Retractable Deck & Patio Awnings

If there are no poles on the SunShelter Classic, Select and Elite then what supports the awnings?
Durasol lateral arm awnings (a.k.a. deck and patio awnings) have been designed to be self-supporting. This style of awning relies on secure mounting to the structure in conjunction with spring loaded arms. The arm tension is created with internal springs and large radius elbows will keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.

What happens to retractable awnings in the winter?
By design, Durasol awnings are self-storing when retracted. Many customers remove the loose hanging valance for winter storage, while others do nothing more than keep the unit retracted. Some continue to use their awnings all year long!

What kind of wind loads can the SunShelter series handle?
Retractable awnings are primarily for sun protection and should not be left out in windy conditions or when the area the product is covering is not being used. Wind is an unpredictable force, however, and can quickly change direction and intensity. In "real life" applications the rule of thumb is: if you are comfortable sitting outdoors dining or reading the paper, then it is probably safe to operate your awning. The concern with wind is a lifting up effect on the awning rather than a downward force; therefore, the greater the pitch, the more wind resistant the unit is. Durasol now offers an affordable addition to all their motorized awnings: a Durasol, marine-grade wind sensor. The wind sensor, in conjunction with a Remote Receiver tells your awning to retract when wind speeds increase, reducing the potential for damage.

Why would I want my awning motorized?
Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping a switch and watching your awning roll out effortlessly. Once fully extended or retracted the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the awning in any position by simply pressing the button a second time. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit. With Durasol's new line of electronic accessories, your local dealer can create the system that fits your unique needs. And if you are concerned with loss of power while your awning is extended don't worry, we've got you covered. Durasol offers line of tubular motors that incorporate a manual override, which allows you to hand-crank the awning in the event of a power loss.

How long will the fabrics last?
Today's lightweight, acrylic woven fabrics are designed to provide the homeowner with years of protection against rot, mildew and excessive fading. Durasol's warranty covers all the products they produce for a period of five years. Life expectancy, when cleaning and care instructions are followed, should be eight to twelve years on retractable awnings.

When would I need a protective hood?
The optional protective hood, available at an additional cost, has been designed to provide adequate unit protection when structural protection is not available. Hoods are often purchased when the awning is roof mounted or fascia mounted and when it is not located directly under a soffit or overhang.

What if I have a limited amount of space under the soffit or overhang of my home? For example, a single level ranch, second story bi-level.
Durasol has developed a roof mounting system for their SunShelter Series awnings when limited mounting exists; for example, less than 8' from the deck surface to mounting location. This mounting system allows for water, wind, and snow to pass under the unit safely. The brackets are anchored into the roof rafter and properly sealed to prevent leaking.

Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned about?
Durasol's SunShelter Series of retractable awnings are primarily designed to protect you from the damaging and harsh rays of the sun. These products are not designed for rain protection; however, they can be used in drizzle or misting rains with proper unit pitch when strong winds are not present. In heavy or driving rains, the units must be retracted to avoid water from "pooling" on the fabric and causing damage or irreversible fabric stretching.

How will the awning mount to my home?
Factory trained professionals locate the structural framework of the home and pre-drill installation bracket holes through any siding to tie in directly to either wall studs or headers. On roof mount applications, the installers tie into the rafters. They pre-drill to avoid cracking, and add silicone caulk to the hardware and brackets for leak prevention. All mounting applications utilize 3/8" lag bolts, in varying lengths, depending on mounting surface.

Why is a single cable retractable awning better?
We have laboratory-tested our SunShelter Select to exceed 60,000 cycles of extending and retracting the shading systems with visible sign of wear or cable failure. The level of testing more than simulates 20 years or normal use. TUV, a European testing company has set the acceptable standard at only 24,000 cycles to receive their seal of approval. We use a single, 4mm large diameter, 128 strand aircraft grade cable in each SunShelter Select arm. Because our elbows are engineered with a very large radius, we are able to run this single large Stainless Steel cable with excellent long-term performance without plastic coated cables, belts or bulky chains. Durasol far exceeds the TUV acceptable level and far outperforms other systems in the marketplace, that's why we offer a 10-year warranty on our framework components. Most other systems in the US marketplace are imported from Europe or China where these awnings are typically warranted for 3 years or less. These US manufacturers then "plus up" the original manufacturer's warranty to stay competitive.

What does an average sized SunShelter Select cost?
Due to the custom-made nature of all our shading systems we produce and the uniqueness of each application, prices cannot be given without verified measurements and actual site inspection. Castle Blind Factory will meet with you for a free, in-home consultation to design an awning that's right for you! The typical custom-made SunShelter Select shading system, professionally installed, will range between $2,400 and $3,400. Again, with a wide range of available sizes and a large variety of product options, this effect prices dramatically - so very rarely is one system exactly the same as the next. It may be hard to believe, but there are more than 130 billion combinations for this shading system! The type of installation also play a major role in the final cost. Castle Blind Factory has several different types of mounting brackets and different fasteners for all types of installations to provide you with a trouble-free installation. We're sorry that we are being a little vague but prices can range from $1,500 to over $5,000. By contacting Castle Blind Factory and providing us with more details of your application, we will be able to give you a more precise range.

How long does it take to be installed once my order is placed?
Durasol awnings are produced within two weeks. Allowing for shipping time and the Castle Blind Factory present workload, your awning should be installed in four to six weeks.

Does Durasol offer any other types of awnings?
Durasol offers a complete line of retractable and stationary awnings for decks, patios, terraces, windows, doorways, and more for residential and commercial applications!