Protecting Your Retractable Awning in Heavy Winds

With so many warm months in Florida, residents often relish a cool breeze while spending time in their outdoor spaces. Retractable Awning owners enjoy these breezes with sun and rain protection. While these awnings are built to last, excessively heavy winds can be damaging to your investment. Here are a few tips to help you protect your awning in the event that heavy winds arrive in your area. 

Retract Your Awning

Retractable Awnings are designed to endure intense sun, rain, and your average mild storm. Winds that exceed 50 mph can cause irreparable damage to your awning. In fact, experts suggest retracting your awning once wind speeds have reached 25 mph to be safe. Awning owners can purchase wind sensors, use weather apps, or watch weather reports to ensure that they are prepared for heavy wind. 

Keep Your Awning in Good Working Condition

It is fairly easy to maintain your retractable awning with regular cleaning and lubricating the moving parts yearly or if you hear unusual creaking. If your awning fabric is torn or damaged, consult your local awning installation company for recommendations. Typically, repairs can be done using vinyl cement, glue, sewing, or a patch. Keeping your awning in good working condition helps to protect it during inclement weather. 

Create Windbreaks Around Your Home 

Creating windbreaks around your home can be an attractive way to protect your home’s retractable awning and even lower your energy costs in the cooler months. Consider adding tall hedges, privacy fencing, trees, or even a trellis to your property. These features can add value to your home, protect your retractable awning from heavy winds, and provide privacy.

At Awning Authority we help home and business owners to love their outdoor spaces again. For over ten years we have been providing the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with beautiful and functional retractable awnings, storm protection, and motorized garage screen doors. We are a SunSetter authorized dealer with exceptional customer service and installation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation of our high-quality SunSetter retractable awnings, EasyShades, or motorized garage door screens.