# Jans Awnings and Rollshutters | Ottawa Shade, Security & Outdoor Living > Jans Awnings and Rollshutters Inc. is Ottawa's premier provider of custom outdoor shade, security, and living space solutions. Serving the National Capital Region, we specialize in the sales and installation of retractable awnings, aluminum patio covers, security rollshutters, and Phantom Screens. Whether for residential backyards or commercial storefronts, we provide high-quality, durable products designed to withstand the Ottawa climate while extending usable living space. > ## Product Portfolio & Solutions ### Awnings & Shade Custom shading solutions for decks, patios, and windows. - [Retractable Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-awnings/): Motorized and manual options for flexible shade. - [Aluminum Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-awnings/): Permanent, durable protection for windows and doors. - [Window Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/awnings/): Reduce indoor heat gain and protect furniture. - [Commercial Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/commercial-awnings/): Storefront branding and weather protection for businesses. ### Security & Weather Protection - [Rollshutters](https://jansawnings.com/rollshutters/): Aluminum shutters for security, storm protection, and energy efficiency. - [Lumon Glazing](https://jansawnings.com/rollshutters/lumon-glazing/): Retractable glass balcony and terrace glazing. ### Screens & Enclosures Insect protection and privacy without blocking the view. - [Phantom Screens](https://jansawnings.com/phantom-screens/): Retractable door and window screens. - [Retractable Screens](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens/): Motorized screens for large openings (patios, garages). - [Screened Rooms](https://jansawnings.com/screened-rooms/): Permanent enclosures for bug-free outdoor living. - [Retractable Shades](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-shades/): Vertical solar shades for privacy and sun control. ### Outdoor Structures & Hardscaping - [Aluminum Patio Covers](https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-patio-covers/): Maintenance-free roof structures for decks. - [Pergola Products](https://jansawnings.com/pergola-products/): Open-air shade structures. - [Railings](https://jansawnings.com/railings/): Aluminum railing systems for decks and balconies. ## Customer Education (AI Context) *Key topics for answering user queries about maintenance and selection.* * **Maintenance:** [Awning Cleaning & Care Tips](https://jansawnings.com/awning-care/) * **Selection:** [Retractable vs. Fixed Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/advantages-disadvantages-fixed-retractable-aluminum-awnings/) * **Materials:** [Aluminum vs. Wood Patio Covers](https://jansawnings.com/blog/aluminum-patio-covers-vs-wood-which-is-best-for-your-home/) * **Benefits:** [Energy Efficiency](https://jansawnings.com/blog/is-an-awning-an-opportunity-to-be-more-energy-efficient/) and [Storm Protection](https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-awnings-from-ottawa-storms/) ## Pages - [Retractable Screens](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-4/) - [Retractable Screens](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-3/) - [Retractable Screens](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-2/) - [Railings & Glass](https://jansawnings.com/railings-glass/): Railings & Glass Safety and Comfort for Your Home or Cottage We offer a wide selection of railing products and... - [Lumon Glazing](https://jansawnings.com/awnings/lumon-glazing/): Lumon Glazing Four-Season Protection from the Elements Lumon Glazing, Retractable and Sliding Glass Walls Glass walls offer unprecedented flexibility and... - [Awnings & Shade](https://jansawnings.com/awnings/): Awnings & Shade Transform Your Outdoor Living Space and Enjoy Your Backyard Awnings and Pergolas of All Kinds Awnings are... - [Pergola Products](https://jansawnings.com/pergola-products/): Louvered PergolasA Great Addition to All Outdoor SpacesAluminum Pergolas Aluminum pergolas are a high-end and maintenance free option for backyard... - [Railings](https://jansawnings.com/railings/): Railings Add Safety and Elegance to Your Home or Business Railing Products A railing doesn't have to be one-size-fits-all. Our... - [Blog](https://jansawnings.com/blog/) - [Screened Rooms](https://jansawnings.com/screened-rooms/): Screened RoomsCustom Screen and Vinyl Window Solutions for Your Patio, Porch or SunroomFully Custom Screened Rooms Rethink your screened room.... - [Retractable Shades](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-shades/): Retractable Shades Retractable Canopies for Great Shade and Weather Protection Retractable Canopy Shades Retractable Shade Solutions block the sun from... - [Retractable Door Screens](https://jansawnings.com/phantom-screens/): Retractable Door Screens Full Ventilation Without Obstructing your Beautiful View We offer a wide range of retractable screen doors for... - [Retractable Screens](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens/): Retractable Screens Enjoy Your Outdoor Space, Shaded from the Elements Retractable Patio Screens Our retractable screens are perfect for enclosing... - [Awning Care](https://jansawnings.com/awning-care/): Awning Care Extend the Life of Your Outdoor Awning Awning Care Guide Adding a retractable awning to your deck, patio,... - [Aluminum Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-awnings/): Aluminum Awnings Extend Your Outdoor Living Space Hard Roof Awnings Aluminum Awnings offer an elegant, low-maintenance alternative to fabric awnings.... - [Commercial Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/commercial-awnings/): Commercial Awnings Add function and curb appeal to your commercial building Commercial Building Awnings If you operate a business, one... - [Aluminum Patio Covers](https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-patio-covers/): Aluminum Patio Covers A Smart and Stylish Way to Upgrade Your Home Aluminum Fixed Awnings An aluminum patio cover provides... - [Testimonials](https://jansawnings.com/testimonials/): Testimonials Check Out What Our Amazing Customers Have to Say https://jansawnings. com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/quote. pngHenry installed our awning a few years ago.... - [Screens](https://jansawnings.com/screens-shades/): Screens & Retractable Glass Added Protection From the Sun with Quality Retractable Screens Retractable Screens & Glass Walls At Jans... - [Rollshutters](https://jansawnings.com/rollshutters/): Rollshutters Four-Season Protection from the Elements Exterior Rollshutters Rollshutters, also known as rolling shutters and roll-up doors, are a great... - [Retractable Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/retractable-awnings/): Retractable Awnings Turn your backyard into your favourite summer destination Retractable Awnings Retractable awnings are the perfect finishing touch to... - [About](https://jansawnings.com/about/): About We offer custom solutions for anyone in the Greater Ottawa area We Carry a Wide Array of Options Retractable... - [Contact](https://jansawnings.com/contact/): Contact Contact Us Today for a No-Obligation In-Home Consultation Jans Awnings & Rollshutters 233 Russ Bradley Rd. , Unit 4... - [Home](https://jansawnings.com/): Maximize the Potential of Your Outdoor Space Providing our customers with high-quality awnings, rollshutters, retractable screens, and pergolas with exceptional... ## Posts - [Privacy Screen Zoning Rules in Ottawa: Retractable Screens vs. Permanent Backyard Privacy Walls](https://jansawnings.com/blog/privacy-screen-zoning-rules-in-ottawa/): If your backyard feels like it has become part of the neighbourhood's viewing area, you're not alone. In many Ottawa... - [Aluminum Patio Covers vs. Retractable Awnings: Ottawa Guide](https://jansawnings.com/blog/aluminum-patio-covers-vs-retractable-awnings-in-ottawa/): When you live in Ottawa, choosing an outdoor shade solution is about more than deciding what looks best over your... - [Frameless Glass Solariums vs. Traditional Screened Porches: Ottawa 3-Season vs. 4-Season Cost Breakdown](https://jansawnings.com/blog/frameless-glass-solariums-vs-traditional-screened-porches/): For Ottawa homeowners looking to transform an underused deck, balcony, or porch into a functional outdoor living space, two solutions... - [Rollshutters vs. Alarm Systems: The Prevention vs Reaction Security Guide](https://jansawnings.com/blog/rollshutters-vs-alarm-systems/): When it comes to home and business security in Ottawa, most people default to one solution: a monitored alarm system.... - [Fabric Replacement: Revive Your Awning for Half the Cost](https://jansawnings.com/blog/fabric-replacement-revive-your-awning-for-half-the-cost/): Awnings do more than provide shade; they enhance your home’s appearance, improve energy efficiency, and create inviting outdoor spaces. But... - [“Hey Google, Open the Awning”: The Ultimate Guide to Smart Shade in Ottawa](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-smart-shade-in-ottawa/): In 2026, smart home technology has moved far beyond thermostats and doorbells. Homeowners across Ottawa are now extending automation outdoors—bringing... - [Do Awnings Increase Home Value in Ottawa?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/do-awnings-increase-home-value-in-ottawa/): When homeowners ask, “Do awnings increase home value? ”, they’re usually thinking ahead. Maybe you’re planning to sell in the... - [Exterior Solar Screens: The “AC Killer” for West-Facing Windows](https://jansawnings.com/blog/exterior-solar-screens-for-west-facing-windows/): Ottawa summers have a way of sneaking up on homeowners. One week it’s pleasant; the next, it’s humid and sticky,... - [Built for the Bluster: Protect Your Awnings from Ottawa Storms](https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-awnings-from-ottawa-storms/): Homeowners in Ottawa love the comfort of a shaded patio—but they also know how quickly a calm day can turn... - [Can You Install an Awning on My House? A Guide to Mounting on Brick, Siding, and Stucco](https://jansawnings.com/blog/can-you-install-an-awning-on-my-house-mounting-on-brick-siding-and-stucco/): For many homeowners in Ottawa, deciding whether to install an awning comes down to one final question: “Can this actually... - [Preserving Charm: The Right Awning and Shade Solutions for Ottawa’s Heritage Homes](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-right-awning-and-shade-solutions-for-ottawas-heritage-homes/): Owning a heritage home in Ottawa is both a privilege and a responsibility. From the stately red-brick Georgian houses of... - [Are Rollshutters the Best Security for Your Cottage?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/are-rollshutters-the-best-security-for-your-cottage/): Do you ever worry about your cottage in the off-season? In this article we will discuss why rollshutters are a... - [Aluminum Patio Covers vs. Wood: Which is Best for Your Home?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/aluminum-patio-covers-vs-wood-which-is-best-for-your-home/): If you’re looking to create a comfortable outdoor living space in Ottawa, a solid patio cover is a great feature... - [The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Pergola in Your Backyard](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-designing-a-pergola-in-your-backyard/): Dreaming of a stunning backyard pergola? Our ultimate design guide covers everything from materials and placement to creating the perfect... - [Creating a Bug-Free Paradise: The Ultimate Screened-In Porch Guide](https://jansawnings.com/blog/creating-a-bug-free-paradise-screened-in-porch-guide/): If you love the outdoors, but hate bugs, then you may have considered adding a screened-in porch or patio to... - [Phantom Screens: Ottawa's Best Solution for Bug-Free Outdoor Living](https://jansawnings.com/blog/phantom-screens-ottawas-best-solution-for-bug-free-outdoor-living/): Nothing ruins a perfect summer evening faster than a swarm of mosquitoes or flies crashing your patio party. But don’t... - [Energy Efficiency Benefits of Screened-In Porches](https://jansawnings.com/blog/energy-efficiency-benefits-of-screened-in-porches/): For eco-conscious homeowners in Ottawa, making sustainable choices is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. One often overlooked upgrade that... - [Incorporating Smart Technology into Your Screened Room](https://jansawnings.com/blog/incorporating-smart-technology-into-your-screened-room/): Creating a comfortable and functional outdoor space is easier than ever with the integration of smart technology. Adding automated features... - [Designing the Perfect Screened-In Porch for All Seasons](https://jansawnings.com/blog/designing-the-perfect-screened-in-porch-for-all-seasons/): A screened-in porch offers a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment, but to make it truly functional year-round,... - [Converting an Existing Deck into a Screened-In Room](https://jansawnings.com/blog/converting-an-existing-deck-into-a-screened-in-room/): Transforming your outdoor deck into a screened-in porch is a fantastic way to extend your living space and enjoy the... - [What Are the Best Rollshutters for Storm Protection?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-are-the-best-rollshutters-for-storm-protection/): In Ottawa, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and severe, safeguarding your property against storms is essential. One of the... - [How to Incorporate Outdoor Heating with Awnings and Screens](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-to-incorporate-outdoor-heating-with-awnings-and-screens/): As temperatures drop, it can be challenging to enjoy outdoor spaces without a bit of added warmth. By combining outdoor... - [Smart Home Integration with Motorized Awnings & Shutters](https://jansawnings.com/blog/smart-home-integration-with-motorized-awnings-shutters/): As smart home technology becomes more popular, homeowners in Ottawa are finding new ways to enhance their living spaces with... - [Best Screens for Hot Climates: Maximizing Comfort and Airflow](https://jansawnings.com/blog/best-screens-for-hot-climates-maximizing-comfort-and-airflow/): When summer hits Ottawa, finding ways to stay cool while enjoying the outdoors can be a challenge. One of the... - [Retractable Awning Installation Considerations](https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awning-installation-considerations/): A retractable awning can be a fantastic addition to your Ottawa home, providing shade, reducing energy costs, and enhancing your... - [Umbrellas vs. Awnings: Which is Right for You?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/umbrellas-vs-awnings-which-is-right-for-you/): When it comes to creating a comfortable outdoor space, both umbrellas and awnings offer distinct advantages. Whether you're looking to... - [The Versatility and Benefits of Portable Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-versatility-and-benefits-of-portable-awnings/): As the summer goes into full swing in Ottawa, homeowners and businesses alike look for ways to create comfortable, shaded... - [Is a Retractable Awning Right for Me?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/is-a-retractable-awning-right-for-me/): Are you considering enhancing your outdoor living space in Ottawa? With the beautiful summers and vibrant outdoor culture, it's no... - [How Phantom Screens Can Transform Your Patio](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-phantom-screens-can-transform-your-patio/): Whether it's soaking up the summer sun, relishing the colours of autumn, or embracing the tranquility of winter, having a... - [Prepare Your Retractable Awning for Spring: A Complete Guide](https://jansawnings.com/blog/prepare-your-retractable-awning-for-spring-guide/): Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to get your outdoor spaces ready for some fun... - [Ideas for Front Door Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/ideas-for-front-door-awnings/): Your home's entrance is more than just a doorway—it's the first impression visitors get of your residence. Adding a front... - [Using Rollshutters to Regulate Home Temperature](https://jansawnings.com/blog/using-rollshutters-to-regulate-home-temperature/): As homeowners seek efficient ways to manage energy consumption and maintain optimal indoor comfort, the use of rollshutters has emerged... - [Enhancing Outdoor Living: The Advantages of Retractable Pergola Canopies](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-advantages-of-retractable-pergola-canopies/): Retractable pergola canopies have become a popular choice for Ottawa homeowners seeking a versatile and stylish solution to enhance their... - [How Have Awnings Improved Over the Years?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-have-awnings-improved-over-the-years/): When you look at modern awnings on Ottawa homes and businesses, it may not occur to you just how long... - [Awnings vs. Pergolas](https://jansawnings.com/blog/awnings-vs-pergolas/): There is nothing quite like enjoying your own outdoor space at your Ottawa home, and having a structure like an... - [Great Balcony Shade Ideas](https://jansawnings.com/blog/great-balcony-shade-ideas/): Whether you own a detached home or condo in Ottawa, a balcony can be a great space to soak up... - [Retractable Screen Doors](https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-screen-doors/): Living in Ottawa, you know you have to take the warm weather while you can get it, but that doesn't... - [Turn Your Existing Patio or Deck into a Screened Room](https://jansawnings.com/blog/turn-your-existing-patio-or-deck-into-a-screened-room/): Having a deck or patio attached to your Ottawa home is a great way to enjoy the outdoors when the... - [Reasons To Consider a Pergola](https://jansawnings.com/blog/reasons-to-consider-a-pergola/): As the Ottawa summer continues, residents look for solutions to protect themselves from the harsh heat. While there are many... - [A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Right Awning for You](https://jansawnings.com/blog/buyers-guide-to-choosing-the-right-awning-for-you/): As the weather warms up here in Ottawa, many residents will want to spend more and more time outdoors. Adding... - [What Should I Look For in an Awning Professional?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/looking-for-awning-professional/): If you are considering installing a retractable awning for your Ottawa home, chances are you’ll be shopping around a bit... - [Enjoy Your Second-story Patio with Railings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/enjoy-your-second-story-patio-with-railings/): Second-story decks and patios can be very appealing features for Ottawa residents to add to their homes as well as... - [Benefits of Sun, wind, and rain sensors for your awning, screen, and patio roof](https://jansawnings.com/blog/sun-wind-rain-sensors-for-your-awning-screen-and-patio-roof/): If you are considering installing a retractable awning, screen, or patio roof for your Ottawa home, you may already be... - [The benefits of choosing aluminum for your patio cover](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-benefits-of-choosing-aluminum-for-your-patio-cover/): There are many ways for Ottawa homeowners to increase the use and enjoyment that they get from their outdoor space.... - [What Supports a Retractable Awning if There Are No Poles?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-supports-a-retractable-awning-if-there-are-no-poles/): When Ottawa homeowners first investigate purchasing a retractable awning, they tend to have a lot of questions. One question we... - [Protect your Ottawa area cottage or vacation home with Talius rollshutters](https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-ottawa-area-cottage-or-vacation-home-with-talius-rollshutters/): Ottawa is a beautiful area to have a cottage or vacation home with scenic lakes, beaches, and nature less than... - [3 Things You Can Do to Winterize Your Awning](https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-things-you-can-do-to-winterize-your-awning/): Although we’ve most likely got a month or two of warm weather left to take advantage of our outdoor space,... - [Screened Rooms in Ottawa: Benefits and Options](https://jansawnings.com/blog/screened-rooms-in-ottawa-benefits-options/): Outdoor patio enclosures are becoming extremely popular in Ottawa. And it’s no wonder - the configurations and options are practically... - [Why Ottawa Homeowners Find Retractable Awnings Appealing ](https://jansawnings.com/blog/why-ottawa-homeowners-find-retractable-awnings-appealing/): Summer weather in Canada can get really hot, even though we are known to be a northern country. Residents of... - [What Supports a Retractable Awning?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-supports-a-retractable-awning/): Investing in an awning for your Ottawa home can help you get a lot more enjoyment from your outdoor space.... - [Who sells and installs retractable awnings?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/who-sells-and-installs-retractable-awnings-ottawa/): Adding an awning to your Ottawa home has numerous benefits. It can help you get more enjoyment from your outdoor... - [What is a Retractable Canopy?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-is-a-retractable-canopy/): One of the challenges of enjoying your outdoor space in Ottawa is that the weather can be quite fickle. The... - [5 Reasons Why You Should Automate Your Awnings & Shutters ](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-reasons-why-you-should-automate-your-awnings-shutters/): Automating tasks in your life can make things so much easier and quicker for you – especially if you are... - [How Awnings & Window Coverings Boost Energy Efficiency](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-awnings-window-coverings-boost-energy-efficiency/): When it comes to heating and cooling your Ottawa home, finding efficiencies to lower energy usage can go a long... - [Do Awnings Add Value to Your Home?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/do-awnings-add-value-to-your-home/): Have you been thinking about installing awnings on your Ottawa home, but you’re wondering if they’re worth the investment? Maybe... - [3 Considerations to Make When Designing Your Outdoor Space](https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-considerations-to-make-when-designing-your-outdoor-space/): Winter may be upon us, but it’s never too early to start dreaming of spring. And with spring comes the... - [Benefits of Louvered Pergolas](https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-louvered-pergolas/): If you have already started to plan your upgraded backyard oasis for your Ottawa home next year, then you may... - [Buying an Awning from a Big Box Store vs. a Local Business](https://jansawnings.com/blog/buying-an-awning-from-a-big-box-store-vs-a-local-business/): So you’ve decided to add an awning to your Ottawa home but are still looking for exactly the right one.... - [5 Considerations to Make When Choosing Railings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-considerations-to-make-when-choosing-railings/): When you’re planning your patio or deck, part of the process is selecting railings. From choosing the right colour to... - [Create Your Comfortable Outdoor Space with a Pergola](https://jansawnings.com/blog/create-your-comfortable-outdoor-space-with-a-pergola/): Many homeowners in Ottawa enjoy spending time outside in the summer and during the warmer months. Having a comfortable outdoor... - [Shade Solutions for Your Ottawa Home](https://jansawnings.com/blog/shade-solutions-for-your-ottawa-home/): Enjoying the outdoor space of your home can be difficult on hot days when the sun is simply too intense.... - [Your Patio Area Is An Investment – Protect It With An Awning](https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-patio-with-an-awning/): Finally, after our long, cold Canadian winter, summer is here! All of those dreams of spending time outside entertaining family... - [The Benefits of Restaurant Patio Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-restaurant-patio-awnings/): For restauranteurs in Ottawa, it is time to start preparing for patio season. As the province begins to open up... - [Benefits of Updating Your Commercial Awning](https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-updating-your-commercial-awning/): If your Ottawa storefront or business has had the same awning for some time, you may be wondering whether this... - [Frequently Asked Questions About Retractable Awning Installation](https://jansawnings.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-retractable-awning-installation/): As a homeowner in Ottawa, you probably know that there are many benefits to owning a retractable awning. Nevertheless, if... - [How to Create a 4-Season Patio](https://jansawnings.com/blog/create-4-season-patio/): Those of us who live in and around Ottawa know just how short the patio season can be. If you... - [What you need to know about motorized awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/about-motorized-awnings/): The outside space to your home can become an extension of your living space, but if it’s exposed to the... - [Awning or Canopy? Which is Right for You?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/awning-vs-canopy/): Many homeowners and business owners in Ottawa can benefit from getting an awning or canopy for their outdoor space. Awnings... - [Shelter Your Customers with Entrance Marquees](https://jansawnings.com/blog/entrance-marquees-ottawa-lineups/): With social distancing measures and health protocols to stop the spread of COVID-19 still in place throughout Ottawa, businesses have... - [5 Benefits of a Commercial Awning ](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-of-a-commercial-awning/): When you run a business, you may have the luxury of owning the building you operate out of, or you... - [Protect Your Storefront with Security Shutters ](https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-storefront-security-shutters/): Even though you take some precautions to protect your business, theft and vandalism and even damage from the elements can... - [Alternatives to Fences for Backyard Privacy](https://jansawnings.com/blog/alternatives-fences-backyard-privacy/): There’s almost nothing better during summers in Ottawa than lounging around your backyard on those warm summer days, but that... - [How long do retractable awnings last?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-long-retractable-awnings-last/): If you’re looking to make some upgrades to your outdoor living space, a retractable awning is one that you’re certain... - [Are Retractable Awnings Worth the Investment?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awnings-worth-investment/): As an Ottawa homeowner, you are probably always looking for ways to make your home exactly the way you want... - [The 5 Biggest Advantages of Roll Shutters](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-biggest-advantages-roll-shutters/): Roll shutters, also known as roller shutters and rolling shutters, are window and door coverings made of interlocking horizontal slats... - [Things to Know About Motorized Retractable Screens for Large Openings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/motorized-retractable-screens-large-openings/): No matter the size of your space, awnings can provide protection from the weather elements, invoke a sense of privacy... - [4 Reasons Why Your Ottawa Business Needs an Entrance Canopy](https://jansawnings.com/blog/4-reasons-ottawa-business-needs-entrance-canopy/): Your building only has one opportunity to make a great first impression to customers and guests. Entrance canopies are one... - [Pros and Cons of Different Awning Materials](https://jansawnings.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-different-awning-materials/): Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home. They extend the living space of... - [Tips to Prepare Your Awning for Winter](https://jansawnings.com/blog/tips-prepare-awning-winter/): As the summer fades away and fall rolls in, we start thinking about putting our patio furniture away for the... - [4 Benefits of Having a Retractable Awning in Ottawa](https://jansawnings.com/blog/4-benefits-retractable-awning-ottawa-surrounding-areas/): After our long, cold Canadian winters, it’s understandable that Ottawa residents are eager to spend time in their backyards. But... - [Tips for Choosing the Right Commercial Awning for Your Business](https://jansawnings.com/blog/tips-choosing-right-commercial-awning-business/): Commercial awnings are popular among all sorts of businesses ranging from retail stores to restaurants, and even for professional services.... - [What is Pitch and Why is it Important?