​Commercial Awnings are a different beast than your run-of-the-mill residential shade structure. Commercial awnings are different in scale and style and take a different kind of abuse. Maintaining a commercial awning requires a little more knowledge and care.

​​First, it’s important to ALWAYS inspect your commercial awning. Look for rips, tears, and unusual things, especially if you have an awning over an outdoor dining area. For restaurant commercial awnings, it’s important to check for not just the standard things like mold and mildew, but to look for punctures, and even things like stuck on food (you’d be surprised how often this happens). 

​Oddities aside, here’s a quick rundown on how to generally maintain your commercial awnings:

•  Clean: Use a mild soap and soft bristle brush to clean your awning.
• Inspect Monthly or Weekly: Look at your awning for any damage or rips. Checking a commercial awning weekly is ideal.
• Replace: If your fabric is fading, replace it! If your frame is aging and rusting, replace it!
• Rinse: Hose your awning down at the beginning of the day to remove dirt and dust.
• Remove Debris: Look for branches, rocks, and other debris that might get caught on, in, or around your awning and remove them.
• Keep it Clear: Make sure there are no plants or other sharp objects near the awning. You don’t want the structure to get damaged.

​​Commercial awnings with graphics should also be periodically checked for damage to the logo and for color fading. Remember, you can always call your local awning professional to come and check out your awning to see if it needs repairs or fixing up. 

​For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your awning maintenance, feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

​So, you’ve owned your awning for some time. You’ve inspected it, you’ve cleaned it, and you’ve admired it. But, are you using the right solution and materials to clean your awning? Did you know you can damage your awning’s fabric by using the wrong products?

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​When cleaning your awning, you’ve probably been using a light solution of a mild liquid dish soap or something similar and some water. While this might be okay, it’s important to remember that your solution proportions should be balanced. Don’t put so much soap that your solution is thick and not easy to wash off. Be sure your solution is loose and easily comes off by spraying water and brushing with a soft bristle brush. 

​Now, if you’re not sure, or if you don’t want to make your own solution, you can purchase an awning cleaning solution. However, we highly recommend you research and do your due diligence before purchasing an awning cleaner. Here’s why:

• Some solutions are not meant for your fabric or awning. Some fabrics are made from canvas, polyvinyl, vinyl, and other materials. So, look at the bottles instructions and intended uses, you don’t want to spray your canvas with a cleaner that’s meant for an acrylic textile.
• Some solutions are designed to restore your awning. Don’t automatically think that getting an awning restoring solution is the best thing to do. If you’re awning is relatively new, don’t worry about adding an extra layer of this stuff, you don’t need it yet. You want to make sure you’re cleaning the awning properly and getting rid of dirt and debris.

• Chemical solutions: Most of the cleaning solutions will have some kind of chemical as part of the ingredients. But, be weary of the chemicals and always check with your awning installer to see which ones you should avoid. Some chemicals can actually damage your awning fabric, especially cleaners that are designed for textiles that are not the one you have.
  
• Concentrates: Some solutions come as concentrates. Being sure you know this before you start spraying your awning with it is important. You don’t want to bombard your awning with a concentrate because you might be damaging it.

 
Using an awning cleaning product is a good idea, but finding the right one is the proper thing to do. Also, always remember to consult your installer to see which cleaner is best for your shade structure; not all awnings are created the same or equally. 

​For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your next awning fabric project, feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

​Saving money on a big purchase is always satisfying. But, sometimes saving in the moment, costs you a whole lot more. When it comes to buying a quality, professionally installed awning, knowing what you get for your buck is important. 

Cheap Awnings:
Fabric: The options are limited and come with cheaply made textiles that are often not resistant to mold or mildew, and likely don’t have tear and rip resistance. This means you will replace your awning fabric far more often which costs you a whole lot more than buying a quality piece in the first place. 
Structure: With a cheap awning option, the frame might be made with metals that are not durable, or if they are made with aluminum or steel, the quality of the material is low and thus, your structure can scratch, bend, or break faster.  Cheaper awnings, like the kind you get delivered to you, typically won’t offer these. And if you do get them, installation can be tedious, and you risk damaging your awning before you even install it yourself. 
​Color: Cheaper awnings tend to limit the color palette you can choose from and may not offer a warranty. 

