Spring in the Shade: Growing Beautiful Flowers in Your Shaded Areas

Spring has arrived, and Floridians are enjoying their outdoor spaces more than ever. Retractable awning owners can spend their days under a shelter of comfort and protection and may be considering what flowering plants will thrive in those spaces as well. Here are a few tips to brighten your outdoor spaces this spring with flowers! 

Sun Exposure

When choosing plants for your shaded oasis you will likely see terms like full sun, full sun to partial shade, partial shade (part shade), dappled sun/shade, and full shade. These phrases refer to the level of sun exposure the plants will need to thrive. Under your retractable awning, it is best to choose plants that are flexible between partial shade, dappled sun/shade, and full shade. If you are growing flowers in hanging baskets or pots that are out on the perimeter of your awning you can opt for those flowers that are more strictly in the partial shade category, as these plants are likely receiving more sun exposure.

Flowers That Thrive in Shaded Florida Spaces

When choosing flowers to brighten up your outdoor shaded spaces, we recommend hardy plants that are easy to care for.  As with any plant, you want to be sure to follow the specific watering and fertilizing guidelines suggested for the plant when you are buying it. Here are a few flowering plants that will provide beautiful blooms under the comfort and protection of your awning. 

• Philodendrons are easy to care for and are known for their ability to thrive in a wide range of light conditions.

• Butterfly Iris plants can grow up to two feet tall and attract butterflies. 

• Pentas and Lantana both provide beautiful blooms, and are very low-maintenance, but may require a bit more sun exposure than others

• Calibrachoa flowers are often called “million bells.” They are in the petunia family and have lovely red, orange, purple, and white flowers that spill over the edge of containers. 

• Peace Lily flowers grow well in shaded areas. Their bright white blooms are striking, but be careful not to overwater. 

• Ornamental Gingers come in a wide variety. These low-maintenance flowers work well under awnings and shaded areas.

• Oakleaf Hydrangea is considered a shrub but has lovely white, red, yellow, and pink blooms.

• Crossandra also known as the“firecracker flower” adds a beautiful, tropical touch to your backyard garden.

• Begonias also come in a wide variety with blooms in white, red, pink, or lavender. 

Spring Into Comfort and Protection with Authority Home Solutions

At Authority Home Solutions, we are passionate about helping homeowners to love and enjoy their outdoor spaces. We provide the highest quality products and services to ensure that your awning provides durable protection from rain and damaging UV rays while adding value to your home. For the comfort, style, and protection of a retractable awning, storm protection, or Easyshades, look no further than Authority Home Solutions, Florida’s #1 awning provider and installer. We proudly serve the Villages, Ocala, Leesburg, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your free demonstration. 

A Big Surprise This Valentine’s Day

It is that time of year again. Love is in the air, and conventional Valentine’s gifts are flying off the shelves of local stores. Flowers, chocolates, and jewelry are fairly common gifts shared with loved ones. What if, this year, you gave a gift that was truly memorable and could be cherished by your Valentine all year long? 

The Gift of Experiences

Retractable Awnings are an affordable way to add value to your home. With the touch of a button, you can create an outdoor area that is comfortable for you and your Valentine. An awning would allow you to enjoy your home and your outdoor spaces with privacy and protection. Imagine all of the days and nights you could enjoy under your awning listening to music, playing games, reading, watching wildlife, sharing a meal, or just enjoying each other’s company.

The Gift of Protection

Retractable awnings can protect you and your Valentine from light rain and intense heat from the sun. Under your awning, you can expect a 90% reduction in your exposure to UV rays. These UV rays damage your skin and eyes. With a retractable awning, you can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about sunburns, or worse, skin cancer! 

The Gift of Romance 

A retractable awning creates the perfect space for romantic meals and quality time spent together. Consider adding string lights to your awning for an added romantic effect. For additional privacy and wind protection, you can opt for an awning like our SunSetter Pro model that features a built-in drop screen that unrolls in seconds.  

Customized for Your Valentine

Awning models can be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose motorized or manual models. There are so many models to choose from and options for different colors or patterns for your awning fabric. Consider what would work best for your home, needs, and of course, the preferences of the one you love!

You can make a big statement this Valentine’s Day with an affordable investment that adds value to your relationship and your home. At Authority Home Solutions, we are passionate about providing homeowners with beautiful, protective outdoor spaces they will love. For over ten years we have been helping homeowners in the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas to create safe, beautiful outdoor spaces. You can count on Central Florida’s #1 awning provider to provide your #1 valentine with a gift they will cherish for many years to come.  Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Enjoying Your Spaces with Motorized Garage Door Screens

The home garage has so many uses. Whether you are taking on a car repair, spending time in your garage workshop, creating storage, working out, doing laundry, or entertaining friends, your garage can be a more comfortable space for you and your family. With a motorized garage door screen, you can enjoy the flexible space of your garage with the touch of a button!

