FAQ – Retractable Awnings

The following are frequently asked questions and troubleshooting procedures regarding Advaning products. For any questions or an apparent issue that cannot be resolved, please feel free to contact Advaning’s Customer Service team via email with your specific question; service@advaning.com

General Questions

  • Q1. Who is Advaning?
  • Advaning is a US-based company that is headquartered in sunny southern California. We are dedicated to quality design & manufacturing of a wide array of awning and shade solutions for both residential and commercial applications.
  • Q2. Why are Advaning awnings better?
  • Each Advaning retractable awning is proudly designed with the following features.
    • Our unique Easy Pitch™ 1-step adjustment system for perfect shade coverage.
    Click Here, for Easy Pitch™ Adjustments/Settings
    • Aluminum 6063-T5 grade lateral arms and parts
    • Double stainless steel 316 grade cables in each arm
    • 100% Acrylic fabric with UV80+ sun protection
    • Heavy-duty powder coated steel brackets
    • Contruction grade stainless steel hardware (lag bolts & expansion bolts)
    • Clear, simple and easy to follow installation instructions with downloadable video
    • 5-Star rated customer service by email, chat and phone.

    Advaning hardware testing report, click here
    Advaning steel testing report, click here

    Advaning Luxury Series includes premium features such as; • Duo heavy-duty springs inside the arms for keeping the fabric tautness • Branded European fabrics by Recasens® Recacril® which are 100% solution dyed for a superior colour saturation and lasting quality.
    Fabric Technical data is available, click here
    Fabric trademarks and certification logos are properties of S.A. Recasens

Product Questions

  • PQ.1 : What is a retractable Awning?
  • A retractable awning is a product that is attached to the exterior of a wall or structure (i.e. house, building, gazebo, etc.) and can be opened and closed at the user’s discretion to provide shade or protection from the elements.
    Advaning’s retractable awnings are made specifically for sunshade purposes. We make available two operating types of retractable awnings; Manual (crank operation) and Electric Motorized (remote control operation + crank operation).
  • PQ.2 : What’s the difference among the Advaning retractable series collections?
  • Advaning’s retractable series collections differ in style, operation type, included components, and price points. Our current retractable series’ collections are as follows:
    • Luxury Series
      Awning with the built-in aluminum semi-cassette (fabric cover).
      White frame body.
      Available in manual or electric operation.
      Recasens® branded, European 100% solution dyed acrylic fabric.
      Double heavy-duty fabric tautening internal arm springs.
      Dual wall/soffit mounting brackets.
      Upgraded stainless steel 316 marine & architectural grade hardware.
    • Classic Series
      Awning with the built-in aluminum semi-cassette (fabric cover).
      Gray frame body.
      Available in manual or electric operation.
      100% Acrylic fabric.
      Single heady-duty fabric tautening internal arm springs.
      Dual wall/soffit mounting brackets.
      Stainless steel 304 grade architectural grade hardware.
    • Slim Series – DISCONTINUED
      White frame body.
      Available in manual operation only.
      100% Acrylic fabric.
      Double heavy-duty fabric tautening internal arm springs.
      Wall mounting brackets (soffit attachment ~ sold separately).
      Stainless steel 304 grade architectural grade hardware.
    • Slim Gray Series
      Gray frame body.
      Available in manual operation only.
      100% Acrylic fabric.
      Single heavy-duty fabric tautening internal arm springs.
      Wall mounting brackets (soffit attachment ~ sold separately).
      Stainless steel 304-grade architectural grade hardware.

      To view a side-by-side comparison of Advaning’s Retractable Awnings click here

  • PQ.3 : How do I operate an Advaning retractable awning?
  • Advaning offers both manual and electric motorized awnings.
    All of our retractable awning models can be manually operated by the use of an included hand crank. Please reference our Manual Operation Guide, click here to learn about proper rolling and Easy Pitch™ adjustments

    Electric motorized awnings are equipped with an internal motor that controls the open/close operation of the awning by the use of an included RF remote control. The motor for electric motorized awnings is set on the left of the awning (front facing) and has a 16ft cable with an 120V 3-prong plug.
    Power Connection Illustration, Power Connection Illustration, click here

