Q: When someone refers to a canvas awning, is the fabric actually made out of canvas?

A: Not anymore. For many years awning fabrics have been made of woven acrylic. With acrylic, the thread is solution dyed before it is woven ensuring long lasting color. Acrylic looks and feels like canvas but is more resistant to the elements. Canvas was fabricated from cotton and the color was applied much like spray painting. Cotton would absorb moisture, acrylic is water repellant. Cotton fabric's used to flake and peel over time; acrylic does not. Today's woven acrylic awning fabrics are more durable, colorfast and generally far superior to the old canvas materials.

Q: Is there much difference between the various types of awning fabrics?

A: Yes, different fibers, weaves and coatings have very specific advantages and different applications. Some fabrics are breathable, some are not. Some are water repellant but not water proof. Acrylic fabrics have a rich cloth appearance and are much more colorfast and fade resistant. Vinyl coated fabrics, mostly used on commercial projects, are the most water repellent. Mesh fabrics allow better ventilation and outward visibility. Awning Dotors will help you make the best selection.

Q: What are Fixed Awnings & what are Stationary Awnings?

A: The terms "Fixed Awnings" and "Stationary Awnings" are interchangeable, consisting of a welded metal skeleton frame to which awning fabric is attached. They come in all shapes and sizes, all being custom made to order. The basic rule of thumb when designing a Fixed Awning is that "if you can draw it, it can be built". Typically Fixed Awnings are for smaller areas such as windows, doors, alcoves, entry ways & walk ways. Canopy Awnings are typically a form of Fixed Awnings that cover larger surfaces and require posts and/or structural supports.

Q: How long will the fabric last?

A: This is one of the most common questions we are asked. It depends on the location and purpose of your awning, and we find that a life span of 10 to 15 years is not unusual when taken care of. See our Cleaning and Treating Page.  Most fabrics are actually warranted for 5 to 10 years.

Q: What shapes and sizes are available?

A: All of our awnings are custom made for your particular situation. In assessing your location our professional staff integrate aesthetics, architectural design and your assessment of what the awning should do. We then can make a recommendation on the specific shape and style for your location.

Q: Can we have our name or logo on the awning?

A: Absolutely. With today’s technology we are able to duplicate just about any style logo or lettering. We can create graphic images in all colors and combinations. We use only the most modern techniques and the result is a crisp clean image that provides 24-hour signage.

Q: Will Awning Doctors install the awning as well?

A: We install all of our awning projects and understand this to be a very important part of the total project. Awning Doctors has an excellent team of installers with many years of experience.

Q: Why should I get an awning instead of a deck or patio umbrella?

A: For starters, an awning is more durable and can be designed and constructed to meet the unique configuration of your home.  An awning can cover a larger area and set the boundaries for an outdoor room.  On the other hand, an umbrella is highly susceptible to wind damage and must always be operated manually and shades a much smaller space.

Q: Does the awning really make it cooler on my deck or patio?

A: Your awning will keep your deck or patio up to 20 degrees cooler, and will subsequently keep the inside of your home cooler as well.  By preventing the sun from shining through a patio door or window, the inside stays cooler, which reduces air-conditioning costs and prevents fading of your carpets and furniture.  Please see our Energy Savings page to learn more.  Also, Sunbrella® fabrics are woven, which allows air to circulate through the fabric instead of letting heat build up under your awning.

Q: What if I need something repaired on my awning?

A: Call our office. Awning Doctors was built on a service mindset. A member of the Awning Doctors team will come to your home or business to analyze and correct the problem.

Q: Does my awning need to be removed for cleaning or maintenance?

A: Awnings almost never need to be removed for general cleaning or repairs.  There are some instances when an awning frame needs to come off a structure, but typically all cleaning and most repairs are done without removing the awning.  See our Cleaning and Treating page to learn more.

Q: I've had my existing awning for many years. The fabric is now old and becoming discolored. Can I recover the awning or have it repaired?

A: Yes. In most cases awning fabrics can be installed on existing awning frames. We will be glad to come to your home or business and provide you an estimate to recover the awning. We specialize in recovering stationary & retractable awnings, even if they were originally manufactured by others. If it is more cost effective to repair the awning instead of replacing or recovering it, we will always make this suggestion first.  We are extremely experienced in awning repairs.  

