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FAQ RESOURCES

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Not only do we have answers to your frequently asked questions, we also have answers to the questions you should be asking. We’ll let you in on all you need to know on your quest for your perfect shade solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a retractable awning cost?
SummerSpace® retractable awnings are a premium line of awnings purchased through professional authorized dealers who offer the sales, service, and installation of our products. The cost of an awning is driven by several factors, including model, size, options and accessories. But the majority of purchases will range from $4,000 to $12,000 installed.
How many choices do I have in retractable awnings, and what’s the difference between models?
Every residential and commercial space is different. That’s why the staff at SummerSpace® have worked tirelessly to design the perfect solutions for varying needs. Choose from our Simple Shade Series, Pro Series, or Performance Series retractable awnings. Each one of our models has distinct features and beautiful fabric options to fit every application. Compare our models to find the perfect option for your space.
Should I add a drop screen to my retractable awning?
Are you tired of the sun hitting you in the face when you are trying to enjoy a relaxing outdoor breakfast or dinner on your back patio or deck? Adding a drop screen to your retractable awning is an effective way to shade east- and west-facing decks and patios when the sun is low in the sky. Horizontal solar rays happen near sunrise and sunset. As the earth rotates, the sun will shine from different directions, and the shade the awning provides will change accordingly. The shade your retractable patio awning provides also differs as the earth tilts on its axis throughout the year.

When the sun is low in the sky, additional shade options are desirable. Adding a drop screen to your custom size retractable awnings is like installing a tinted window without blocking your view. Plus, it’s completely retractable. Boost important solar protection and incredible privacy when you need it, and extend your awning’s impact as a powerful solar shield. Do you need to add a drop screen? We will leave that choice up to you. Do you want to add a drop screen? Absolutely! You’ll be surprised how much you love the extra benefits.

Note: SummerSpace® wind/motion sensors are not designed to be used with drop screens.
How much maintenance is required for a retractable awning?
Our superior engineering and durable materials allow your awning to last for years with minimal maintenance. Your premium, marine-grade Tempotest® fabric features complimentary enhancements such as Hi-Clean® finishing and Teflon® Extreme fabric coating for ease of ownership maintenance.

Tempotest finishes make them waterproof and nanometrical technologies make them stain resistant. Because of this, they are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance. Simply brush the surface of the fabric with a soft brush and warm, soapy water (2 oz. of soap to one gallon of water <100°F) to help remove air pollution, smog and other particles. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly in the air and sun before retracting.

If you live on the coast, we recommend cleaning your awning fabric and frame at the beginning and end of each season. If you live inland, it's as simple as giving your awning a cleaning at the beginning of each spring season. Over time, you will also want to periodically maintain your awning’s waterproof feature with a 303 waterproofing protectant designed for marine-grade fabrics.
What is so special about SummerSpace® Tempotest® fabric for my retractable awning?
With a SummerSpace® retractable awning, you can choose from hundreds of stylish marine-grade Tempotest® fabric options to match your style and backyard aesthetic. Our durable fabrics come in beautiful solids, stripes, tweeds, and textures to help you design a gorgeous space that is unique and stunning. All of our fabric options come with a Hi-Clean® finish that repels water, grease, and oil while also resisting rot or fungus growth. And with Teflon® Extreme fabric coating, you’ll love the ease of maintenance your awning brings.

Our Italian Tempotest fabrics are made of 100% solution-dyed acrylic that is pretreated for mold and mildew. Each individual strand is dyed and pretreated before being woven instead of being surface coated – offering you exceptional protection at all levels. You can also enjoy up to a 99% block of harmful UV rays from the sun.
Why is SummerSpace® SummerShieldTM 2604 aluminum powder coating better than what other brands offer?
All powder coatings and applications are not created equal. Our industry-leading pretreatment and proprietary SummerShieldTM super-durable powder coating finish exceeds AAMA 2604 specifications, including 3,000 hour salt spray testing. Choose from superior low-gloss, luxurious textured frame colors to customize your favorite SummerSpace® products.

Why does this matter to you? You are making a long term investment, so purchasing a product that is powder coated above the industry standard will pay off over time. Your frame will never rust, which means years of wonderful enjoyment from your purchase.
How much wind can a retractable awning take?
Quite a few people are reluctant to consider premium retractable awnings because of a bad experience they’ve had with a flimsy patio umbrella or subpar awning in the past. A SummerSpace® retractable awning is made of industry-leading, sturdy materials that are designed for long-term use. Your retractable awning is securely mounted to your home’s roof, soffit, or exterior wall. However, that doesn’t mean it is wind or storm proof. Generally speaking, your awning can withstand light to moderate winds.

A little discretion can go a long way in keeping your awning looking and performing like new. We also offer wind sensors that will automatically retract your awning if the wind exceeds a safe limit. However, we don’t advise depending on the sensor as the only means of closing your awning. They are best utilized as good protection insurance in the event that heavy winds come up unexpectedly.
Is my retractable awning waterproof? Can I use it in the rain?
SummerSpace® Retractable Awnings are made of Italian performance marine-grade fabric, which is highly water resistant. With an appropriate pitch, the water will just bead up and run off. If the rain is too hard for the awning to shed water before pooling, then the awning needs to be closed so that the weight of the water does not damage your retractable patio awning. If you find the rain uncomfortable and need to retreat inside, then it’s time to close the awning as well. Your awning should never be left unattended in hazardous weather. Although your awning can provide protection from rain to varying degrees, your retractable awning is designed for solar use. Using your awning in these weather conditions is not protected under warranty. SummerSpace retractable awnings are also ideal for coastal applications. Our industry-leading pretreatment and proprietary SummerShieldTM powder coating finish exceeds AAMA 2604 specifications, including 3,000-hour salt spray water testing.
Can I alter the angle of my retractable awning?
There are multiple options for setting the pitch and angle of your awning correctly, depending on what model you choose. The unique Flex-Pitch design on our Pro Series 87 shade also allows you to adjust the shoulder and each side of the front bar independently with ease. Smoothly transition your awning angle for perfect shade.

