Frequently Asked Questions
What is the furthest projection out for a Power Retractable Awning?
Sunesta offers Power Retractable Awnings that can extend out to lengths of 14 feet 8 inches, and widths up to 40 feet.
How much wind can a Retractable Awning handle?
Sunesta Retractable Awnings are the only Retractable Awning in the USA to carry the "Miami/Dade County Building Code" approval for high velocity winds. Built tough with "The Best Warranties" in the business.
What type of warranty is on "most" Retractable Awnings?
If you purchase a lesser quality Retractable Awning, it will likely have a " 5 year warranty". Sunesta Retractable Awnings carry a LIFETIME warranty that is even "Transferable to the next homeowner". Again, built to last.
Where are Retractable Awnings built?
Most of the "Lesser Quality" retractable awnings are built overseas and the fabric is then applied here in the country after the customer purchases it. This allows our competitors to use "unique verbiage" by saying they are "Assembled in the USA". All of our Power Retractable Awnings & Screens are both "Built & Assembled" in our plant in Jacksonville, Florida. Proudly made in the USA.
What is the minimum height to mount a Retractable Awning?
Minimum height is 8 feet. But if there is room to go higher, it helps with overall performance and watershed. All Sunesta Retractable Awnings have an adjustable pitch so they can be set for any height.
How wide and how tall can Power Retractable Screens be built?
Sunesta Sentry Power Retractable Screens can be built up to 18 feet wide and 12 feet tall. Unique zipper track design keeps the screen tight and stable which results in a sleek and powerful unit.
Are wind/motion sensors necessary?
No, they are not necessary. Most sensors today are either battery or solar powered which make them unpredictable and sensitive. We encourage our customers to use common sense when using Sunesta Awnings & Screens. Be cautious of inclement weather conditions. We advise our customers to retract their awning or screen if it will be unattended for a long period of time.
What is the difference between a "Hood" and "Smartcase"?
A Hood will give you "partial" fabric protection while a Smartcase will give you "total" fabric protection. This will give a sleek appearance and allow it to fit into tight areas.
How long does it take to install a Power Retractable Awning or Screen?
Other units that are built overseas can take months to install. Sunesta Retractable Awnings and Power Screens are built in the USA so our lead times are much shorter. We custom build each unit and have it ready for installation in just a few weeks. Installation takes 3-4 hours on average.
Can Retractable Awning be used in the rain?
Yes they can - this goes back to an earlier question about height. More height equals more pitch, which means better watershed. More watershed means no puddling and you stay dry.
Do Retractable Awnings only come in certain width sizes?
Typical lesser value awnings have 4 set sizes because they are premade in a factory overseas while every Sunesta awning is custom built to the inch (up to 40 feet wide) to fit a particular home or structure. This way the custom awning looks like it is supposed to be there.
Do Power Retractable Awnings or Screens need to be taken down for the winter?
No. With a Hood or SmartCase (what we recommend), the fabric and motor is protected from the cold weather. Some homeowners use their units all year long to control room brightness indoors.
How do I clean my Retractable Awning or Screen?
Use a mixture of warm water and Dawn Dish Soap for the metal areas. We then recommend using Woolite, warm water, and a soft brush for the fabric. Finally, rinse off with a garden hose. We do not recommend power washing as it is too harsh on the fabric.
Are all Retractable Awnings the same?
Absolutely not. Lesser quality awnings are made using cast aluminum while Sunesta awnings use heavy gauge "Extruded" aluminum that is powder coated. High grade stainless steel hardware and four cable arm systems instead of the typical two cable systems are just a few of the advantages that you get when purchasing a Sunesta Retractable Awning.
What frame color and fabric choices are available for retractable awnings and screens?
With Sunesta you can customize your retractable awnings and screens with over 150 fabulous "in-stock" fabric choices and 4 frame colors. Most lesser quality awnings have just a few fabric choices and 2 frame colors.