lounging areas at hotels). But remember, because the material is mesh, there is the possibility that water can trickle through.

Slide on Wire Awnings with Mesh Fabric

Slide on Wire Awnings with Acrylic Awning Fabric

Acrylic fabrics are denser but still allow air to pass through; the fabric is “breathable” and yet still retains the qualities UV ray resistance. This fabric is great for restaurants and homes as well. Also, acrylics can be dyed and the color tends to last. Grommet holes are added to this fabric to allow water to pass through after is rains.

Another great feature of slide-on-wire awnings is that they allow you the flexibility in how much of the fabric is exposed during a sunny day or inclement weather. You can always retract the awning during heavy rain so you don’t have to worry about it getting wet.

Slide on Wire Awnings with Acrylic Awning Fabric

Slide on Wire Awnings with Mesh Fabric

For more information about slide-on-wire awning fabrics contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Understanding the Permitting Process

6/5/2016

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The permitting process can vary depending on where you live. Permits are and approvals are necessary when it comes to installing shade structures, especially in your front yard or your business. Permits can be obtained if you meet the city’s requirements regarding installing things like awnings or other shade structures on your property.

Permit Set

Engineering Calculations

At times, the permitting process may seem daunting. Some cities have height restrictions for certain structures as well as color, size, width and material guidelines and other detailed requirements. But, it’s not as bad as you might think…In fact if you are thinking about installing an awning or shade structure, here are some things you should consider about the permitting process before you buy one:

Does your city allow for shade structures?
Do you live in a neighborhood with an association? If so, you need to contact them as well as the city regarding guidelines.
Where can you find city guidelines regarding permits for businesses and homes? Often times you can call your city or look online for contact information.
Will the company you hire to install your shade structure help you with the permitting process?

At American Awning & Blind Co., we understand the permitting process and offer free services to help you. Remember, the process involves looking at detailed requirements and lists of restrictions like size and color guidelines. But, if you choose an installer like us – we understand the process – we can help you. We’ve done enough installations at homes, offices, and restaurants that we can walk you through the permit process and help you install that beautiful shade structure without violating any city codes or ordinances.

Remember, your awning company can help you with the details so don’t hesitate to ask.
For more information about awnings, pergolas, and other shade structures contact American Awning & Blind Co. today. You can also visit us at http://www.americanawningabc.com. You can also call us if you have any questions at 800-654-5933. Or email us at info@americanawningabc.com.

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Shade Sails: Summer Fun

Awning Recovery & Restoration

Awning Valance Shape Options: Scalloped. Straight. Curved

Spear Awnings

Patio Curtains: Keeping Heat in and the Rain Out

Slide on Wire Canvas Options - Mesh vs. Acrylic Awning Fabric

Understanding the Permitting Process

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