Design: You’re pretty much limited to fixed or retractable and if you’re offered a different design like a shade-sail, the quality of the materials may not be up to par, and your awning won’t last. 
​Installation/Service: If you’ve bought an awning online and are looking for an installer, many professional services won’t accommodate your request. They don’t want to install something that won’t last. And, if you do need service for your awning – for a rip or tear – you will have to still call a professional and replace your fabric which will cost you more. 

Quality Awnings:
Fabric: Options include top-of-the line products like Sunbrella, Serge Ferari, and more. The fabric of your awning is what will cost you the most in the long run. Without the right, uv ray, mold-mildew resistant, tear and rip resistance, your awning won’t last. 
Structure: Awning frames/structure are made with sturdy, durable materials like aluminum, steel, or other metals and sometimes wood. The frame of a quality awning stands the test of time and won’t break or bend like a cheaper one might. 
Finial and Spear Options: Quality awnings typically offer you these decorative additions for your awning. The filial decorates the end of an awning pole and a spear juts out from the awning, adding a level of aesthetic you wouldn’t normally get from a cheap awning. 
​Color: Quality awnings offer a variety of colors and even color matching to your building. Also, colorfast textiles are used in higher quality awnings: this means your color won’t fade as quickly. Often, your fabric comes with a warranty guaranteeing color for a period of time. 

Design: Quality awnings offer you a level of design that surpasses a do-it-yourself piece. Design includes the shape, style, and type. You can get a shade-sail, a free-standing piece, or slide-on-wire option.
​Installation/Service: Quality awnings are installed with guarantees and backed by warranties and the confidence that you can rely on the service of the professional you hired. Professional, quality awning services include rendering services, permitting help, and more. 

​As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to installing a quality or cheap awning. Just keep in mind, replacing an awning can cost thousands, especially when it comes to a business. So, when considering an awning for your restaurant, business, building, or home, remember, it pays to spend now because you’ll save so much more in the long run.
 
For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your next awning fabric project, feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

​​If you enjoy design and architecture, then know that color and variety, shapes, and graphics can really catch the eye; this is especially true for awning fabrics. Replacing your awning textile is actually a great idea, particularly when you want to update the look and feel of your home, office, or store. 

​Awning fabrics can be replaced and updated anytime, so you don’t have to wait till it’s damaged. Here are some fun, great ideas to help you spruce up your business or home with new awning textiles:

• Colors: This is probably the most important component of the fabric of your awning. The color is what will draw attention. Choosing a drab color scheme might work against you. So, pick a color that’s stunning, bright, and attractive and matches your building or business’ theme.
• Designs: You can use designs like patterns, dots, and stripes. You can have the fabric custom engineered. For example, if you have a dog grooming business, you can install an awning textile with a dog pattern. Really, adding a design to your awning is a great way to increase the visibility and uniqueness of your business.

​​Replacing the fabric of your awning is an awesome way to give your building or home a facelift without the cost of major construction. Keep in mind, you can always have the project rendered, in color, to see what you’re ideas will look like. 

​For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your next awning fabric replacement project feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

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​Living in sunny Southern California sometimes creates the illusion that wind and rain aren’t problems for us or our property. The reality is, wind and rain can damage awnings and other shade structures, even in So. Cal. For Pitchoun Bakery at the southwest corner of the Beverly Center Mall in Los Angeles, CA, finding the right wind and rain resistant awning was their challenge.

​Luckily, we were able to help them and in August 2018, we installed a large retractable awning that could handle the rigors of the wind and rain that is common to the area. We suggested they use a Stobag Stoboscope retractable awning, which features telescopic arms that are tensioned with gas pressure cylinders. By using an awning that does not have elbows, Stobag has created an awning which can handle 20% more wind than a standard retractable. This is the perfect product for restaurant and hospitality locations that rely on their patios to generate income.

​The bakery owners also chose to use a Sunbrella Orange fabric, which was a similar match to their color scheme. As a precaution, we made sure the fabric was fire-treated by American Flame Coat. The result of the combined Stobag retractable awning and fire-treated Sunbrella fabric was a beautiful and bright, sunny patio space that attracts attention and ultimately, helps generate sales and revenue for the bakery.
 
