What is Pitch and Why is it Important?

Published On: July 8, 2019|Categories: Awnings|

If you are purchasing an awning for your home in Ottawa, you will quickly start learning some new terminology. One of the terms you may have already started to hear while shopping around for an awning is the term “pitch.”

 

Awning Pitch

 

What is Pitch and Why is it Important?

In the context of an awning, pitch refers to the angle or slope of the awning from back to front. The pitch of an awning is not merely aesthetic, but it actually serves a very important function of allowing rainwater to properly run off the awning and prevent it from puddling. If too much rainwater puddles on top of the awning fabric, it can cause the awning to fall and become damaged. If people or pets are nearby, this can even be a serious safety hazard.

The steeper the pitch of an awning, the more quickly water will run off. When awnings are set at the minimum pitch, it will still be possible for some rainwater to collect on top – even if the fabric is tight. Another benefit of having a steeper pitch is that it will allow your awning to provide you with even more shade protection on sunny days.

Even a few extra inches of pitch in your awning can make a huge difference both in how quickly water runs off and how much shade your awning provides.

Changing the Pitch of Your Awning

If you are installing your awning yourself, you will be able to adjust the pitch of your awning yourself by changing the position of the back and front bars. Since you now understand the importance of pitch, be sure not to make the pitch too shallow.

Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Your Awning in the Rain

It is no secret that Ottawa gets its fair share of spring showers and summer storms. While your retractable awning is a great way to enjoy a little protection from light rain, it is not meant to remain extended during severe storms – no matter what the pitch.

Fortunately, the extent of the pitch doesn’t matter when the awning is retracted. It is a good idea to keep your awning retracted when it is not in use. That way, you won’t have to worry about what the weather forecast is.

If you have your awning extended during rainfall and you notice that water has started to pool on the fabric, simply use a soft broom to push the fabric outward from underneath so that the water rolls off. If this continues to be a problem, contact us at our Ottawa location so that we can correct it.

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