aluminum patio roof with eavestroughs

Enhance your Outdoor Living Space with a Patio Roof

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Your patio enhances the usability of your outdoor space. It is a private retreat where you can relax protected from the elements. A patio need not necessarily have a roof, but if you want the space to be usable throughout the year, you have to add a roof. A patio roof will protect it from harsh sunlight and rain.

A patio roof can be freestanding structure or it can be attached to your house with a ledger. In either case, you need a series of columns or posts to support the structure.

If you are adding a roof to your existing patio, you can bolt the columns to the substructure of the patio. In this case, the columns will support the rafters and beams. If the patio overhead is attached to the house, then the ledger will support the rafters.

You can either leave the rafters open or cover them with a patio roof material. Plenty of options are available.

Patio roof materials

You can choose from a variety of roofing materials including plastic, metal, wood and vinyl. Before choosing a roofing material, you have to consider your needs as well as the climate of your region. If you don’t know which material is best for your climate, you should ask your contractor. The staff at the local home improvement store will also be able to guide you in the right direction. While choosing a roofing material, you also need to pay attention to the visual appearance.

Metal roofing

Metal is one of the most popular patio roofing options. Aluminum patio roofs are durable and affordable. It also fits in with almost all patio styles. Metal roofing has to be installed by a professional. Improper installation may cause the roof to leak. As you can imagine, a leaky roof will damage your patio furniture. On the flip side, metal roofs can get uncomfortably hot. If you intend to spend a lot of time in your patio during the summer months, metal roofing perhaps isn’t the best choice.

aluminum patio roof with eavestroughs

Wood roofing

Wood roofing is ideal for regions with moderate climates. Wood is incredibly durable but it requires proper maintenance. However, wood is not suitable for covering patios in rainy climates.

Vinyl roofing

Vinyl and plastic are also used to cover patios. Vinyl has several pros. It is available in a wide variety of patterns and colors. It can be installed easily and it also provides excellent protection from the sun. You can buy sheets of vinyl made to fit the dimensions of your patio. The biggest problem with vinyl roofing is that it can get blown off in heavy winds or storms. If storms are common in your region, you should have the roofs removed from the patio before a storm breaks out.

Patio Roof Options

Different types of roofing are used on patios. It is easy to install open roofing such as lattice panels. Solid roofing will have to be installed by a professional contractor. Awnings can also be used to cover patios. Permanent roofs are more expensive, but they are durable. Before constructing a roof over your patio, make sure that the design meets local building codes.

Please contact us to discuss your options.

window cleaning

Spring Cleaning: getting results that last all year round!

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When doing our annual spring cleaning, we often imagine things like cleaning out the garage, taking old household items to the dump, and starting with a clutter free home that seems to fill up again by the same time next year. Well this year go beyond the traditional de-cluttering and choose a few cleaning solutions that will last all year around.

woman cleaning window from the inside

Window and Door Maintenance

Spring is the perfect time of year to give not just your home, but your house a thorough cleaning. Choosing to clean your windows, doors and frames will help increase longevity of these products as well as control risks of mold and allergens developing in your home.

When washing window or door frames, use a soft cloth or long-handled soft-bristle brush to avoid any damage to the finish. A mild abrasive cleaner will usually be sufficient in most homes, but keeping it away from glass will avoid creating any unwanted streaks or marks on your windows. Stay away from chlorine bleach or liquid grease removers. Provided you follow the instructions, products such as SoftScrub, Ajax or BonAmi are perfect cleaners to use near glass or other delicate surfaces, while still effectively getting rid of tough stains from dirt or top soil, caulking, rust, mold or mildew.

When washing glass in windows or doors, you must use cleaners made specifically for glass that will not damage the glass or leave streaks or stains. There are many products available for this that comes in a variety of potencies depending on how strong of a product you are looking for.