    A unique feature that separates Advaning from our competitors is our Easy Pitch™ system that allows the user to lower the pitch of the awning to best control sunshade. The Easy Pitch™ system is operated by the use of the included hand crank, with a simple twist of the Easy Pitch™ loops the awning’s pitch can be raised or lowered at the user’s leisure. Easy Pitch™ adjusments, click here

    Advaning Awnings allow for the user to select the amount of shade by stopping the extension before maxing-out, for a fully customizable shade experience.
  • PQ.4 : Can Advaning retractable awnings be left open at all times?
  • Although Advaning retractable awnings are robust in construction and materials, they are not intended to be left open at all times. As with any outdoor awning of any brand, we also highly recommend not to leave your open awning unattended and advise to always close the awning when rain, snow, hail or wind is in the forecast.
  • PQ.5 : What is the wind rating for Advaning retractable awnings?
  • Advaning’s retractable awnings are manufactured to the highest of standards and with top quality materials. Due to variables such as awning size, awning projection, installation type, weather conditions, and general care/maintenance, Advaning does not have a wind rating that can be applied to every situation.

    Advaning recommends customers to exercise caution whenever consistent gusts are in the forecast or windy conditions exceed a moderate breeze. As a general rule for any size retractable awning, Advaning highly recommends retracting/closing if/when any wind gusts exceed: 15 MPH.

    Please review our Wind Notice for Additional Information, click here.
  • PQ.6 : Can I connect a wind sensor, smart home device or universal remote to an Advaning electric awning?
  • Advaning’s product development team regularly reviews compatibility of our awnings with both in house developments and 3rd party products, they have not yet approved any such compatibility, and we strongly advise not to connect a 3rd party wind sensor, “smart home” or wifi enabled product/devise, to any Advaning motorized awning.

    Note: Altering or modifying an Advaning awning will void the warranty and can potentially cause awning damage, property damage, or injury should the modification or 3rd party product fail.
  • PQ.7 : How do Advaning awnings withstand corrosion and rust when installed near beach or salt water?
  • Salt air is extremely corrosive for all materials, including “Non-Ferrous” metals such as aluminum and stainless steel. Advaning awnings are manufactured using the best materials/components in the industry and have been fully tested for superior performance, strength, and longevity. However, certain care and extra maintenance are required when installing an Advaning awning where salt laden air is present. To prolong the integrity and performance of your awning investment installed near salt water, owners should practice the same care as would be given to any marine equipment in order to prevent accelerated salt corrosion.

    Advaning recommends that the owner follow the below maintenance practices:
    MONTHLY: Maintain the awning free from excessive salt deposits by washing the frame and fabric with a marine cleaner such as Simple Green Marine All-Purpose Boat Cleaner. Thoroughly rinse the frame and fabric with clean water and allow the fabric to fully dry before retracting the awning closed.
    BI-ANNUALLY: Lubricate the moving joints with a penetrating lubricant as indicated in our Lubrication Instructions.
    SEASONAL: Cover the awning when not use with Advaning’s All-Weather Awning Cover to protect it from unnecessary exposure to the elements.

    Please also review our independent testing reports: Metal Testing Report and Hardware Testing Report
  • PQ.8 : What is the best way to maintain and care for my Advaning retractable awning?
  • Advaning retractable awnings are easy to own, they typically require minimal care and maintenance on top of the general guidelines already provided in the Owner’s Manual. We recommend proper care by ensuring to always use the awning as intended, paying extra attention when manually operating or adjusting your awning, Manual Operation Guide – Click Here.

    As an owner of an Advaning retractable awning, you can perform annual maintenance on your awning such as:
    • Cleaning the frame with a chamois cloth when necessary.
    • Cleaning the fabric (see Fabric Questions FQ. 3 for full details)
    • Lubricating the moving parts; Lubrication Instructions

    Making this a part of an annual maintenance routine will ensure proper performance and may extend the longevity of your investment. Advaning now also offers an all-weather awning cover for periods of prolonged non-use (sold separately).
  • PQ.9 : What is included with Advaning retractable awning purchase?
  • Advaning awnings are proudly designed with ease of installation, ease of use, and affordability in mind.
    The entire All-in-One awning kit includes a completely assembled awning, mounting brackets (qty depends on series and size), hand crank, installation hardware and *remote (electric models only), ready for immediate installation right out of the box.