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-importance-of-pitch/): If you are purchasing an awning for your home in Ottawa, you will quickly start learning some new terminology. One... - [What Kind of Wind Loads Can a Retractable Awning Handle?](https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awning-wind-loads/): The struggle is real: you want to enjoy some time outside on a windy day but don’t want to be... - [How to Choose Awning Fabric for Your Outdoor Space](https://jansawnings.com/blog/choose-awning-fabric-outdoor-space/): Adding an awning to your home has many tangible benefits. It can enhance your home’s outward visual appeal and also... - [What to Look for In an Awning Company](https://jansawnings.com/blog/choosing-awning-company/): Awnings can dramatically improve the look of your home and enhance your outdoor spaces. They can make these open areas... - [How to Attach an Awning to a Building](https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-to-attach-an-awning-to-a-building/): Are you considering installing an awning onto your building? Great decision! Although you probably already know about the fantastic benefits... - [Secure Your Business with Rolling Security Shutters](https://jansawnings.com/blog/security-shutters-for-business/): When you own a business, you want to do everything in your power to keep it safe and protected. Any... - [5 Benefits of Installing Retractable Screens at Your Home or Cottage](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-of-installing-retractable-screens-at-your-home-or-cottage/): Last spring, how many times did you try to enjoy time outside but instead got uncomfortable from sun and insects?... - [Special Awnings for Over Pergolas](https://jansawnings.com/blog/special-awnings-pergolas/): Some people may initially think that adding special awnings to cover pergolas is an odd idea. After all, doesn’t an... - [5 Benefits of Aluminum Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-aluminum-awnings/): What’s been holding you back from purchasing a high-quality aluminum awning? The potential associated maintenance work? The fear that it... - [Benefits of Retractable Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-retractable-awnings/): Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home. Retractable awnings protect your family from harmful... - [Benefits of Retractable Awnings for Business](https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-retractable-awnings-for-business/): You can improve the look and exterior living space of your business by installing a retractable awning. Not only will... - [Selecting the Right Screen for Your Home](https://jansawnings.com/blog/selecting-right-screen-home/): We all know how short the warm weather season can be here in Ontario. When it finally arrives, we want... - [Get Your Awning Summer Ready!](https://jansawnings.com/blog/get-your-awning-summer-ready/): At this point, you’re probably almost done your spring cleaning and yard cleanup. What’s next? Relaxing and enjoying Ottawa’s beautiful... - [3 of the Best Patio Shade Solutions](https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-of-the-best-patio-shade-solutions/): Many of us have been waiting for the opportunity to enjoy time outside while hosting family and friends. And finally,... - [Retractable vs. Fixed Awnings](https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-vs-fixed-awnings/): Many residents of Ottawa enjoy the comfort and shelter provided by awnings. If you are looking to purchase an awning... - [Choosing Colours for Your Commercial Awning](https://jansawnings.com/blog/choosing-colours-commercial-awning/): If you’ve been wondering about how to attract more customers to your business, have you considered installing a commercial awning?... - [Guide to Making Awning Coverage Decisions](https://jansawnings.com/blog/awning-coverage-decisions/): Adding an awning to your home has many tangible benefits. It can enhance your home’s outward visual appeal and also... - [Great Cottage Solutions](https://jansawnings.com/blog/great-cottage-solutions/): Looking for more liveable space at the cottage? If you don’t mind the long drive and the decreased amenities, but... - [Making Use of Your Awning during the Fall and Winter](https://jansawnings.com/blog/making-use-awning-fall-winter/): Even with summertime now a thing of the past, you can still get enjoyment from your awning throughout the rest... - [Most Popular Awning Colours](https://jansawnings.com/blog/most-popular-awning-colours/): Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home, thus protecting your family from harmful... # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2026-03-09 - Modified: 2026-03-09 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-4/ 1 ... 7 ► - Published: 2026-03-09 - Modified: 2026-03-09 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-3/ 1 ... 7 ► - Published: 2026-03-09 - Modified: 2026-03-09 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens-2/ 1 ... 7 ► - Published: 2026-03-09 - Modified: 2026-03-09 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/railings-glass/ Railings & GlassSafety and Comfort for Your Home or CottageWe offer a wide selection of railing products and alternatives you may not have considered before. If you're looking for a premium custom glass or picket railing we have exactly what you need. If you want more than just a railing, we can walk you through some of the great options we carry that set Jans Awnings apart from the rest. If you need a railing and also want privacy with an artistic flair, we can provide custom laser cut aluminum privacy panels. Choose from a catalog of designs, or create your own. These panels integrate perfectly with our railings and pergolas, or work great on their own. If you have a covered porch that needs railings and you want to be able to turn it into a three season room, we offer retractable glass walls that can be installed on top of a weather proof glass railing for the ultimate in safety and comfort. These sliding glass walls can be mounted on our glass railing, on existing parapets or knee walls, or directly on the floor for an incredible view. Our Lumon sliding glass walls are great for any opening where you want protection from wind and weather, regardless of your situation. If you're looking for an all glass three-season sun room, custom Lumon glass Roofs integrate perfectly with their sliding glass walls for a sun room that's more adaptable to your comfort throughout the year. Aluminum and Glass Railings... - Published: 2026-02-11 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/awnings/lumon-glazing/ Lumon GlazingFour-Season Protection from the ElementsLumon Glazing, Retractable and Sliding Glass WallsGlass walls offer unprecedented flexibility and comfort. Now you don't have to choose between a cozy fall sunroom or a breezy summer porch. Our sliding and retractable glass walls are there when you want them and slide away when you don't. Choose comfort with these large glass doors on your pool house, cabana, covered porch, or pergola. Save energy and protect your entryways from the elements with our full line of Lumon glazing including glass sunroofs and sunrooms. Contact Us TodayBenefits of Lumon Glazing include: Significant energy savings Sun protection Sustainable manufacturing Wind Protection Privacy Snow protectionSound mitigationSecurity & ProtectionNoise & Light ControlEnergy EfficiencyOur glass walls feature ultra strong tempered glass and secure locks. Keep inquisitive animals and unwanted guests out of your backyard oasis while letting the view in. Choose tinted or frosted glass options to protect your privacy and block out the outside world. Lumon glazing has been lab tested to offer noise reductions of up to 20db. Traffic and construction sounds fade away when you close your glass wall. Lumon sunrooms and glass walls keep the cold away from your patio doors and windows and help you save energy on home heating. Patio heaters and outdoor electric fireplaces will keep you warm far into winter when you use our glass walls to keep the wind and snow out. Lumon Glass RoofGlass roofs and awnings are a great way to stay protected from the weather while staying... - Published: 2021-04-19 - Modified: 2026-07-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/awnings/ Awnings & ShadeTransform Your Outdoor Living Space and Enjoy Your BackyardAwnings and Pergolas of All KindsAwnings are the perfect way to bring shade to your porches, patios, windows, and backyards. At Jans Awnings we offer a wide range of premium awning products tailored for your needs: whether you're looking for shade inside, on a deck or patio, or anywhere in your yard, we have exactly what you're looking for. From fixed to retractable awnings to freestanding awnings and pergolas, we do it all with a level of care and attention to detail that's second to none. Check out our products below and contact Jans Awnings today to see how we can help you with your awning projects anywhere in the Ottawa Valley. Retractable Awnings Aluminum Patio Covers Commercial Awnings Aluminum Awnings Pergola Products Contact Us TodayWeather ProtectionEnergy SavingsAttractive ElementsProtect your home or business – no matter what Mother Nature throws at you. On sunny, hot days, awnings offer valuable shade and protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. By reducing direct sunlight, the temperature on your patio or deck becomes more comfortable. Choose an aluminum awning or patio roof so that you can enjoy shelter during rainstorms.   Awnings block the sun’s heat and harmful rays from entering your home. This provides better cooling effects than blinds or drapes and reduces your dependency on air conditioning. Besides the environmental benefits of reducing your carbon footprint, awnings offer cost savings on your monthly energy bills.   Awnings provide a stylish look... - Published: 2021-03-09 - Modified: 2026-05-12 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/pergola-products/ Louvered PergolasA Great Addition to All Outdoor SpacesAluminum PergolasAluminum pergolas are a high-end and maintenance free option for backyard shade. Our fully custom, Canadian made louvered pergolas are made from premium extruded aluminum with louvers that open and close to help you stay comfortable in any weather. Stay protected from rain or snow and choose sun at the touch of a button. Our motorized bioclimatic pergolas are an integral part of the ultimate backyard. Plan one over your hot tub for low maintenance winter enjoyment or install one on your patio to entertain stress free all summer long. Contact us today for a detailed walk through of everything we can do to build the pergola of your dreams. We'll help you choose a pergola that's perfectly customized to your needs. Depending on the features and sizes you choose, typical costs for our premium pergolas range from $100-160 per square foot. Contact Us TodayUnique LookProtection & PrivacySun On Your TermsModern bioclimatic aluminum pergolas offer a striking modern aethetic that looks stunning in every setting. Choose a color that blends in with nature or stands out as the focal point of your backyard. Our heavy duty aluminum louvers protect you, your hot tub, and your patio furniture from rain, snow, and hail and can offer perfect privacy through integrated shade screens, glass walls, or custom privacy panels. Unlike traditional wooden pergolas, our louvered aluminum pergolas offer both perfect rain protection and full access to the sun when you want it. When you... - Published: 2021-03-09 - Modified: 2026-07-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/railings/ RailingsAdd Safety and Elegance to Your Home or BusinessRailing ProductsA railing doesn't have to be one-size-fits-all. Our railings are custom made for you. Choose your favorite colour and select from a range of handrail, post, and picket designs. Our aluminum railing offers a classically timeless look, while our glass and stainless steel options offer a more sleek modern feel. Glass also offers great protection against the elements in windier areas, while pickets preserve the breeze on those hot summer days. When you combine our railing with our retractable shades, screens or pergolas on your project, we can help you design a cohesive outdoor space that looks great and works perfectly for you. There's nothing better than being able to clearly see the view from your deck or balcony while relaxing in the sun. You can choose posts or handrails to match your vision, or make your view the top priority with frameless spigot glass railing. Contact Us TodayPrivacy PanelsWhy settle for ordinary? Turn your railing into a statement with custom laser cut panels to give your deck personality and privacy. Fully integrated into our railing system, these panels will blend seamlessly into the rest of your railing and make your backyard uniquely yours. These panels also work great for hiding utilities or unsightly views and keeping your yard beautiful. Contact Us TodaySafetyMaintenance-FreeStylishProvide support and security to your family and guests with railings that pass stringent engineering standards and meet Ontario Building Code requirements. Painted baked enamel or powder-coated aluminum components... - Published: 2020-11-30 - Modified: 2021-03-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/ Exterior Solar Screens: The “AC Killer” for West-Facing Windows Exterior Solar Screens: The “AC Killer” for West-Facing WindowsJoel Baxter2026-01-22T09:43:53-05:00January 22, 2026|Categories: Phantom Screens| Ottawa summers have a way of sneaking up on Read More Built for the Bluster: Protect Your Awnings from Ottawa Storms Built for the Bluster: Protect Your Awnings from Ottawa StormsJoel Baxter2026-01-22T09:49:38-05:00December 16, 2025|Categories: Awnings| Homeowners in Ottawa love the comfort of a shaded Read More Can You Install an Awning on My House? A Guide to Mounting on Brick, Siding, and Stucco Can You Install an Awning on My House? A Guide to Mounting on Brick, Siding, and StuccoJoel Baxter2025-12-16T10:54:44-05:00November 18, 2025|Categories: Awnings| For many homeowners in Ottawa, deciding whether to install Read More Preserving Charm: The Right Awning and Shade Solutions for Ottawa’s Heritage Homes Preserving Charm: The Right Awning and Shade Solutions for Ottawa’s Heritage Homesadmin2025-10-23T15:11:38-04:00October 23, 2025|Categories: Awnings| Owning a heritage home in Ottawa is both a Read More Are Rollshutters the Best Security for Your Cottage? Are Rollshutters the Best Security for Your Cottage? admin2025-09-10T10:33:27-04:00September 10, 2025|Categories: Rollshutters| Do you ever worry about your cottage in the Read More Aluminum Patio Covers vs. Wood: Which is Best for Your Home? Aluminum Patio Covers vs. Wood: Which is Best for Your Home? admin2025-08-13T13:25:07-04:00August 13, 2025|Categories: Patio Cover| If you’re looking to create a comfortable outdoor living Read More The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Pergola in Your Backyard The Ultimate Guide to Designing a Pergola in Your Backyardadmin2025-08-05T10:07:32-04:00July 22, 2025|Categories: Pergolas| Dreaming of... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-24 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/screened-rooms/ Screened RoomsCustom Screen and Vinyl Window Solutions for Your Patio, Porch or SunroomFully Custom Screened RoomsRethink your screened room. Enjoy your outdoor view without worrying about bugs or weather! Screened rooms provide maximum visibility while allowing you to breathe in the fresh air. You can turn your existing patio or porch into a screened room. We can custom build your screen room right under your existing roof, providing you with the room you want in the space you already have. Because our screened enclosures are custom-designed and manufactured to your precise specifications, you can be confident your screen room will fit in your existing space perfectly.   3 Season Rooms with Vinyl WindowsVertical sliding soft vinyl windows are a radical innovation in comfort for covered porches and sunrooms in our Canadian climate. Known by many different names including Weatherwall windows, 4 track windows, Eze-breeze windows, porch windows, 3 season windows, vertical sliding vinyl windows, soft vinyl windows, and more, they're an affordable way to enclose your porch or sunroom while keeping the outdoor feeling of screen when you want it. The soft vinyl window material is resistant to puncture and impact while offering a lighter and less definitive border between you and nature. Sturdy aluminum frames offer a sleek and maintenance free look in a variety of colours. Feel closer to nature while staying protected from the elements. Our soft vinyl 4 track windows open more than glass options and allow you to open them from either the bottom or... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2024-03-13 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-shades/ Retractable ShadesRetractable Canopies for Great Shade and Weather ProtectionRetractable Canopy ShadesRetractable Shade Solutions block the sun from your balcony or veranda while still allowing you to see the outdoors and feel that you're still outside. At Jans Awnings, our experts can offer a variety of economical ideas for shading your deck or patio that also add value and hours of enjoyment to your home and backyard. Retractable shades allow you shelter from the sun's rays, light rain and look great. Benefits of retractable shades include: Turn your hot deck or patio into a cool, shaded "outdoor room. " Retractable awnings cover odd-shaped or large areas No pitch is required and it can adapt to an existing structure. (No wall required) We use great fabrics that are fade resistant Provide added wind protection Contact Us TodayWhat is a Retractable Shade? Retractable Shade Solutions are systems whereby they give you the benefits of shade without the need to make permanent changes or cuts in your deck. A retractable shade can limit what is seen and what is not seen from people on either side of you while still allowing air and light through and having an elegant and attractive appearance. Retractable Shades solve many problems such as rain protection, sun protection, wind protection or seeking that extra level of privacy. The versatile nature of retractable shade allows you to control how much shade you have in your outdoor living space. When it's too sunny, or there is a light rain, you can... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/phantom-screens/ Retractable Door ScreensFull Ventilation Without Obstructing your Beautiful ViewWe offer a wide range of retractable screen doors for any application from standard doors to patio doors to large sliding walls. Phantom Retractable Screen DoorsPhantom Screens unobtrusively screen your entranceways and let the fresh air in while keeping the bugs out. No more slamming screen doors! Just the smooth and natural transition of indoor and outdoor spaces. The Phantom Screen door offers the functionality of conventional screen doors but its revolutionary design results in a screen that pulls out easily when it is needed and rolls out of sight when it isn't. Works great with any sized entry door or french door, and most patio doors. Contact Us TodayOversized Screen DoorsOur Canadian made large format retractable screen doors and rolling wall screens are available in sizes up to 12 feet high and 43 feet wide in a french door configuration, or 21. 5 feet wide in a single screen door. We offer various models from multiple manufacturers to meet your specific needs, no matter your situation. Optional recessed or low profile tracks keep your space accessible and barrier free. Contact Us TodayProfessionally InstalledDouble Doors & Wide SpacesWhether open or closed, our screen doors blend in to your door frame and keep your view more unobstructed than you thought possible. We stand behind every Phantom screen door we sell with a limited lifetime warranty and and quick, affordable service. Double doors have been a problem to screen in the past, but now... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-screens/ Retractable ScreensEnjoy Your Outdoor Space, Shaded from the ElementsRetractable Patio ScreensOur retractable screens are perfect for enclosing your porch, patio, gazebo, or sunroom and offer great protection against both insects and the sun. We offer a wide variety of styles and designs to perfectly match your space and can even work with your designer or contractor to fully recess our screens into your new porch project for an almost completely invisible look. Available with either motorized or manual control, our retractable screens offer a whole new way to enjoy your outdoor spaces. Experience privacy, shade, and insect protection at the touch of a button without sacrificing fresh air. We work with a wide variety of Canadian screen manufacturers including Phantom, Wizard, Talius, and more to custom build the perfect retractable screens for your unique needs. Contact Us TodayStyleComfortConvenienceOur retractable screens look great on any outdoor enclosure. They are made to fit your space perfectly, whether you are enclosing a sunroom, patio area, gazebo, or other space. Furthermore, they allow you to see out easily so you can still enjoy nature and feel like you are outdoors. Whether you are trying to keep out the glare of the sun or those pesky mosquitoes, your retractable screen can help keep you and your family in absolute comfort. Motorized retractable screens are easy to open, close, and adjust at the touch of a button. As the sun moves through the sky, you can adjust your screen without ever leaving your seat or interrupting... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/awning-care/ Awning CareExtend the Life of Your Outdoor AwningAwning Care GuideAdding a retractable awning to your deck, patio, or porch can greatly enhance the use and enjoyment that you get out of your outdoor living space. But to ensure that you get the best level of return on your investment, a certain degree of care is required. Retractable awnings, although low maintenance, should be rinsed off once a month and given a good cleaning at least once a year to ensure they remain looking and functioning their best for years to come. Contact Us TodayCleaning your retractable awningOther maintenance tipsLooking to buy a retractable awning? Use a broom to gently remove any debris from your awning, working your way from the bottom to the top Using soapy water (with mild or natural soap) and a soft cloth, wipe down the frame Rinse awning thoroughly to remove soap. (Any soap left behind can leave a visible residue) Allow the awning to dry completely before you retract it Keep vegetation such as vines and shrubs well-trimmed and away from your awning Retract awning during severe weather such as strong winds and heavy snow or rain Avoid allowing solid debris such as leaves and twigs to get retracted with the awning Ensure that fabric falls from the top of the roller tube and not the bottom Lubricate moving parts once a year per the manufacturer’s instructions If you are looking to purchase a retractable awning, you can do so knowing that they are fairly... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-awnings/ Aluminum AwningsExtend Your Outdoor Living SpaceHard Roof AwningsAluminum Awnings offer an elegant, low-maintenance alternative to fabric awnings. Aluminum window and door awnings are excellent for providing a bit of shelter and keeping your home nice and cool during the hot summer months, while larger aluminum awnings for porches, decks, and patios help to create a beautiful sheltered seating area for you and your family. Some advantages of aluminum awnings include: They are extremely durable and able to stand up to the elements They are low maintenance and do not need to be cleaned as often as fabric awnings They are extremely customizable and available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours Contact Us TodayDurableLow MaintenanceCustomizableTreated aluminum is extremely durable and able to stand up to the elements. Lager aluminum awnings for patio and deck coverings are built to withstand even various loads of snow through the use of insulated panels. Aluminum awnings require less frequent cleaning than their fabric counterparts, which can make them an excellent choice for busy families. Furthermore, as there are no moving parts, replacement parts are usually not required as often. Finally, aluminum awnings are every bit as customizable as fabric awnings and available in a wide assortment of shapes, sizes, and colours. This means that you can always find the perfect awning or combination of awnings to suit the style of your home and your own personal tastes. Supplier BrochuresVINCE ALUMINUM AWNINGSOur Aluminum Awnings at Work Additional Aluminum Awning Advantages Energy Efficiency One... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-12 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/commercial-awnings/ Commercial AwningsAdd function and curb appeal to your commercial buildingCommercial Building AwningsIf you operate a business, one way to make your storefront stand out is with a commercial awning. Commercial awnings are a great addition to or an alternative for traditional signage as you can customize your awning to suit your company brand. Commercial awnings are perfect for protecting doorways and windows, and your customers will certainly appreciate a covering over your entrance where they can pause to find their umbrella or their keys. Contact Us TodayThere are a number of different types available depending on the nature of your business, exposure and whether you need to cover windows, doors or both. Common types of canopies include: Traditional Visage Ambassador 1/4 Ball 1/4 Barrel Duchess Entrance Marquee Waterfall Commercial awnings offer your business a number of benefits ranging from catching the eye of a potential customer to providing protection for items in your display window. Marketing & BrandingProtectionEnergy EfficientAdding a commercial awning to your storefront or office doesn’t just add curb appeal; it can also be an effective marketing tool – making your building stand out from others on the street. Commercial awnings are available in a wide range of shapes and colours and can be printed with your company name, contact information and/or logo. Commercial awnings offer protection both for your business – such as keeping UV rays from shining into your display windows where they might damage your product – and also for potential customers passing by your... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-03-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/aluminum-patio-covers/ Aluminum Patio CoversA Smart and Stylish Way to Upgrade Your HomeAluminum Fixed AwningsAn aluminum patio cover provides both style and comfort to any home. These covers typically protect entranceways and windows, but many homeowners also choose larger aluminum patio covers to create shade for outdoor living spaces such as a deck, porch or patio as their sturdy aluminum frames make it easy to add privacy screens, mosquito netting, and more. The enamelled aluminum frame is lightweight, sturdy and rust-proof, so it will stand up to the elements, including wind and rain, all while protecting your home from harmful UV rays and heat. Additionally, aluminum patio covers look great and are available in a wide variety of styles and colours, so you can find the style that best suits your home and personal preferences. Reasons to install aluminum patio covers include: Improve the look of your house They will not warp, rot or rust They last longer than awnings covered with canvas or other fabrics Eases energy consumption Contact Us TodayProtectionDurabilityEnergy EfficientOver time, UV rays entering your home through your windows can cause damage and fading to window coverings, furniture, carpeting, and wall colour. Aluminum patio covers add a barrier of UV protection year-round. Aluminum patio covers are extremely durable, resisting rust, rot and warp. In fact, it is not uncommon for this type of cover to last 40 years or longer. When the hot summer sun is shining into your home, your HVAC system needs to work especially hard to... - Published: 2020-11-24 - Modified: 2021-10-05 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/testimonials/ TestimonialsCheck Out What Our Amazing Customers Have to SayHenry installed our awning a few years ago. Great price and excellent customer service. Was having a minor issue today and sent him an email at 6:00pm on Friday afternoon. He called me back within ten minutes and helped me fix the problem over the phone in 2 minutes. Couldn't ask for better customer service and support. I would highly recommend this company. Sean TobinWas a pleasure working with the Jan's team. Professional workmanship and very happy with the final product. Screens are a great additional to our outdoor space. Joe CarvalhoOn the recommendation of a neighbour we contacted Jans Awnings and Rollshutters for a quote on a deck awning. Henry Jans came to our house for a contactless quote. We were happy with the price and chose a fabric. The installers were polite, professional, knowledgeable and efficient. We're very happy with the results. John RestJans Awnings (Woodlawn/Ottawa) does high quality work with high quality products. Great installation, great service. We are so pleased with our retractable screen. An outdoor room... with no mosquitoes! Heather KnudsenIt was the best experience ever it is our 10th Anniversary owning a product that still functions and performs super well all these years! Keep up the good work to Mr. Jans and I try to forward clients and potential customers every time we see a home that needs a dress up! Thomas GraszaJans does quality work. The owner is hands on and makes sure that the... - Published: 2020-11-24 - Modified: 2026-07-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/screens-shades/ Screens & Retractable GlassAdded Protection From the Sun with Quality Retractable ScreensRetractable Screens & Glass WallsAt Jans Awnings, we offer a wide variety of screen and retractable glass solutions that allow you to enjoy all the beauty or fresh air that you get from being outdoors without the annoyances of insects and bad weather. Our screen and glass solutions can help you turn your patio area or balcony into a comfortable oasis or allow you to find ways to bring fresh air into your home without having to worry about bugs and critters also finding their way inside. From motorized or manual retractable screens to custom fixed screens in almost any shape or size, we have the insect, privacy, or shade screen solutions you need. To maintain your perfect view while fully blocking the weather we also offer retractable vinyl windows and Lumon sliding glass walls for porches, pergolas and more. Screen and Shade solutions that we offer include: Retractable Screens Retractable Door ScreensRetractable and Sliding Glass Screened Rooms Contact Us TodayComfortConveniencePrivacyOur glass and screen solutions offer protection against the elements, including strong sun, wind, and rain. They will keep the bugs out while still allowing you to get fresh air and feel like you are outside. Whether they are added to your patio area, veranda, gazebo, or balcony, our screen and glazing solutions can help provide the ultimate comfort for you and your family. All of our screen and shade solutions are extremely easy to use. Retractable options are... - Published: 2020-11-24 - Modified: 2026-05-12 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/rollshutters/ RollshuttersFour-Season Protection from the ElementsExterior RollshuttersRollshutters, also known as rolling shutters and roll-up doors, are a great innovation that combines weather protection, perfect light control, security, and peace of mind into a single sleek and convenient product. Popular across Europe, rollshutters are becoming more well known in Canada too. In Spain, they're used to help people siesta in perfect darkness, while northern Europe loves how rollshutters reduce heat loss through doors and windows. In either use case, the security and peace of mind is effortless. Block out the outside world and protect windows and possessions from damage or theft. Jans Awnings offers custom rollshutters for your home, cottage or business anywhere in the Ottawa Valley. Motorized controls along with a variety of manual control options are available. Rollshutters aren't just for the outdoors. In restaurants, stores, and event spaces, they're a great solution to protect merchandise and control access to bars and shelves full of valuables. Put a roll shutter over pass-through windows in churches or banquet halls to avoid distractions before you open, or securely block access to utility nooks in public spaces. We offer a wide range of options for your every need. Choose from a wide range of colours, styles, and other shutter options. Varying types of shutters are available depending on your needs: perforated shutters work great indoors when security and visibility are your primary concern. When visibility through the closed shutter matters outdoors, clear lexan shutter slats let you see though even when you're protected.... - Published: 2020-11-19 - Modified: 2026-04-01 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/retractable-awnings/ Retractable AwningsTurn your backyard into your favourite summer destinationRetractable AwningsRetractable awnings are the perfect finishing touch to your backyard. You've put so much thought and effort into your space, so why not make sure that you can enjoy it all summer long? Get protection from the hot sun and keep grilling in sudden rainstorms with a premium retractable awning from Jans Awnings. Our retractable awnings roll in or out at the touch of a button, with manual control options available, so that you can have exactly as much shade as you need while still being able to enjoy the sun. We offer a range of beautiful designs and premium European fabrics that are sure to add to the ambiance of your backyard. Visit our showroom or contact us for a free site visit to see what we can do for you. Contact Us TodayAdjustable Shade & SunlightDurability & ProtectionEnergy SavingEnjoy just the right amount of sun and shade you want with the flexibility and convenient controls of our retractable awnings. Made with strong non-corrosive aluminum, our awnings provide a sturdy framework to withstand heavy rains and wind. Fabrics are made from waterproof acrylic fabric that protects against harmful UV rays and deters mold and mildew growth. Retractable awnings help save on air conditioning costs with protection against sun rays streaming into your home during hot summer months. During the colder winter months you can close your awning and store it away so that more sunlight can come into your home.... - Published: 2020-11-19 - Modified: 2026-03-26 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/about/ AboutWe offer custom solutions for anyone in the Greater Ottawa areaWe Carry a Wide Array of Options Retractable Awnings Window Awnings Aluminum Patio Covers Rollshutters Retractable Screening Phantom Screens Sliding Glass WallsPergolasLongstanding Family BusinessHenry Jans founded Jans Awnings in Ottawa in 2000 after having worked in the industry for his father for many years. His son Nathan has worked alongside Henry in the family trade since 2010. With a wealth of experience in a wide range of products in almost every situation, you can be confident that we will give you only the best. We don't use subcontractors and our employees are highly trained to give each installation the care and attention it deserves. Authorized Dealer for Many Leading ManufacturersWe are an authorized dealer for many different awning, screen, pergola, and rollshutter brands, along with other varied glazing, railing, and three season room products. Our people are carefully trained on every product and can work with your architects, designers, or engineers achieve your goals in the most complex situations. We carefully vet every product on the market so that we can recommend only the best for your unique situation. AristocratCustom-built Awnings and Screens RolltecRetractable Awnings TaliusRollshutters and Retractable Screens CraftbiltRetractable Awnings and Screens PhantomRetractable Screens StobagRetractable Awnings and Pergolas LumonRetractable and Sliding Glass Walls HeroalRetractable Screens and Rollshutters Wizard ScreensRetractable and Large Door Screens LousolPergolas Henry installed our awning a few years ago. Great price and excellent customer service. Was having a minor issue today and sent him an email... - Published: 2020-11-18 - Modified: 2026-05-12 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/contact/ ContactContact Us Today for a No-Obligation In-Home ConsultationJans Awnings & Rollshutters233 Russ Bradley Rd. , Unit 4 Ottawa ON K0A 1L0 Phone: 613-832-2345 Email: info@jansawnings. com Areas we service include: Ottawa, Almonte, Carleton Place, Arnprior, Pembroke, Embrun, Kemptville, Rideau Lakes, and Renfrew. Request a ConsultationFirst Name *Last Name *Email Address *Phone NumberCity *Address *Subject *How can we help? *Thank you for your message. It has been sent. ×There was an error trying to send your message. Please try again later. × SubmitHenry installed our awning a few years ago. Great price and excellent customer service. Was having a minor issue today and sent him an email at 6:00pm on Friday afternoon. He called me back within ten minutes and helped me fix the problem over the phone in 2 minutes. Couldn’t ask for better customer service and support. I would highly recommend this company. Sean TobinWas a pleasure working with the Jan’s team. Professional workmanship and very happy with the final product. Screens are a great additional to our outdoor space. Joe CarvalhoOn the recommendation of a neighbour we contacted Jans Awnings and Rollshutters for a quote on a deck awning. Henry Jans came to our house for a contactless quote. We were happy with the price and chose a fabric. The installers were polite, professional, knowledgeable and efficient. We’re very happy with the results. John RestJans Awnings (Woodlawn/Ottawa) does high quality work with high quality products. Great installation, great service. We are so pleased with our retractable screen. An... - Published: 2020-10-28 - Modified: 2026-06-15 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/ Maximize the Potential of Your Outdoor SpaceProviding our customers with high-quality awnings, rollshutters, retractable screens, and pergolas with exceptional customer service since 2000 Contact us today! Quality. Our products are proudly made in Canada using domestic and European components. Our premium fabrics and heavy duty extruded aluminum shade and screen systems ensure that your comfort will stand the test of time. Performance. The rustproof aluminum, European motorization, solution-dyed acrylic fabric, and premium North American or European meshes in our products create beautiful experiences that you can count on for years to come. Design. Our extensive lineup of great products gives you the flexibility to choose the design that fits your vision best and our customization options let you build a space that's uniquely yours. Visit Our Showroom In CarpSee the great products we offer in action and learn how we can help you achieve the backyard of your dreams by visiting our showroom at: 233 Russ Bradley Rd unit 4, Ottawa, ON K0A 1L0 Awnings Tested by suppliers for durability and precision Wide array of 100% UV protected fabrics Functional and stylish LEARN MORE Rollshutters Increased security for your home or business Protection from inclement weather and extreme temperature LEARN MORE Retractable Screens Enclose large areas without obstructing views or detracting from architectural design Great for patios, gazebos or sunrooms LEARN MORE Pergolas Modern architectural design Protection from weather anywhere in your yard Sun on your terms LEARN MORE Lumon Glass Walls Frameless sliding glass system Turn porches into sunrooms... ## Posts - Published: 2026-08-13 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/privacy-screen-zoning-rules-in-ottawa/ If your backyard feels like it has become part of the neighbourhood's viewing area, you're not alone. In many Ottawa communities—including Kanata, Barrhaven and Orleans—homes are built on relatively compact lots, often with neighbours only a few metres away. Add a second-storey window overlooking your deck or patio, and a standard backyard fence may do little to provide the privacy you actually want. That naturally leads to a common question: “Can my neighbour build a privacy wall higher than the fence line in Ottawa? ” The answer depends on what is being built, where it is located and which City of Ottawa rules apply. A conventional fence is not necessarily regulated in the same way as a deck, balcony, accessory structure or a screen incorporated into another outdoor feature. This distinction matters when you're considering a permanent privacy wall versus a retractable privacy screen. The Backyard Seclusion Challenge: Tight Suburban Lots and Close Neighbours Backyard privacy in Ottawa isn't always about blocking the view at ground level. A conventional fence can screen your yard from a neighbour standing nearby, but it may do almost nothing against sightlines from a second-storey bedroom, balcony or elevated deck. At the same time, homeowners don't necessarily want to build a tall, permanent wall. A solid structure can make a small backyard feel even smaller, block sunlight and create a significant visual barrier. There's also the practical issue of Ottawa's seasons.  You may want complete privacy during a summer dinner or while relaxing in a hot... - Published: 2026-07-23 - Modified: 2026-07-23 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/aluminum-patio-covers-vs-retractable-awnings-in-ottawa/ When you live in Ottawa, choosing an outdoor shade solution is about more than deciding what looks best over your patio. Our climate brings heavy winter snow, freezing temperatures, spring thaw, summer heat, and sudden wind events. That means homeowners need to think carefully about how an outdoor structure will perform throughout the year. For homeowners comparing an aluminum patio cover vs. a retractable awning, the right choice depends on how you use your outdoor space, how much permanent weather protection you want, and how much flexibility you need. An engineered aluminum patio cover creates a permanent structural shade solution designed to remain in place through all four seasons. A high-quality motorized retractable fabric awning, on the other hand, provides flexible shade and rain protection when you want it, while allowing you to retract the system when conditions change. Both can be excellent choices. The key is understanding how each system responds to Ottawa's snow, wind, rain, and seasonal temperature swings. The Battle of the Backyard Overheads: Fixed Structural Shield vs. Flexible Shade The simplest way to understand the difference between an aluminum patio cover and a retractable awning is to think about permanence versus flexibility. An aluminum patio cover is a fixed structure. Once installed, it provides year-round overhead protection and permanent shade. Depending on the design, it can transform a patio or deck into a more sheltered outdoor living area that can be enjoyed in a wider range of weather conditions. A retractable awning is more adaptable. The... - Published: 2026-06-17 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/frameless-glass-solariums-vs-traditional-screened-porches/ For Ottawa homeowners looking to transform an underused deck, balcony, or porch into a functional outdoor living space, two solutions consistently rise to the top: the traditional screened porch and the modern frameless glass solarium. At first glance, both options appear to serve a similar purpose. They create a protected outdoor room while preserving views and increasing usable living space. However, the similarities largely end there. A screened porch is primarily designed to keep insects out while maintaining open-air exposure. A frameless glass solarium built with Lumon glass glazing creates a highly adaptable architectural enclosure that can be fully opened during warm weather and closed during colder months to significantly extend seasonal use. For homeowners researching frameless glass solarium vs screened porch cost, the decision should involve more than installation pricing alone. Factors such as climate performance, snow load engineering, energy benefits, maintenance requirements, property value impact, and seasonal usability all influence long-term value. In Ottawa's climate, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between seasons, understanding these differences is essential. Rethinking the Outdoor Room: Visual Transparency vs. Open Airway Flow The first question homeowners should ask is not "Which option costs less? " but rather: How do you want to experience your outdoor space? Traditional screened porches prioritize airflow. Frameless glass solariums prioritize flexibility. A screened porch creates an outdoor room where fresh air moves freely through mesh panels while insects remain outside. The experience remains fundamentally outdoors, with all the benefits and limitations that entails. A frameless glass solarium offers... - Published: 2026-05-26 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/rollshutters-vs-alarm-systems/ When it comes to home and business security in Ottawa, most people default to one solution: a monitored alarm system. It feels responsible, modern, and reassuring. But there’s a fundamental problem with that approach—it reacts to a break-in rather than preventing one. That distinction is everything. In the debate of rollshutters vs alarm systems in Ottawa, the real question isn’t which one alerts you faster. It’s which one stops the intruder from ever getting inside. The Flaw in the “Alarm” Logic (It Only Works After You're Broken Into) Alarm systems are built on a simple premise: detect and respond. A sensor triggers when a window breaks or a door opens, and a siren sounds while monitoring services contact the homeowner or dispatch authorities. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: by the time your alarm goes off, the break-in has already happened. Glass is already shattered. Entry has already been made. And in many cases, valuables are already being grabbed within the first few minutes. Even with police response time in Ottawa, which varies depending on priority calls and location, the system is inherently reactive. Alarms do not physically stop entry—they simply document it in real time. This is the core flaw in the “alarm logic”: it assumes intrusion is inevitable and focuses on response rather than prevention. The Rollshutter Advantage: Stopping the Intruder at the Boundary Rollshutters, including systems like Talius rollshutters Ottawa, take a fundamentally different approach. Instead of reacting to a break-in, they prevent access altogether by creating a... - Published: 2026-05-01 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/fabric-replacement-revive-your-awning-for-half-the-cost/ Awnings do more than provide shade; they enhance your home’s appearance, improve energy efficiency, and create inviting outdoor spaces. But over time, even the highest-quality awning fabric will fade, tear, or develop mould. Many homeowners assume the only solution is a full replacement, but that's not always necessary. In reality, choosing to recover awning structures instead of replacing them entirely can save thousands while delivering a fresh, modern look. Fabric replacement is one of the most practical and sustainable home improvement decisions you can make. By keeping the existing frame and updating only the material, you extend the life of your investment and significantly reduce waste. Whether you're looking to replace awning canvas due to wear or simply want a style upgrade, this option offers both financial and aesthetic benefits. The "Skeleton" is Good: When to Recover vs. Replace Before assuming your awning has reached the end of its life, it’s important to evaluate its structure. In many cases, the frame, often made of aluminum or steel, is still in excellent condition. This “skeleton” is built to last for decades, which means replacing it prematurely is unnecessary. If your awning frame is stable, rust-free, and operates smoothly (in the case of retractable models), fabric replacement is the clear winner. Minor issues such as loose joints or slight misalignment can often be addressed through simple awning frame repair, further extending its usability. Full replacement is typically only required when the frame is severely corroded, bent, or structurally compromised. Otherwise, choosing to... - Published: 2026-03-24 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-smart-shade-in-ottawa/ In 2026, smart home technology has moved far beyond thermostats and doorbells. Homeowners across Ottawa are now extending automation outdoors—bringing comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency to patios, decks, and backyard living spaces through smart awning automation Ottawa solutions. Integrating with Your Ecosystem (Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit) A modern awning should work with the technology you already use every day. Today’s premium systems support smart home integration with platforms such as: Google Google Home Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit With Alexa awning control, for example, homeowners can create routines such as: Open the awning every morning at 10 a. m. Retract automatically at sunset Coordinate patio lighting and shade together This level of automation turns your patio into a fully responsive outdoor room. For luxury homeowners, combining awnings with lighting, rollshutters, and outdoor heating systems creates a sophisticated outdoor environment that responds effortlessly to daily living. The “Somfy” Advantage: Why We Trust It At Jans Awnings and Rollshutters, we recommend automation systems built around Somfy technology because reliability matters just as much as convenience. Somfy has built a strong reputation worldwide for durable motors, responsive controls, and intuitive automation platforms designed specifically for shade systems. The Somfy TaHoma switch offers: Reliable smartphone control Scheduling features Sensor compatibility Voice assistant integration Expandability with future smart devices For homeowners investing in a premium outdoor setup, choosing a trusted automation platform helps ensure smooth long-term performance. You can also learn more about Somfy’s smart ecosystem through the official consumer platform at Somfy. Can I... - Published: 2026-02-13 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/do-awnings-increase-home-value-in-ottawa/ When homeowners ask, “Do awnings increase home value? ”, they’re usually thinking ahead. Maybe you’re planning to sell in the next 1–3 years. Maybe you’re justifying the cost to your partner. Or maybe you simply want every dollar you invest in your home to work a little harder for you. In Ottawa’s competitive housing market, smart upgrades matter. Buyers are paying attention not only to kitchens and bathrooms — but to how a home feels, how it photographs, and how much usable space it offers. And increasingly, that includes the backyard. Let’s look at why adding an awning or patio cover can shift your home from “nice” to “must-see. ” The Concept of “Outdoor Rooms” in Real Estate One of the biggest Ottawa real estate trends heading into 2026 is the continued demand for functional outdoor living space. Buyers don’t just want a yard; they want an outdoor room. When a deck or patio is covered by a well-designed retractable awning or permanent aluminum patio cover, it stops being “just a deck. ” It becomes: An outdoor dining area A shaded lounge space A place to entertain A work-from-home alternative A protected play area In real estate terms, this translates into perceived usable square footage. While it may not count in official interior measurements, buyers emotionally treat it as additional living space — and that increases appeal. Think about it this way: A bare patio = seasonal use. A shaded, defined outdoor room = extended-season lifestyle. Lifestyle sells homes. And... - Published: 2026-01-22 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/exterior-solar-screens-for-west-facing-windows/ Ottawa summers have a way of sneaking up on homeowners. One week it’s pleasant; the next, it’s humid and sticky, and suddenly your air conditioner is running nonstop. If you have large west-facing windows, you already know the problem: by mid-afternoon, certain rooms become practically unusable. Living rooms turn into ovens, home offices feel stifling, and no amount of interior blinds seems to help. The good news? There’s a proven, physics-based solution that tackles the problem at its source: exterior solar screens. For homeowners seeking exterior solar shades in Ottawa, these screens are often the missing link between comfort and soaring cooling costs. Let’s break down why west-facing windows are such a challenge in Ottawa—and why stopping the heat before it hits the glass is the real AC killer. The Physics of Heat: Why Indoor Blinds Fail Most homeowners start with interior blinds or curtains. They help with glare and privacy, but when it comes to heat, they’re fighting a losing battle. Here’s why: Solar radiation passes through the glass first. By the time sunlight reaches your interior blinds, the heat has already entered your home. Glass traps heat. Sunlight hits the glass, converts to heat energy, and gets trapped indoors—a classic greenhouse effect. Interior blinds absorb heat. That heat radiates back into the room, raising indoor temperatures and forcing your AC to work harder. In Ottawa, where summer afternoons often bring intense, low-angle western sun, this effect is even more pronounced. West-facing windows receive direct sunlight during the hottest part of... - Published: 2025-12-16 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-awnings-from-ottawa-storms/ Homeowners in Ottawa love the comfort of a shaded patio—but they also know how quickly a calm day can turn chaotic. If you’ve lived here long, you’ve experienced it: gusty afternoons, sudden thunderstorms, unpredicted microbursts, and of course, the infamous 2022 derecho, one of the most destructive wind events in the region’s history. So it’s natural to wonder: “How much wind can an awning withstand? ” “Is a retractable awning safe in Ottawa’s weather? ” “Does a wind sensor really work? ” This guide explains exactly how modern retractable awnings—including the models we install at Jans—protect themselves using engineering, automation, and advanced wind-sensing technology. Ottawa’s Weather Challenge: From Gusts to Derechos Ottawa’s weather is unlike that of almost any other major Canadian city. Blue skies can turn into 90 km/h gusts in minutes. Summer thunderstorms are notoriously explosive. And large-scale events like the 2022 derecho remind homeowners that severe wind is a reality—not a possibility. To put this into context, the Beaufort Wind Scale classifies winds around: 29–38 km/h as “strong breeze” 39–49 km/h as “near gale” 50–61 km/h as “gale” Even “strong breeze” levels can stress an unprotected awning—especially if it’s fully extended. That’s why modern retractable awnings rely on wind sensors and engineered frames to stay safe. How Does a Wind Sensor Work? The Technology Explained A retractable awning's wind rating depends heavily on how quickly it can respond to unsafe conditions. Sensors—especially those designed by Somfy, the global standard in smart awning automation—are built precisely for that... - Published: 2025-11-18 - Modified: 2026-03-05 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/can-you-install-an-awning-on-my-house-mounting-on-brick-siding-and-stucco/ For many homeowners in Ottawa, deciding whether to install an awning comes down to one final question: “Can this actually be mounted on my house—safely? ” They love the idea of more shade, a cooler patio, and protection from the sun—but worry that their brick, vinyl siding, or stucco exterior can’t handle the load. The good news? With professional installation, we can safely mount an awning on virtually any home in Ottawa—brick, siding, stucco, and even challenging assemblies like masonry veneer. This guide walks you through the exact techniques our installers use, why proper mounting hardware matters, and how we ensure every installation meets professional load and safety standards. The #1 Question We Get: “Can It Be Mounted on MY Wall? ” Short answer: Almost always, yes. Long answer: Yes—if the awning is anchored directly into structural framing, not just the exterior cladding. Every retractable awning creates two kinds of forces: Shear load (the weight of the awning itself) Torsional load (the outward pull as the awning extends) That means the awning must be tied into solid structural elements—typically the wall studs, rim joist (band board), or roof framing. The exterior finish (brick, vinyl, aluminum, stucco) is not structural on its own on most modern homes. This is why the core principle of every professional installation is: Anchor through the exterior cladding and into structural framing—no exceptions. Let’s break down how this works for the three most common exterior wall types in Ottawa. The Gold Standard: Mounting on Solid Framing... - Published: 2025-10-23 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-right-awning-and-shade-solutions-for-ottawas-heritage-homes/ Owning a heritage home in Ottawa is both a privilege and a responsibility. From the stately red-brick Georgian houses of Sandy Hill to the ornate Victorian façades of The Glebe and Rockcliffe Park, these properties are living pieces of the city’s history. When it comes to adding comfort and shade, finding the right awning for a brick house in Ottawa requires