At American Awning and Blind Co., we understand the nuances of business and the troubles of the ever-changing weather patterns; we know which awning or shade structure is best for you. Don’t let wind and rain prevent you from creating a great outdoor dining, shopping, or lounge experience for your guests; that’s just missed sales opportunities. 

​For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your next shade structure project feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

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​Last summer, we were presented with a unique project for the Harajuku Taproom. The Japanese craft beer and restaurant (izakaya) is located in beautiful Culver City, CA. When we were approached about helping them shade their outdoor dining area and provide shade for their interior, we were presented with a complex situation.

​The restaurant was directly exposed to sunlight; it faced west. The interior and outdoor dining areas were also connected with a large open space that utilizes large roll-up garage doors; this makes the area open and inviting. But, the interior dining area was exposed to late afternoon sunlight. After we examined the space, drew up plans, and rendered the various possible installations, we decided to utilize a combination of a stationary awning and drop screens to shade the interior and outdoor dining areas. 

​The result was a brilliant marriage of an awning structure and drop screens. The awning provides not just shade, but year-round sunlight and rain protection. The awning also provided larger shading from above. The drop screens helped to protect the interior of the restaurant as well as the outdoor dining area and provide shade from the sides. The completed project also enhanced the exterior look and feel of the restaurant with a beautiful red awning emblazoned with white lettering: “A Japanese Craft Beer Izakaya.”

​This project demonstrates that using a combination of various shade structures can create a level of aesthetic that is both functional and beautiful.
 
For more about what we do, or how we can help you with your next shade structure project feel free to contact us. For more information about awnings and other shade structures, feel visit us online at American Awning & Blind Co. 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. 

​Vinyl windows are great for homes and businesses like restaurants and hotels. If you have these great products, you know that they last, provide flexibility and durability, and are great ways to create things like enclosed outdoor dining areas. However, how do you maintain your vinyl windows? Are there special things to consider? The answer is yes.

When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your vinyl windows, remember to always consult your installer first to see what you should or shouldn’t do. In the meantime, here’s a quick guide on how to clean and maintain your vinyl windows:
 

• Equipment/Tools: Mild dishwashing soap. Warm or cold water. Mix the water and soap for a cleaning solution; don’t use too much soap. The soap and water solution should be thin/clear and not have too much soap as this can leave a film on the window.  Soft, nonabrasive towel or cloth. A vinegar and water solution of 30/70, respectively; this solution is to be used for difficult stains and on mildew. A soft bristled brush.
  
• Applying the Solution: First, it might be prudent to wipe your windows down first with clean water. Then, wet your nonabrasive cloth or soft bristle brush with either the vinegar or water/soap solution. Wipe your windows down using light pressure. Use soft brush for stubborn stains. 

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​When you’re cleaning your clean vinyl windows, DON’T USE BLEACH OR OTHER HARSH CHEMICALS. Finally, if you need more help or advice, it’s always good to consult a professional. (Call your installer or manufacturer and they can help or direct you to someone who can). 

​Now that you know a little more about how to clean and maintain your vinyl windows, 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 design and architecture, awnings are great way to spruce up your building or home. Using awning finials and spears are a great way dress up your awning and accent that Spanish style house or add flare to a project.

​So, what are finials and spears? To understand what finials are, we first have to look at and understand what awning spears are. Traditional awnings have sides, a top, and a frame. A spear awning is a shade structure that does not have sides and instead utilize spears that are made from wrought iron or other materials to anchor the awning to the building. Spear awning technically don’t have sides made of fabric and are more decorative than a standard awning. 

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​Spear awnings are great for windows and doorways and offer a level of aesthetic that makes your home or business stand out.
 
Finials are attractive elements also known as a hip-knob. Finials mark the top of a spear and can be designed with various shapes and sizes. Finials can be pointy, round, or customized. These ornamental top-pieces can also come in different colors; though palette choices can be a little narrow than what you can choose for your fabric. 

​Spear awnings and finials can be used on any building or home and are often seen with Spanish-style architecture. Using unique finials is a great way to attract attention from foot traffic or just raise the appeal of your home or building.
 