Q: What are the differences between retractable and fixed awnings?

A: The main difference between retractable and fixed frame awnings is movement.  A fixed frame awning is a permanent structure that offers continual weather protection and is always present for constant, uninterrupted shade.  While a retractable awning offers movement due to spring-loaded arms that support the awning and provides the option of sun or shade.

Q: Why should I buy a retractable awning?

A: A retractable awning provides tension to the fabric as it rolls from the roll tube. The retractable awning provides versatility in that it can be extended all the way, or only as far as needed. When it's not needed it just rolls up, out of the way and stores itself.  This adds years of service by protecting the fabric from the harmful effects of weather and the sun.

Q: If  there are no poles on retractable awnings, what supports the awning?

A: Retractable awnings are designed to be self-supporting and eliminate the need for poles and framework (a good-quality retractable awning should not need support poles).  This style of awning relies on a secure structure mounting and its spring-loaded arms for its support.

Q: Do I have to fully extend my retractable awning?

A: Retractable awnings are designed so you can stop the awning at any point with the remote control or the hand crank.  There are three buttons on the remote, one for extension, one for retraction, and one to stop the awning at your desired length.

Q: Why would I want my retractable awning motorized?

A: Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping a switch and watching your awning roll out on its own. Once fully extended or retracted, the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the retractable awning in any position with a wall-mounted switch or remote control. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit.  Don't believe it? Consider how few times you would change the TV channel if you didn't have a remote control.  Visit our Motors and Electronics page for options available to you.

Q: If my retractable awning is motorized, how can I adjust it if my power goes out?

A: Awnings generally have a manual override crank that will allow you to retract your awning by hand in case of power failure or malfunction.  We do recommend to have the manual override crank included with your retractable awning purchase.

Q.  If I don’t initially install a motor with my retractable awning, can I add one at a later date?

A.  It is easier to include a motor with the initial awning installation, but it is possible to add one at a later date.  Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as often as a manual unit.  Also, adding a motor later will be more costly than if the awning and motor are installed with your initial purchase.

Q: Can I operate my retractable awning with a remote control?

A: Yes. We offer hard-wired and wireless remote controls at the time of your purchase.

Q: What about using my retractable awnings in the wind?

A: Wind is unpredictable and is a variable force since it can change velocity and direction very quickly. Retractable Awnings therefore require additional homeowner attention during windy conditions. However winds can come from many directions and the effect on an awning is very different under varying circumstances. The most potentially problematic condition is a sudden upward gust and this is particularly unpredictable. For customers who live in areas where wind is known to be erratic, we strongly recommend the use of our optional Wind Sensor by SOMFY.  See our Motors and Electronics page.

Q: Can I use my retractable awning in the rain?

A: Retractable awnings are predominately designed for sun protection. In some cases, it becomes safe to deploy an awning in light rain conditions. Retractable awnings have been used in light rain all over the world for over 100 years. The key is to maintain a minimum proper slope or pitch that will allow water to run off the retractable awning without pooling on the fabric cover. The decision to extend or retract an awning in the rain, on any given day, is a question of responsible judgment and homeowners' discretion.

Q.  How long have you been in business?

A.  Awning Doctors has been doing business in the Tucson and surrounding area since 1985.

Q: What method of payments do you accept?

A: Accepted methods of payment include check, money order, credit card, Paypal or cash.  For questions regarding Paypal, please visit www.paypal.com for more information.

Q: Do you have a showroom or main office I should visit?

A: We do not have a showroom or a storefront location.  We operate primarily in the field, meaning we come to you.  You will find our prices extrememly competitive.  By not having the additional and unnecessary cost of a store front location, we as a business, are able to pass those savings onto you.

Q: Why should I choose Awning Doctors for my awning installation and/or maintence?

A: Experience is a key factor in the awning business.  Since 1985, our team has been dedicated to exceeding our customers' needs from the initial consultation through the final installation, and beyond.  We believe in long relationships with our customers and work hard to maintain those relationships. Visit our Testimonials page to see what some of our customers have to say.