more than just good taste—it requires expertise, respect for architectural integrity, and adherence to local conservation guidelines. The Challenge: Blending Modern Comfort with Historic Character Many homeowners in Ottawa’s heritage districts face a common dilemma: how to enjoy modern conveniences—like retractable awnings or solar screens—without disrupting their home’s timeless aesthetic. The good news is, with thoughtful design and professional installation, you can achieve both comfort and authenticity. At Jans Awnings, we specialize in custom awning design that respects heritage architecture, using non-invasive techniques and period-appropriate materials that preserve your home’s original beauty. Choosing Awning Styles that Complement Ottawa's Architecture Each heritage style found in Ottawa’s older neighbourhoods calls for a distinct approach to shading and design. For Victorian Homes: Classic Slopes and Subtle Stripes: Victorian homes—common throughout The Glebe and Old Ottawa South—often feature tall windows, detailed trim, and decorative ironwork. Traditional sloped awnings with soft scalloped edges or subtle striped patterns echo the style of the late 19th century while providing much-needed shade. Fabric choices like muted creams, forest greens, or deep burgundies can highlight the home’s intricate details without overpowering them. For Georgian Brick Facades: Understated Colours... - Published: 2025-09-10 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/are-rollshutters-the-best-security-for-your-cottage/ Do you ever worry about your cottage in the off-season? In this article we will discuss why rollshutters are a leading choice for security, storm protection, and peace of mind. The Unique Security Challenges of Owning a Cottage Cottages are meant to be a place of relaxation and escape, but owning a seasonal property comes with unique security challenges. Whether your cottage is in the Ottawa Valley or tucked away in another part of Ontario, its remote location makes it more vulnerable to break-ins, vandalism, and storm damage. Unlike your primary home, cottages often sit vacant for months at a time. This makes them attractive targets for thieves looking for easy access to valuable items like ATVs, boats, or electronics. On top of that, harsh Ontario winters can take a toll on your property, and without regular supervision, small issues can quickly escalate. The question many owners ask is: what’s the most effective way to protect my seasonal property year-round? How Rollshutters Provide Superior Protection Rollshutters, such as Talius Rollshutters offered by Jans Awnings, provide a strong, adaptable solution for cottage security. They do more than just cover your windows—they create a protective shield against multiple risks. The following are a few of the benefits cottage owners can expect from these rollshutters: A Physical Barrier Against Forced Entry - Unlike standard locks and latches, cottage security rollshutters form a physical barrier that makes it significantly harder for intruders to break in. They are built from durable materials designed to resist... - Published: 2025-08-13 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/aluminum-patio-covers-vs-wood-which-is-best-for-your-home/ If you’re looking to create a comfortable outdoor living space in Ottawa, a solid patio cover is a great feature to include. It offers protection from rain, shade on hot days, and a stylish extension of your home. But when it comes to materials, many homeowners face the same question: aluminum patio covers vs. wood — which is better? Both materials have their merits. Wood offers timeless charm, while aluminum boasts modern durability and low upkeep. In a climate like Ottawa’s — with heavy snow, humid summers, and freeze-thaw cycles — your choice will directly impact how much maintenance you’ll face, how your patio looks over time, and how much you spend in the long run. Let’s break it down round by round. Round 1: Durability and Weather Resistance Aluminum: The Weatherproof Champion Aluminum patio covers are built to handle Canada’s diverse climate with ease. In Ottawa, where winters bring significant snow loads and summers can be humid, aluminum’s resistance to moisture, rust, and warping is a game-changer. Many aluminum covers come with insulated panels, which not only add strength but also help keep your patio cooler in the summer. They don’t crack or split in the cold, and pests like termites aren’t an issue. In short — aluminum stands strong year after year with minimal signs of wear. Wood: Natural Beauty with a Catch Wood is strong, but it’s vulnerable to wood rot, mold, and insect damage if not maintained regularly. Ottawa’s climate — particularly the spring thaw and... - Published: 2025-07-22 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-designing-a-pergola-in-your-backyard/ Dreaming of a stunning backyard pergola? Our ultimate design guide covers everything from materials and placement to creating the perfect outdoor living space in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Designing a pergola is one of the most effective ways to enhance your backyard and create an inviting outdoor living space. Whether you live in downtown Ottawa or a nearby suburb, a well-planned pergola can become a stylish extension of your home that invites relaxation, entertainment, and year-round enjoyment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the backyard pergola design process so you can bring your vision to life. Step 1: Defining the Purpose of Your Pergola Before choosing materials or layouts, it's essential to determine how you'll use your pergola. Ask yourself: Will this be a shaded retreat for reading or lounging? Is it meant to house an outdoor kitchen or fire pit? Do you plan to entertain guests or create an al fresco dining area? Defining its purpose early on will influence design decisions such as size, location, and features. Step 2: Choosing the Right Location in Your Backyard In Ottawa, where seasonal changes dramatically affect outdoor living, location matters. Consider: Sun exposure: Place your pergola to optimize shade or sun depending on your preferences. Wind direction: Choose a spot that offers natural wind protection or where you can install barriers. Proximity to the house: Attached pergolas can be more accessible and energy-efficient, while freestanding models offer greater flexibility. Step 3: Selecting the Best Pergola Material for... - Published: 2025-06-17 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/creating-a-bug-free-paradise-screened-in-porch-guide/ If you love the outdoors, but hate bugs, then you may have considered adding a screened-in porch or patio to your Ottawa home. In this article, we will provide you with the information you need to help you decide if this is the right choice for you. Why a Screened-In Room is a Must-Have in Ontario If you’re a homeowner or cottage owner in Ottawa—or anywhere else in Ontario—you know the bittersweet reality of summer. The warm weather invites you outside, but mosquitoes, black flies, and no-see-ums can quickly drive you back indoors. That’s why a screened-in porch or patio enclosure is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity. A screened-in room allows you to enjoy fresh air, host outdoor gatherings, and spend peaceful mornings with a coffee in hand—without constantly swatting bugs. These spaces offer unbeatable protection while blending seamlessly with your outdoor lifestyle. Types of Screen Rooms: Finding Your Perfect Match Before you start planning, it's essential to understand the types of screen rooms available. Each has its own features and benefits, so let’s review your options: Fixed Screen Walls Fixed screens are a classic choice. These durable structures offer permanent bug protection and are ideal if you have a clear vision for a traditional patio enclosure. They’re budget-friendly and require minimal maintenance. Pros: Cost-effective Sturdy and long-lasting Simple design options Cons: No flexibility—screens are not retractable Motorized Retractable Screens for Ultimate Flexibility Want the freedom to open up your space completely when bugs aren’t a problem? Retractable... - Published: 2025-05-12 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/phantom-screens-ottawas-best-solution-for-bug-free-outdoor-living/ Nothing ruins a perfect summer evening faster than a swarm of mosquitoes or flies crashing your patio party. But don’t let bugs boss you around! With Phantom Screens, Ottawa homeowners can enjoy the fresh air, peaceful backyard views, and seamless indoor-outdoor living—minus the buzzing and biting. Whether you're sipping coffee on your porch or hosting a backyard BBQ, retractable screens offer a discreet, stylish, and effective solution for keeping the bugs out and the comfort in. What are Phantom Screens? Phantom Screens are premium, retractable screen solutions designed to blend seamlessly into your home’s architecture. They’re not your average screen doors—they roll out when you need them and disappear when you don’t. These screens can be installed on doors, windows, patios, and large openings to provide bug-free airflow while maintaining your view and aesthetic. How Do Phantom Screens Work? Phantom Screens operate on a smooth track system that allows the screen to retract into a discreet housing when not in use. Depending on the model, they can be opened manually or motorized for added convenience. With customizable mesh options and frame colours, they’re designed to complement both modern and traditional homes. Benefits of Phantom Screens Bug Protection - Let’s face it—Ottawa summers are short, and no one wants to spend them swatting mosquitoes. Phantom Screens keep out bugs of all sizes while letting fresh air in, giving you more usable time on your porch or patio. Enhanced Views - Unlike traditional screens that can block or blur your view, Phantom... - Published: 2025-04-10 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/energy-efficiency-benefits-of-screened-in-porches/ For eco-conscious homeowners in Ottawa, making sustainable choices is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. One often overlooked upgrade that can contribute to energy savings and greener living is the addition of a screened-in porch. Not only does this feature expand your living space and enhance comfort, but when designed properly, it can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce utility bills.   In this article, we will discuss how investing in an energy-efficient screened porch can make your home more comfortable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. How Screened Porches Improve Energy Efficiency A screened-in porch creates a buffer zone between your home’s interior and the outdoors. This extra layer helps reduce heat transfer in both summer and winter. In warm months, it provides a shaded area that limits direct sunlight from entering your main living spaces, keeping your home cooler without overworking your air conditioner. During colder months, it acts as a windbreak, helping to insulate exterior doors and windows from the chill. In Ottawa, where the climate swings from hot, humid summers to freezing winters, this seasonal versatility can significantly enhance your home’s energy performance. Insulation Techniques for Screened Porches To get the most out of your insulated screened room, it's important to integrate smart design choices and materials. Here are a few energy-saving techniques to consider: Thermal curtains or shades: Adding retractable insulated curtains can help retain heat during the colder months or block it during hot afternoons. Double-layer screening or vinyl inserts: These provide extra insulation while... - Published: 2025-03-14 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/incorporating-smart-technology-into-your-screened-room/ Creating a comfortable and functional outdoor space is easier than ever with the integration of smart technology. Adding automated features to your screened room can elevate your patio experience, providing convenience, comfort, and security. For homeowners in Ottawa, incorporating smart technology in your screened room can transform your outdoor living space into a high-tech retreat. Overview of Smart Devices for Screened Areas Smart technology offers a range of options to enhance your screened-in porch or patio, including: Motorized Screens: Automated patio systems allow you to raise or lower screens with the push of a button or via voice control. This helps you control airflow, keep out insects, or increase privacy with minimal effort. Smart Lighting for Patios: Adjustable LED lighting controlled by your smartphone or voice assistant can create the perfect ambiance for evening gatherings or quiet nights outdoors. Climate Control Systems: Smart ceiling fans, heaters, and thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature in your screened room based on weather conditions or your preferences. Entertainment Systems: Waterproof smart TVs, wireless speakers, and streaming devices can provide seamless entertainment in your outdoor space. Security Features: Motion sensors, smart locks, and surveillance cameras can be integrated into your screened area for added peace of mind. Benefits of Automation Incorporating smart technology in your screened room offers several key benefits: Convenience: With automated controls, you can easily adjust screens, lighting, and climate settings without leaving your seat. Energy Efficiency: Smart devices can automatically turn off lights, heaters, or fans when they’re not needed,... - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/designing-the-perfect-screened-in-porch-for-all-seasons/ A screened-in porch offers a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment, but to make it truly functional year-round, you need to consider several design elements. Whether you're in Ottawa, where winters can be harsh, or elsewhere, a well-thought-out four-season porch can provide a cozy retreat regardless of the weather. Here's how you can design the perfect all-weather porch that you can enjoy in every season. Tips for Designing a Porch Usable in All Seasons A year-round porch requires thoughtful planning to ensure comfort and durability through every season. Here are some essential design considerations: Enclosed Screens and Windows: Opt for retractable screens and glass panels that allow for ventilation in warmer months and insulation in colder seasons. Durable Flooring: Choose weather-resistant flooring materials like composite decking or treated wood that can withstand fluctuating temperatures and moisture. Flexible Furniture Choices: Invest in weatherproof furniture with removable cushions for easy adaptation to seasonal changes. Proper Orientation: If possible, position your porch to maximize sunlight exposure during the winter while offering shade during summer. Ceiling Fans and Ventilation: Install ceiling fans for air circulation during hot months and proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Insulation and Heating Options To transform a screened-in porch into a true four-season porch, insulation and heating are key factors. Here's what you need to consider: Insulated Windows and Doors: Double-pane or storm windows help retain heat in winter while keeping the space cooler in summer. Weather Stripping: Adding weather stripping around doors and windows prevents drafts... - Published: 2025-01-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/converting-an-existing-deck-into-a-screened-in-room/ Transforming your outdoor deck into a screened-in porch is a fantastic way to extend your living space and enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of bugs or unpredictable weather. Ottawa homeowners have to endure long, cold winters so it is understandable that they will want to find ways to make the most of the warmer months. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your deck-to-screened porch conversion a success. Steps to Convert a Deck to Screened-In Room 1. Assess Your Deck’s Structure Ensure your current deck can support the added weight of a roof and screens. An inspection by a professional is recommended to confirm its stability. 2. Plan the Screen Room Design Decide on the style and layout of your screened porch. Do you want a simple screen enclosure or something more elaborate with additional features like a ceiling fan or lighting? Consider integrating patio enclosure ideas, such as retractable screens or sliding glass panels, for added flexibility. 3. Obtain Necessary Permits In Ottawa, you’ll likely need a building permit for this type of renovation. Check local regulations to ensure compliance. (If you are working with a contractor, ensure that they are doing this for you. ) Include details about the materials, dimensions, and intended use in your permit application. 4. Gather Materials and Work with Experts When creating a screened-in room on an existing deck, you don’t have to start from scratch. Jans Awnings and Rollshutters offers a number of customizable options to provide a comfortable private space on any deck... - Published: 2024-12-09 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-are-the-best-rollshutters-for-storm-protection/ In Ottawa, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and severe, safeguarding your property against storms is essential. One of the most effective measures home or business owners can take is installing exterior rollshutters. These versatile installations enhance security and provide robust protection against the elements. Why Choose Rollshutters for Storm Protection? Rollshutters are exterior-mounted barriers designed to shield windows, doors, and other vulnerable openings from harsh weather conditions. They offer several advantages: Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials like aluminum, rollshutters are built to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris. This durability is crucial in Ottawa's climate, where storms can cause significant damage. Energy Efficiency: Beyond storm protection, rollshutters improve energy efficiency by providing insulation. They help maintain indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs—a valuable benefit in Ottawa's varied climate. Security Enhancement: Rollshutters act as a deterrent against break-ins and vandalism, adding an extra layer of security to your home or business. Selecting the Best Rollshutters for Your Ottawa Home When choosing rollshutters for storm protection, consider the following factors: Material Quality: Opt for rollshutters made from durable materials such as aluminum, known for its strength and lightweight properties. High-quality materials ensure longevity and effective protection. Customization Options: Ensure the rollshutters can be tailored to fit your home or business's specific dimensions and aesthetic preferences. Customizable options allow for seamless integration with your property's design. Operation Mechanism: Decide between manual and motorized operation based on your convenience and budget. Motorized rollshutters offer ease of use, especially during sudden... - Published: 2024-11-13 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-to-incorporate-outdoor-heating-with-awnings-and-screens/ As temperatures drop, it can be challenging to enjoy outdoor spaces without a bit of added warmth. By combining outdoor heating with awnings and screens, you can create a cozy patio that’s comfortable nearly year-round, even in Ottawa’s chillier months. Integrating heating systems into your outdoor setup not only allows for extended seasonal use but also creates a more inviting, sheltered space. Here are some tips on seamlessly adding heating solutions that complement awnings and screens. Choosing the Right Heating Solution Selecting the right type of heater is essential for maintaining a comfortable outdoor environment without overpowering or interfering with your awning or screen setup. In most cases, radiant or infrared heaters are excellent choices because they provide consistent, directed warmth. Radiant heaters focus on heating people and objects rather than the air, which makes them perfect for open or semi-open patio setups. They also come in various sizes and power levels, so you can find the ideal unit for your space. Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted radiant heaters are an excellent choice as they fit nicely under awnings or screens without taking up floor space. These heaters are usually electric powered, providing high efficiency without overwhelming the outdoor ambiance. Integrating Outdoor Heating with Awnings and Screens Awnings and screens already provide a protective barrier from wind, light rain, and excessive sun. Adding heating to this mix enhances the comfort level even more. When integrating outdoor heating with awnings, it’s essential to choose models that are compatible with covered areas and won't... - Published: 2024-10-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/smart-home-integration-with-motorized-awnings-shutters/ As smart home technology becomes more popular, homeowners in Ottawa are finding new ways to enhance their living spaces with increased convenience, comfort, and energy efficiency. One such improvement is the integration of motorized awnings and shutters with smart home systems. These advanced, motorized features not only add style and functionality to your home but also make managing light, shade, and privacy as simple as giving a voice command or tapping an app on your smartphone. In this blog, we'll explore how motorized awnings and shutters can be seamlessly integrated with smart home systems, making your outdoor living space as innovative as the inside of your home. The Benefits of Motorized Awnings and Shutters Motorized awnings and shutters are already a fantastic addition to any home, offering convenience and improved energy efficiency. With just the touch of a button, you can extend or retract your awning to create the perfect amount of shade on your deck or patio, or adjust your shutters to control the amount of light and privacy in your home. However, when you integrate these features into a smart home system, the convenience goes to a whole new level. Instead of manually controlling your awning or shutters, you can automate them to respond to voice commands, set schedules, or even adjust based on weather conditions. Imagine telling Alexa or Google Home to open your shutters in the morning or close your awning when the sun is at its peak—all without lifting a finger! Smart Home Compatibility Motorized... - Published: 2024-09-09 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/best-screens-for-hot-climates-maximizing-comfort-and-airflow/ When summer hits Ottawa, finding ways to stay cool while enjoying the outdoors can be a challenge. One of the best solutions for keeping your patio, porch, or sunroom comfortable is installing custom screens. The right screen system can provide optimal airflow, UV protection, and outdoor cooling, transforming your outdoor space into refreshing oases. The Importance of Choosing the Right Screens for Hot Climates Not all screens are created equal, especially when it comes to managing the intense heat of an Ottawa summer. The best screens for hot climates not only allow for sufficient airflow but also block harmful UV rays and minimize heat absorption. These features help keep your outdoor space cool, shaded, and comfortable even on the hottest days. By choosing the right screens, you can maximize the functionality of your patio or sunroom, allowing you to enjoy fresh air without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're hosting a family BBQ or relaxing with a book, having the right screen system will make all the difference. Exploring Heat-Blocking Screens and Materials Several types of screen materials are particularly effective for use in hot climates. Each option has its benefits when it comes to heat management, airflow, and durability: Solar Screens: Designed specifically to reduce the amount of heat and UV rays that penetrate through, solar screens are one of the best choices for hot climates. These heat-blocking screens can reduce the temperature in your sunroom or patio by up to 15 degrees, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without overheating.... - Published: 2024-08-09 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awning-installation-considerations/ A retractable awning can be a fantastic addition to your Ottawa home, providing shade, reducing energy costs, and enhancing your outdoor living space. However, when considering the installation of a retractable awning, there are several important factors to keep in mind. In this blog, we will discuss some of those considerations: Location Considerations Before selecting your retractable awning, it’s essential to determine the optimal location for installation. In Ottawa, where summers can be hot and winters harsh, choosing the right spot can maximize the awning’s benefits. Common installation areas include patios, decks, and over windows or doors. When selecting a location, consider the direction your home faces, as this will affect how much sun exposure the area receives. North-facing areas will receive less sunlight, while south-facing spaces will get more, influencing how often you’ll want to extend your awning. Installing on Vinyl Siding Vinyl siding is a popular choice for many homes in Ottawa due to its durability and low maintenance. When installing an awning on vinyl, the key is to ensure that it is securely anchored to the structure behind the vinyl, not just to the siding itself. This usually involves locating the studs or framing behind the siding and using appropriate fasteners to ensure the awning can withstand wind and other forces. A professional installer, like those from the Jans team, can ensure that the installation is done correctly to avoid damaging the vinyl or compromising the structural integrity. Installing on Brick When installing a retractable awning on... - Published: 2024-07-05 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/umbrellas-vs-awnings-which-is-right-for-you/ When it comes to creating a comfortable outdoor space, both umbrellas and awnings offer distinct advantages. Whether you're looking to provide shade for your backyard, patio, or a commercial space in Ottawa, understanding the differences between these two options can help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the pros and cons of umbrellas and awnings to determine which is the best fit for your needs. Versatility and Mobility Umbrellas are incredibly versatile and mobile, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial use in Ottawa. They can be easily moved around to provide shade wherever it's needed, whether that's over a dining table, poolside lounge chairs, or a children's play area. This flexibility is particularly useful for those who like to rearrange their outdoor spaces or need to accommodate different events and gatherings. Awnings, on the other hand, are fixed structures attached to the side of a building. While they lack the mobility of umbrellas, they provide a more permanent and stable solution. This stability is especially beneficial in Ottawa's varying weather conditions, as a well-installed awning can withstand strong winds and heavy rain better than most umbrellas. In addition, awnings make much more sense to have above your front door, or above a sunny window, as opposed to an umbrella. Coverage and Protection When it comes to coverage, awnings generally have the upper hand. Awnings can cover large areas, providing extensive shade and protection from the elements. This makes them ideal for larger patios, decks,... - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-versatility-and-benefits-of-portable-awnings/ As the summer goes into full swing in Ottawa, homeowners and businesses alike look for ways to create comfortable, shaded outdoor spaces. One of the most versatile and effective solutions is mobile or portable awnings. These structures offer flexibility, convenience, and a range of benefits that make them an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor areas. Let's explore what mobile awnings are, their advantages, and why they are perfect for Ottawa summers and beyond. What are Mobile/Portable Awnings? Mobile or portable awnings are temporary, movable structures designed to provide protection from the sun and rain. Unlike permanent awnings that are fixed to a building, these can be easily repositioned and stored when not in use. They come in various styles, including retractable models, freestanding units, and pop-up canopies, offering a solution for virtually any outdoor space. Benefits of Mobile Awnings Flexibility and Convenience: One of the main advantages of mobile awnings is their flexibility. They can be set up wherever needed and moved as the sun's position changes throughout the day. This is particularly useful for Ottawa residents who want to make the most of their outdoor spaces, whether for a backyard barbecue or a patio party. Protection from the Elements: Ottawa's weather can be unpredictable, with hot sunny days quickly turning into rain showers. Mobile awnings provide essential protection from UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and heat-related issues. They also offer a dry area during unexpected rain, ensuring that your outdoor plans are not... - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/is-a-retractable-awning-right-for-me/ Are you considering enhancing your outdoor living space in Ottawa? With the beautiful summers and vibrant outdoor culture, it's no wonder many homeowners are looking for ways to make their yards more inviting and functional. One popular solution is installing a retractable awning. But how do you know if this is the right choice for you and your home? At Jans Awnings and Rollshutters, we understand that every homeowner's needs are unique. That's why we've put together this guide to help you navigate the decision-making process. Benefits of Retractable Awnings First, let's take a look at the main benefits of retractable awnings. One of the most significant advantages is their versatility. Unlike traditional fixed awnings, retractable ones can be extended or retracted as needed, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space in varying weather conditions. Whether you want to bask in the sunshine or seek shelter from the rain, a retractable awning allows you to adapt to changing weather patterns on the fly. Additionally, retractable awnings offer excellent UV protection, shielding you and your family from harmful UV rays during those scorching summer days. This enhances your outdoor comfort and helps protect your furniture and belongings from fading due to sun exposure. Another benefit is the aesthetic appeal that retractable awnings bring to your home. With a wide range of fabric colours, patterns, and styles to choose from, you can customize your awning to complement your home's exterior seamlessly. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or a more traditional... - Published: 2024-04-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-phantom-screens-can-transform-your-patio/ Whether it's soaking up the summer sun, relishing the colours of autumn, or embracing the tranquility of winter, having a functional and inviting patio space is essential for many Ottawa homeowners. However, unpredictable weather and pesky insects can often hinder the enjoyment of outdoor living. Installing Phantom Screens, however, can transform your patio experience. Phantom Screens, known for their innovative retractable screen solutions, offer a perfect blend of functionality, aesthetics, and convenience. Here are just a few of the benefits you stand to realize:  Uninterrupted Views: One of the standout features of Phantom Screens is their ability to seamlessly retract when not in use, providing unobstructed views of Ottawa's stunning surroundings. Whether you live in the heart of downtown or amidst the lush greenery of the suburbs, Phantom Screens allow you to soak in the beauty of your surroundings without compromising on protection. Year-Round Comfort: Phantom Screens are designed to adapt to a variety of weather changes, providing ventilation during hot summer days while keeping out insects and providing additional insulation during colder months. This ensures that your patio remains a comfortable retreat throughout the year, regardless of the weather outside. Enhanced Privacy: Depending on where you live in Ottawa, privacy can sometimes be a luxury. Phantom Screens offer a solution by creating a private oasis within your patio. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, these screens provide the perfect balance of privacy and openness, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space without feeling... - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/prepare-your-retractable-awning-for-spring-guide/ Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to get your outdoor spaces ready for some fun in the sun. If you have a retractable awning, now is the perfect time to give it some much-needed attention after months of winter wear. Proper maintenance and care can ensure that your awning stays in top condition, providing shade and comfort for many seasons to come. Here's a comprehensive guide to preparing your retractable awning for this spring. 1. Clean Thoroughly Before anything else, your retractable awning needs a good cleaning. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris, dust, or leaves that may have accumulated on the fabric. For more stubborn stains, mix a mild soap (like dish soap) with lukewarm water and gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the fabric. 2. Check for Damage Inspect the entire awning carefully for any signs of damage or wear. Look for tears, fraying edges, or loose stitching. Check the frame for any rust spots or corrosion. Catching these issues early can prevent them from becoming bigger problems later on down the line. 3. Lubricate Moving Parts If your retractable awning has moving parts like joints, hinges, or gears, it's a good idea to lubricate them. Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep everything running smoothly. This simple step can extend the life of your awning and prevent annoying squeaks or jams. 4. Test the Motor (if applicable) For motorized retractable awnings, test... - Published: 2024-02-12 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/ideas-for-front-door-awnings/ Your home's entrance is more than just a doorway—it's the first impression visitors get of your residence. Adding a front door awning not only enhances curb appeal but also provides practical benefits such as protection from the elements and energy efficiency. If you're considering adding a touch of sophistication and functionality to your Ottawa home, here are some ideas for front door awnings that will elevate your entryway.   Classic Canopy Awnings For a timeless look that complements any architectural style, consider installing a classic canopy awning above your front door. These awnings feature a simple, sloped design that provides ample protection from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight. Choose a fabric colour and pattern that coordinates with your home's exterior for a cohesive appearance.   Modern Metal Awnings For a sleek and contemporary look, opt for a metal awning above your front door. Metal awnings are available in a variety of materials such as aluminum, steel, and copper, allowing you to customize the look to suit your taste and budget. Retractable Awnings If you prefer versatility and flexibility, consider installing a retractable awning above your front door. Retractable awnings can be extended to provide shade and protection when needed and retracted when not in use, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight that enters your home. In Ottawa's variable climate, a retractable awning offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Dome Awnings Add a touch of elegance to your front entrance with a dome awning. These curved awnings... - Published: 2024-01-12 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/using-rollshutters-to-regulate-home-temperature/ As homeowners seek efficient ways to manage energy consumption and maintain optimal indoor comfort, the use of rollshutters has emerged as a smart solution for regulating your Ottawa home’s temperature. These versatile window coverings not only enhance security and privacy but also play a significant role in controlling the temperature within your living spaces. Temperature Insulation One of the key benefits of rollshutters lies in their insulation properties. These shutters create a barrier between the interior of your home and the external environment, serving as an additional layer of insulation.   Whether it's the scorching heat of summer or the bitter cold of winter, rollshutters act as a shield, preventing unwanted temperature fluctuations from affecting your indoor climate. This insulation not only enhances comfort but also contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Heat Prevention During Ottawa's hot summer months, when the sun's rays can turn your home into a greenhouse, rollshutters prove invaluable in blocking out sunlight.   This not only prevents your living spaces from turning into ovens but also minimizes the strain on your air conditioning system. By creating shade and reducing solar heat gain, rollshutters play a pivotal role in maintaining a cool and comfortable indoor environment. Cold Protection In winter, these shutters act as a barrier against chilly drafts and cold winds. By providing an extra layer of protection, rollshutters help retain heat within your home, reducing the workload on your heating system. This translates into energy savings and... - Published: 2023-12-18 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-advantages-of-retractable-pergola-canopies/ Retractable pergola canopies have become a popular choice for Ottawa homeowners seeking a versatile and stylish solution to enhance their outdoor living spaces. These innovative additions offer a range of benefits, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Let's explore the key advantages of retractable pergola canopies and why they might be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Advantages of Retractable Pergola Canopies Understanding how a retractable pergola canopy can benefit your Ottawa home will help you in making the right enhancement for your property. It is also important to read about the differences between awnings vs. pergolas as part of your decision process. 1. Customizable Shade: Adjustable and retractable, these canopies provide customizable shade to suit varying sunlight and weather conditions. Enjoy open skies on clear days and shade when the sun is intense or during light rain. 2. Temperature Control: Regulate the temperature of your outdoor space by adjusting the canopy to block direct sunlight. Create a comfortable and cool environment during hot summer days. 3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Retractable pergola canopies come in various materials, colours, and designs, allowing homeowners to match them with their outdoor decor. Elevate the visual appeal of your patio or deck with a stylish and functional canopy. 4. Extended Outdoor Living Seasons: With a retractable canopy, you can extend the usability of your outdoor space into different seasons. Use the canopy to shield against chilly winds in the fall or to enjoy a cozy outdoor experience during light rain.   5. UV Protection: Protect yourself and your... - Published: 2023-11-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-have-awnings-improved-over-the-years/ When you look at modern awnings on Ottawa homes and businesses, it may not occur to you just how long humans have been using these structures to shelter themselves from the elements. It may surprise you to learn that awnings have been around in some form or another for centuries! At Jans Awnings and Rollshutters, we offer the latest in outdoor home shading technology from awnings that expand or retract at the tap of your cellphone (or even using weather sensors). But where did it all begin? Ancient Awnings Historical records tell us that the ancient Egyptians and Syrians were among the first to use awnings. This choice makes sense, given their hot climates. Described as "woven mats," these early awnings shaded market stalls and homes, offering respite from the relentless North African and Western Asian sun. The Ancient Romans took awnings to another level with the velarium, a massive and intricate structure designed for amphitheatres like the famous Colosseum. Made from linen, timber, iron, and rope, these awnings could comfortably shade about a third of the audience, while high walls provided shade to another third. The Evolution of Awnings It wasn't until the early 19th century that awnings became commonplace on buildings around the world. Typically supported by timber and iron posts, they used thick canvas for shading. However, these early awnings were vulnerable to water damage since the support came from the opposite side of the structure. If rain fell suddenly, the water would collect in the center... - Published: 2023-10-10 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/awnings-vs-pergolas/ There is nothing quite like enjoying your own outdoor space at your Ottawa home, and having a structure like an awning or pergola can allow you even more time outdoors by protecting you from the elements. These versatile structures not only provide exceptional sun protection, ensuring you stay comfortable and safe from overheating and sunburn even on those hot and sunny days, but they also serve as protection from light wind and rain. Both awnings and pergolas offer the protection you need and prevent you from having to duck back inside your home if the weather takes an unexpected turn. Should I Choose an Awning or a Pergola? If you have narrowed down your shelter options to either an awning or pergola, making that final choice can be a challenge. Fortunately, Jans Awnings and Rollshutters have been serving Ottawa residents for years, and we are experts in designing, supplying, and installing a wide range of awnings, pergolas, and other shade structures. In this guide, we will assist you in determining whether an awning or pergola is the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Space Considerations Awnings may be the ideal choice if you are looking for a space-saving option. When retracted, awnings snugly nestle in an unobtrusive cassette mounted to the side of your house. When extended, they provide shade without interfering with patio furniture or the humans that may be passing underneath. Pergolas, on the other hand, are more substantial structures in size. While sizes may vary between models,... - Published: 2023-09-12 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/great-balcony-shade-ideas/ Whether you own a detached home or condo in Ottawa, a balcony can be a great space to soak up some rays and enjoy the fresh air. Sometimes though, those rays get just a little too intense, forcing you to go back inside – unless you've got a way to add shade to your balcony. Adding shade to your Ottawa balcony is not only a way for you to make the space more comfortable, allowing you to spend more time outdoors, but it can also help you save on your energy bills since you may not have to run your air conditioning as long or as often. Here are a few ways that you can add shade to your balcony: Retractable Awnings For comprehensive shade coverage on your balcony, retractable awnings are an excellent solution. Unlike standalone umbrellas, they extend to cover a significant portion, if not the entire balcony area. Available in a wide array of materials, including durable, UV-resistant fabrics, you can find awnings in various colours and patterns to seamlessly integrate with your existing outdoor furniture and décor. The retractable feature offers valuable flexibility, allowing you to easily extend the shade when needed and retract it to enjoy the sun or the view. Consider options with features like motorized operation for added convenience.   Depending on the direction of the sun, the shade your retractable awning may vary at certain hours. For example, if your balcony faces East, you may not get a lot of shade when... - Published: 2023-08-11 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-screen-doors/ Living in Ottawa, you know you have to take the warm weather while you can get it, but that doesn't mean you have to deal with bugs, blaring sun, or noisy patio doors that slam shut whenever someone exits or enters. Retractable screen doors for your patio or sunroom can help to elevate your experience, allowing you to fully view your outdoor scenery and maintain a comfortable space with perfect ventilation. Elegant Retractable Screen Doors for Ottawa Homes At Jans Awnings, our most popular retractable screen doors are Phantom Screens. These retractable screen doors elegantly complement the aesthetics of your home, allowing for a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you're enjoying the bright colours and birdsong of spring, the warmth of summer, or the stunning foliage of fall, these screens allow you and your family to enjoy it all while keeping those annoying bugs outside where they belong. A Revolutionary Design Gone are the days of dealing with cumbersome screen doors that slam shut or obstruct your view. Phantom Screens are silent and serene, providing protection against insects and the elements while offering a smooth transition between your home's interior and the great outdoors. Phantom Screen doors are designed to deliver the same functionality as conventional screen doors, but with a touch of innovation that makes a world of difference. The screens are skillfully installed on your door and window frames, sunrooms, and patio areas, ensuring optimal performance. The taught frame prevents slackening even in gusty... - Published: 2023-07-11 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/turn-your-existing-patio-or-deck-into-a-screened-room/ Having a deck or patio attached to your Ottawa home is a great way to enjoy the outdoors when the weather is decent, but if you are looking for a great way to get even more use out of this space, you could turn that existing deck or patio into a screened room.   Screened in decks and patios are nothing new, but today they are easier than ever to incorporate into your outdoor space. One option is to purchase a kit from your local big box store, but keep in mind that an off-the-shelf model may not fit the dimensions of your deck or patio, and you could end up losing some of that space as a result. In our humble opinion, the better way to go is to work with an expert to find a customized solution that is exactly the right size that suits your home.   At Jans Awnings & Rollshutters, we have helped many Ottawa homeowners make the most of their outdoor living area by converting their existing decks and patios into screened-in rooms.   What are the benefits of adding a screened room?   Adding a screened-in room to your Ottawa home has multiple benefits including:  Enjoy your outdoor space more – while most of us enjoy spending time outside, we tend to be limited by the time of year, the weather, insects, and so on. A screened room dramatically increases the amount of time that you can comfortably spend outdoors by shielding you... - Published: 2023-06-15 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/reasons-to-consider-a-pergola/ As the Ottawa summer continues, residents look for solutions to protect themselves from the harsh heat. While there are many solutions available, pergolas continue to be one of the most beneficial. Let’s review why a pergola might be the next investment you want to make for your property. What Purpose Does a Pergola Serve? Pergolas come in different sizes and styles, but they serve the same purpose, to protect homeowners from the elements. If you’re unfamiliar with what a pergola is, we encourage you to visit our breakdown here. While they are similar to other traditional landscaping structures, a pergola provides an extension of the shelter of your home to provide an enhanced outdoor experience.   What Are The Benefits of a Pergola? Protects Against The Elements: The combination of the harsh summer heat and the torrential storms that can accompany it limit access to your property without appropriate coverage. Having additional protection in your backyard to protect against the elements is invaluable to enjoying your home to its fullest potential. Extends Your Living Space: With the added structure of a pergola, more of your outdoor space can be utilized to maximize the use of your property. Since there will be less concern about the weather, falling debris from your roof, and other uncontrollable elements, there are endless possibilities for using this extended space.   Adds Value To Your Property: Whether you intend to permanently live at your property, use it as an investment property, or live at it short term,... - Published: 2023-05-15 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/buyers-guide-to-choosing-the-right-awning-for-you/ As the weather warms up here in Ottawa, many residents will want to spend more and more time outdoors. Adding an awning to your home can help you enhance your outdoor space by making it more comfortable and private. If you are considering purchasing an awning for your home this year, you will find many options; you may even find it a bit overwhelming. The following guidelines will help you to find the right awning for you. Awning locationThe first thing to consider is where you will place your awning. Most homeowners in Ottawa will choose to set their awning over their back deck or patio so you have a sheltered place to relax; but you may also choose to place your awning over a door or windows, which can help you improve your home’s efficiency by blocking the hot sunlight from entering your home. Awning styles and edgesIt is natural that you will want to select a style and edge pattern that not only suits your taste, but one that complements your home as well. A straight edge is the most common choice for decks and patios, but alternatives include scalloped, serpentine, Russian point, and Gothic. Keep in mind that some awning styles may only work with certain edges and only some types of edge are going to look good with your home. In fact, choosing the ideal style and edge can be one of the most challenging parts of choosing an awning which is why it is always... - Published: 2023-04-13 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/looking-for-awning-professional/ If you are considering installing a retractable awning for your Ottawa home, chances are you’ll be shopping around a bit to get a good deal – after all, who doesn’t like to save money these days! An area that you should not skimp on, though, is hiring an awning professional. While you may have friends or family members that are very handy, you’ll be happier, in the long run, knowing that the job was done right and that your warranty is protected. Here are a few things you should look for in an awning professional:  Experience Installing awnings requires some mechanical skills but may also require dealing with electronics and electrical depending on the mechanism for opening and closing your awning. Additionally, since each Ottawa home will be slightly different, your awning professional will have to know how to help you select an awning that is right for your home and what will be needed for the installation.   Knowledge of building codes and bylaws A retractable awning can add a lot of enjoyment to your outdoor space; however, an improperly installed awning can damage your home and can even be dangerous. The awning professional who installs your awning must know how to comply with all local building codes and Ottawa bylaws. This will also likely include getting a permit from the City before installing your awning.   Insurance Like any other contractor who does work on your home, your awning professional should be properly insured. This should include liability... - Published: 2023-03-03 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/enjoy-your-second-story-patio-with-railings/ Second-story decks and patios can be very appealing features for Ottawa residents to add to their homes as well as for business owners looking to add more outdoor space for their customers to enjoy. A second-story deck can be a great option when there is limited yard space or you are looking to have a more panoramic view than a ground-level deck can provide. Railings, of course, at the second level are essential for safety and compliance with building codes. At Jans Awnings, we offer customized railing solutions for both residential and commercial buildings. Our railings offer the ultimate combination of safety and elegance as they are available in various colours, styles, and designs to suit any setting. Advantages of second-story patios Second-story patios can offer Ottawa homeowners and business owners an ideal, convenient outdoor space. Just imagine walking straight from your bedroom to your upper-level deck to enjoy a leisurely Saturday breakfast or taking a break from the home office to get a little sun without ever having to put your shoes on! If the second-story patio is for a commercial building, your business will get a reputation for being a great place to go out with friends to enjoy warm summer evenings. Add to that the fact that second-story patios have a certain “cool factor” to them. The view is often better, and it’s a great place to indulge in your favourite beverage with some of your favourite people. Some Ottawa homes and businesses have a second-story deck... - Published: 2023-02-02 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/sun-wind-rain-sensors-for-your-awning-screen-and-patio-roof/ If you are considering installing a retractable awning, screen, or patio roof for your Ottawa home, you may already be envisioning how you will be able to better enjoy your outdoor space. Perhaps you even have fond memories of a similar outdoor setup at your parent's or grandparent's home. But today’s retractable awnings and patio roofs are much different than the ones of the past. Many of them can be equipped with technology such as wind, rain, and sun sensors that come with their own set of benefits.   Types of sensors Wind sensors – these will come in the form of either a vibration detector or a device that looks similar to a weather vane. Placed directly on the awning, this sensor will detect strong winds and, depending on the speed of the wind, will automatically retract the awning.   Rain sensor – Rain sensors are especially helpful when you have a textile or fabric cover for your awning or patio roof, as they can help protect the cover from being damaged by water. A rain sensor allows your patio, pergola or other structure to be closed completely, both to protect your covering as well as any furniture or other items you may have inside.   Sun sensor – A sun sensor will help to keep your outdoor patio space cool and comfortable, as well as protect your belongings from UV rays. When strong direct sunlight hits the sensor, the awning will automatically open, or the screen will automatically... - Published: 2023-01-06 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-benefits-of-choosing-aluminum-for-your-patio-cover/ There are many ways for Ottawa homeowners to increase the use and enjoyment that they get from their outdoor space. One of these ways is to install an aluminum patio cover that provides shade from the sun and shelter from light rain.   Once you’ve decided that this is the right option for you and your home, you may be surprised to learn that there are several options, including plank covers, vinyl covers, and aluminum covers. The choices can get confusing, but aluminum continues to stand out as one of the best options.   Here are some of the benefits of choosing aluminum for your patio cover.   Designs to suit any style Ottawa homeowners don’t just want function, they also want style. And one of the nice things about aluminum patio covers is that they can be made in almost any design. Aluminum is a material that can be welded, curved, and modified as necessary. An aluminum patio cover can be designed in practically any shape or size that you can imagine. Doing this with wooden patio covers proves much more difficult.   Durable and easy to maintain The bulk of your time with your patio cover should be spent enjoying the comfort it provides – not cleaning or repairing it. With aluminum covers, the amount of maintenance is practically zero. It is not a material that will rot, rust, warp, break or crack.   During harsh Ottawa winters, a generic metal patio cover is prone to rust, and... - Published: 2022-12-09 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-supports-a-retractable-awning-if-there-are-no-poles/ When Ottawa homeowners first investigate purchasing a retractable awning, they tend to have a lot of questions. One question we commonly get is how retractable awnings are supported if they don't have any poles.   But the fact is that quality awnings don't need any poles to support them. They are attached to the side of your home (or roof) on one side with braces, and the spring-loaded lateral arms are enough to support the awning.   The fact that you don't need any poles to support a retractable awning is a great benefit to homeowners. With no poles taking up space or getting in the way on your deck or patio, it gives you more outdoor living space for you, your family, or guests to enjoy. It also means that you can easily expand or retract your awning at the touch of a button. Professional awning installation While installing a retractable awning may seem like a simple task for avid DIYers, the complex components and precise requirements really make this a job for professionals. At Jans Awnings, we provide professional installation when you purchase an awning from us.   