Remember, awnings and shade structures come in various types, shapes, sizes, and colors and the spear awning is one of many. Using the right combination of finials and spears, awning fabric, and colors, can truly help increase the beauty of your home. 

​Now that you know a little more about spears and finials for awnings, 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. 

​Shade is important, and awnings are one of the best ways to achieve that for your home or business. But, did you know you can accentuate and further your awning’s weather protection abilities by using patio curtains? 

​Before we go on, let’s first talk about what patio curtains are. These specialty fabric curtains are designed for the outdoors and provide restaurant and business owners with outdoor lounge areas and extra level of appeal for diners and customers. Patio curtains can be used for both commercial and residential purposes and are often attached to an existing shade structures like awnings or covers. 

​​Patio curtains can be drawn closed manually or can be automated; it just depends on what you need. So, how do patio curtains provide extra weather protection? Basically, patio curtains enclose your outdoor space that is already shaded by an awning or other shade structure. 

​The way that patio curtains help protect you more from weather is by providing shade from the sides. Typically, an awning provides shade from above. But, on a sunny, rainy, or windy day, that awning can’t protect your family, diners, or customers from the side. Patio curtains can be drawn closed during inclement weather, thus protecting people from the sides and from above. This means your customers are protected from UV rays and debris that can be blown around by strong winds and yet, they can still enjoy the outdoor dining experience. 

​Patio curtains also add levels of creativity, professionalism, and aesthetic to your home or business, attracting attention, possibly adding value to your home or helping to generate revenue. These curtains are durable, reliable, and can be installed to existing shade structures. So, if you’re thinking about adding curtains to your awning, call your local professional today.

​Now that you know a little more about patio curtains, 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. 

​Restaurant awnings are big, beautiful, and revenue generating shade structures that attract customers and keep your business cool. Choosing the right one means understanding how to customize and design your shade structure so that it fits your business’ theme and footprint.

​So, how do you go about customizing an awning installation/order? The task might seem daunting at first, but here’s a quick list of things you should consider:

Size: You might want to look at your building and the size of your restaurant. You don’t want to install something that minimizes the look of your restaurant; you want to create an illusion of space and that means making sure the size of your awning is correct. Also, if you’re going to use the awning to expand your restaurant’s dining area to the outdoors, then selecting the right size is critical. That’s when you should consult your awning professional and ask them to help you with the measurements so that you can maximize the space you have and fit the right amount dining seats. 

Graphics: Restaurant awnings are eye-catching structures that you can use to advertise your business. Printing your restaurant’s logo or graphic on an awning is a great way to make your business stand out from the rest. Graphic awnings help you passively advertise your business without the added cost of paying for weekly or monthly billboards or sig

• Color: Your restaurant probably has a theme and choosing the right fabric color is important. The color needs to not only match your restaurant’s scheme, but also be tasteful and match the building’s theme as well. You want to think about a color that will compliment both your building and your business. Also, choosing a color that is meant to be for the outdoors is helpful as well. (You don’t want to install a fabric that reflects light into the eyes of your patrons or potential customers). 

Type: Depending on the restaurant and your location, the type of awning you choose is also something to consider. Awnings can be fixed or retractable. They can also be created to incorporate things like shade sails. In fact, if you customize your design, you can ask your awning professional what your options are, and you can go from there. But remember, if your business is an area that doesn’t have that much sunlight and you want to retract your awning on cloudy days, that’s something to keep in mind. (So, a fixed awning may not be right for you).
Material: This is something we often forget to consider. But this is just as important when it comes to an awning for a restaurant. Remember, your awning’s frame and fabric will take a lot more abuse than a standard residential shade structure. That’s why choosing an awning with a sturdy, reliable, frame and a UV ray resistant, commercial grade fabric is important. The material a restaurant awning is made from is designed to withstand the outdoors and your business’ day-to-day use and abuse. 

​Restaurant awnings can also be designed with varying types of shapes. You can choose hanging, dome, or other shapes. Just remember to consider your building’s type; is it tall, rectangular, or lengthy?
 
Finally, remember that your awning can be designed and customized the way you want – within reason of course – and that talking to your local awning professional is a great way to start your project or even upgrade your current shade structure.
 
Now that you know a little more about customizing your restaurant awning, 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.