As winter approaches in Michigan, it’s crucial to prepare for the intense weather that often accompanies the season. With snow, ice, and strong winds on the horizon, now is the perfect time to inspect your aluminum awnings. Ensuring they are in good condition can help protect your home from harsh elements and prevent potential damage. Take a moment to check for any signs of wear or weakness and make any necessary repairs to ensure your awnings can withstand the winter ahead. Stay safe and warm this season!
Getting your Awning Covered with Wayne Craft
Winter in Michigan can be unforgiving, and at Wayne Craft, we’re here to help you weather the storm—literally! If your awning has suffered damage from recent storms, including tree strikes, hail, or wind, you might be eligible to have the costs covered by your insurance.
As a family-owned company with over 80 years of experience, we understand the ins and outs of the insurance process. Many homeowners don’t realize that their insurance policies can often help pay for repairs or replacements of awnings that have been compromised by weather-related incidents. Our dedicated team at Wayne Craft specializes in assessing damage accurately and advocating on your behalf with your insurance company.
When it comes to awnings, a simple cleaning or patch may not be enough to ensure your structure can withstand the elements this winter. While these quick fixes might seem like an easy solution, they often fall short when faced with heavy snowfall or harsh winds. Replacing your awning altogether can provide the peace of mind you need, allowing your porch to stay clear of snow and debris, and protecting your home from potential water damage.
We offer free estimates to evaluate the condition of your awning and can guide you in taking the necessary steps to contact your insurance provider. Our experienced team will walk you through the claims process, ensuring you understand your options and helping you secure the best outcome possible.
Don’t let the winter weather take a toll on your home contact Wayne Craft today for your free estimate. From front porch awnings and awnings over windows to custom installations, Wayne Craft has earned a reputation for exceptional customer service and lasting products. Let us help you restore your outdoor space and make sure it’s ready to stand strong against the elements, all without breaking the bank!
If Replacement is Not an Option
Thoroughly Clean Your Awnings
Dirt, leaves, bird droppings, and grime can trap moisture and weaken aluminum awnings over time. Start by gently sweeping away loose debris with a soft brush. Use a mild detergent, car wash shampoo, or mild liquid soap mixed with water and scrub the awnings with a sponge or soft cloth, focusing on areas where grime collects. Rinse thoroughly with a hose and allow it to dry completely. Residential awning companies in Michigan like Wayne Craft recommend this simple step to prolong the life of your awning and prepare them for the harsh winter ahead.
Secure Hardware and Attachments
Loose bolts, screws, and brackets can cause awnings to sag or even detach when faced with the added weight of heavy snow and ice. To avoid potential damage, thoroughly inspect all attachment points before winter begins. Tighten any loose hardware and replace worn or corroded parts, as weakened components are more prone to failure under stress. If your awning has adjustable brackets, ensure they are securely locked in place. Regularly checking hardware throughout the season is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of your awning.
Let the Snow Be
We do not recommend homeowners attempt to remove snow from their awnings. Awnings are engineered to handle snow loads and wind uplift based on local requirements. Engineering specifications like awning size, rafter and beam spacing, wall channels, and fastener spacing—are all calibrated to ensure your awning’s durability in winter conditions. The bolts and fasteners used are also selected based on the specific install site (for example, different fasteners are used for brick installations versus siding). Rest assured, Wayne Craft designs each installation to meet these standards, so your awning can withstand Michigan winters without requiring snow removal.
Additional Maintenance Tips
Check Caulking/Sealant
We recommend checking the caulking or sealant at the attachment points every six months, as sealants do not have a fixed lifespan. At Wayne Craft, we use NovaFlex for added durability and longevity.
Preventing Cracks and Splits
Due to the interlocking nature of our aluminum sheets, cracking or splitting only occurs in rare cases of physical impact. This interlocking design helps maintain the structural integrity of your awning.
Moisture and Rust Prevention
The wet paint applied to our aluminum sheets creates a protective barrier that resists moisture and corrosion, ensuring the structure won’t rust. This coating also offers thermal protection, making the awning more resistant to fading from sun exposure. Plus, the paint we use is low in VOC emissions, making it environmentally friendly as well as highly durable.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about their wide range of awning products.
Are you ready to upgrade your next project with Wayne Craft? Contact us today for a free estimate and see how our products can transform your outdoor space.