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A Piece of the Puzzle: Incorporating Retractable Awnings Into Historical Renovations

June 3rd, 2011

retractable awnings

 

Downtown areas, tree-lined neighborhoods, old main streets â?? every city and town is defined by the buildings in it. Older buildings, whether itâ??s a turn of the century storefront or a post-war home, has a distinctive design. When buildings are refurbished, the intent is to preserve those distinctive attributes, to preserve the character and scope of the original style.

Retractable awnings have an important role in renovating historical buildings for two reasons:

· A variety of old architectural styles, such as Spanish Revival, Colonial, and Craftsman, incorporated awnings as part of the exterior design, so the awnings themselves are functional and aesthetic extensions of the building.

· Old buildings depended on passive ways of controlling heat, especially through shade elements such as retractable awnings and trees.

Replacing awnings on older buildings, even integrating retractable awnings where there were previously none, is a simple, relatively inexpensive, yet highly visible way to begin renewing the appearance of a building. Retractable awnings are especially beneficial because of easy use and care, combined with highly-durable construction and the ability to provide sun, glare, UV, and heat protection in the spring and summer months and allow solar gain in the winter and fall.

What Matters in a Renovation

Streets and neighborhoods are taken together as a collective influence. That means that one of the most important aspects for preserving historical integrity is properly preserving the exterior appearance of a building. According to the Department of the Interior (which, through the National Park Services, encourages historical preservation), the exterior areas in an old building (commercial and residential) have the greatest affect on preserving the historic flavor of the building. There are a number of areas that reflect the intrinsic style of the architectural period:

· Existing architectural details, such as ornate trim

· Entryways

· Porches and patios

· Landscaping

· Drives and parking areas

· Windows

· Natural passive heat control (retractable awnings and other shade elements)

Assess where awnings were previously installed or where retractable awnings can be seamlessly incorporated. For example, old wood arbors around a Spanish-style home may have rotted away; a retractable awning, covering the same area, is much easier and less expensive to install while still harmonizing with the original design and appearance of the home. Additionally, many homes of all varieties used natural shade elements to control light and heat. Replacing awnings with retractable awnings can help cool the interior without having to immediately install air conditioning or fans or used to replace the shade from trees which have been removed.

Where controlling light or heating is an issue in historic buildings, retractable awnings are especially beneficial since they can be motorized, automatically respond to the sun by using sensors, and change their pitch. Being able to adjust the awning improves both heating and cooling efficiency. Other sensors (wind, motion, and rain) can also be used to protect the awning.

Methods for Integrating Awnings with Your Structure

Retractable awnings are an important facet in an historical facade. The determining factor when selecting retractable awnings is to be true to the style. Old photographs and nearby buildings can give hints on what kind of retractable awning to look for. Retractable awning style, size, color, and location impact the overall appearance. In addition, retractable awnings offer energy efficiency and are both simple and efficient to use.

Style

The most common historic awning style is the most popular even today: a simple stretch of fabric, extended over two or more arms, with a valance hanging in the front. This style is called lateral arm. Lateral arm retractable awnings are a popular style for both budget and high-end retractable awning lines, giving a broad range of options.

Another important style feature of a lateral arm awning is the valance, a strip of fabric which hangs from the front end of a lateral arm, elongated or dome retractable awning. For almost any time period, scalloped or rounded valances were common.

Some architectural styles use more specialized awnings; for example, Spanish Revival prominently features arched windows and doorways, and awnings for those areas, the awnings were also arched (called dome awnings). Dome and elongated dome retractable awnings are also available for historical restorations and are especially popular for commercial awnings.

Size

The awning should fit within the original outlines of the building area. For example, use multiple small awnings over windows instead of one large awning stretching across an entire wall. Also, the projection of the awning should be properly fitted to the right-of-way or landscaping.

The size and projection of the retractable awning is integral to giving the amount of sun and glare protection needed to prevent damage to furnishings or stock and displays.

