 | Tensioning System
Awnings use a tensioning system to keep the awning cover tight against the front rail. The tensioning system is very important for the stability and longevity of the awning. Most systems employ either stainless steel chains, stainless steel cables or galvanized steel cables. Opening and closing the awning wears on these parts, and over time they will fail. The higher the quality of this component the longer the awning with last. |
| Retractable Awning Arms
The arms are the core of any awning because the performance is determined by the awning arm's strength. Well-engineered awning arms keep the fabric tight through the use of internal springs and the tensioning system. Arms are typically made from a cast and/or extruded aluminum to achieve the desired flexibility, torsion and rigidity. The fabrication of the awning arms is also very important to ensure they maintain equal tension in order to operate smoothly and effectively. |
| Torsion Bar
Awnings employ a bar across the back of the awning as the foundation. The torsion bar provides flexion as the awning moves. Different awnings employ different sized torsion bars of different materials. Most bars are steel. Larger and higher-quality awnings make use of larger sized bar, and in environments that promote corrosion, such as an ocean-side property, aluminum torsion bars are used. |
| Awning Frame
Awning frames are typically cast aluminum. The method of casting and aluminum thickness will vary across awning quality levels. |
| Frame Finish
Awning frames and components need to be coated with paint in order to protect the metals from wear and exposure to the elements. Top quality awnings are typically powder coated with high-quality materials, and the process ensures that all components are completely and uniformly coated for complete protection. |
| Roller Tube
Roller Tubes is the center of the awning and serves to hold the fabric when the awning is retracted. The diameter and material used varies from aluminum to cold rolled galvanized steel. |
| Hood
Awnings typically offer the ability to add a hood for extra fabric protection. The hood will protect the fabric from the elements when retracted. |
| Motors
The best awnings use Somfy motors and Somfy electronic components. Motors fit into one side of the roller tube and power the opening and closing of the awning. Motors can be operated via remote control or by wired switches with the simple touch of a button. Motors also enable additional accessories such as sun and wind sensors that aid in the operating of your awning. |
| Fabrics
The fabric, also known and the cover, blocks the sun and water. There are three types of fabrics typically used: vinyl, solution-dyed acrylic or canvs. Most high-quality solution dyed acrylic fabrics are made by Sunbrella. Solution dyed fabrics are better than other fabrics because the acrylic fibers are less subject to fading and is resistant to mold and mildew. Canvas is the least favorable fabric because it is made of organic material which is highly-susceptible to mold and mildew and to breaking down under exposure to the sun and water. Vinyl fabrics are not nearly as good as acrylics, but offer a lower cost alternative that is better than canvas. |