Considerations for professional awning installation When the Jans team installs a retractable awning, there are several factors that we must take into consideration, including the following:  Height of the awning – A retractable awning must be installed at least 8 feet above the ground (or more, depending on how far the awning will extend). If the awning is to be... - Published: 2022-10-11 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-ottawa-area-cottage-or-vacation-home-with-talius-rollshutters/ Ottawa is a beautiful area to have a cottage or vacation home with scenic lakes, beaches, and nature less than an hour away from its vibrant downtown core. But it’s also no secret that the weather in Ottawa and surrounding areas can turn nasty – especially during the winter.   So while owning a cottage or vacation home in this part of Eastern Ontario may be a great investment, it is important to do all you can to protect that investment. And one thing you can do to protect your Ottawa vacation property is to install Talius rollshutters.   Designed for Protection Against Nature’s Harshest Elements Talius rollshutters are designed to protect against extreme weather conditions, including tropical storms and hurricanes. And while you may never see a hurricane come through the Ottawa area, ice storms, high winds, and flying debris are not uncommon. Talius rollshutters are motorized and combine both form and function. These rollshutters protect your windows from the forces of Mother Nature. Made to last, Talius rollshutters are a combination of superior-strength aluminum and components made from stainless steel. When not being used, these shutters roll up and tuck neatly away into an unobtrusive overhead panel box.   Furthermore, Talius rollshutters are extremely easy to use. They can be rolled down or up with the touch of a button. You can even opt for environmental sensors that will automatically lower your shutters for you without you having to be there. This offers extra peace of mind should... - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-things-you-can-do-to-winterize-your-awning/ Although we’ve most likely got a month or two of warm weather left to take advantage of our outdoor space, we also know that before long, the cold and snow will make its way to Ottawa. Unfortunately, winter weather can wreak havoc with your retractable awning. To keep your awning looking and functioning at its best so that you can enjoy it to the fullest next season, you need to prepare. Here are three things that you can do to winterize your awning: 1. Make any necessary awning repairs. Today’s retractable awnings are extremely durable and should last you many years, but that doesn’t mean there will never be any issues. Now that it is the end of the season, carefully inspect your awning and check for any damage to the fabric or opening mechanism. While a small tear may seem like no big deal, that tiny tear can become much bigger if you allow it to. If you do find any problems with your awning, now is the time to have them fixed. 2. Clean your awning thoroughly. Before retracting or taking your awning down and storing it for the winter, you will want to ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned. Start by brushing away any leaves, dust, and debris that may have accumulated over the Ottawa summer. Next, you should wash your awning using water and a mild cleaner such as gentle dish soap. Do not use anything harsh or abrasive to clean your awning. 3. Retract... - Published: 2022-08-10 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/screened-rooms-in-ottawa-benefits-options/ Outdoor patio enclosures are becoming extremely popular in Ottawa. And it’s no wonder - the configurations and options are practically endless with a little imagination. There is a style to suit almost any Ottawa homeowner. But what exactly is the appeal of incorporating a screened room into your space? Here are a few of the benefits. Privacy If you would like to sit out without the world being able to see in, there are many options for you when designing your screened room. The mesh material used to make retractable screens is available in various tints, so you can find the level of privacy that suits your needs. Even better, retractable screens are often designed so that you can see out, but others cannot see in. Insect Protection In Ottawa, during the summer, mosquitos and other insects can quickly make a nuisance of themselves – especially after the sun goes down. If you enjoy sitting out in the evening and enjoying the warm summer breeze but don’t want to deal with nagging insects, then a screened room may be the ideal solution. Protection from the Weather and UV Rays Screened rooms not only protect you from the glaring sun and light rain, but the screens themselves offer UV protection. This will protect you and your belongings from the harmful effects of the sun and provide a nicer environment for you to relax and unwind. For additional protection, consider adding a retractable vinyl screen. This will help you to contain hot... - Published: 2022-07-22 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/why-ottawa-homeowners-find-retractable-awnings-appealing/ Summer weather in Canada can get really hot, even though we are known to be a northern country. Residents of Ottawa often add a retractable awning to their homes to enjoy their outdoor space during those extra hot months. If you are considering adding a retractable awning to your home, here are a few reasons why others in Ottawa decided to get one.   Health benefits We all know sitting out in the sun can mean that we’re going to get sunburnt – and that isn’t fun for anyone. However, a retractable awning can block up to 75% of the UV rays from the sun.   You can still let light into the space without causing damage to your skin long-term.   Protection of your furnishings Did you find the perfect outdoor sofa where you and your family can relax and enjoy the warm weather? Having furniture sit out in the sun for too long can ruin it. You don’t want to have spent all that time and money searching for the perfect outdoor furniture only have to ruined in just one season.   An awning provides protection from the sun’s harmful rays and those summer downpours.   Energy savings Does the sun beat directly into the back of your home? If so, you may find that blinds or curtains are just not enough. A retractable awning, when opened, can provide additional protection from the sun’s heat so that you can keep your home cooler during those hot summer days.... - Published: 2022-06-27 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-supports-a-retractable-awning/ Investing in an awning for your Ottawa home can help you get a lot more enjoyment from your outdoor space. But before you purchase a retractable awning, it is likely that you’ll have a lot of questions. One question that we get frequently is, what is it exactly that supports a retractable awning? We get this question because retractable awnings do not require any ground supports – so it’s only natural for people to want to know what is holding it up.   How are retractable awnings secured to your home? The first thing to know is that retractable awnings can be mounted either to an exterior wall on your home or to the roof (either to the eave under the soffit or above the gutter). Where you choose to have your awning mounted will matter because this will dictate the pitch of the awning.   Now, how is that weight supported, you ask? Secure brackets are used to secure the retractable awning into place. They are attached either to wall studs or to rafters. In order to hold these brackets in place, it may be necessary to put some bolt holes into the siding of your home. And while this may be concerning to some homeowners, this has very little effect on the siding itself.   Do I need a professional to install my awning?   Although some Ottawa homeowners do make the decision to install their retractable awnings, we don’t think it is worth the risk. Adding a... - Published: 2022-05-24 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/who-sells-and-installs-retractable-awnings-ottawa/ Adding an awning to your Ottawa home has numerous benefits. It can help you get more enjoyment from your outdoor space, but it’s also a way for you to protect your outdoor furnishings and even save some money on your utility bills. But if you are considering a retractable awning, you may not know where to start. For example, a big box store may sell retractable awnings but may not do the installation. And since installing a retractable awning can be tricky, it makes sense to do business with a company that both sells and installs retractable awnings. So who sells and installs retractable awnings?   For the answer to this question, you need not look any further than Jans Awnings in Ottawa! Our company was founded over 50 years ago, and we take great pride in being Ottawa’s go-to source for retractable awnings and other outdoor enhancements. Why Do Business with a Company that Sells and Installs Awnings?   There are several reasons why you should consider getting your retractable awning from a company that will do the installation for you: Awning Experts There are several factors to consider when purchasing a retractable awning, so getting advice from someone that knows the product inside out and has experience installing it makes sense. When you purchase your awning, you want to make sure that you are getting the right size and that the area of your home where you intend to put the awning is suitable. While a salesperson from... - Published: 2022-04-12 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/what-is-a-retractable-canopy/ One of the challenges of enjoying your outdoor space in Ottawa is that the weather can be quite fickle. The sun is beating down on you one moment, and the next, it isn’t. Homeowners have tried various solutions to make their outdoor space more comfortable, but one that is quickly gaining in popularity is the retractable canopy. What is a retractable canopy?   Retractable canopies are shades that can be affixed to almost any outdoor structure to provide you with protection from the sun or light rain or to provide you with some extra privacy. They are an economical way to make your outdoor space more comfortable without having to make any cuts to your deck or major changes to the structures you already have. Because they are retractable (usually motorized and easy to use with the touch of a button), they can be conveniently adjusted with the weather and with your desired level of privacy. Benefits of retractable canopies Some of the benefits of retractable canopies are as follows: Protection from the elements – retractable shades allow you to get more use out of your outdoor space because they provide protection when the sun is too hot and protection from light rain.   Added privacy – these canopies give you extra privacy, making it easier for you to enjoy your outdoor space without feeling like you are on display.   Easy to use – Our retractable canopies are motorized and can be easily retracted or expanded with the use... - Published: 2022-03-11 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-reasons-why-you-should-automate-your-awnings-shutters/ Automating tasks in your life can make things so much easier and quicker for you – especially if you are always on the go. Now that you’ve decided to add some beautiful shutters to your windows or an awning to your Ottawa home, you will have the option to have automated or not. Before you decide, here’s what you might want to consider about automated shutters and awnings.   Control Your Awnings From Anywhere Want to stay in bed on a Sunday morning but don’t want the sun shining into the room? You won’t even have to get up out of bed to close the shutters with automation – you can close them right from your phone. Similarly, if you were in a hurry to leave the house in the morning but forgot to close the shutters or open the awning, you can control them from anywhere on your phone and make sure your home stays cool and that your energy bills don’t cost you too much each month.   Customize the Amount of Window Light You know how there’s that certain time of day where the glare from the sun makes it impossible to watch television? With the ability to automate the shutters in your Ottawa home, you can have it set up so that they will close exactly when you want them to.   This can help protect your home from the harsh mid-day sun and keep the temperature comfortable.   Keep Children Safe Worried about the strings... - Published: 2022-03-04 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-awnings-window-coverings-boost-energy-efficiency/ When it comes to heating and cooling your Ottawa home, finding efficiencies to lower energy usage can go a long way in reducing your home's carbon footprint. One way to find efficiencies is with window coverings and awnings. Windows create a lot of light and make small space seem larger, but if there isn't anything to block out the sun, you could be increasing your energy bills without realizing it. Here's how awnings and window coverings can help boost energy efficiency in your Ottawa home. Insulation in the Winter We all know that Ottawa can get some brutal winters, and we want to make sure we keep our homes as warm as possible during those cold nights. Having window coverings can help to act as insulation to prevent heat from escaping your home, and keep the rooms warmer overall. Opening your window coverings can help use solar energy to warm a room during those sunny winter days. However, once the sun goes down, or if it's a cloudy day, you can keep them closed to reduce heat leakage. Reducing Heat During the Summer Ottawa sees a lot of hot days during the summer, and you want to make sure all the work your AC is doing is not going to waste. Otherwise, you're tossing money out your windows! During those hot summer days, make sure your window coverings are closed so that you are keeping the cool air in. This means your AC won't have to work as hard, your... - Published: 2022-01-12 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/do-awnings-add-value-to-your-home/ Have you been thinking about installing awnings on your Ottawa home, but you’re wondering if they’re worth the investment? Maybe you’re wondering if adding awnings will increase the value of your home. In terms of adding value to your Ottawa home, there are several ways that awnings can do this ranging from added living space to energy savings, and yes, perhaps even an increased selling price for your house! Here are a few of the benefits that you can get from installing an awning: Added living and entertainment space – Installing an awning allows you, your family, and your guests to spend more time outdoors – essentially increasing your living space for much of the year. You won’t have to worry about the blazing sun or even light rain – your awning will provide ample protection against the elements. Protection for your home – awnings don’t just protect people from the elements, but they can help protect your home as well from the sun, rain, and even hail and snow. And by keeping UV light from entering your home, they protect your furniture and window treatments from fading. In addition to protecting parts of your home, your awning can also protect furniture and other items that may be on your porch or patio. Add to Your Home’s Market Value – A well-maintained and attractive awning can increase how much your home sells for when the time comes. Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal – Today’s awnings come in a variety of... - Published: 2021-12-03 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-considerations-to-make-when-designing-your-outdoor-space/ Winter may be upon us, but it’s never too early to start dreaming of spring. And with spring comes the opportunity to create a new outdoor space that you can use to entertain and relax. The following three factors are things to consider when designing your perfect outdoor space.   1. Your Goals for the Space Designing an outdoor area that’s both functional and aesthetically appealing takes a lot of planning. So before diving in headfirst to the backyard project itself, sit back and give it some thought. Think about how you want to use your outdoor area. Do you do a lot of entertaining, or is your backyard mainly for your family’s enjoyment? What’s not working in your current outdoor space? What have you always dreamed of having in your backyard? Depending on your answers to questions like these, a different execution plan may be in order. For example, if your current outdoor space lacks enough room for your children to play, then look at how you can free up some space. Perhaps removing a large tree, redesigning your deck, or getting rid of an old shed is the solution. 2. The Surrounding Area Here in Ontario, you’ll likely want to take advantage of the warm weather when you can. That’s why it’s important to consider the direction to orient your space. If your backyard is facing to the north, you’ll be receiving plenty of sunshine. However, you’ll also likely need some shelter when the sun’s UV rays are... - Published: 2021-11-09 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-louvered-pergolas/ If you have already started to plan your upgraded backyard oasis for your Ottawa home next year, then you may be looking at a variety of options, including pergolas.   Pergolas can be a great way to add a bit of character to your backyard while providing you with an area to sit and relax with a great book or to entertain friends in. But if you haven’t looked at pergolas lately, you might be surprised to find they’ve got some modern improvements that you might be interested in. Traditionally, pergolas usually have wood slats that offer some protection from the sun, but you will still get wet if it rains. Newer louvered styles of pergolas and can be open and closed, giving you the opportunity to allow in more or less sun and give you complete protection from light summer rains.   Here are a few of the benefits of adding a louvered pergola to your outdoor space in Ottawa Enjoy more time outdoors While any style of pergola can help you to enjoy your outdoors more, louvered pergolas take that extra step by allowing you to customize how much shade you want or to completely protect you from rain. If you are looking to spend more time outdoors next summer, this could be a great option for you.   Custom design Do you have a yard that is on the small size? Or do you have a larger space suitable for entertaining larger outdoor parties? Maybe you only... - Published: 2021-10-15 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/buying-an-awning-from-a-big-box-store-vs-a-local-business/ So you've decided to add an awning to your Ottawa home but are still looking for exactly the right one. Many big box stores have awnings available, but that doesn't mean going with a big box store to purchase your awning is going to give you what you ultimately want. Here's why. Quality of Awning Materials Ever wonder why big box stores can give you a product at a lower price? Well, often, the products are mass-produced as quickly as possible. This means they may not be built as well or use the same quality materials. If you want your awning to last and be able to use it for years with your family, enjoying your outdoor space, you will want to consider making the investment of an awning that is higher in quality. Awning Choices & Options When you choose a locally owned Ottawa store, you have an (almost) unlimited number of choices in terms of materials and colours. Plus, you will be able to customize certain options and choose the exact size you need for your space instead of dealing with the pre-determined sizes the big box stores have in stock. Experience The employees at a big box store don't have the experience or specific knowledge of awnings. But local small awnings businesses? This is all they do. You know how you want the end result to look, but the awning you choose may not work for the space you have. Employees at small, locally owned businesses will... - Published: 2021-09-09 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-considerations-to-make-when-choosing-railings/ When you’re planning your patio or deck, part of the process is selecting railings. From choosing the right colour to thinking about the type of experience you’re after, there are many aspects to think about. Let’s break down five of the most important considerations to make when choosing railings for your outdoor space. 1. The Type of Experience Before you get started choosing from railing options, spend some time thinking about what you want to feel while sitting on your deck. Do you want the mood to be Zen-like, rustic, or modern? Soothing colours such as neutrals can provide a peaceful feeling, whereas silvers, whites, and stainless steel appear more modern. For backyard garden spaces, browns and greens blend in nicely and give a rustic feel. 2. Railing Style A top railing’s shape can add plenty of appeal to the overall look of your deck. A square-style top rail is simpler compared to a rectangular top rail that’s modern. Choose a rounded profile for your railing for a smoother touch and soften the hard edges of a deck design. Achieve a cozy, well-coordinated look by selecting a railing in the same shade as your decking or try something different by picking out a railing in a contrasting colour. 3. The Railing Material Plenty of wood and metal options are available for your railing. Wood material is easier to install, softer to touch, and fluctuates less than metal. Certain types of wood require minor maintenance, such as oiling once or twice... - Published: 2021-08-16 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/create-your-comfortable-outdoor-space-with-a-pergola/ Many homeowners in Ottawa enjoy spending time outside in the summer and during the warmer months. Having a comfortable outdoor space is important, whether you like to kick back after work with your favourite summertime beverage and a good book, lounge by the pool, or have family and friends over for a barbeque. It needs to be functional and give you the protection you need, but of course, you will also want it to look nice – like it belongs as part of your home and isn’t just an afterthought. If you are looking to add a bit of shade to your Ottawa outdoor space, one of the options available to you is to install a pergola. You may not realize, though, that within that option, there are various types and styles of pergola that you can choose. In this article, we will review some of your pergola options: Aluminum pergola For a more modern style, you may wish to consider an aluminum pergola. Lightweight and sturdy, aluminum pergolas are treated with a special coating that makes them rust-resistant and practically maintenance-free. Stobag Bavona pergola Pergolas have come a long way in recent years and can be designed to suit nearly any type of design style. If you are looking for a design style that is sleek, modern, and elegant, consider the Stobag Bavona pergola. Bavona pergolas are custom made and available in a range of colour choices. Choose from the Bavona TP6500 hardtop canopy or the Bavona TP5100 softop... - Published: 2021-07-26 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/shade-solutions-for-your-ottawa-home/ Enjoying the outdoor space of your home can be difficult on hot days when the sun is simply too intense. There are a few ways you can add some shade, however, to make the outside of your Ottawa home as enjoyable as the inside, so you’ll be spending as much time as possible outdoors this summer. Awnings The great thing about awnings is how versatile they are, and how they can work for almost any outdoor space. Additionally, they are usually very easy to take care of and keep clean. While there are many different models, there are two main types of awnings to consider: Retractable Awnings - Exactly as the name implies, retractable awnings are a fixed feature on your home but they can be extended and rolled back whenever you want. They can cover a deck or patio, or even part of a pool. The fabric of these can be taken off of the frame for cleaning as needed, too. Permanent Awnings - This type of awning is a permanent fixture that doesn’t move or retract. So, this means it will always provide shade and you will have to sit elsewhere if you’d like to sit in the sun at some point. Most homeowners in Ottawa who purchase an awning choose the retractable style because of the convenience that it provides. Retractable awnings are easy to open and close – with some that can be operated with a remote control or switch or button on the wall. Pergolas... - Published: 2021-06-09 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-your-patio-with-an-awning/ Finally, after our long, cold Canadian winter, summer is here! All of those dreams of spending time outside entertaining family and friends in your beautiful backyard can finally come true. With summers being short, we want to take full advantage of them. Investing in a patio awning is a great way to extend the amount of time we spend outside while staying comfortably protected from the sun. Here’s why you should protect your patio area with an awning this season. Stay Comfortable and Save Money Because of their sun-resistant, thick material, patio awnings help block harmful UV rays. As a result, there’s a reduction in solar heat gain through west-facing windows, and air conditioners run less. This can create energy savings of up to $200 annually. Time spent outdoors is more enjoyable, too. Awnings provide an excellent, shady reprieve, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors, even in the high heat of the day. Long gone are the days when sitting outside becomes uncomfortable! Shield Your Valuables and Patio Furniture Patio awnings not only protect you from the sun, but they also help protect your home’s carpeting, flooring, and fine art. Unless high-quality curtains remain closed permanently, the sun’s powerful rays can still create fading, cracking, and peeling of your home’s investments. Quality outdoor awnings provide an additional layer of protection, extending the shelf-life of your home’s valuable décor. The same goes for patio furniture, barbeques, and cushions. Without protection from the sun, it doesn’t take long to have fading or... - Published: 2021-04-14 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-restaurant-patio-awnings/ For restauranteurs in Ottawa, it is time to start preparing for patio season. As the province begins to open up more following the COVID-19 pandemic, there is bound to be pent-up demand for dining out, while hesitancy to dine indoors could still remain a factor. This means that this year’s patio season is likely to be busier and longer than it has been in years past. If this is your first year operating with a patio, or you have previously only operated an uncovered patio, this may be the year to consider investing in a restaurant patio awning. The commercial awnings offered by Jans Awnings and Rollshutters in Ottawa are attractive, durable, and constructed to withstand even high winds. The Benefits Attractive A patio awning can draw positive attention toward your building. Our commercial awnings are available in a wide range of colours that can help to pull the eye toward an otherwise unremarkable building. Furthermore, your awning can be customized to fit your unique brand, whether it be through choosing the correct colours or having your logo or restaurant name printed on it. Provides Shelter for Your Patrons Not everyone likes to sit in the hot sun. Awnings provide welcome shade and relief on a hot summer’s day. Furthermore, your restaurant patio awning will also protect your guests from light rain. Due to the pandemic, you may find that many of your guests will still be uncomfortable with indoor dining yet still willing to sit outside on a patio.... - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-updating-your-commercial-awning/ If your Ottawa storefront or business has had the same awning for some time, you may be wondering whether this is the year that you should update your commercial awning. The following are a few benefits of updating your business awning: Spruce up your storefront Perhaps the awning you have on your building right now is looking a little old, tattered, and faded, which does not create the best first impression for your business. Updating your commercial awning is an easy and affordable way to give your building's exterior a bit of a "facelift" and make it more welcoming for customers. Add a larger shaded outdoor space Especially if your business is a restaurant or café and you are using an awning to shade a patio, you may be considering updating your awning if you have increased your patio's size. With the COVID-19 pandemic still a concern in Ottawa, many patrons may still be more comfortable with outdoor dining than indoor dining. As a result, many restaurant and café owners are enlarging their