If you have a specific stain on your glass that you need to remove, there are specialty products that can get rid of wax, permanent marker, oil, paint, pencil, rust, tar and bubble gum. A combination of Fantastik, Murphy Oil Soap and a solution of water vinegar and Windex can be made to combat each of these nasty stain causes.
Remember that for outdoor jobs or indoor windows that are high up, professional window cleaners will do a great job and have the proper tools to wash windows and doors effectively and safely.

Self-Cleaning Glass

If you are looking at installing new windows this season, consider self-cleaning glass. This specialty-made glass features a thin, clear, permanent coating on one of its surfaces. The coating makes raindrops spread out across the surface of the glass to wash away dirt particles. It also acts as a catalyst, when activated by sunlight, to break down organic dirt into water vapor and CO2 gas.

If you have a lot of windows or glass doors, self-cleaning glass is an investment in your home and a convenience you will enjoy for years after installation.

How to Keep Summer Lasting All Year

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As we endure a classic Canadian winter, full of snow, ice, wind and storms, it’s great to have a place to get away and enjoy the sunshine. While many of us spend money on a trip south to catch up on some vitamin D, there are ways to enjoy the sun at home all year round. If your finding yourself trapped indoors all winter long, consider the addition of a sun room to your home.

sunroom

What is a Sunroom?

Also known as a solarium, Florida room or garden room, a sun room located in a home allows for full enjoyment of the surrounding landscape while being completely sheltered from less-than-perfect weather conditions. Sunrooms can come in all shapes and sizes but usually protrude from the home so that there are more exterior walls and window opportunity.

A sunroom is a great investment for your family because while adding value to your home, you are gaining something that your family will enjoy. On average a sunroom’s value is about twice its cost. The cost of a sunroom depends on the size, scope, quality of finishes and conditions of the construction area. It is important to get comparable quotes when committing to an investment like this. Remember, if multiple homes in your area are for sale, a sunroom can make the difference in what sells first.

When making the decision to design and build a sun room there are many factors to consider. First the location and size should be determined so that you know what style of finishes you can afford for the space. Next the roof style, foundation and deck, type of glass, flooring, and furnishing and décor will be chosen to complete the look you desire.

Sunroom Engineering

To build a sunroom on your property, your engineer’s plans must be approved with a building permit, distributed by the relevant municipality. The job must be completed and passed by a municipal building inspector. Different factors must be considered such as snow, wind and soil bearing load for the design. All building roof structures must be designed to hold adequate snowfall determined by the municipality, as well as stress caused by wind and the soil below the sunroom must also be checked. It is also important to consider any Green Certifications you would like your sunroom to qualify for such as an Energy Star rating or a Gold Level Certification. These qualifications may cause the initial cost of the sunroom to increase, but money can be saved on the maintenance on this room for years to come, as well as its impact on the environment.

Can Birds Flying into my Windows be Prevented?

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Every year, billions of birds smash into glass windows and kill themselves. Have you ever wondered why this happens? Is there a way to prevent this from happening?

Window Awning

Birds fly into windows because they can’t see the glass. They only see the reflections of trees and other natural elements in the glass. They assume that they can fly through the landscape reflected in the window. Unfortunately, they can’t.

One way of preventing this from happening is to make them realize that there is something there. Glass windows are one of the greatest threats that birds face today. They pose a threat to all bird species, but migratory birds are the biggest victims of these home design elements.

When birds hit windows, most of them die instantly. Others fall prey to predators like gulls and cats. Not only skyscrapers, private homes also endanger birds.

Why birds hit the windows?

Birds don’t see a glass window as a barrier. They only see the reflections of the trees or the sky. This is not surprising because sometimes people also walk into glass doors. While this is merely a matter of embarrassment for us, it is fatal for birds.

Home owners can prevent or reduce these collisions in several ways. Here are some solutions to this problem.

If you place bird feeders outside your windows, make sure that they are within 3 feet of the window. This will ensure that birds eating from the feeder will not gain enough speed to hurt themselves even if they try to fly through the window.

Another inexpensive and uncomplicated solution is to install a pattern on the window. Decals of hawks are not very helpful. The birds will probably never realize whether they are an abstract design or birds of prey.

