Conservation Concepts, Inc.

Comfort for Today, Conservation for Tomorrow©

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Q:  What are the benefits of a retractable awning?

A:  Retractable awnings are the ideal solution to shade deck and patio areas.  This allows you to add living space to your home. Another benefit of this type of awning is the ability to retract it when not in use.  Additionally, a retractable awning can extend up to 16' 6"  from your structure without poles!

Q. If there are no poles at the front what is holding the awning up?

A. These awnings are designed to be self-supporting.  The awning relies on secure mounting to your structure and on very sturdy arms which push outward and maintain tension to keep the fabric tight.

Q.  What happens to a retractable awning in the winter?

A.  Simply leave it where it is.  You may however, wish to remove the valance for winter storage.  By design these awnings are self-storing when retracted.

Q. What sort of windloads will my awning withstand?

A. Retractable awnings are designed for sun protection and should not be left out in very windy conditions or whenever the area it is covering is not being utilized.  The unpredictable nature of wind makes it good practice to retract the awning when not in use.  A general rule is that if you are comfortable sitting outdoors reading the newspaper, then it is most likely safe to use your awning. The major concern is the wind lifting up the awning.  The greater the pitch, the more wind resistant the awning is.

Q. Can I leave my awning out in the rain?

A. You may leave the awning out in moderate rain and your awning may well save your picnic from a passing shower, but you should not allow water to pool on the cover. If you have to retract the awning when wet then open the awning to allow it to dry within a day or so.

Q:  I live in a development governed by a homeowners' association.  Are awnings allowed there?

A:  Because fabric awnings are colorful, attractive and functional, most homeowners' associations are receptive to adding them to their communities.  Typically, the association's architectural committee reviews these questions.  A Conservation Concepts  representative is well qualified to assist you in this process.  Conservation Concepts is already an approved supplier for many home and condominium developments in the area.

Q:  If I have limited height above my patio or deck, can I still have a retractable awning installed?

A:  Yes!  In situations where there is limited height above a patio or deck a retractable awning can be mounted on the roof.  With the use of specially designed roof mount brackets this type of installation is structurally secure and trouble-free.  Our roof mounting system allows for water, wind and snow to pass under the awning safely. Over one-third of our retractable awning installations are roof mounted.

Q:  Are all retractable awning systems the same?

A:  No!  There are two components that make up a successful retractable awning installation.  One is the actual retractable awning system and the other is the local company which sells and installs the awning.  Conservation Concepts has provided professional sales and installation of Retractable Awning Systems for over 15 years in South Central Pennsylvania. Conservation Concepts employees are trained by the awning system fabricator to sell and install our retractable awnings. 

Q:  Can I partially open a retractable awning or do they need to be opened to their full extension/projection?

A: You do not have to fully extend any of our retractable awnings models: they can be stopped at any position (going in or out) up to the projection purchased.

Q:  How long will the fabric last?

A:  Today's lightweight, acrylic woven fabrics are designed to provide homeowners with many years of enjoyment. Our fabrics are warranted for five years against deterioration or excessive fading. Life expectancy, when cleaning and care instructions are followed, should be ten to twelve years or more on retractable awnings.

Q: How do I clean my awning?

A:  Acrylic awning fabric should be cleaned regularly before dirt, bird droppings, etc. are allowed to accumulate and become embedded into the fabric. The fabric can be cleaned without removing it from the frame by brushing off any loose soil and hosing off with water.

 If there are areas that do not come clean with this method, add mild soap to lukewarm water and lightly clean the fabric with a sponge or soft cloth.  Rinse thoroughly to remove soap and let dry before retracting the awning.  Do not use bleach or detergents, and never dry the fabric using heat or steam press.

We offer awning cleaning service, including renewal of the water/soil repellent finish.  This requires removal of the fabric, and is generally done in the off-season.