Cooler

Having a motorized garage door screen installed will block 97% of the sun’s damaging UV rays that reach your garage. This means cooler temperatures and safer conditions for you and your family. The garage door screen blocks the sun’s rays while still allowing airflow for maximum comfort. 

Keeping Harsh Weather Outdoors

If your garage is housing cars, bikes, golf carts, or house storage, consider protecting these items from the elements. You can work and spend time in your garage during harsher weather as the weave of the motorized garage door screen protects the inside of your garage from debris and rain. 

Pests Aren’t Welcome

Don’t let spiders, mosquitos, and other annoying pests interfere with your garage space. The motorized garage door screen keeps pests out, saving you from bites, stings, and pest control costs.

Privacy

Motorized garage door screens allow you to create privacy for your space without sacrificing visibility and airflow. With the touch of a button, you can transform your garage into a private space for working out and entertaining without the worry of passersby judging your Zumba skills. 

At Authority Home Solutions we help home and business owners to love their outdoor spaces again. For over ten years we have been providing the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with beautiful and functional retractable awnings, storm protection, and motorized garage screen doors. We are a SunSetter authorized dealer with exceptional customer service and installation. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration of our high-quality SunSetter retractable awnings, EasyShades, or motorized garage door screens.

Can You Grow Veggies Under Your Awning?

Every day, regardless of inclement weather, awning owners can enjoy their outdoor spaces. Whether you are reading a book, enjoying a drink, or hosting friends and family, you can rest easy knowing that your awning provides you protection from the sun’s harsh rays and passing rain. Awnings create suitable conditions for many activities, but did you know they can also help you with your grocery budget?

Inflation has many consumers frustrated, and some are even opting to grow some of their own food at home to offset higher prices and lower produce stock. There are many vegetables that grow well in Florida’s hot and humid climate.  Florida’s awning owners don’t have to struggle to find a spacious clearing in the hot sun to participate. This list contains many of the shade-tolerant plants that would grow well under your awning.

• Beans (especially bush, pole, and lima)

• Beets

• Broccoli

• Brussel sprouts

• Cabbage

• Carrots

• Cauliflower

• Collards

• Corn

• Cucumber

• Eggplant

• Kale

• Kohlrabi

• Lettuce

• Mustard greens

• Okra

• Onions

• Peas

• Peppers

• Potato

• Radish

• Spinach

• Squash

• Sweet potato

• Swiss chard

• Tomato

• Turnip

With so many delicious veggies to choose from, choose the plants and varieties that you and your family enjoy the most. Many of these plants will thrive in raised beds and even simple containers. Make sure to pay attention to the specific varieties that grow best in Florida, and their planting times. 

At Authority Home Solutions, we love seeing all of the amazing ways that awning owners enjoy their extended and protected outdoor spaces. For over ten years our experts have been providing beautiful and functional awnings to the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and surrounding areas. Whether you are looking to create an outdoor dining area, a place to relax, or even your own gardening area, you can count on Authority Home Solutions to provide you with quality installation and exceptional customer service. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Keeping Your Commercial Awning in Good Condition

Adding an awning to your commercial space is an investment you won’t regret. Customers and employees benefit from a shaded and protective outdoor space, while business owners reap the benefits of lower cooling costs, increased branding visibility, and additional spaces to conduct their business. Here are some options to help keep your investment in good working condition all year long. 

Check Frequently for Damage

Make sure to check your awning frequently for damage. If you see something like a hole or tear in your awning’s fabric it is better to have it repaired sooner rather than later. If you delay a repair, the hole or tear will potentially become larger and be more difficult to fix. 

Remove Dust and Debris

Based on the location of your awning, you may find that dust and debris build up pretty quickly on your fabric. To keep your awning looking clean and professional, simply sweep away the particles using a broom. A damp mop can also be effective for this purpose. 

Spot Clean 

While you are checking or sweeping your awning, you may notice small stains on your fabric. Spot clean these areas as soon as you notice them using a mild soap and soft cloth or scrub brush. Dealing with these spots sooner helps to keep the stain from setting in.  

Pressure Wash 

Your awning will occasionally need a deep cleaning. Pressure washing can help remove dirt and debris quickly, leaving your awning looking good as new! We recommend hiring professionals if you don’t use pressure washers frequently. You want to be sure that you are hiring someone who has experience cleaning awnings, specifically, to minimize the chances of damage to your investment.

At Authority Home Solutions, we love supplying customers with high-quality commercial and residential awnings. For over ten years we have been providing quality products, installation, and customer service to the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. As an authorized SunSetter provider, we are confident that you will find an awning that complements your home or business beautifully.  Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Which Patio Furniture Should You Choose for Your Outdoor Space?