Other seasonal fixes include the following.

• Place tape strips vertically or horizontally on the outside of the window. They are highly effective.
• Use window paints to obscure the window.
• Draw blinds. If you have indoor plants near the windows move them away. However, this will not help if there are reflections of the surroundings in the window.

Permanent fixes include the following:

• Install an opaque window film. This will reduce reflectivity and keep birds from hitting the windows. You can buy films that look opaque from the outside but allow you to view everything from inside. Films have to be placed on the outside of the windows for maximum effect. There is no guarantee that they will stay on these surfaces for a long time, but most of them do.
• Install awnings or shades in front of the windows. They are quite effective. They not only prevent birds from hitting your glass windows, but also provide protection from heat and dust.
• Install netting in front of the windows.

Glass Window Conclusions:

Glass windows are here to stay. They allow you to watch birds, plants and trees from inside your home. Though unintended, bird casualties are a consequence of modern home design. However, by applying some creativity you can make your windows safe for the birds.

Do I need a permit for my commercial awning in Burlington?

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Branding is essential for the success of your business. It helps you stand out from our competition. Your logo isn’t the only branding tool that you have at your disposal. Your corporate awnings also play a crucial role in improving the recognition of your brand.

Hair and Body Works Awning

Awnings not only provide protection from weather elements; they are also great branding tools. Even large corporations use awnings as a marketing tool.

How to use awnings to promote your brand

Many organizations use awnings to protect their commercial space from heat and dust. Besides offering protection from the weather elements, they act as excellent marketing tools. Corporate awnings are quite versatile. They offer numerous benefits. They can complement your signage and the exterior of your building. Here are some of the benefits offered by commercial awnings.

Anwnings Create an Impression

Awnings complete the look of your commercial building. They add a signature touch to the façade. Small businesses install awnings above their doors and windows. One way of impressing your brand upon your customers is to use awnings made with your corporate colors and logo. Install them on the exterior of your buildings to brand your business.

Create Landmarks with Awnings

Some businesses occupy historic buildings. This is done to distinguish them from their competition. However, in cities most buildings look more or less the same. You can make your corporate structure stand out from the rest by having unique awnings installed on them. This will differentiate your building from other similar looking buildings in its surroundings. This is a great branding method. In addition, the awnings will enhance the look of your building.
The same awnings can be used to cover your side entrances and parking areas. They provide a consistent look to your commercial property and also offer protection from the weather elements. To make your business look modern and smart, you have to work on your branding efforts continuously.

Awning Permits

You need a building permit to install an awning on your commercial structure in Burlington. You have to follow certain norms. There are also restrictions regarding the kind of materials that can be used.
• All awnings installed over your commercial building have to be supported by metal rods. They should be attached to the building and leave the sidewalk unobstructed. All awnings have to be installed at least seven feet above the sidewalk.
• The awning fabric should cover the supporting structure properly. There should be no unsecured/loose edges.
• The colours as well as the materials should blend well with the surrounding structures. Make sure that you choose awnings that complement the overall design theme of the street.
• The awning has to be installed in such a way that it does not extend into public sidewalk.
• The awning has to be installed below the signage that represents your company.
• Lighting and other materials attached to the awning should be fixed to the supporting structure properly.

As we have already seen, commercial awnings are great branding tools. If you need help with choosing the right kind of awnings for your business, get in touch with us.

Patio Snow

Winterize Your Patio Shade Structures

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Patio shade structures are of different kinds, shapes and sizes. They can be used to cover a small patio or a high-rise terrace. They can also be used to cover larger areas. Most types of patio shade structures are seasonal for Ontario. Most are not supposed to stay in place throughout the year. You have to take them out during the off-season and store them safely.

By winterizing your patio shade structures, you can enhance their durability and also keep them looking attractive for a long time.
 
Patio Snow

How to winterize your patio shade structures

It is easy to winterize your patio structures. You only have to follow these steps.

