If you’ve ever wished you could control the sun, you’re not alone. For much of the year, we beg for it to shine down. But in the summer, the opposite can be true.
If you have a south- or west-facing deck, you’re no stranger to the damage caused by UV rays – from fading or peeling stain and paint to fading patio cushions. Not to mention overheated guests.
While the sun doesn’t come with a dimmer switch, Aquadome’s awnings and rolling pergolas offer the next best option.
An awning at the dock is a perfect way to protect boats; adding an awning to your home or cottage can shelter your windows – keeping the interior from overheating and the air conditioner from being overworked – and extend how much you can enjoy your outdoor sitting areas. They limit your family’s sun exposure on hot days and can allow you to enjoy the outdoors when it rains.
A retractable pergola operates like a retractable awning, opening and closing to provide shade when needed, says Tanya Neal, co-owner of Aquadome. What makes the rolling pergola unique is its expansive, customizable dimensions.
Using fixed vertical support posts, a rolling pergola can reach dimensions of 22 ft by 20 ft – providing coverage to any large deck, patio, or outdoor entertaining area.
Aquadome has been customizing dock slip awnings, cantilevered awnings, and retractable awnings for homes and cottages for over 30 years. Each structure features a lightweight frame and a tightly fitted, durable marine-grade fabric that is tailor-made for each location and comes in a wide range of colours and finishes.
“We use UV-resistant outdoor fabrics that will withstand fading, and stand up well against mould and mildew season after season,” says Tanya.
This year, black and gray awnings have been hot sellers. But Tanya says each colour has its advantages.
“Green, blue, and brown are great because they blend in with the environment. White, black, and navy are perfect for accenting existing cottage structures. And brighter hues like red and purple are excellent if you want to have a pop of colour, or maybe match the Muskoka chairs.”
No matter your style or exposure to the elements, it’s easy to get customized coverage at the lake.
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