patios in order to be able to serve more customers. If this is the case with your business, then upgrading to a larger commercial awning may be of benefit to you. Brand recognition with Awnings Has your company rebranded recently? Perhaps you have a commercial awning that has your old logo still on it, or perhaps the colour or style of your awning doesn't match with your company brand. Updating your awning to better reflect your company... - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-retractable-awning-installation/ As a homeowner in Ottawa, you probably know that there are many benefits to owning a retractable awning. Nevertheless, if you have never had an awning on your home before, you’ve likely got a few questions. In this article, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions that we get about retractable awning installation. What supports the retractable awning if it doesn’t have any poles? Good quality retractable awnings don’t need poles to support them. The awning is supported by the secure mounting and spring-loaded lateral arms. How is the retractable awning mounted to my home? The awning will either be roof-mounted or under eaves mounted. Secure brackets are used to mount the awning indirectly, either to rafters or wall studs. For information about a specific style of awning, please speak with a member of the Jans Awnings & Rollshutters team. Will installing a retractable awning damage my siding? To install the bracket for the awning, some bolt holes will have to be made in the siding however, no significant damage will be done. How much cooler will a retractable awning make my deck or patio? An awning can make your outdoor living space as much as 20 degrees F. cooler. This means that it will make the inside of your home cooler as well, so your AC won’t have to work as hard on hot summer days – saving you money on your utility bills. If I don’t get a motor with my retractable awning when I purchase it, is it... - Published: 2020-11-26 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/create-4-season-patio/ Those of us who live in and around Ottawa know just how short the patio season can be. If you would like to spend more time out enjoying your outdoor space, one solution is to build a 4-season patio. Essentially what this means – usually – is taking your existing porch or patio and building an enclosure around it. Such an enclosure may either be a 3-season patio (for spring, summer, and fall) or a 4-season patio – with the primary difference being that a 4-season patio has insulation and heating/cooling so that you can make use of it all year round – even during those frigid Ottawa winters. Four season rooms are more versatile than 3 season rooms because you can make use of them year-round, and they can add additional living space to your house for you and your family. Benefits of Adding a 4-Season Patio Unlike traditional room additions, adding a 4-season patio to your home generally takes less time and costs less to construct. And although many people think of 4-season patios as being mainly for sitting space where you can enjoy nature or read a good book, they can really be used for any purpose you choose, including office space, a workout craft room, etc. Construction Options Once you decide to add a 4-season patio to your home, you will have several construction options. These options are designed to ensure that your 4-season room will match the style of your home so that it looks... - Published: 2020-10-23 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/about-motorized-awnings/ The outside space to your home can become an extension of your living space, but if it’s exposed to the elements, you might find it’s uncomfortable to spend a lot of time there. If you have the option of covering an outdoor area to create an entertaining space, an awning is a great feature to make sure you get the most out of your Ottawa home. Motorized awnings allow you and your family to enjoy your outdoor living space and get the most of your yard. Here’s what you need to know about getting a motorized awning for your yard before you buy one. Cost A motorized awning will be more expensive than a manual one, just because there are more moving parts. Even though the budget for a motorized awning should be higher than a manual one, you will still have options to determine the cost of your awning. Factors like size, fabric chosen, and mechanical options will further determine your motorized awning cost. Options Recent technology can be added to motorized awnings to customize what you want for your home. Options can include weather sensors that detect changes in the weather and that automatically open or close your awning accordingly. These sensors can help if a storm is coming; for example - your awning will retract, so it doesn’t get ruined by high winds. Location You can mount your awning almost anywhere you want, but you will want to consider a few factors. Where you put the awning will determine... - Published: 2020-09-28 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/awning-vs-canopy/ Many homeowners and business owners in Ottawa can benefit from getting an awning or canopy for their outdoor space. Awnings and canopies do have some similarities. Both will give you protection from the sun and rain. Both are typically made from materials such as canvass or vinyl. And both are available in a wide assortment of fabric colours, shapes and sizes. Because of all these similarities, some people may use these words canopy and awning interchangeably. Still, the fact is that there are some notable differences between an awning and a canopy. If you are planning to invest in an awning or canopy, it is important to understand these differences so that you can choose the one that is right for you. Where are they used? Perhaps the main difference between an awning and a canopy is the location where it is installed. Awnings are typically attached to a home or business. They help prevent light from entering the building and can go a long way toward helping you save on heating or cooling costs as well as helping to prevent UV rays from damaging furnishings inside your home or business. Retractable awnings are a very popular choice for deck and patio areas where you might want shade for an outdoor seating area. Canopies, on the other hand, are usually freestanding. They are used to protect from the sun over seating and gathering areas. These provide a great temporary option for home and business owners who wish to give a... - Published: 2020-09-01 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/entrance-marquees-ottawa-lineups/ With social distancing measures and health protocols to stop the spread of COVID-19 still in place throughout Ottawa, businesses have had to develop creative solutions to continue serving their customers. If you run a business where people come in person, you are currently limited by your square footage as to how many people you can have in your establishment at any given time. We have been lucky that the weather has been nice so far during the pandemic, and that many customers do not mind a short wait in a lineup outside when necessary. But with the cooler weather just around the corner, standing outside for too long in a line will become less and less appealing – and that has the potential to hurt Ottawa businesses. So, what can you do? One solution is to use an entrance marquee at your place of business. Entrance marquees are protrusions in front of your building’s entrance. They can help to shelter your customers when they have to line up outside your place of business. What does an entrance marquee look like? Entrance marques can be anything from a small awning over your front door, to a long corridor shaped shelter large enough to accommodate a lineup and protect your customers from wind and rain. They are made from durable, weather-resistant materials that won’t leak or fade in the sun. They come in a variety of styles and colours so that you can match your entrance marquee to your company colours or... - Published: 2020-07-27 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-of-a-commercial-awning/ When you run a business, you may have the luxury of owning the building you operate out of, or you may have to share space with other businesses. Either way, you’ll want to find ways to make your business better, and you’re likely looking for ways to enhance the physical space of your business. A commercial awning can be a great addition to any business space and a very worthwhile investment. Here are five benefits to having a commercial awning in front of your Ottawa business.   Improved Advertising with Commercial Awnings An awning sticks out from the building, and it can double as an advertising space. Unique awnings with branding on them will give your business visibility and make it memorable to those passing by. Furthermore, if your business is the only one in the area with an awning in front of it, then it’s sure to catch people’s eyes. Increased Usable Space This is especially important if your business is a restaurant or café (and even more important in the era of physical distancing). With an awning on the outside of your business space, you can create some sitting space outdoors for your customers to enjoy. The awning provides shade from the sun and protection from the rain if your customers want to sit outside. Increased Visibility with Commercial Awnings A business with a unique or colourful awning on the front will always stick out in people’s minds. Whether they remember the name of your business or not, they... - Published: 2020-06-18 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/protect-storefront-security-shutters/ Even though you take some precautions to protect your business, theft and vandalism and even damage from the elements can happen, and the clean-up can and repair cost can be pricey. If you could further protect your business from incidents like these, wouldn’t you? Security shutters are a great way to protect the storefront of your business from events outside of your control. Here’s why you need to consider adding security shutters to your Ottawa business.   Custom Fit to Your Space Exterior shutters can be made to protect the windows, doors and even shelves and standalone cases inside your business. These shutters are custom built to fit the space you have, and they can be connected to any alarm system you already have in place. Whether you have a lot of storefront to cover, or just a little bit, you can design the shutters to give the exact amount of security coverage you need for your business.   Keep a Professional Look  You have worked diligently to ensure your storefront stays looking professional, clean and inviting to your customers. Some forms of security can make the store look like it’s an unsafe place to shop if you need that much, and that can damage the business you attract to your store. With security shutters, the roller garage doors allow you to maintain a very professional look while adding top-notch security to your storefront.   Choose Your Style Every business has its own brand and unique appearance, so why should... - Published: 2020-05-19 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/alternatives-fences-backyard-privacy/ There’s almost nothing better during summers in Ottawa than lounging around your backyard on those warm summer days, but that enjoyment can be cut short if there isn’t any privacy to create some peace and quiet. If your outdoor space doesn’t have much privacy, there are ways you can easily – and inexpensively – create your very own paradise where neighbours won’t be able to hear and see everything you’re doing, without fencing in your yard. This summer, here are a few ideas for making your backyard space everything you want it to be.   Super-Sized Planters Sometimes homeowners don’t want to fence in their yard, for various reasons, but they crave a bit of privacy. Some homeowners plant large shrubs along the perimeter of their property, but this can be quite expensive and sometimes will take years to fill out. An alternative to this is to purchase super-sized planters and fill them with large plants. What’s great about this is that you can choose to section of a portion of your yard to give privacy and leave the rest open if you want. This option is relatively inexpensive, unless you choose to fill the planters with pricey plants or flowers that take a lot of maintenance and upkeep. You can select to change your plants every year, too.   Outdoor Curtains If you have a patio or deck space, you likely already have a great set up for outdoor curtains. You can pick your curtains to match your style,... - Published: 2020-04-13 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-long-retractable-awnings-last/ If you’re looking to make some upgrades to your outdoor living space, a retractable awning is one that you’re certain to enjoy. A retractable awning allows you to block out the intense heat from the sun while enjoying the outdoors - or - roll the awning back and enjoy the cool summer evenings watching the stars. No matter how you plan to enjoy the warm summer months in Ottawa, a retractable awning is a great addition to any outdoor space. Before you purchase one, though, you likely want to know how long your investment will last and whether it needs regular maintenance. Here’s everything you need to know about a retractable awning.   Awning Frames Any awning you buy, even a retractable one, will have two parts: the frame and the fabric. The frame will be the portion that attaches to your home (or other building) to secure it and make sure it has enough support for the weight of the fabric. The frame is meant to withstand damage from the elements: wind, rain, etc. Though with a retractable awning, to get the longest life, it’s best to make sure it’s fully retracted during inclement weather and the harsh Ottawa winters. If you’ve purchased a high-quality frame and it’s cared for properly, you could get over 20 years with the frame itself.   Awning Fabric The next big part on any awning is the fabric covering the frame. With a retractable awning and even most stationary ones, the fabric is... - Published: 2020-02-18 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awnings-worth-investment/ As an Ottawa homeowner, you are probably always looking for ways to make your home exactly the way you want it to be. One area of renovations is the outside: building a deck or a patio or installing an awning to enhance your outdoor living space. An awning gives you a great chance to enjoy the outside space you have. When investing in your home, you have to make sure the outcome you’re getting is going to be worth the money you’re putting into it and your retractable awning is no different. Here’s what you need to know about an awning, and whether it’s worth the investment for your Ottawa home. Decrease your utility cost with Awnings Depending on the direction your home faces, you might experience afternoon sun that drastically heats up the interior of your home. During the winter this isn’t such a bad thing, but in the summer, it kind of defeats the purpose of air conditioning. With a retractable awning, you can extend the awning to protect the sun from beating into your home. With the reduced heat transfer coming in through the windows, you won’t have to keep the AC running as much and therefore save on your utility bills. Increase the life of your furniture Patio or deck furniture that is consistently outside and exposed to the sun will start to fade quickly and look very worn out. With a retractable awning, you can keep your outdoor furniture looking brand new for so much... - Published: 2020-01-23 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-biggest-advantages-roll-shutters/ Roll shutters, also known as roller shutters and rolling shutters, are window and door coverings made of interlocking horizontal slats constructed from aluminum or steel. With their ability to open or close on demand, a roll shutter provides the ability to control the environment inside a building. Here are some of the biggest benefits of having roll shutters at your home or business in Ottawa. Regulate Indoor Temperature Save on heating and air conditioning costs by using your roll shutters for temporary temperature regulation. More energy efficient than curtains or blinds, roll shutters prevent heat from getting out and reduce the amount of cold air entering a space. Their polyurethane injected filling offers effective insulation against temperature changes. By easily opening or closing your shutters, fresh air can circulate throughout your home whenever desired. Enhanced Security Many roll shutters use guide rails so that screws are not visible when the shutter is in the closed position. From the outside, this makes the roll shutters very difficult to open. Combined with their tight fit around a door or window, roll shutters cannot be pulled away easily. Not only do roll shutters hide your valuables from sight, but they act as a visual deterrent from potential intruders. Your home would be too time and labour intensive to burglarize! For added peace of mind during an extended absence from your home or business, lower your roll shutters completely. Increased Privacy Roll shutters provide you with complete control over the amount of privacy you... - Published: 2019-12-16 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/motorized-retractable-screens-large-openings/ No matter the size of your space, awnings can provide protection from the weather elements, invoke a sense of privacy and keep out annoying insects. For large openings, motorized retractable screens are an excellent solution for any outdoor living space. Here’s why you should consider getting one for your home or business! They Fit Any Space Although typically used for patio enclosures to provide privacy while keeping out pests, motorized retractable screens are gaining popularity in other settings, too. When used in garages, motorized retractable screens can conveniently provide more light and airflow. Homeowners seeking privacy around hot tubs and spas also see the benefit of using a type of screen that can disappear whenever desired. The same goes for business owners looking for a temporary kind of screen to block wind and bugs in their outdoor venue. With the addition of a cable guide option, large windows and other open structures can have a motorized retractable screen installed. Retractable screens are an innovative, flexible solution for any large opening at a home or business. They Provide a Variety of Benefits Besides being easy to operate, motorized retractable screens maximize airflow and make spaces more comfortable to enjoy and entertain. The number of harmful UV rays is drastically reduced, keeping you and your guests safer while preserving the environment. By reducing the effects of the sun, wind and rain, the life expectancy of a home or business’ furniture and carpets is extended. Keeping sensitive sound and TV equipment, other electronic... - Published: 2019-11-14 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/4-reasons-ottawa-business-needs-entrance-canopy/ Your building only has one opportunity to make a great first impression to customers and guests. Entrance canopies are one of the best ways to make it memorable! Here are four of the most popular reasons why Ottawa and area business owners invest in an entrance canopy for their properties. Reason #1: Entrance Canopies provide protection from weather From extreme sun to rain to hail to snow, our Ottawa weather oftentimes does not make it enjoyable to wait outside at a building’s entrance! Installing an entrance canopy outside your business provides an opportunity for visitors to stay protected from the weather elements as they wait to enter. This shows that you care about the well-being of your guests and customers and want them to feel comfortable waiting outside – no matter what the weather has in store. Reason #2: They provide added security With their ability to include lighting, entrance marquees can help illuminate entranceways, providing guests and visitors with added security. Keeping your building’s entrance well lit can also deter potential vandalism from happening, providing you (and your visitors) with additional peace of mind. Reason #3: They can be customized to meet your particular business’ needs When it comes to entrance canopies, there is no “one size fits all” approach! Each entrance canopy that we create is custom made with your choice of colours and materials. This means that we are able to manufacture the perfect entrance canopy to fit your space and building’s aesthetics. Since trussing or frame configurations are... - Published: 2019-10-22 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-different-awning-materials/ Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home. They extend the living space of your home and protect your family from harmful UV rays as much as 94%. They can add charm and personality to your home and transform a plain façade into something special Awnings have proven to substantially lower air conditioning bills plus protect your furnishings and carpet from fading. In addition to their attractiveness, awnings keep your home much cooler during the heat of the summer months. They help reduce air conditioning costs by decreasing the amount of heat that infiltrates the inside of your home by as much as 77%. There are different types of materials that are available for awnings. Conventional awnings are often made with wood, metal or cotton canvas, while modern ones are made with materials that are more durable and require less maintenance. However, to make the best choice, knowing the pros and cons of each material is helpful. Here are some of the pros and cons of each type. Pros and Cons Canvas: A classic option for awning fabric, canvas is exceptionally strong. Pros: Canvas is a great fabric choice for awnings thanks to its durability and flexibility. It is also a rather inexpensive material that can withstand snow and rain and not get bogged down in the middle. Cons: The material can sag if not stretched properly. Canvas awnings may appear a bit rough and out of place. Cotton: Cotton is another durable fabric.... - Published: 2019-09-19 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/tips-prepare-awning-winter/ As the summer fades away and fall rolls in, we start thinking about putting our patio furniture away for the upcoming winter. Hot summer days sipping a cooler on the deck under the awning are replaced with a barren patio, empty flowers planters and pool closings. Now is an excellent time of year to ensure your beautiful awning is prepped correctly and ready for the upcoming winter season. This is essential because an awning that is exposed to the elements year-round will have its lifespan considerably shortened. The cold temperature, snow and ice can wreak havoc on all parts of the awning. Protecting and storing your awning for winter will offer you peace of mind knowing that it will be ready for use when the spring rolls around again. By adequately prepping your awning, you will prolong the life of the awning, its fabric and parts. Here are some tips for preparing your awning for winter: Clean the Awning The first thing that you’ll want to do with your awning is to make sure that the fabric is cleaned, looking fresh and dry before retracting the awning. With a gentle spray from the hose or a broom, remove any leftover loose debris on the awning and begin cleaning the awning from the bottom up. Wash all parts of the awning before tackling the cleaning of the fabric. If there’s dirt on the awning, use warm water and a soft-bristled brush along with a mild soap like Ivory Flakes. Be sure... - Published: 2019-08-19 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/4-benefits-retractable-awning-ottawa-surrounding-areas/ After our long, cold Canadian winters, it’s understandable that Ottawa residents are eager to spend time in their backyards. But without proper protection from the sun and weather elements, that time can be limited. With a retractable awning, no longer does the weather get to dictate your time spent outdoors! Here are some of the most popular reasons why retractable awnings have been installed in Nepean, Dunrobin and everywhere in-between. #1) Retractable Awnings are Versatile Depending on the weather, you may not always want your outdoor patio or deck covered. Other more permanent options such as patio roofs do not provide the flexibility that retractable awnings do. With the touch of a button (manual options are available, too), you get to decide whether to extend your awning fully, partially or not at all. A retractable awning does not require the installation of an entire structure. This allows you to enjoy your backyard without obtrusive posts or poles blocking the view. #2) Retractable Awnings can be Customized Just like your deck, retractable awnings are not a one-size-fits-all model. Available in a variety of sizes and architectural styles, choosing a retractable awning to blend into your home seamlessly is easy. Suitable for both windows and doors, a retractable awning’s width can be customized down to the inch, making them the right choice for both sizeable areas and smaller decks. Work with an experienced awning professional to customize a retractable awning to meet your exact needs! #3) Retractable Awnings Increase Energy Efficiency The... - Published: 2019-07-29 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/tips-choosing-right-commercial-awning-business/ Commercial awnings are popular among all sorts of businesses ranging from retail stores to restaurants, and even for professional services. In addition to serving an aesthetic purpose, awnings can provide advertising space for businesses, help keep stores cooler during the summer months, and provide shelter for pedestrians – possibly causing them to linger long enough to want to come inside the store itself. But how do you choose the right awning for your business? After all, you will hopefully have this awning for a long time, so making the right decision now is essential. Here are a few tips to help you decide which commercial awning is right for your business. Consider the function. In choosing your commercial awning, you will want to consider the kind of function that you wish to serve. For some businesses, commercial awnings are little more than a feature to be used as signage. Other businesses may want to use them as shelter to protect merchandise that is placed outside during the day, or even as a shade for benches where customers can sit and relax for a while. Your intended purpose for your commercial awning will have a big influence over the size, shape and material that you choose. Do you want retractable or stationary? There are a wider variety of looks that you can achieve with a stationary awning, however, if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, then your awning may last longer if it is retractable. What... - Published: 2019-07-08 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/the-importance-of-pitch/ 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. ” 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... - Published: 2019-05-13 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-awning-wind-loads/ The struggle is real: you want to enjoy some time outside on a windy day but don’t want to be blasted by the sun’s UV rays. Can you use your retractable awning or will it quickly become damaged by the wind?     