The Steps to Properly Store Your Fabric Shade Structure

Posted on Friday, September 21st, 2018 at 3:15 pm.

While some people opt to leave their fabric shade structures up all year round, others prefer to store it when it gets cold. This can help to protect the fabric from getting damaged due to potential heavy winds and snowfall. If you are preparing to store your fabric shade structure for the season, here are the steps to properly do so.

Step 1: Cleaning

Before you take your shade structure down, you want to first be sure that the fabric is clean so that you don’t have to do as much when it’s time to put it back up. You want to brush off any debris that is sitting on top of the fabric, starting from the top edge and moving towards the bottom. You then want to take a hose and hose off any of the remaining dirt that is stuck on the shade structure. A soft-bristled brush is good to use for any tough stains or dirt. You can then use soap and water to rid of any significant stains. You simply dip your brush into the water and scrub the fabric shade structure using a back and forth motion.

Step 2: Let it Dry

After you have cleaned your fabric shade structure thoroughly, it is really important to give it time to dry completely. Storing a damp shade structure can cause mold or mildew to grow on it and you won’t be able to use it again. Leave it out until it is completely dry because even the smallest amount of dampness can ruin your shade structure.

Step 3: Valance

Some shade structures have a hanging valance that keep them up. If you have one of these, you want to first clean it. You can easily do this with a hose and by scrubbing it with some mild soap and water similar to how you cleaned the fabric. Allow the valance to dry as well, roll it up, and store it somewhere dry.

Step 4: Storing

If you have a retractable shade structure, be sure to retract it completely before you take it down. You also want to check for any loose fabric that is hanging off of the shade structure because it could tear further while it’s in storage. You want to either tuck the fabric so that it’s out of the way or tie it. If you don’t have a retractable fabric shade structure, then you can simply pull it out of the frame and fold it up neatly. A winter cover is a great idea for your fabric shade structure because it provides an extra layer of protection while it’s stored away. If you have one, cover your shade structure with it and store it in a dry area that has ventilation.

Contact Carroll Architectural Shade Today for Your Fabric Shade Structure!

Ready to get the perfect shade structure for your apartment building, business, or home? Carroll Architectural Shade (formerly known as Carroll Awning) has the expertise and equipment to make and install the perfect residential or commercial shade structure to give your home or business an even cooler exterior. We can design, create, and install custom canopies and awnings all year long. For a free estimate and to get started designing your dream awning, give us a call at 1-800-999-5617 or visit us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.