Renewed Emphasis on Family
Find it in the Shade of a Retractable Awning
Mary Ann Mays

The December issue of American Demographics published the results of a survey conducted between October 9-11 of 2,532 adults, revealing that many Americans are reexamining the importance and priority of family and home. The magazine called it a "reprioritization of home and family..." which seems to be playing out in fact. Americans are migrating home with thoughts of family, safety, security floating in their minds. Home has taken on an increased importance and meaning.

Home improvements are at an all time high as people seek to create their own havens, for enjoying their leisure time. Careful and creative thought and energy is being put into space for simple rejuvenation and reconnection with the people in our lives. Homeowners seek to "personalize" space inside and outside, to reflect the interests and activities of the individual or the family unit. It has become a popular pastime for many, who are no longer seeking solace and relaxation through trips and vacations, but are going no further than their own back yards.

So, with a larger number of people staying closer to home, and summer's hot sun just beginning to peak over the horizon, the patio and pool area become the next "BIG THING". This place of endless creative opportunities for expression and innovation becomes a place to retreat. Where do-it-your-selfers, hobbyists and those simply seeking a quiet refuge after a long day of the hustle and grind or a weekend to enjoy the fruits of the week's labor can find relief. The backyard. This is where many of us remember endless hours of play as children. To some of us, it was our first universe to explore...just beyond the back door. We slept in tents made of sheets, played endless hours of one kind of ball or another, climbed, dug, ran, tumbled and escaped there just to think. Now we return to see if the fun can still be found.

We each immerse ourselves into making this place our own: gardening, adding water amenities, choosing unique and comfortable furnishings, cooking barbequed delights or indulging in artistic landscaping. The patio and pool become our oasis and we will mow and trim and plant and arrange until it is nearly perfect.

Because we want to enjoy our backyard patios and pool areas for the longest duration possible for the region we live in, along with enjoying the warm sun, we must also consider that when the summer descends, there must be a shady hideaway into which we can retreat and still be in our self-created paradise. Decks and patios can become unhabitable in the heat of a summer day unless there is shade.

Enter...retractable awnings!

Retractable awnings are the perfect solution to broiling summer sun on a patio, pool area or deck. New technology has finally found it's way to the backyard oasis. Retractable awnings can be installed over patio areas that are in need of shade and retracted for evening hours or sun worshipping. Wind sensors and auto controls are available for added convenience. Sleek, new designs and engineering make quality retractable awnings an enhancement to the backyard area and a welcome convenience to the homeowner. In addition, retractables are considered amenities that could increase the value of a home.

But, not all retractables are created equal! There are many brands of retractable awnings to choose from. Some are available directly from the manufacturer and boast easy, simple installation and long lifespans, but don't always live up to their claims.

Most often, a retractable awning ordered from late-night TV or the back of a magazine incorporates chain and pulley mechanics that are friction-driven and can be noisy to operate. This friction also causes chipping and wear on the components that can shorten the operating life of the awning. Look for new "ribbon" technology. This means that cables are located inside a smooth, ribbon that is almost frictionless as it moves the retractable arms. Most retractable awnings are tested to only 3,000 cycles, whereas the new ribbon technology is tested to over 60,000 cycles. This translates into much longer operating life spans and far fewer mechanical problems.

Installation is another factor to consider. Mail order retractables may not be as easy or simple as the ads boasted. Mounting the awning securely can become a difficult and frustrating task, not to mention the damage that can be incurred to the siding or brick on the home. A qualified remodeler or contractor who specializes in such installations can be worth their weight in gold in this scenario. A knowledgeable, experienced installer can insure that the awning is installed for the best possible operation and stability. In addition, a good installer can mount the awning with the least possible intrusion to the brick or siding.

Good quality retractable awnings now have carefree, attractive finishes that simply wipe clean. These new finishes replace older metallic finishes that were often sites for rust. Beautiful, durable, easy care fabrics in hundreds of vibrant colors are available to blend into any decor. An attractive, colorful retractable awning can be the focus and gathering point for years of family fun and backyard enjoyment.

Now that more Americans are spending more time at home, the backyard patio and pool area can be a family oasis even on the hottest summer day.

Mary Ann Mays is the Advertising & Marketing Director at Anchor Industries Inc., Evansville, IN USA

Back to Articles page