Are Retractable Awnings Waterproof?

They say it never rains in Southern California, but when storms blow through the Orange County area, homeowners often want to know, “Are retractable awnings waterproof?”

As a leading supplier of awnings in Orange County, AAA Awnings works with many homeowners who want to install retractable awnings for sun protection. Although the fabric covers do an amazing job blocking UV rays and providing shade, not to mention improving window energy performance, the fact is that they are not rain shelters. Learn more and protect your awnings with our help.

Water and Your Retractable Awning

Technically, the answer to the question, “Are retractable awnings waterproof?” is yes, to an extent. If you aren’t home or forget to close the awning when light rain falls, it won’t dissolve or fall off the side of the house. However, heavy rains, especially when accompanied by strong winds, can damage a patio awning. Water is heavy — a single gallon weighs eight pounds — so if you allow it to pool, that extra weight can pull on the fabric and cause damage. Pooling water is less of a concern for a retractable awning designed with a pitch that allows water to roll off the fabric. Still, it’s best to retract the cover when rain is in the forecast to ensure nothing goes wrong.

Protecting Retractable Awnings From Moisture

High-quality retractable awnings have additional features for protection against rain. Manufacturers treat the fabrics so they are water-resistant or water-repellent, so rainwater simply slides off. Some companies produce awnings made using waterproof materials, but they are typically more expensive. Even then, most recommend only using an awning during fair weather, or at the most, during a light rain shower. Keeping it extended during storms and letting water pool on it can void the warranty and leave you on the hook for repairs or replacement.

Keep Mold Off Your Awning

Water accumulation isn’t the only potential problem that can come from letting your retractable awning get wet. Moisture supports mold growth, and while the fabrics typically resist mold and mildew thanks to special treatments, there’s still a chance the fungus can thrive if you retract the shade cover when it’s still wet. Even if the water beads up and rolls off, the fabric may remain damp inside the cassette, creating the ideal conditions for mold to spread. That’s why, even if your awning is waterproof, you should always close it before the rain starts.

Talk to AAA Awnings About Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Area

Now that you have the answer to, “Are retractable awnings waterproof?” let AAA Awnings answer any other questions about these attractive and convenient additions to your Orange County home.

Connect with us online or call (714) 373-5918 to speak with a professional about all the available options and the awning cost. Even if you can’t use the cover as protection from the occasional California rain, a high-quality awning will add to your enjoyment of the outdoors. Get answers about installations today.

Mike Lewis

An expert in the window treatment business. I oversee every job from sale to installation, ensuring smooth execution of commercial projects with a hands-on approach.

All Posts

Are Retractable Awnings Waterproof?

Water and Your Retractable Awning

Protecting Retractable Awnings From Moisture

Keep Mold Off Your Awning

Talk to AAA Awnings About Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Area

Mike Lewis

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