Color and pattern

One of the most popular fabrics were wide stripes (commonly called a bistro style), in black and white. Colors tended to be light (such as pastels) because of the gently-colored, diffused sunlight. Yellow was extremely common awning color for stores because it reflects light and UV rays effectively and diminishes the amount of sun damage to furnishings and store wares.

One tip: avoid old-fashioned canvas awnings. Although cotton or canvas awnings are historically accurate, solution-dyed acrylic wears substantially longer and has a brighter, truer color, which is why the Park Service recommends it.

Retractable awnings

With a design similar since its inception in the late 1800s, retractable awnings (even motorized awnings) are not unhistorical. Stylistically, retractable awnings look the same as traditional and historic awnings, with some additional benefits:

· Significantly longer lifetime than fixed awnings since the fabric is not always exposed to the sun

· Better overall energy efficiency than fixed awnings

· Simpler use and maintenance

· High quality materials, in most cases

· Unobstructed views

· No additional construction and a light footprint on the building

Looking at the Larger Picture

Architecture is the character of the community. Spanish Revival in Florida, Cape Cod in New England, and Craftsman-style ranch houses in the Midwest all provide distinct spice for their regions. Preserving that appearance is important to business and retail centers, so many cities offer incentives and special design districts to encourage historically friendly updates to commercial buildings and downtown districts. Awnings are specifically mentioned in revitalization projects across the USA because of the widespread popularity of awnings in nearly every decade and architectural style since the 1800s.

Retractable awnings fit into a larger design picture, making that picture a little more harmonious and timeless with a well-designed, well-constructed, and well-chosen architectural feature.

Canvas Awnings make sunshade beautiful

June 2nd, 2011

canvas awnings

Canvas Awnings involves a large collection of sunshades which is made of canvas. It involves canvas awnings and canvas canopies. It is used to protect from the elements and it is available in the lower energy costs. They are available in fabric. Canvas Awnings are affordable and they can be customized according to your order. You can order the canvas awnings online for buying. There are facilities of pricing, ordering, measuring. They are available in different designs and colors. They are of different sizes for different windows and there are different specifications and options.

They are cheap products and they are based on the specific and unique selections. They have a vaguely marine sense. They are used for the good reason. The fabric used in the Canvas Awnings was obtained from the ship’s sails. Canvas duck is basically an oiled and treated form of the canvas cotton. Canvas cotton is water repellant and more durable than the other fibers. It is tough enough that was require for a ship’s sail. It can be held up on the land in both sun and the rain.

Basically all natural fibers including the cotton canvas is in the risk of UV damage. Moreover that it can rot in the humidity and it may be faded and bleached due to natural effects. In the 20th century the awning producers flirted with the manmade materials like vinyl. Vinyl was a solid sheet. It is not a fabric and not breathable. It involves the risk of UV damage, mushroom of the cotton so it is still vulnerable and there is a chance of fading.

There is another manmade material which came in the market of the awnings in the 1940s. The material was the solution-dyed-acrylic. Today the Canvas Awnings are the most preferred awning material. Solution-dyed acrylic is basically a fiber. Several yarns are there and it is woven into different patterns. It is sewn with the thread like the cotton canvas awnings. In fact that acrylic is a natural fiber fabric. It means solution dyed acrylic gets the benefit of the canvas awnings. It is renowned for the natural comfortableness. It does not engage the weakness of Canvas Awnings.

Advantages of canvas awnings

June 2nd, 2011

canvas awnings

Canvas awnings suit well to all edifices whether it is a home or office. They are also just perfect for a trailer or RV. The primary function of an awning is to provide protection from outside elements. It gives shade from the sun’s extremely hot UV rays, keeps you dry when it rains and also provides you privacy from peeping toms. Awnings have many uses but the most prominent benefit is they enhance the appearance of the edifices. They are more a decorative item rather a utility thing. And probably for this reason, one can find awnings in almost all the buildings, trailers and RVs.