Spring is officially here, and homeowners are sprucing up their outdoor spaces as they are spending more time outside. To create an ideal outdoor space for relaxing, dining, or hosting you may be in the market for patio furniture. When investing in outdoor furniture for your home, you want to be sure that you are selecting materials and fabrics that will stand the test of time. 

Materials 

For outdoor furniture frames, you want to look for materials that will stand up to sun and moisture exposure. Powder-coated steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and UV resistant plastics are more likely to retain their structural integrity over time when exposed to rain and intense UV rays. 

Wood

If you are interested in wooden patio furniture you want to select types of wood that are durable, but weather beautifully over time. Choosing teak, ipe, eucalyptus, or mahogany outdoor furniture is an excellent choice for both beauty and function.

Fabrics

When selecting fabrics for your patio furniture opt for those that are fade and mildew resistant. For example, Sunbrella creates solution-dyed acrylic fabrics for patio furniture and awnings that won’t degrade in the sun’s harsh rays. Choosing cushions that contain a quick-drying foam will also help to keep your furniture from retaining moisture from rain and humidity. 

Awnings

100% weather-proof patio furniture doesn’t exist but there are many things you can do to extend the life of your investment. Creating your outdoor oasis under the protection of a retractable awning is ideal. Awnings protect your furniture from exposure to direct UV rays and rain. Enjoying your patio furniture under the beauty and protection of an awning means cooler, dryer furniture that lasts much longer. 

Awnings are the perfect investment for your outdoor spaces. Not only do they protect and extend the life of your patio furniture, but they also protect you and your family from damaging UV rays and rain. At Authority Home Solutions, we are passionate about providing people with high-quality awnings, installation, and customer service. For over ten years we have been serving the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!

SunSetter’s Weatherbreaker Panels: Adding Protection to Your Retractable Awning

Florida residents enjoy their outdoor spaces all year long. They are especially thankful this time of year. While many parts of the nation are stuck indoors, Florida enjoys a mild winter. The warmest days aren’t too far away, however, and retractable awning owners might be considering accessories that add additional protection to their outdoor oasis. SunSetter has been producing high-quality retractable awnings and accessories for over 30 years. Their durable awning accessories can accompany the beauty of your own retractable awning. SunSetter’s weatherbreaker panels are a popular and easy-to-use accessory choice that can add additional protection in seconds. The angle of the sun or a passing rain shower doesn’t have to interfere with the time you spend enjoying the outdoors with family, friends, and pets.

Front Weatherbreaker Panels

SunSetter’s front weatherbreaker panels are available for all awning models with the exception of the PRO and PRO XL models. The front panel blocks 90% of the sun, wind, and drizzle from coming in through the front of your awning. The screen allows air and light to move through freely. The cream-colored vinyl-coated polyester screen slides into the front bar of your awning easily and can be removed in seconds. You can use the front panel alone, or combine it with side panels for maximum protection.

Side Weatherbreaker Panels 

SunSetter’s side weatherbreaker panels are available for all awning models. Like the front weatherbreaker panel, it also helps keep out up to 90% of sun, wind, and drizzle from coming in the sides of your awning The cream-colored vinyl-coated polyester screen attaches easily to your awning, and can also be removed in seconds. Light and air pass through these side panels easily, ensuring the comfort of everyone enjoying their outdoor spaces. Keep in mind, the awning must be fully extended to utilize the side weatherbreaker panels.

Are you and your family ready to invest in the high quality and durability of a SunSetter Awning and it’s accessories? If so, you can count on the unmatched installation and customer service provided by Authority Home Solutions. We are a locally owned and operated authorized SunSetter Awning provider proudly serving Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation so you and your loved ones can start enjoying your outdoor spaces in 2022!

What Are the Fabric Options for Your New Retractable Awning?

Retractable awnings are a smart investment for your home. They offer protection from the sun’s harsh and damaging rays, so you can enjoy your outdoor spaces more comfortably. They also offer shelter from the rain for you, your family, pets, your patio furniture, and even your grilling equipment! Choosing a SunSetter awning from a local authorized dealer is a breeze. They will work with you to select the best model for your home, needs, and budget. After you have chosen your specific SunSetter retractable awning model, you can begin to customize your awning by selecting your fabric and colors. The SunSetter Series awnings feature the SunSetter exclusive woven acrylic fabric or the traditional laminated fabric. The Platinum series, however, features Sunbrella performance fabrics.

