Patio shade structures come in a variety of types, sizes and shapes. They may be tensioned membrane canopies, retractable awnings, portable tent-type canopies, etc. They can cover small patios such as a backyard deck or high-rise terrace. Or they can cover much larger areas such as your condo association’s poolside seating or your restaurant’s outdoor summer café and bar.
Regardless, they all have one thing in common: these shade structures are strictly seasonal. They aren’t meant to remain in place during the off-season, so you need to take them down and store them out of harm’s way.
Properly winterizing your patio shade structures will give them a long life and keep them looking cool and inviting for years to come. It’s not difficult. Just follow these five steps:
1. Thoroughly inspect your shade structures.
Things wear out. And sometimes accidents happen. So look over your entire structure carefully. The structural frame, fittings and fabric should all be snug and secure. Tighten any loose hardware.
Check the fabric for worn spots or tiny tears, and check to make sure stitching isn’t worn or coming unraveled. If your shade structures have a valance, look at that especially closely, since they tend to flutter and flap a bit in the breeze. Movement causes wear over time.
2. Make repairs right away.
Do not ignore damage, expecting to deal with problems in the spring or summer. You’ll want to actually use your shade structures as soon as you set them out, and that could cause you to wait even longer on repairs.
What starts as a tiny hole or tear that could be easily and inconspicuously patched can quickly become an unsightly rip that can’t be repaired. Replacing your shade structures will cost much more than a simple repair.
3. Carefully clean all the parts.
Never use harsh cleaning solvents or abrasive materials to clean your shade structures. A soft cloth and soapy water will do. Be sure you dry everything thoroughly, too.
But first, dust off any accumulated dust or dirt, leaves or other debris so nothing scratches the fabric or metal as you’re cleaning. You shouldn’t allow dirt or debris to build up, because it can stain or otherwise damage your canopy. It also doesn’t look very inviting.
That goes for summer rain, too. drying your structures off as soon as you can will help avoid mildew or deterioration caused by moisture.
4. Dismantle the structure.
Seasonal canopies are designed for compact storage. Folding or rolling the framework and fabric covering in the right way is important to fully protect the parts. If it doesn’t have an official box or carrying case, consider wrapping it in an old sheet or other covering so it doesn’t get dirty.
If you have a retractable awning, it stays in place, of course. It should have a permanently-mounted case or housing that keeps it completely enclosed and protected from the elements when you aren’t using it.
5. Store them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you’ve had these shade structures for a few years, you know exactly how to store them so they stay clean and dry until you need them again. If your structures are new, or new to you, contact an established awning company to ask about proper storage. A knowledgeable professional can answer any other questions you may have, too, and give you some additional tips on using and caring for your shade structures.
It’s easy to winterize your patio shade structures before you stow them for the off-season. And it doesn’t take long. Investing a little time this way will help give your shade structures a long life and protect your financial investment.
Photo Credit: stashabella via Flickr