The most popular style of both residential as well as commercial awnings is canvas awnings. These awnings come in a host of styles and colors. Options range from traditional with either open or closed sides to quarter barrel and waterfall to semi-circular entrance. Add to that gable walker and double bar standard. Most of the awnings come with weather protection that prevents the canvas from degenerate when in contact with moisture, dust, sun and dry air. The awning is coated with special acrylic protective coat that shields the canvas against harsh weather conditions.

All weather canvas awnings are in vogue these days. There are many companies that set beautiful awnings on window, carriage way and entrance. Most of the firms offer five-year standard warranty on their awnings. The warranty covers the damage to the canvas due to manufacturing defect or harsh weather. Canvas is long lasting material and the awnings make of canvas lasts much longer than the warranty period. There are edifices which have awnings that are more than 10 years old but still look pretty. Probably this is the reason why canvas is preferred over other materials when it comes to installing awnings on the windows and doors.

Purchase quality canvas awnings and maintain them properly. The better the awnings are maintained the longer they would last. Keep the awnings clean and don’t forget to roll them over whenever the air behaves in an unfriendly manner. Consider an awning that can withstand everything from scratch to mildew. Also pay some heed to the quality of metal components. The metal part should be sturdy and durable. Shop around for the awnings as there are many companies. Visit each firm and see what they are offering. It’s much better if you could find an online awnings company.

Fast Installation Steps for Retractable Awnings

June 1st, 2011

retractable awnings

One of the biggest advantages of a retractable awning is how easy it is to install, making them an ideal project for weekend do-it-yourself-ers. All it takes is a little preparation, some extra tools, and a few easy steps.

Preparation

To find a location to install the retractable awning, simply measure the area where the retractable awning will be installed and select the closest fit. For budget retractable awnings, available sizes are usually standardized from 11′ to 18′ widths in 1′ increments and projections of 8′ or 10′. (High-end retractable awnings have custom sizes down to one inch and can be both smaller and substantially larger than budget retractable awnings.)

When selecting the location, make sure that it can adequately support the retractable awning:

·        Pick a space that is the stated width, plus 6″ for the frame and that is clear for as far as the retractable awning extends, allowing it to extend fully without hitting any obstruction.

·        Make sure the location can handle the full weight of the retractable awning, which can be several hundred pounds or more.

·        If possible, give at least 12″ clearance above any doors and windows and high enough to allow the retractable awning to slope 3″ down for every 1′ it projects. For a 12′ projection retractable awning, the slope is 36″. For example, for the front end to be 7′ high, the mounting location has to be 10′ high.

A retractable awning is most commonly mounted on a wall, but it can also be installed on an eave, fascia, beam or roof, depending on the location. As you scout out the location, identify where the proper mounting point will be so that you can order the retractable awning with the appropriate mounting hardware (if provided).

Bring Bonus Materials

Most retractable awning manufacturers include all of the essential hardware, that is required by the retractable awning in its kit, including brackets, nuts, bolts, and screws. There are some extra tools that can make the install process easier and more successful:

·        Stud finders. A retractable awning should always be installed on a stud or joist (for wall mount) or roof truss (for roof mount) or into concrete, brick, concrete block or metal beam because those structural areas can support the weight of the retractable awning. A stud finder can locate or verify where the studs are much more quickly than trying to do it manually.

·        Chalk lines and levels. Retractable awnings must be installed level, and there is no good way to judge it by eye.

·        Pressure-treated wood boards for mounting retractable awnings. Many exterior materials – brick, adobe, shingles, most siding – will not allow a retractable awning to be installed flush against the building. Pressure-treated boards can then be installed first at the proper location, and the retractable awning mounted against the board.

·        Another person. Large retractable awnings can be several hundred pounds or more. It is not strictly necessary to have another person, or two, to help out, but having additional people makes installing the retractable awning much faster and much more likely to be properly level and positioned.

The How-to Procedure

The most common retractable awning is a traditional lateral arm, which has a long torsion or square bar at the back and extends out from the base. The most common installation location is to an exterior wall. If your mounting location is somewhere else, like a roof, or if you are installing a special retractable awning style, then these instructions may not match the manufacturer’s instructions.

