​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. 

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​Winter is here. The clouds are looming over us and there’s a chill in the air. But, that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors! Your backyard or your front yard are still great places to enjoy some fun activities with your family; especially during the holidays.

​If you have a shade structure like a pergola, awning, or patio cover, you can use these to enhance fun activities. Here’s a quick list of things you can do for the winter while utilizing your shade structure:
 
·      Snowball Fight: If you live in an area where there’s a lot of snow, then having a good old-fashioned snowball fight is a great way to stay active during the winter. If you have a shade structure like a stand-alone pergola, you can use it as protection. Or if you have an attached awning, you can make that area the safe spot our out spot.
·      Decorate/Themes: Buy some holiday lights, wreaths, and other fun objects and decorate your yard and the area under your patio or awning. Think of things like the feet of Santa Claus hanging from the edge of the awning. Or a reindeer’s antlers peeking from the top of the shade structure. Or wind red and blue lights around the poles of your awning to make them look like candy canes. 

​·      Dining/Hot Chocolate: Sit outside and sip some hot chocolate with the kids or set up a fun dinner.
·      Color/Chalk the Yard: If you have cement or brick or other hard surfaces under your awning, you can color the area with chalk and paint that is washable. You can create fun holiday designs and even play a game of tic tac to.
·      Star Gaze: Set up a telescope or just sit under your shade structure – so you can keep protected from any light rain or windy debris – and look up at the stars. You can keep track of your star gazing with a journal with your kids and mark down the constellations, planets, and stars you see every week.
 
Winter can be cold and gloomy, but with some creative ideas, you don’t have to stay stuck in the house. Remember, don’t light a fire under your shade structure because this can damage it. Keep in mind, you can always consult your installer if you have any questions about what you can do with your awning. 

​For more information about 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.