Five Tips to Protect Your Awning From Wind

Posted on: 18 July 2016

Awnings can be a great way to create shade over a patio or deck, but if you live in a  windy area, the awning may get damaged from the wind. Wondering how to minimise the potential of damage and its effects? Take a look at these ideas:

1. Don't use temporary canopies.

In most cases, temporary canopies are less expensive than permanent awnings, but they are not interchangeable. While temporary canopies work great for a day at the beach, they are not designed to withstand constant wind, and the wind may get underneath them, pick them up, blow them away or damage the telescoping poles. Instead, make sure that you use a permanent awning.

2. Opt for a retractable awning.

If you have lots of high winds in your area, you want the option to protect your awning from the winds. To that end, choose a retractable awning. You can buy awnings that basically come in metal boxes that you attach to the side of your house, and then you can extend and retract the awning at the touch of a button. In other cases, you can just buy an awning with a frame that allows you to close the awning as needed to avoid the wind.

3. Make sure the awning is well anchored.

If your awning isn't retractable, make sure that it is securely attached to your home to prevent it from getting caught by the wind. Keep in mind that anything that protrudes from your home may be hit by the wind. If your awning is not retractable, consider using extra rope to anchor it to the ground. For example, if it has grommets along one side, loop your rope through there, and tie the rope to an eyelet screw attached to your deck or secured in a bucket of concrete.

4. Plant a windbreak.

You can also give your awning some reprieve from the wind by planting a windbreak near it. A row of trees or a tall bushes help because the wind hits it and slows down before it reaches your awning. If you don't have time to wait whilst plants grow, consider using potted trees as your wind break or even a strategically placed garden shed.

5. Contact your home insurance agent.

Finally, if you are really worried about wind, contact your home insurance agent. See if your policy covers the cost of damage caused by wind or other acts of nature. Also, double check on your deductible -- if it's too high and your awning is inexpensive, your insurance policy may not cover the cost of replacement.

For more information, contact professionals like IQ Shutters Pty Ltd.

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