1.    Find the studs.

2.    Mark a level chalk line the full width of the retractable awning.

3.    Install a pressure-treated board, if necessary, level with the chalk line.

4.    Mark another chalk line, the full width of the retractable awning.

5.    Attach the mounting brackets. The first four brackets are usually placed inside and outside of the retractable awning arms; the rest are even spaced across the middle. Check the specific instructions for your retractable awning for precise measurements.

6.    Slide the retractable awning into the mounting brackets.

7.    Tighten the retaining bolts securely. Having the bolts too loose is one of the main problems that can occur at installation.

Where to Go for Help

As with any project, keep the manufacturer’s instructions handy, and their support number even closer. Good retailers have plans, installation, and maintenance instructions on their websites and have accessible customer support personnel. It’s all right to call for help if that’s what it takes to complete your project.

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Canvas Awnings – How To Care For Them And Keep Them Good As New

June 1st, 2011

canvas awnings

Canvas awnings will last for many years if you take proper care of them. These awnings are made from the finest synthetic fabrics and you should only use water repellent and mildew resistant products when cleaning them. The material used in awnings, even the dome awnings, is mildew resistant, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to clean them. If dirt accumulates on canvas awnings, after a while it will become susceptible to mold and mildew.

Canvas awnings are custom made according to the measurements you provide to the retailer. Canvas dome awnings have a dome shape so that the water from the rain will run right off and not collect in the middle of the awning. The frame for dome awnings is made with powder coated aluminum tubing, which is what gives it the rounded shape. The hardware used for installation is galvanized steel making it rust and corrosion resistant.

You do have to wash the canvas awning material on a regular basis. You can use a mild soap on canvas awnings, but you do need to make sure that you rinse them off thoroughly. There are also special cleaners and disinfectants you can buy for canvas. The retailer from whom you purchase the canvas awning will be able to give you advice as to how to keep the awning clean and the best products to use. It is only easy to clean the underside of canvas dome awnings as well as conventional shaped awnings. Just use your broom to sweep off any bits of dust and dirt.

It is not advisable to install canvas awnings near trees and shrubs. This is because they may contain an acid that is harmful to the canvas awning material. If a defect occurs in the canvas because of your location, the warranty that comes with the awning will no longer be valid. You also have to check the condition of the awning frames. This is especially important with canvas dome awnings. These add to the grace and charm of your home, but if they become discoloured with rust, it can be very unsightly.

When you have canvas awnings, you have to be careful not to roll or unroll them in cold temperatures. This can cause cracks in the canvas. You also have to be careful not to drag the canvas awning material over rough surfaces, such as cement or rocks. Water pooling in pockets on the canvas can cause it to stretch, so after it rains you have to check the canvas awnings and get all the water off of them.

Canvas Awnings-Caring For Your Canvas Window Awnings

May 31st, 2011

canvas awnings

Canvas awnings offer a great degree of versatility and choice, particularly in relation to colors and for awkward windows or doors.

While some enthusiasts make canvas awnings at home – and that is a fun weekend project, by the way – most prefer to trust industrial production, and there are plenty to choose from. Sunbrella awnings make some pretty impressive canvas awnings, and they are available at a very reasonable rate. These come in a wide variety of dimensions and shapes, and can be easily put up. Sunbrella canvas awnings in fact come in a wide variety of colours as well, and colour coordinating your house in suitable canvas awnings can end up being a lot of fun.

Many people choose to go for custom canvas awnings and it is possible to make your own with a little research on the internet. Canvas for awnings is inexpensive to buy and the choice you can derive from making your own canvas canopy, whether canvas patio awnings of window awnings can make the process of dressing up your house a lot of fun. Make sure to check out the returns policy of your canvas awning supplier because some will not accept returns if you decide to go the cheap route and install yourself.

A little ingenuity can also get you a dome shaped canvas awnings, stretched tightly over a frame. These are reasonably easy to maintain as well, given their shape – although they are obviously not very flexible. Or you can go for the more classic awning type which is rectangular and is probably a safer bet if you are installing yourself and are not that proficient with diy.