Inspect the shade structures thoroughly

Your awnings and canopies wear out over time. Accidents may also cause damage to them. Inspect the entire structure carefully. Look for signs of damage. See if the fittings and fabric are tight and snug. If you find loose hardware, tighten it.
Look for tiny tears or worn spots in the fabric. Make sure that the stitching is not coming unraveled. If your awnings have a valance, they should be inspected more closely. As they flutter in the wind, they may wear out easily.

Fix problems

If you spot signs of damage, you have to make repairs right away. If you wait until the spring to fix them, the problem may get worse. Before you even realize it, a tiny hole may metamorphose into an unsightly rip. A simple repair will not burn a hole in your pockets. Replacements, on the other hand, are quite costly.

Clean all parts carefully

Do not use abrasive materials or harsh cleaning agents to clean your shade structures. Wash the fabric using a soap solution and rinse thoroughly. Dry it well before storing it away.
Dust off any dust or dirt that may have accumulated over time. Debris may leave scratches on the metal or fabric while you clean it. In any case, you cannot allow debris to settle because it can stain the fabric.

Dismantle the structure

You have to fold or roll the framework in the right way to protect the parts. Most seasonal canopies support compact storage. If the structure does not have a carrying case, wrap it in a sheet so that it does not get dirty.
Retractable awnings will stay in place during off-season as well. They have a permanently mounted housing to protect them from harsh winter elements.

Store them properly

If you have been using these shade structures for several years, you should know how to store them properly. If you are not familiar with these structures you should seek the help of a good awning company. They will be able to answer all questions you have about winterizing your shade structures. They will also be able to give tips on caring for them.
Winterizing your patio shade structures is easier than you think. Also it doesn’t take too long. If you set aside some time for this, you can prolong the life of your shade structures.

Winterize your Awnings to Keep them Protected

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Winters in Canada can be extremely severe in Southern Ontario and everyone likes to prepare their home for the long and frigid days ahead. Fireplace installations will be serviced & window and door insulation will be re-checked. Those who have awnings always worry about how they should protect them in the winter.

Awning on House

If you have manual fabric awnings, you might want to dismantle them & store them till spring. This is the best way of protecting the fabric from any kind of damage that the snow, ice, windstorms and cold temperatures causes. Doing this will give you “use-ready” awnings when you want them. Before dismantling, call whoever installed your awnings to see if that is the best course of action.

Winterizing Steps For Awnings

• Brush -off the dust, debris & all the leaves from your awning, and move in one direction- from its upper edge to the bottom edge
• Hose-off the awning & remove any dirt/debris that is stuck to it. Use a soft-bristled brush to carefully remove all the stains & dirt spots
• Dissolve a little bit of mild soap in a bucketful of warm water and scrub the awning clean with it. Make sure that the brush does not dry out while the cleaning is in progress
• Thoroughly rinse the awning with a hose
• Air it completely out and ensure that there is no dampness before you store it as this can result in moss & mildew growth
• If there is a hanging valance, remove it & hose that down well. Use a bit of mild-soapy water & clean-off all the dirt & dust from it with a very soft-bristled brush
• Let it dry out completely
• Roll it up properly & store it in a dry spot – this will prevent mildew/moss growth
• Just cover the valance lightly, but don’t use any plastic cover as it will trap the moisture
• In case you have a retractable awning and are not removing it from the frame, use a specialized awning cover. These functional covers provide effective protection. They entirely cover the awning installation and will ensure that there is no mildew or moss formation

Things to Remember with Awnings

• Test the mild soap properly on a small hidden area of the awning & ensure that it isn’t causing any damage
• Read the recommendations of the manufacturer and check which cleaning agents are best for your awning & check about the best care methods

High Quality Products

We provide very high-quality products that will give you trouble-free service for a number of years. Under regular use, Jans Awning Products remain waterproof for a long time. But, over years the elements may wear away at the waterproofing. If, upon inspection, you find that there is some moisture or water inside or any sign of water-penetration, apply a reproofing agent to the awning. Check manufacturer recommendations about the agent that should be used.