    For details of what each series including bracket type and quantities, please review the following links:
    • Luxury Series Owner’s Manual
    • Classic Series Owner’s Manual
    • Slim Series Owner’s Manual – DISCONTINUED
    • Slim Grey Series Owner’s Manual
  • PQ.10 : What is an “Easy Pitch™”?
  • All of Advaning’s retractable awnings will include adjustable pitch mechanisms, these mechanisms are called Easy Pitch™. The Easy Pitch™  system is unique in that it allows users to make pitch adjustments with a simple step of turning the Easy Pitch™ loops. 
    Click Here, for Easy Pitch™ Adjustments/Settings

    Follow Up Easy Pitch Questions
    A. Does the pitch need to be adjusted back to factory setting before closing the awning?
    Answer: The pitch only needs to be set downward (Luxury and Classic – ONLY) in order to properly allow the awning to close (at factory setting 15º or below). If the pitch is set down, the pitch does not need to be raised to close the awning.
    B. Is the Easy Pitch™ hard to turn?
    Answer: The Easy Pitch™ should not be difficult to turn/operate as long as the awning is opened to approximately 24-inches. This distance is ideal for viewing the angle/pitch setting as it is being adjusted, while minimizing the overall canopy weight off of the Easy Pitch™ and making for an overall easier adjustment experience.
  • PQ.11 : What is a “Semi-Cassette”?
  • Advaning’s Luxury and Classic Series’ awning collections both feature an aluminum shell cover that protects the canopy fabric when it is closed (rolled in). This cover protects the entire top of the rolled fabric from the elements and houses all mechanisms of the awning with the side caps. Because the cover does not fully surround the entire awning, it is termed a “Semi-Cassette”

Fabric Questions

  • FQ. 1 : What is acrylic fabric and why is it best for outdoor shade?
  • Acrylic fabric is a woven synthetic material made from polymer fibers. It is sought after for its strength, color retention, texture, and easy-care properties.
    Advaning only uses 100% acrylic fabrics with additional features to prolong the life, feel, and look of our awnings. Additional features include: UV80+ protection, mold and mildew resistance, insect-proof, and is woven to allow the escape of trapped heat.

    Advaning’s Luxury Series includes a premium European 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric.
    This unique fabric is sourced from Recasens® Recacril®, a world leader in outdoor fabrics for over 100 years. Their production method involves pigmenting the acrylic fibers while still in a semi-liquid state. Resulting in a vivid, fully saturated color that won’t wash out and has further fade resistance.
  • FQ. 2 : Will rain affect my Advaning fabric?
  • Although Advaning retractable awnings are robust in construction/materials and are water-resistant, they are not intended for rain protection. Our awnings are made for sun shade, and exposing them to prolonged or extreme rain can damage the fabric and/or retractable arms, as these are not intended to support the weight of water soaked fabric.

    As with any outdoor awning of any brand,  Advaning also highly recommends not to leave your open awning unattended and advise to always close the awning when rain, snow, hail or wind is in the forecast.

    Follow-Up Fabric Questions:
    A. What is the difference between “waterproof” and “water-resistant”?
    Answer: Waterproof is a term used to describe an impermeable object, surface or material – this type of material is completely water tight and is made to fully prevent any seepage of liquid through it. Water-resistant is a term used to describe an object, surface, or material as able to resist liquid penetration to some degree, but not entirely.
    B. What should I do if my awning fabric gets wet?
    Answer: It is always best to close the awning when completely dry, however, if more rain is in the forecast we recommend closing the awning as soon as possible. If the awning is closed while wet, open the awning at the first opportunity during dry weather and allow the moisture to fully evaporate before closing.
  • FQ. 3 : How do I care for the fabric canopy on my Advaning awning?
  • Advaning awnings are made with top quality outdoor 100% acrylic fabric that are relatively low maintenance. Exercising a regular annual cleaning can extend the life and look of your awning.