Canvas Window Awnings
Canvas window awnings are one of the most popular choices for home and if you do not feel up to the task of making your own then there are many companies who do a great range of canvas canopies.

Sunsetter awnings also offer a wide range of products and models when it comes to canvas awnings. Given the flexibility that is inherent in the material being used (canvas), almost all models offered by Sunsetter are retractable. A little tweaking could also make these models automated – indeed, some of them are. The 900 XT and the 1000 XT models, both of which come in various colours and sizes, are probably the most sensible purchases, and you could of course pick and choose your model depending upon your requirement in terms of size and shape.

Canvas Awnings Tips
While price is central to purchasing canvas awnings, there are some caveats that you should keep in mind. Firstly, canvas awnings have a propensity to attract mildew, especially in damp weather. Therefore, before buying a canvas awning, do keep the climate in your locality in mind – or at any rate, do remember to keep a somewhat regular schedule of maintenance and upkeep.

Secondly, unduly harsh climates could ruin the colour on the canvas awnings. Do remember to retract the canvas awning whenever you are not using it.

If you keep these tips in mind though, there is no reason why a canvas awning installation should not work out well for you and enhance your home or camping experience.

RV Awning Protection – Helping Your Awning Last For Many Years

May 30th, 2011

rv awning

An RV awning needs to be protected in order to keep it looking good year after year. When you start to get your RV ready for summer, there are some things that you should do to make sure that the awning is in good working order. This includes making sure that all the moving parts are working. You should never use motor oil on the gears of a retractable RV awning – this requires pure silicon spray.

Along with having the awning on your RV to give you more outdoor living space there are options that you can include with your purchase to make your camping experience that much better. These include mats and lights so that you can enjoy the awning in all kinds of weather. An RV awning mat is similar to a rug, but you spread it on the ground under the awning so that you have your own unique patio. Some of the RV awnings some with lights included or you can buy RV lights designed specifically for your RV awning.

An RV awning mat is designed to be sturdy and is rugged enough to withstand outdoor use. It is also lightweight and can be rolled up to fit in an overnight bag. You can get a mat that matches the color or your RV awning or one that has an outdoor theme. These mats are well suited for any type of ground. Having a mat under your awning means that you don’t have to put on your sandals when you want to sit outside your RV. You can walk on these in your bare feet.

RV awning lights consist of 8-inch polyethelene globes and they have plastic tops that snap in place. These lights suited for an RV awning also have a hanging chain and they only take an ordinary 7 -watt light bulb. You will need to have an electrical hook up in the camping space in order to operate these awning lights because they need to be plugged in to a source of electricity. They are well able to withstand the elements of the weather, but like the awning, they are not designed for use in wind.

With the many options that you can buy to accompany your RV awning, you can make your motor home your home away from home. You can enjoy the comforts of having a unique patio with an RV awning mat and lights that let you sit outside after dark. You can still use the lights when it is raining and with the RV awning in place, you will be warm and dry.

Make your vacation comfortable with RV awnings

May 30th, 2011

rv awning

If you love traveling, you must have surely used recreational vehicles, popularly known as RV. It is believed that the travelers can easily cope up with the increased gasoline prices. It proves to be more affordable and convenient because of the high end features due to which some people prefer the RV’s on a daily basis. The regular travelers know what services should be hired in order to make their journey interesting. They avail of the most popular accessory, termed as an awning. The RV awnings promise to ensure more space for relaxation for whatever length of time you are on the road.

The users of the RV awning have various options to choose the best awning for their comfort and convenience. There are other necessary equipments like bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, refrigerators and many more. It is noticed that the retractable awnings are simply the ultimate preference. The calmness and ease offered by the elegant motorized retractable awnings are only understood by the avid RV users. However, the newbie will find it troublesome.