If you are looking for the highest-quality manual/ motorized awnings across Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Brantford, Hamilton, Milton, Ancaster, Brampton or Grimsby, call Jans Awning Products on 905.335.3733. If you have any queries about winterizing the awnings, please contact us via this online form.

Man under Awning

Awnings and the Future of Home Automation

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Home automation is not a new concept – people have been using smart technology to open garage doors, dim lights and set and monitor security installations on their properties. But technology is advancing at a very fast pace and the future of home automation is bright.
Man under Awning

Latest Suite of Tools

Apple is one of the companies that has been at the fore of smart technology and has brought to market a number of products that people can use to add convenience to various functions that they need in and around their homes. In June this year, at its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple announced its HomeKit– This highly innovative suite of tools will control a range of devices such as furnaces, thermostats, garage-door openers, security systems and blinds and awnings too.

The company will provide a robust platform which all these devices will have to conform to. Once that has been done, you will be able to control them all via your iOS device. The smart-home market is burgeoning and Apple is all set to capture it.

A Matter of Functionality

The fact is that to date a number of smart home products have been riddled with a number of compatibility issues and homeowners had to conduct a lot of ground work to ensure that their “smart” homes actually worked. But Apple says it can change all that and Home Kit will give iPhone users the ability to control various individual smart home devices from their phones via Siri and not a specific app.

This simply means homeowners will have the convenience to club different smart home devices into groups and they will be able to effectively control a series of elements all at once.

Motorized Awnings

Jans Awning Products has always launched the best products and we offer our customers options like motorized awnings powered by Somfy. You can sit inside your house or commercial establishment and with the press of a remote button can either open or retract awnings. Customers can also opt to have sensors fitted to the awnings and these take a convenience and functionality factor one step further.

The awnings will retract or fold out based on how sunny or windy the weather conditions are. For example, if you are out, and see that it has gotten really windy, you can draw them in, no matter where you are. Also, maybe it’s a hot day, and you had your awning drawn in. You can have your patio nice and cool by the time you get home from work. Now, with smart technology like the one that Apple has launched with its HomeKit its possible raise and lower difficult to access awnings and blinds with the touch of a button. But for customers who wish to use these options, they will have to ensure they opt for motorized awnings.

Complete Automated Control

You will have complete control of awnings and blinds via an interface that can control these elements on-site as well as from a different location. Awning and blinds control can also be combined and you can have a setting you like. At the end of the day, technology is meant to add comfort and convenience to our lives and that is exactly what and Apple’s HomeKit aims to do.

If you are looking for the best motorized awnings across Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Hamilton, Brantford, Milton, Grimsby, Ancaster or Brampton, contact Jans Awning Products. You can reach us on 905.335.3733 or via this online form and order your motorized awnings today.

Protect your Cottage with Security Rollshutters

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Rollshutters are a definite value-add to any property, be it residential or commercial. They look great and provide increased security. In effect, they are the first line-of-defense for any property and are an excellent visual deterrent for vandals and burglars.

Cottage Rollshutter PlantsNot only do rollshutters provide security from intruders, but they are an excellent way of saving on energy costs in the summer as well as during the winter months. The minute you install security rollshutters from Jans Awning Products on your windows you will find that there are significant savings on your energy bills. While we focus on cottages in this post for rollshutters, they can be effectively used on:

• Windows & Skylights
• Sliding doors, entry doors and patio doors
• Screen Porches
• Pool houses
• Inside & Outside storage

The Advantages of Rollshutters

There are some distinct advantages to using these shutters:

• They are very effective in protecting your home/ commercial space from the weather. Snow storms can sometimes be very severe and when you put down the rollshutters you are assured that any debris or falling branches will not damage the glass on your doors and windows
• They do not rattle in high winds
• Significantly maintain the warm temperature in your home
• Offer very good insulation and you have complete control on maintaining the indoor temperature and keep it at comfortable levels
• You do not have to worry about getting expensive heating alternatives installed
• They are perfect protection from the cold but offer year-long protection too

The Convenience Factor

Since security rollshutters have a foam-filled profile, they are an excellent choice for maintaining the desired indoor temperature. You can choose between manual and automatic options, though the latter are very convenient and hassle-free. They can be operated either via a switch or remote control systems like Somfy and these systems are fitted inside your home, which adds to the convenience factor.