    To clean your Advaning awning canopy, we recommend lowering the awning’s pitch via the Easy Pitch™ loops and opening the awning completely (this will allow you to better see and access the top of the awning, as well as allow proper water drainage).
    Using a mild soap and water mix (1 part soap to 2 parts water) and standard garden hose to gently remove any accumulated dust, dirt, or debris.
    Raise the pitch to its regular setting and allow the awning to fully dry before retracting/closing.
    To dust the awning, a damp cloth, chamois, or soft bristle brush is recommended.
  • FQ. 4 : Can the scallop valance be removed from my Advaning awning?
  • Advaning awnings are designed to allow for easy removal of the attached scalloped valance.
    Click Here for Valance Removal Demo Video

    NOTE: If you purchase your Advaning awning direct from the manufacturer, you can request for the removal of the valance before your order ships out. Please notify: order@advaning with your request within 2 hours of placing your order. Ensure to provide the team your order number in the subject line. Note; Requesting valance removal will prolong the shipping of your order by 3-5 business days.
  • FQ. 5 : Can I replace the fabric on my Advaning awning?
  • Advaning awnings are designed with you in mind, we know that tastes change and have made it as easy as possible for you to switch out an existing fabric for a new look.

    NOTE: Replacing the awnings canopy will require the awning to be removed from its hanging brackets and placed on the floor for disassembly.

    Please contact our service dept via email at service@advaning.com with your interest, ensure to provide the a photo of the interior model/lot # for your existing Advaning awning to ensure we are able to provide correct pricing and availability.
  • FQ. 6: What are some fabric issues with retractable awning fabrics?
  • Although Advaning’s retractable awnings are manufactured to the highest of standards, we also are subject to common concerns with fabric, fabric settling, and irregularities which can not be completed prevented during the manufacturing and assembly process. Please note that such irregularities are deemed normal and do not affect the awning function, however Advaning’s product team will be happy to review any and all cases submitted for warranty review.

    Wrinkling – Wrinkling can occur when the awning fabric is cut, sewn, or while being inserted onto the frame during manufacturing. Wrinkles can be unsightly, however, can easily be remedied by allowing the awning to sit in the sun fully extended or by using a household hair dryer set on high to heat the fabric by keeping a 3-inch airspace and in a continuous circular motion to treat the wrinkle until it relaxes. Demonstrates Fabric Extreme Waving Irregularity

    Waves in the Seam – Entire awning canopy is sewn together with fabric panels. Since two fabric panels overlap in the awning fabrics’ seam and hem area, the strip of fabric on top must cover a longer distance. This produces tension, which can occasionally result in the formation of small waves in the awning fabric directly adjacent to the seam.

    Waffling – To ensure optimal absorption of the tensile forces in the awning fabric, the warp threads are woven more densely than the weft threads. The different weave of the threads can cause a waffling effect. This effect can be exacerbated by moisture or an unfavorable incidence of light. To prevent this from happening, please always allow awning fabric to be completely dry before retracting when wet – if possible. In very rare cases, the “honeycombs” can also stretch to the middle of the strip of fabric. Image Shows Fabric "Waffling" Texture

    Side Web Elongation – The awning fabric must always be kept taut. Here, seams and hems provide additional reinforcement. When the cloth is rolled up, the pressure on seams and hems lying on top of one another can increase. This strain may stretch the awning fabric, which leads to slightly wavy side hems when the awning is extended (image unavailable)

Accessory Questions

  • AQ. 1 : Does Advaning offer accessory products for its retractable awnings?
  • Advaning awnings are proudly designed to maximize their intent of creating a comfortable space from the sun’s rays. Listening to our customers’ feedback, our product development team has now created and is in the process of introducing new and exciting accessories products for pairing with our retractable awnings.

    In summer of 2019, we introduced our All Weather Awning Cover This cover was created for customers who wanted to further protect their awning investment from the elements during prolonged periods of non-use. Made of heavy-duty polyester with a TPE coating for superior water, snow, mold/mildew, and UV protection. Available for purchase now.

    In addition to the All Weather Awning Cover, the product development teams is currently working on a few additional accessories that have been requested by our customers. These accessories include: Lighting, Telescoping Supports, Mosquito Enclosures, along with a few others.