During installation of other models, your SummerSpace® dealer can also help you set your awning to the right pitch for premium comfort. Add a drop screen for the ultimate enjoyment of solar shade and privacy.
Are SummerSpace® FlexShade® solar screens see through?
We offer a variety of premium mesh options for your FlexShade® screen system for increased solar and privacy protection. Your see-through screen offers you the ability to see out while offering enhanced privacy. It’s like having a retractable tinted window with the ultimate in solar protection. With our Zip screens, you’ll also enjoy additional heat, weather and insect protection while maintaining your beautiful view.

Your solar screen visibility is dependent on the mesh color, weave pattern, and openness factor. Choose your preference for the view you desire and ask your authorized SummerSpace dealer for recommendations for your residential or commercial application.
Where can you install a SummerSpace® FlexShade® solar screen?
FlexShade® solar screens can be installed wherever you’d like additional shade, privacy, solar or insect protection. This includes your gazebos, pergola, porch, deck, balcony, windows and more! Our FlexShade solar screens come in three incredible offerings. Choose from our Traditional Zip, Zip XL for wide openings, and Non-Zip options.
Will my SummerSpace® FlexShade® solar screen protect me from weather and bugs?
With a SummerSpace® FlexShade® system, you have the ultimate screened-in protection for your outdoor spaces. Our Zip Traditional and Zip XL solar screens provide excellent wind, weather and insect protection when fully extended. With a built-in Zip retention channel, the solar screen seals to the side of your home, deck, gazebo, pergola, or patio, preventing insects and rain from entering. It is also tested for extreme wind control. Enjoy outdoor dining, private gatherings, incredible solar control, and more with your FlexShade solar screen applications.
Do SummerSpace® Retractable Awnings, FlexShades, and Aluminum Canopies come with a warranty?
At SummerSpace®, it’s our goal to make you a customer for life. That’s why each premium SummerSpace product includes a comprehensive limited warranty to help protect your investment. To view your warranty information, visit our warranty page for details.

Should Be Asked Questions

What is your lead time? How long will I have to wait for my awning to be installed?
SummerSpace® solves the problem of global supply issues through our trusted, strategic partnerships – allowing us to quickly deliver industry-leading products with complete customer satisfaction.

Our fully stocked warehouse has all of the raw materials, fabrics, and components already in-house to help us ensure the fastest shipping time in the industry. You can order your premier product with complete confidence that there will be no production or shipping delays. With a turnaround time of eight days or less from order placement to shipment, you can enjoy the life you’ve longed for sooner than you ever imagined.

We deliver our products to our authorized dealers quickly and efficiently. In turn, that has allowed our dealers to pass along that time savings to you, ensuring your beautiful retractable awning, FlexShade®, or aluminum canopy is in place when you need it most. You won’t find a turnaround like this from any other brand!
Where is my SummerSpace® product manufactured?
Your globally designed products are proudly manufactured in Auburn, Maine, by the industry’s finest craftsmen and women. Our third-generation family-owned and operated company is the leader in innovation – producing the majority of the parts of your completed retractable awnings, solar screens, and aluminum canopies using only the finest raw materials. We’ve invested over 17 million dollars in high-tech manufacturing and expanded our operations to over 400,000 square feet of dedicated space. We even have our own powder coating system in-house that covers your aluminum parts with a 2604 super-durable polyester powder coat. Our ability to control every aspect of the manufacturing process allows us to focus on a level of quality and service unmatched by anyone in the industry – and it shows in every beautiful SummerSpace® product.
How do I know my outdoor living awning, solar screen system, or aluminum canopy will last?
Choosing a retractable awning for your residential or commercial space is an investment in your outdoor enjoyment. As such, you want a quality product that is made to last. All SummerSpace® retractable awnings have a stainless steel chain tension system designed for maximum durability, high-quality components, and an aluminum frame protected by a 2604 super-durable polyester powder coat. You’ll also know that your awning shade, FlexShade® and aluminum canopy metal will never rust. Our Tempotest® fabric is 100% acrylic and treated with Teflon Extreme®, making it the most fade-resistant material used in the shading industry. When you choose an awning shade, retractable privacy screen, or aluminum canopy from SummerSpace, you’ll enjoy a product that is protected against staining and blemishes and covered by a comprehensive limited warranty to help protect your investment.
How much clearance is needed for retractable awnings?
For SummerSpace® retractable awnings, the minimum clearance needed is 7 feet 6 inches all the way up to 10 feet. We offer adjustable, customizable products with both exterior wall mount and roof mount applications to help ensure that one of our quality products works for your space. Enjoy lasting performance and unending beauty from your choice of outdoor living awnings.
Vacation at home with your
retractable awning .

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