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Awnings Glossary

Learn about terms and definitions related to retractable awnings. There are many technical terms to describe retractable awnings. Knowing the terminology can help you make the best purchasing decision.

Installation
Pooling - Depending on the pitch there can be a build up of water on the top portion of the awning.
Pitch - This is the angle downward it slopes. This allows proper rain run off and more shade from the front part of the awing.
Mount - The location the awning is mounted to: can be the wall soffit, eve, or roof.
Projection - the forward reach of the awning.
Load - refers to the strength of the retractable awning. Most high-end awnings an withstand up to 30+ MPH winds.


Components
Retractable awnings - Lateral arm awnings that open and close with no support posts. This is a simple and popular design. Unlike fixed awnings and canopies, retractable awnings allow you to use the awning only when needed and they cover large deck and patio areas. These are almost limitless in available sizes. Retractable awnings can be made 60+ wide and 17+ in projection.
Drop screens - The drop screen is essentially a roller shade made of woven plastic materials that connect to the front bar. They roll down to give frontal sun protection. This is a great add-on to an awning
Mounting bar - This is the bar across the back side of the awning that attaches to the brackets that mount to a surface area.
Arms - These are lateral arms that extend outward and inward.
Frame - The frame consists of a mounting bar, retractable arms, and roller tube connected to the material.
Front bar - This is the end of the awning at the very front where the material valance connects.
Shoulder - The shoulder connects the lateral arms to the mounting bar. They are like elbows that secure the arms and they need to be very strong in order to allow the arms to extend outward.
Hood - The hood is usually a solid aluminum cover that gets connected permanently to the top of the awning protecting it from weather conditions. This especially important with a unit that has a motor since companies like Somfy will not warranty the motor unless covered by a hood.
Valance - Generally the valance is six inches long and drops down from the front bar as a decorative accent that hides the arms underneath from plain view
Wind Sensor or Motion Sensor - These sensors detect wind and retract the awning back to protect it from it from damaging winds. However, these will not help for a wind gust or during a power outage. You still need to retract the awning when it is not in use.
Powder Coating - This is a highly effective way to coat aluminum and metals to create a hard durable finish.
Sun Sensor - Detect sun and extend the awning outward to provide shade in an automated manor.
RTS Motor - Radio Technology system, the best motors work with radio frequency.

Fabric Materials
Canvas - cotton is woven, it is natural and susceptible to fading and rot.
Solution-dyed acrylic - this is the best material and it is fade resistant and won't rot. These material breath for maximum heat reduction. Sunbrella is a leader n this type of material
Vinyl/Plastic - Better than canvas, but doesn't breath like solution-syed acrylics. They trap heat underneath the fabric.