Once we install these security rollshutters, you have peace of mind that your home is secure from intruders and the weather. The fact that they complement any décor is a definite plus. You also get the amount of privacy you want and are able to manage artificial light. Incidentally, even as it makes your home more energy efficient, it also provides good noise insulation.

Customized Solutions

Since these shutters are set away from the glass, the air pocket that is created between the windows and the shutters provide added insulation. When you are considering installing security rollshutters, it is important to opt for high-quality ones like the ones that we provide. All our products are guaranteed and so is the motor of the automated ones. Putting a rollshutter up at your cottage not only prevents theft, it prevents damage from the heavy winds that seem to prevail in cottage country. One small hole in a cottage window can be an open invitation to critters of all manner. Why come back to your cottage in late spring to find that a family of skunks and bats have taken home in your country getaway.  Not only will these critters cause damage from chewing, and animal droppings, there have been recent discovered cases of rabies in Ontario.

We also customize solutions for you and ensure that all the windows and doors are outfitted with perfectly-sized shutters. This winter, protect and insulate your home, office and commercial spaces with the best products from Jans Awnings. You can reach us on 905.335.3733 or via this online form and order your security rollshutters today.

Motorized Awnings for Custom-Made Shade

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Somfyl logoYou have a beautiful home with stunning outdoor spaces that you long to use in a more functional way. And when you opt for motorized awnings from Jans Awning Products, you can! The outdoor spaces like decks and patios can be very effectively and simply converted into an area that you can use comfortably, regardless of how the weather is.

The Features

When we install these awnings for you, they will match your requirements to perfection and it is a great way of expanding the living space of your home. Our awnings have a range of standard features like:

  • PVC-coated arm cables that provide superior strength
  • Easy precision-retractable pitch adjustments
  • Folding arms for any narrow widths for much larger projections
  • Mounting hardware for roofs, ceilings and walls are available
  • Protective hardware covers

In addition to these standard features, you can opt for optional ones such as:

  • Wireless & retractable motorized-awning remotes & sensors
  • 1-piece weather sealed hoods
  • Front bar-drop valances that provide low sun protection
  • Semi-Cassettes that provide ultimate fabric protection
  • 1-piece weather sealed hoods

The Benefits

Home spaces are not just about the interiors and all the outdoor areas add dimension to the space. If you are considering any home renovation project to upgrade the outdoor living spaces on your property, look at the benefits of motorized awnings:

  • You can automatically unroll them for protection and shade against direct sunlight and harsh UV rays / light rain showers
  • Since these awnings do not have any vertical supports/ standing frames they give you an unobstructed space and view
  • They can be rolled-back/ unrolled at the touch of a button with programmed automated settings, via a remote control/ wall switch
  • The shade that these awnings provide translate into energy savings in your home, by helping you save up to 50-60% on air-conditioning bills

Large Variety

In addition, the optional awnings accessories and features come in handy in anticipating changes in weather which keep your motorized awnings well-protected. If you like, you can have weather sensors installed. These can detect wind, sun and rain and will unroll and roll accordingly. What’s more is that our awnings come in a range of shades and colors and you can pick ones that match the look of your home and business.

High Quality Products

Every one of our products is made with the highest quality fittings, fabric and hardware and is covered with guarantees. This ensures you get motorized awnings that will last for years and years with the least amount of maintenance. If you are looking for the best motorized awnings anywhere in Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Hamilton, Brantford, Milton, Grimsby, Ancaster or Brampton, contact Jans Awning Products. You can reach us at 905.335.3733 or via this online form and order your motorized awnings today.