    Advaning only releases products to market after being fully tested for safety, workmanship, and value. Due to our stringent quality level and customer expectations, our accessory products can typically take 2+ years in the development stages. We thank you for your patience while we continue to provide products that improve your outdoor living experience.
    If you would like to keep up to date on accessory releases or if you have additional suggestions for our product development team, please send your request to: service@advaning.com
  • AQ. 2 : Can I add 3rd party accessories to my Advaning retractable awning?
  • Modifications including, but not limited to, 3rd party accessories, waterproofing sprays, or power supplies can cause permanent damage to the product, property, and can become a hazard for potential injury.
    Modifying any portion, part, or installation process (other than what is explicitly used in the product user guide/s) will void the product warranty.
  • AQ. 3 : What is the green plastic tool I received with my electric awning?
  • Advaning’s electric motorized awnings will include a green or white plastic tool. This tool is called a “motor regulator”, it is used to adjust the awning motor open/close distance. The motor regulator is not to be used without first consulting with Advaning’s service dept. for proper assessment. Advaning’s service representatives are trained to assess any issue and will provide instructions for proper use and caution when using the motor regulator; service@advaning.com

Installation and Operation Questions

  • IOQ. 1 : What should I or my installer do to prepare for an Advaning awning installation?
  • Before proceeding with any Advaning retractable awning, we highly recommend you first measure your desired installation site and ensure that you have both the space and the proper mounting support structure in order to complete an installation.

    To start, click through for Pre-Installation Measuring Guide
    Once you are certain that your installation has the adequate space for an Advaning awning, you can pre-plan the installation by downloading the Owner’s Manual/User Guide for the awning series you are interested to buy. See question PQ.9 in the Product Question section of the FAQ (above) for all downloadable links.

    And finally, review our Installation Substrate Guide to ensure that you or your installer know what type of material/substrate the awning will be installed to. Only install the awning onto a solid structure attached directly to the wall studs or solid masonry.

    If needed, a header board can be used to facilitate an installation where studs are not detectable or aligned with the bracket location. Review our Header Board Guide
  • IOQ. 2: How do Advaning Awnings get installed?
  • Advaning retractable awnings are designed to be easily installed to most building exteriors or soffits. We know that every installation is different and thus provide a general guideline for the installer to use when preparing to install an Advaning retractable awning.
    An Advaning awning will arrive completely assembled and will include all the necessary hardware for a general installation, please note that additional fastening hardware may be substituted for specific requirements with any installation that falls beyond the scope of the general guideline.

    Installation is relatively simple:
    Step 1. Measure and Mark
    Step 2. Drill Pilot Holes and Secure Brackets
    Step 3. Insert Awning and Secure to Brackets.

    Advaning always recommends consulting with a professional installer before proceeding with any installation that does not fall within the scope of the general guideline.
    Advaning awnings can typically be installed with minimal effort, and we recommend having the following tools/supplies ready prior to your installation:
    • Level
    • Power Drill
    • Masonry or Wood Drill Bits
    • 6ft to 8ft Ladder(s)
    • Marker/Pencil
    • Measuring Tape
    • Stud Finder
    • Chalk Line or Laser Level
    • Socket Wrench

    Please see Question IOQ.1 in the FAQ’s for helpful links and additional information.
  • IOQ. 3: What kind of exteriors can I install an Advaning awning to?
  • Advaning awnings can be installed onto most exterior surfaces as long as the brackets are properly and securely attached to the main structural support: solid beams, studs, header, or solid masonry (concrete/brick).

    The above rule applies to any exterior surface including vinyl and aluminum siding, stucco, and masonry installations. Advaning retractable awnings will include:
    • Stainless Steel 304 Grade or better, masonry bolts for solid brick or concrete installations.
    • Stainless Steel 304 Grade or better, lag screws for wood, studs, beams, stucco, or siding installations.

    Advaning highly recommends consulting with a professional installer and reviewing your specific series’ Owner’s Manual to determine if additional specialty hardware is needed for any installation that defers from our general installation guides.

    Follow-Up Question:
    Can I install an Advaning Retractable Awning to my Mobile Home, Trailer, or Camper?
    Answer: Although we have had customers successfully install our awnings onto stationary mobile homes, trailers and campers, these installations typically require additional hardware, structural supports, and/or product modifications.

