The right canopy architecture will give you an awning that looks great and performs well for years. But even the most industrial-strength canopy can’t withstand an unlimited amount of stress. HurricaneSandy would be a perfect example. And over time, things happen. Fabric and even metal can start to wear.
How soon that will happen, or what will go wrong, depends on the exact nature of your canopy architecture, your location, the weather and other factors. But if something breaks down, someone could get hurt. Your windows could break, store-front merchandise could be ruined, even the exterior of your building or anything underneath the awning could be damaged.
If your awning has been damaged – even in some small way – you should call your awning company immediately. Even seemingly insignificant issues can rapidly grow into expensive problems if you ignore them.
In some cases, your awning may be effectively repaired.
Small tears can often be patched. But if you allow a tiny tear to spread right through the middle of your logo, there’s not much that can be done at that point. Torn bindings can be re-stitched. Fabrics coverings and valances can be replaced. Stapled-on fabrics can actually be removed and replaced without taking down the entire awning.
As long as your awning isn’t too dirty or too severely damaged, many of these repairs can be accomplished right in the field, quickly restoring your awning to a safe and attractive condition.
Sometimes structural problems can be fixed, too. Skilled experts from your awning company can remove damaged bolts or posts and install new ones, re-weld where necessary, or remove and replace cracked or broken concrete footings.
A timely repair can give your canopy years of additional service. The key is to take action the minute you first notice a problem. Call right away, and send pictures so your awning expert can see the problem first-hand.
But sometimes replacement makes more sense.
In the right circumstances repairs can be a viable and cost-effective solution, especially if your canopy is just a couple of years old. But if it’s starting to age, you may be better off with a new one.
The last thing you want is a poor quality “fix” that leaves your canopy architecture compromised. If it’s weakened, it won’t last as long. And it could become a safety problem, something you cannot afford. Rather than worrying about all that, it may be a smarter business decision to entirely replace your awning.
Besides, a new canopy can give your building and your business a fresh new look. It’s an opportunity to contemplate whether there are marketing or other advantages you aren’t currently exploiting that could make a new canopy an even more effective investment.
Do your part.
Properly designed and installed canopy architecture goes a long way. But if you treat your canopy right, it will last as long as possible and be least likely to get damaged.
Keep it clean. Periodically wipe off dirt and grime according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, never using harsh solvents or abrasive cloths or brushes to do the work. Obviously you should do this more often if you’re in an area where things tend to get dirty faster.
Don’t let leaves, sand or general grime accumulate. These things can stain the fabric or cause abrasion, shortening the life of your awning.
If you’re inNew Yorkor some other area where it snows, brush the snow off your canopy before it gets too deep. Snow is heavy. Your canopy architecture takes that into account, but allowing unnecessary weight to build up puts additional strain on the canopy’s support structure.
Treating your awning with the same care you give other business equipment will help keep it from becoming damaged. But if you ever do notice a problem, pick up the phone right away.
Photo Credit: Fuzzy Gerdes via Flickr