But, the latest models have made it easy and quick to expand and retract the awnings due to which the recreational vehicles are enjoying immense popularity. For added convenience, there are push buttons to extent a room in the RV. The cheap alternative is a manual awning unit that can be setup with some effort.

Do you want to know about the different types of RV awnings? You will find patios awnings, RV windows awnings, and even covered room awnings. If you want to add a room in your motorhome, then you can opt for RV add a room that can give the required space and environment to make your journey memorable. Additionally for more entertainment, you can install RV screen room and lights. It will create great mood for tranquility.

In addition to RV awning screen room, there are some extra features available with the motorhome awnings that can bring more enjoyment and serenity in the atmosphere. For your added benefit, you can also have outside patio area that can ensure a great experience by protecting yourself from the harsh and bright sun. Even when the sun has set, you can rest in peace. With this awning, you can be assured that the interiors of the RV are cool as it can keep the heat at the lowest level.

Furthermore, some of the RVs allow cooking. So, you can even cook your favorite food. Once you are done with your meal, you can be assured of sleeping comfortable because of the cool ambiance.

It is up to you to modify the RV. As per your needs, you can easily order the RV supplies. There are many RV retailers or service centers that will address your needs. If you want discount RV supplies, then visit the online retailer who can ensure the best products for your recreational vehicle. Ask for catalog so that you can order after studying it properly.

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Changing the First Impression through Facade

December 15th, 2010

facadeDecorating home should be total. Do not focus on the interior only, pay attention to the exterior. Remember, first impressions must have set in the facade.

Just like the face, the facade is the center of attention for anyone who saw it. How could anyone interested to visit if your home look dirty and unkempt?

No need to change the total exterior of the building, give enough attention to some details below.

* See the main door of the house. It’s getting brittle or dull? Feel free to replace them with new ones. There are many models of doors to choose from, ranging from the classic style, ethnicity, to modern. Just select the style of the house.
* Note the wall paint on the facade. Changes in extreme weather could damage the paint, no matter how good the quality. Changing the paint color can also be a good solution to make the house look new.
* Paint the window frame which started to fade. Except, if the window using a metal frame.
* Add decorative lighting on the facade, for example around the patio. The light from the lamp wall can create an impression of dramatic and beautiful.
* Do not forget, complete with flower and plant garden shrubs. No need to plant large trees, mini-sized green plants are even more meaningful.

With this kind of exterior decorating, your house will look more beautiful and friendly. Guests will also not hesitate to visit.

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Glass Floor Need Treated Specially

November 4th, 2010

glassfloorIf we know the glass is only used as a material for windows, now glass can be used for other things. For example a wall or partition space, the roof of the building, even the floor of the room.

Because it is easily broken and dangerous, glass needs to be treated specially, either when used as window glass, walls, roof, or floors of buildings. Special treatment is needed for the glass did not endanger users of the room. For example the use of glass as a floor on the stairs.

Not all glass can be used as material for the floor. Just kind of tempered glass with a minimum thickness of 20mm is what can be used. Type of tempered glass are relatively stronger than ordinary glass. But that does not mean by using tempered glass negative impact glass missing altogether. Special treatment is required at the time of installation, and use later.

To avoid the broken glass at the time of use, we recommend the installation of glass as the floor space is considered. Create a framework of glass-retaining frame strong as possible. To be able to support heavy loads, use the framework of the rectangular lattice (squares) as the base glass is recommended. The length and width of the grid can be adjusted by the thickness of the glass and the heavy burden that will be received by the glass. For best results, preferably, the length of the longest side of the grille is no more than 60cm. Framework should also be made of strong metal, such as iron or stainless steel. Between the iron frame and glass should also be given rubber, among others, functioning as a vibration damper and direct friction with the iron frame and glass to avoid cracking or breaking due to vibration / impact.

Having a flat surface and slippery when wet, the glass floor – first floor to the stairs – should be equipped with a slip. Can be made by, among others, put insulation on the surface rough-textured floor stairs. This isolation can prevent the foot slipping. That way, the ladder is relatively safe to use, and not harmful.

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