    Advaning highly discourages installation of our products on any moving vehicle, as they are not intended for such use. Please note that Advaning’s warranty does not cover installation of any kind onto a moving vehicle or if the product is modified for installation.
  • IOQ. 4: Will I need to hire an electrician to install an Advaning motorized awning?
  • Advaning electric motorized awnings require no hard-wiring. They arrive completely pre-assembled and ready to plug into any outdoor electrical socket. They include a 15 ft. electric cord utilizing a (US Standard) Type-B 3-pin, 15 amp, electrical plug. This power cord extends from the left side of the awning (front-facing).
    Click Here for Illustration

    Advaning electric motorized awnings are designed with an override hand crank loop (hand crank included with purchase), in case of a power outage or disconnection the awning allows for full manual operation.
  • IOQ. 5: Can I install an Advaning retractable awning on my roof?
  • All Advaning retractable awnings can easily be installed onto most roofs via the Advaning Roof Mount Brackets – Sold Separately
    Roof Mount Brackets are available with a comprehensive, step-by-step instructional Owner’s Manual. We highly recommend reviewing the downloadable version by clicking here.
    NOTICE: Advaning highly recommends consulting with a professional installer/contractor for any questions about your specific roof installation challenges when not addressed within the Owner’s Manual.
  • IOQ. 6: I’m having issues with my electric awning’s remote control, what should I do?
  • The RF remote included with your motorized awning can become un-synched from the motor if/when there is a power outage or power surge. Please contact Advaning’s service team via email for detailed instructions to re-sync the remote control to the motor. You can reach us at service@advaning.com

    Note:
    • Check and replace the battery when needed
    • Check the cover on the remote is securely fastened
    • Check the awning is receiving power by testing the outlet
    • Check to ensure no other devises are impeding/interfering to the RF signal, such as a Weather Station.
  • IOQ. 7: How can I install my Advaning retractable awning under a sloped soffit?
  • Advaning’s retractable awnings can *all be installed to an angled soffit/overhang with appropriate support by using shims to correct the rafter angle to a 90° angle.
    Click for shim illustration
    *Although all series awnings can be soffit mounted, Slim and Slim Gray Series will require soffit brackets or bracket accessories not included with purchase.

Warranty Service Questions

  • WSQ. 1 : What is Advaning’s Retractable Awning Warranty?
  • To view and downlaod a copy of Advanings retractable awning Limited Warranty details, click on the specific series’ Owner’s Manual – you will find the complete warranty details on the last pages.

    • 5-Year Limited Warranty • Luxury Series Owner’s Manual
    • 3-Year Limited Warranty • Classic Series Owner’s Manual
    • 2-Year Limited Warranty • Slim Series Owner’s Manual
    • 2- Year Limited Warranty • Slim Grey Series Owner’s Manual
  • WSQ. 2: How do I claim my warranty?
  • Advaning warranty and support is designed to provide our customers with a streamlined, simple, and efficient resolution. Our warranty support form is easily found via: www.advaning.com
    Click here for direct Warranty Claim Link
    If for any reason the form is not available via the link provided above, please send an email to service@advaning.com with the following information;

    Subject Line: Warranty Claim

    1. Complete Name
    2. Shipping Address
    3. Phone Number
    4. Awnings Model# and Lot# (located on the interior of the retractable arm)
    5. Detail of the issue Please also include as attachements:
    6. Photo 1: Awnings Model# and Lot# (located on the interior of the retractable arm)
    7. Photo 2: Any visible issue
    8. File 1: Purchase Receipt/Invoice.

    Once a warranty support form is submitted, you should expect a follow-up from our service team typically within 72 business hours.
  • WSQ. 3: Will making modifications to the awning void the warranty?
  • Modifications including, but not limited to, 3rd party accessories, cutting, customizing any part of the awning as this can cause permanent damage to the product, property, and can become a hazard for potential injury. Modifying any portion, part, or installation process (other than what is explicitly used in the product user guide) will void warranty.
  • WSQ. 4: What is the warranty detail for Certified Reconditioned Awnings?
  • Advaning awning products can be purchased from our growing list of local installers, online via most major online retailers, or direct from us via www.advaningshop.com. For a list of regional distributors/installers please send an email to service@advaning.com along with your zip code or complete address.