Durable Retractable Awnings by Canadian Shade
Canadian Shade offers robust retractable awnings that stand the test of time. With enduring hardware and frames, these awnings operate seamlessly for many years. Typically, with minimal maintenance, the fabric remains in good condition for a decade or even longer.
Essential Awning Maintenance
While our awnings are designed to be self-storing, they aren't impervious to the effects of weather. To ensure longevity:
1. Usage: Treat the awning as a sunshade. It isn't designed to act as protection against harsh weather conditions such as wind, rain, or snow.
2. Weather Precautions: Always retract the awning during unfavorable weather to prevent:
• Water accumulation that might strain the fabric.
• Damage from winds exceeding 20 mph.
• Potential motor harm if the fabric freezes when wet.
• Mildew growth on a damp and soiled awning.
Note: Canadian Shade's warranty doesn't cover wind or storm damages. If any damage occurs, we offer services for swift replacements of fabric, hardware, or motor.
Guidelines for Operation
• Extending the Awning:
• For manual cranks, turn gently without forcing. Rotate one way to extend and the other to retract, keeping the handle aligned with the eyelet.
• The awning arms should never be fully straight.
• Retracting the Awning:
• Wind speeds above 20 mph require retraction.
• Clear any debris before rolling up.
• Always ensure the fabric rolls from the top.
• Adjusting the Pitch: Canadian Shade installs awnings for optimal shading, but you can adjust the pitch anytime:
• Use an 8mm Allen key on the shoulder bracket.
• Slightly raise the front bar while adjusting the pitch with the Allen key.
• Motorized Awning Troubleshooting:
• Remote-controlled awnings are convenient. If issues arise, check the battery, inspect the breaker box, and reset any triggered outlets. If the issue persists, contact Canadian Shade for professional service.
• Lubrication: Annually, moving parts can be lubricated with a dry silicone spray for optimal operation. Avoid spraying the fabric. While not necessary, this can increase the life of your awning.
Cleaning Your Awning
• Hardware:
• Canadian Shade uses maintenance-free aluminum components. However, rinsing the framework and wiping it with a soft cloth at the start of the outdoor season is beneficial, especially in salty air environments.
• Fabric:
• Canadian Shade primarily uses Sunbrella® or Sattler fabrics. A monthly cold-water rinse is typically sufficient, with deeper cleanings every 2-3 years.
General Cleaning Instructions – once a month
• Brush off all loose dirt with a broom, including the underside.
• Hose down.
• Air-dry fully before retracting.
• Trim shrubbery and vines away from the awning because they contain acid that can damage fabric.
Deep Cleaning Instructions – every 2 to 3 years
• Brush off all loose dirt with a broom, including the underside.
• Hose down.
• Prepare a cleaning solution of cool water and mild soap, such as Woolite or Ivory Snow (no detergent).
• Scrub with a soft bristle brush, working from the bottom up.
• Allow soap to soak in.
• Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is gone.
• Air-dry fully before retracting.
• Trim shrubbery and vines away from the awning because they contain acid that can damage fabric.
Products to Use for Stubborn Stains (these are last resorts as chemicals can discolor the fabric):
• Bird Droppings – Dawn, Greased Lightning, Clean Rite Purple Power
• Iron Rust – Carbona Stain Devil #9
• Mildew – Clorox bleach and Dawn
• Oil – Acetone 100%
• Paint – Paint remover, oil or grease remover
• Tree Sap – Turpentine 100%, Dawn