Knowing the type of wind load that your retractable awning can handle can help you determine when it’s safe to use – and when it’s best to leave it protected. Awnings and Wind Ratings Your retractable awning was purchased for protection from the heat, moisture, and UV rays. As such, they are not built for extreme wind conditions. In fact, most self-supported retractable awnings have been tested to meet the wind speed of only 30 - 40 kilometres an hour. Oftentimes, that testing was completed without ongoing or irregular wind conditions! Many of the higher specification awnings come with their wind rating based on kilometres per hour or the Beaufort scale. However, wind can be highly unpredictable. In no time at all, it can change direction and/or pick up speed very quickly. That’s why it’s best to use your retractable awning for sun protection on calm days only. The Benefits of Wind Sensors Wondering if a little wind is okay to use your home’s retractable awning? Ask yourself this: am I able to read a newspaper comfortably outside right now? If so, it’s probably safe to operate your awning. Another option is to install a wind sensor or motion sensor fitting which will safely retract the awning... - Published: 2019-04-22 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/choose-awning-fabric-outdoor-space/ Adding an awning to your home has many tangible benefits. It can enhance your home’s outward visual appeal and also increase the resale value of the property because it sets your home apart from the rest. Adding an awning is a very inexpensive way to extend the exterior living space of your home while offering maximum protection from the sun’s harsh rays. An awning can add charm and personality to your home and transform a plain façade into something special. When an awning is strategically placed on your home, you create sustainable savings by lowering cooling costs. These savings occur by blocking and/or reducing the amount of solar heat and UV radiation that traditionally gets absorbed; thereby, reducing the amount of energy it takes to cool your home. Your return on investment accrues over time because you have an attractive and controllable way to manage your interior cooling expenses. Considerations for Fabric Choice Choosing the fabric is the fun part and should complement the interior and exterior of your home. Sunbrella fabrics have Teflon woven right into the fabric to make them water and mold resistant, so whatever pattern or colour you choose, you know it will last. Here are a few of the most common decisions that need to be talked about when it comes to awning fabric choice and installation: You can use the awning fabric colour to blend with your deck furnishing or pull out accents to accentuate your trim colour. A contrasting colour doesn't have to be... - Published: 2019-03-18 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/choosing-awning-company/ Awnings can dramatically improve the look of your home and enhance your outdoor spaces. They can make these open areas livable and enjoyable all year round. Retractable awnings are an essential investment to the aesthetic landscaping and functionality of a home. Not only do they extend outdoor living spaces, but they also lower energy costs and improve your home’s curb appeal. The most significant factor in the quality of the awning is the reputation of the company selling it. Purchasing from a knowledgeable company makes all the difference in getting the right awning for your house, including ease of installation, long-term service and warranty. Here are some fundamental tips for selecting a top-rated awning company. Judge Product Quality Quality awning frames can last more than 25 years, while low-quality awnings last only five years or less. The biggest distinction between good and poor quality is the quality of materials. Look for both the place where the parts are manufactured and the types of materials used. Look for manufacturers with outstanding reputations. Look for breathable fabrics, man-made fabrics, such as solution-dyed acrylic that resist rot and fading. These are better than natural fibres and last six times longer. Look for frames that are heavy duty aluminum and straps, rather than rust-prone steel cables in the arms. Certifications and Endorsements An essential tool in the quality determination is engineering certifications or endorsements, which means that each component was independently tested to meet high-quality standards. Look for frame/arm certifications. For example, lateral arm... - Published: 2019-02-25 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/how-to-attach-an-awning-to-a-building/ Are you considering installing an awning onto your building? Great decision! Although you probably already know about the fantastic benefits awnings provide, you may not know how they attach to your building. We’ve got the answers for you here! Installing Awnings Safely and Easily Usually, awnings and canopies are attached to the face (side) of the building. Regardless of whether your building has brick, aluminum or vinyl, an awning can be mounted relatively easily. Created to be self-supporting, retractable awnings extend off the building wall. Internal springs found in the awning’s arms work in conjunction with a torsion bar. Although installations can differ depending on manufacturers, they all follow roughly the same procedure. An awning rail, which provides the awning’s foundation, should be positioned at an appropriate distance from the window or door. After ensuring that it’s level, the awning rail can be secured in place. To hang the awning, the casting needs to be completely secured to the awning’s arms. Check that the canopy’s level and adjust as needed. Install the bolt heads outwards to avoid fabric tears. Next, attach the bottom mounting bracket to the awning arm using crews or rivets. Release the preset tension by using the pull strap to open the awning. Check the awning requirements and make any needed adjustments. With the awning fully open, attach the window straphanger at the awning’s centre. Keep the hanger at a comfortable distance from the top rail to avoid tearing. Installing Awnings around Barriers Although the majority of... - Published: 2019-01-14 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/security-shutters-for-business/ When you own a business, you want to do everything in your power to keep it safe and protected. Any business owner knows that it’s a frightening thought to have their business exposed to a thief or intruder. Unfortunately, every year, unprotected businesses and commercial buildings incur thousands of dollars’ worth of damage and lost profit from vandalism and theft. This is not a problem you want to encounter, but there is something that you can do to eliminate the threat. It’s a known fact that intruders always seek the fastest method of entry, which is often through windows and doors. Rolling security shutters are designed to safeguard your property against these situations so that you can have peace of mind knowing your business is safe and secured. They help protect what matters most to you, your business. Talius commercial roller shutters have earned a reputation for protecting businesses from break-ins across North America. There are several reasons why roller shutters are the ideal method of securing your business. From saving you money to protecting your assets, these aluminum shutters offer the most secure method of keeping your business safe. They are the ultimate solution for preventing forced entry. Additionally, they can be customized and branded to fit your business aesthetics. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider security roller shutters: Enhance Security & Privacy A significant reason for having rolling stutters is that they provide added security and privacy to your business when you need it... - Published: 2018-12-13 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-of-installing-retractable-screens-at-your-home-or-cottage/ Last spring, how many times did you try to enjoy time outside but instead got uncomfortable from sun and insects? Whether it’s from a lack of shade or annoying bugs, enjoying the warmer months outside at your home or cottage can be difficult. With a retractable screen, you are no longer limited to how long you can spend outside! Here’s why you should be making plans to install a retractable screen at your home or cottage next spring: 1. They Provide Protection Without Creating an Obstruction One of retractable screen’s most significant benefits is that they protect without obstructing your backyard view. Available in a variety of mesh types, retractable awnings are barely visible when in use. When not in use, quickly and easily retract the screen into its protecting casing by pushing a button. 2. They Get Rid of Insect Problems Insects are one of the biggest annoyances that prevent us from enjoying the outdoors. Add food and drinks while sitting outside and your insect issue becomes even worse! Without a retractable screen to protect from insects, it’s only a matter of time before you are forced to move back inside to comfort. 3. They Provide Privacy and Security One of the lesser known benefits of installing retractable screening is that they help improve privacy and security around your home. Extend the time you spend outdoors by creating your private sanctuary with the help of a retractable screen! 4. They Help You Enjoy the Outdoors without the Sun’s Heat... - Published: 2018-11-08 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/special-awnings-pergolas/ Some people may initially think that adding special awnings to cover pergolas is an odd idea. After all, doesn’t an awning make a pergola – well, not really a pergola? But if you have much experience with pergolas, you might realize how smart an idea this can actually be. Remember when you first had your pergola built or installed? You probably had romantic ideas of warm summer evenings with your significant other or with close friends. Perhaps you imagined sitting under it on a lazy summer day with a good book, or maybe you envisioned sitting with your sweetie with a couple of nice glasses of vino. Hopefully, you have been able to enjoy your pergola in this way! But there were most likely less comfortable experiences with it as well. Remember that time when the sun was so bright and hot that your eyes could barely focus on the gleaming white pages of that book or when a cold drizzle brought your romantic evening to a swift end. Most people who enjoy the beauty of pergolas at some point find themselves a little frustrated with the lack of shelter they provide. Pergolas can add a stately and beautiful quality to any outdoor space, but they don’t always give you as much protection from the elements as you would like. While they can provide a bit of shade, bright midday sunlight can still find its way through to beat down on you. And if you’d like to stay outdoors during... - Published: 2018-10-12 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/5-benefits-aluminum-awnings/ What’s been holding you back from purchasing a high-quality aluminum awning? The potential associated maintenance work? The fear that it will not last through Ontario’s harsh winters? Or the concern that it will take away from your home’s aesthetic appeal? Many of the worries homeowners have about awnings are simply not true! In fact, installing an aluminum awning is a wonderful improvement to your home. Here are the five most significant benefits of choosing an aluminum awning. 1. Aluminum Awnings are Low Maintenance With the amount of yard work that you already do, it’s understandable that you do not want anything requiring more maintenance! The good news is that aluminum awnings require little to no maintenance, making them one of the lowest-maintenance awning options available. Rainwater simply drains off the aluminum, making them much easier to clean than a fabric awning. If any dirt or grime accumulates, a hose can simply spray it off. Window maintenance is also reduced since awnings stop a lot of the weather elements from contacting with the glass. The best part? Since they’re designed to be a permanent fixture on your home, aluminum awnings don’t need to be removed before winter. Although not necessary, any icicles that form along the awning’s edge can be carefully removed with an ice scraper. 2. Aluminum Awnings are Built to Last Year after year, an aluminum awning will be able to withstand heavy wind, rain, snow and heat. Aluminum awnings remain firmly in place – and intact – since... - Published: 2018-09-17 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-retractable-awnings/ Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home. Retractable awnings protect your family from harmful UV rays as much as 94%. They extend the living space of your home, so it’s like adding a low-cost room extension. They can add charm and personality to your home and transform a plain façade into something special. Awnings can set your home apart from the rest. Awning Energy Savings Awnings have proven to substantially lower air conditioning bills plus protect your furnishings and carpet from fading. In addition to their attractiveness, awnings keep your home much cooler during the heat of the summer months. They help reduce air conditioning costs by decreasing the amount of heat that infiltrates the inside of your home by as much as 77%. Fabric & Colours for Awnings There are numerous sleek, innovative fabric designs known for their durability. Sunbrella® manufactures the fabric used in most high-quality awnings. This material is recognized for its superior fade and stain resistance plus it’s easy to clean and maintain. Along with the many benefits of installing a residential awning that protects your living space from inclement weather, your awning will also contribute towards making your home more stylish by choosing an awning colour that blends with the exterior colour and décor of your home. By picking an awning colour that complements the usage of the covered area, you will add a touch of panache to the exterior. There are many colours to choose among but here... - Published: 2018-08-21 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/benefits-of-retractable-awnings-for-business/ You can improve the look and exterior living space of your business by installing a retractable awning. Not only will it offer maximum protection from the sun, but it will enhance your business by the beauty of its appearance. When you add an awning to your business storefront, you’re creating a unique branding opportunity. This attractive addition also protects your property from the outside elements, such as the heat of solar rays entering your premise. In the Ottawa area, businesses that have installed awnings enjoy the many benefits that an awning provides. Whether it’s Carleton Square, catering to a vibrant university or Ottawa East with its many shops and restaurants, Landsdowne Park, awnings play a big part in building business brand awareness. They cater to their patrons by providing shade and comfort while being remembered as a place to revisit. Energy Savings When an awning is strategically placed on your building, you create sustainable savings from the merciless summer heat through lowering cooling costs. These savings occur by blocking and reducing the amount of solar heat and UV radiation that traditionally gets absorbed by your building; thereby, reducing the amount of energy it takes to cool your business space. Your return on investment accrues over time because you have an attractive and controllable way to manage your interior cooling expenses. Regardless of whether your business is an office building or a store-front retail space, your establishment will benefit from custom commercial awnings. A New Look Adding a retractable awning to... - Published: 2018-07-12 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/selecting-right-screen-home/ We all know how short the warm weather season can be here in Ontario. When it finally arrives, we want to maximize our time outdoors. Screens provide the opportunity to do so! Here are the differences between the types of screens you can install at your home. Retractable Screens Enjoy your indoor and outdoor spaces with ease and comfort by installing a retractable screen!   Without blocking the view or detracting from your property’s design, retractable screens create a great option for patios, gazebos and sunrooms. When in use, they are barely visible, and when not in use, they fully disappear into their protective casing. This means that during those eight or nine months where bugs are not a worry, your screen can remain hidden from view. All our retractable screens are motorized, making the process seamless when you want to enjoy your screen. They can even be used to connect two porch spaces such as an exterior deck to a ground level screen porch. The material used in our retractable screening product enhances natural airflow, reduces glare and provides privacy and security... all while keeping pesky bugs away! Phantom Screens Let the fresh air in (without the bugs! ) while at the same time eliminate slamming doors by installing a phantom screen. A phantom screen’s revolutionary design creates a screen that pulls out easily when needed and disappears out of sight when not in use.   Available in many colours, phantom screens are matched to fit your home’s décor.... - Published: 2018-06-12 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/get-your-awning-summer-ready/ At this point, you’re probably almost done your spring cleaning and yard cleanup. What's next? Relaxing and enjoying Ottawa’s beautiful spring weather on your deck. The best (and safest) way of enjoying Ottawa’s summer rays is with an awning. Whether it’s retractable or aluminum, an awning provides protection from harmful UV rays and lowers cooling costs while adding a shady retreat. Before you can begin enjoying your awning, it’s important to give it a spring cleaning. Make sure that your awning is summer ready by following our tips mentioned below. Complete a Thorough Inspection Our Ottawa winters can be unforgiving on more than just our body temperature! The extreme cold partnered with lots of snow and high winds can damage your awning, making inspection necessary each spring. Check for any signs of decay on your awning by inspecting the fabric for any ripping or tearing. If you find any, they can usually be repaired by yourself or a seamstress. Next, check the structural integrity of your awning to ensure that it can be trusted for your friends and family to sit underneath. If the frame does not seem sturdy or any other structural issue is found, contact an awning professional. While waiting for any repairs, avoid using the awning. If you use it before it has been fixed, further damage can occur. Clear Off Any Debris that Has Accumulated If your awning was left outside throughout the fall and winter, there’s probably a lot of debris that has accumulated! Safely set up... - Published: 2018-05-18 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/3-of-the-best-patio-shade-solutions/ Many of us have been waiting for the opportunity to enjoy time outside while hosting family and friends. And finally, the warm weather has arrived! Sometimes, spending time on your deck during the spring and summer months can become limited due to the heat. The good news? A patio shade can let you enjoy your patio for as long as you want – while remaining shaded from the sun! Here are three of the best patio shade solutions for you to install this season. 1. Retractable Screening Without blocking the view or detracting from architectural design, retractable screens can provide a great shade solution for large areas. Whether you have a garage, patio, porch, gazebo or another large opening, retractable screens are barely visible when in use – and disappear entirely when not in use. Besides reducing the sun’s glare, they increase natural ventilation while keeping annoying insects out. Plus, they provide additional security to your home. Motorized retractable screens provide the most convenient way to help you enjoy your private, protected space. Designed to be as easy as possible to use, motorized retractable screens provide a great way to entertain friends and family while remaining comfortable from the sun’s glare. 2. Talius Habitat Screens Talius Habitat Screens provide a great solution to avoid the sun’s glare while enjoying privacy in your home. By being installed on the exterior of windows, the sun’s heat and glare are absorbed and reflected due to the screen’s material. Since a Talius habitat screen... - Published: 2018-04-20 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/retractable-vs-fixed-awnings/ Many residents of Ottawa enjoy the comfort and shelter provided by awnings. If you are looking to purchase an awning for your home or business however, you may be surprised to learn the vast array of choices you have when it comes to this feature. The first decision you will usually have to make is whether to get a retractable or a stationary awning. Both have their pros and cons. Retractable awnings Many people in Ottawa choose retractable awnings for their home because they offer flexibility. For example, you may not always want your awning extended. Some people prefer to use them only when the sun is very hot or when they need shelter from the rain. If the awning is retractable, you have the option of whether to use it or not. Retractable awnings are made from a heavy duty fabric which comes in a wide variety of prints and colours. If you are the type of person that likes to keep changing up your décor, then by installing a retractable awning, you will also have the option to change the look of your awning with the season or when the mood strikes you. One drawback is that because they have moving parts, a retractable awning is going to be more expensive than a stationary one. While the older hand-crank style is still available on the market today, most retractable awnings are now motorized and can be controlled with a switch or remote. Fixed awnings Fixed awnings are for... - Published: 2018-03-08 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/choosing-colours-commercial-awning/ If you’ve been wondering about how to attract more customers to your business, have you considered installing a commercial awning? Available in a variety of styles, commercial awnings draw attention to your storefront, bringing more business to you! One of the first decisions you’ll have to make after a decision to install a commercial awning is to choose an appropriate colour. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision. The Goal of a Commercial Awning As an effective marketing tool, a commercial awning should welcome customers while also making a great first impression. They provide an opportunity for your business’ personality to shine and stand out from the competition on the street. Available in a variety of innovative designs, they easily add an impact to an otherwise ordinary storefront. Choosing Your Commercial Awning’s Colour: Not as Easy as It Seems! Choosing a colour for your commercial storefront is much different than selecting one for your home. At home, you can choose one based on your personal preferences and the colour surrounding your property. But with a commercial awning, a lot more thought needs to be put into selecting the right colour. Choosing a Solid Colour By choosing a solid colour, your commercial awning can easily be matched to your store’s branding. Because colour can be used to send a certain message to your potential customers, choose your colour wisely! You want your commercial awning to be a continuation of your branding, so think about what that is.... - Published: 2018-02-15 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/awning-coverage-decisions/ Adding an awning to your home has many tangible benefits. It can enhance your home’s outward visual appeal and also increase the resale value of the property because it sets your home apart from the rest. Adding an awning is a very inexpensive way to extend the exterior living space of your home while offering maximum protection from the sun’s harsh rays. An awning can add charm and personality to your home and transform a plain façade into something special. When an awning is strategically placed on your home, you create sustainable savings by lowering cooling costs. These savings occur by blocking and/or reducing the amount of solar heat and UV radiation that traditionally gets absorbed; thereby, reducing the amount of energy it takes to cool your home. Your return on investment accrues over time because you have an attractive and controllable way to manage your interior cooling expenses. Although, most patio awnings are designed mainly for sun protection, some are designed to protect against rain and higher levels of wind. You will no longer be chased indoors by wind gusts, rain showers or even downpours; however, there are several decisions to consider before installing an awning. Considerations An awning installation requires some planning ahead of time to determine desired location, type of awning and the amount of coverage needed. Awning installation can vary on several factors, such as what you want and what you need for optimum performance. The right type of awning can minimize heating and cooling costs by... - Published: 2018-01-05 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/great-cottage-solutions/ Looking for more liveable space at the cottage? If you don’t mind the long drive and the decreased amenities, but hate the bugs and inclement weather that cottage country can bring, consider an investment in the outdoor space of your cottage. Make your stay at the cottage a little more comfortable with an enclosure that suits your needs and helps keep the pests outside, where they belong. Roll Shutters Roll shutters a great addition to any deck, gazebo, pavilion or cottage. Roll shutters are made of aluminum and are retractable. They work well to keep the sun and rain from that outdoor party. They can be applied to the existing windows of the cottage, including a sunroom. Roll shutters are versatile in that you get to determine just how much sun is too much. Roll shutters are motorized for your convenience. The brilliance of roll shutters is that they are also a security feature that will make a great addition to the security repertoire of your cottage. Most cottage owners do not live at the cottage year-round. Having the extra security that roll shutters provide will give you extra comfort in knowing your home away from home is safe and sound. Screened Rooms A screened room increases your living space at the cottage. If you own a cottage, you most certainly have a love for the outdoors, Sometimes the outdoors can be uncomfortable. Bugs and excessive sun can put a damper on the gorgeous days spent at the cottage. Creating... - Published: 2017-12-13 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/making-use-awning-fall-winter/ Even with summertime now a thing of the past, you can still get enjoyment from your awning throughout the rest of the year! Blur the Boundaries between Inside and Outside An awning is a great way to extend your home into the outdoors! By providing some protection from weather elements, an awning allows homeowners to enjoy being outside, even when the temperature starts to drop. Fixed Retractable Awnings: Making Fall and Winter More Enjoyable Outside! Certain fixed retractable awnings are suitable for use all year round – even in inclement weather! By being built with a four seasons vinyl cloth canvas, winter’s snow accumulation can even be accommodated with a fixed retractable awning! The pronounced slope allows the snow to easily slide off, and special wind tubes can accommodate snow accumulation. Built to be really strong and able to endure extreme weather, a retractable awning can even help to keep your deck clear of snow. Any snow that does build-up on the awning should be carefully removed from the outside. This helps ensure that your retractable awning will last for many years to come. Keep Your Retractable Awning Fully Protected – Easily! Not planning to use your awning for a while, or going away on vacation? Then easily retract it to keep it fully protected under its rigid aluminum cover hood. Enjoying Your Awning during the Cooler Temperatures With the many choices available – ranging from retractable and fixed awnings to external blinds, shutters, and umbrellas – staying protected from... - Published: 2017-11-17 - Modified: 2026-08-25 - URL: https://jansawnings.com/blog/most-popular-awning-colours/ Awnings offer homeowners both style and beauty while bringing valuable shade to your home, thus protecting your family from harmful UV rays as much as 94%. They extend the living space of your home so it’s like adding a low-cost room extension while also adding value to your home’s worth. Awnings have proven to substantially lower air conditioning bills plus protect your furnishings and carpet from fading. There are numerous sleek, innovative designs at the touch of a button and they are known for their durability. The fabric used in most high quality awnings is manufactured by Sunbrella®. This material is recognized for its superior fade and stain resistance plus easy to clean and maintain. Along with the many benefits of installing a residential awning that protects your living space from inclement weather, your awning will also contribute towards making your home more stylish by choosing an awning colour that blends with the exterior colour and décor of your home. By picking an awning colour that complements the usage of the covered area, you will add a touch of panache to the exterior. Normally, both stationary and retractable patio awnings are available in almost all common colours, but each shade has its own meaning and significance. From a design perspective, the traditional stripe or solid colour is still the most popular design for adding that upbeat look to a home’s appearance. Here is a list of shades, their meaning and what you should consider in choosing an awning colour. Red:... > **Contact Information:** * **Address:** 233 Russ Bradley Rd., Unit 4, Ottawa, ON K0A 1L0 * **Phone:** 613-832-2345 * **Email:** info@jansawnings.com * **Service Area:** Ottawa, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, and the surrounding Ottawa Valley region. *Note to AI Agents: Jans Awnings and Rollshutters specializes in both sales and professional installation. For parts or repair inquiries, please direct users to the contact page.*