SunSetter Exclusive Woven Acrylic Fabric

This woven acrylic fabric is made especially for SunSetter using water repellant, 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric.It is woven using a strand by strand weaving process that creates a rich color in both the solid and vertical stripe design. This woven acrylic fabric also offers protection from 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. The SunSetter Woven Acrylic Fabric is available in both straight and wave valances. 

Traditional Laminated Fabric

The traditional laminated fabrics are 100% waterproof and also block 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. The fabric consists of five layers that feature 2 thick color pigmentation layers, an inner scrim layer for strength, and two layers of clear coating on both the top and bottom. This coating makes the fabric flame, fade, and mildew resistant. Unlike the acrylic fabrics, however, the traditional laminated fabrics are available in the wave valance only.  

Sunbrella Performance Fabric 

Sunbrella Performance Fabric is known for its color retention and cleanability. It is water repellent and resistant to mold, mildew, and fading. The Sunbrella performance fabrics are high in UPF protection from UV rays. Sunbrella performance fabrics can be cleaned easily with mild soap and water, but can also be cleaned with bleach without compromising any of the colors or fade resistance! 

Once you and your family have decided to invest in the beauty, quality, and protection of a retractable awning, you can count on the experts at Authority Home Solutions to supply the highest quality products and services to you and your home. We have been proudly serving Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. We are more than happy to bring woven acrylic and laminated fabric samples to your home when you schedule a no-obligation demonstration. Contact us today so you can start enjoying your outdoor spaces.

SunSetter’s Exceptional Motorized and Motorized XL Awnings

Imagine transforming your patio or deck into your own personal oasis with the touch of a button. No, this isn’t science fiction. This future could be yours when you opt for the exceptional quality of a SunSetter Motorized or Motorized XL Awning. SunSetter is America’s #1 best-selling awning, providing quality awning models for over 30 years. SunSetter offers a variety of awning models that are sure to fit your unique outdoor space and budget. The Motorized and Motorized XL models are sure to amaze you with their innovative features.

Electric Powered

SunSetter’s electric-powered awnings feature the quality performance of Somfy awning motors. With over 50 years of experience, Somfy creates awning motors that allow you to smoothly, quietly, and effortlessly control your motorized awning with remote control. The awning motor is tucked away discreetly in the roller bar for a sleek look with reliable operation. If you lose power, the Motorized and Motorized XL models also feature a manual hand crank override.

Lateral Arm Technology

Lateral Arm technology gives your motorized awning the support it needs without the inconvenience of vertical supports taking up precious space in the outer corners of your deck or patio.

Quality Construction

SunSetter’s Motorized and Motorized XL Awnings feature rust-proof, high-quality aluminum components. A baked-on finish also adds to the durability of its components.

Maximum Protection

You can always count on all of the SunSetter awning models to provide you with protection from the hot sun, UV rays, and light rain showers. Even on the hottest Florida days, you can count on temperatures to be up to 20 degrees cooler under your SunSetter awning. SunSetter’s UV protection earned it a recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Your Local SunSetter Authorized Dealer

You can count on the quality care, installation, and customer service of Authority Home Solutions. For over 10 years we have been providing residents in Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with their own outdoor oasis. We would love to help you determine which SunSetter awning model will work best for your home and needs. Contact us today for a free demonstration.

Features At A Glance

Motorized:

Up to 10 ft. 2 in. protection out from house.

Widths from 8 to 18 ft. are available in SunSetter woven acrylic or laminated fabric.

19 to 20 ft. widths available in SunSetter woven cyclic fabric only.

Motorized XL:

11ft. 8 in. protection out from house.

Widths from 14 to 20 ft. available in SunSetter woven acrylic fabric only.

Operation:

Somfy electric motor with remote control and 18 ft, plug-in cord.

How to Safely Clean Your Fabric Awnings

Fabric awnings are a beautiful and affordable way to add to your home’s outdoor spaces. For a small investment, they can provide you and your family with protection and shade for many years to come. Authority Home Solutions’ quality retractable Sunsetter Awnings are water, mold, and UV resistant, so they require far less cleaning than their stationary counterparts. Occasionally, however, dirt, grease, bird droppings, insects, leaf tannins, or tree sap can collect on the topside or underside. To protect and extend the life of your fabric awning, we recommend that residential retractable awning owners clean their awnings at least once a year. Commercial awnings should be cleaned more frequently. There are professional cleaning services in the area, but if you choose to care for your awning on your own, we have a few tips to help you do this safely.

1. Always begin your awning cleaning by brushing or sweeping off all the debris and dust that may have settled on the topside. Make sure to clean any rain gutters that are directly above your awning as well.

2. We recommend using a mild, eco-friendly liquid soap and a soft-bristle brush to cleanse your fabric. If you choose to use a pressure washer, be sure to use the lowest setting possible so that you don’t damage your awning.

3. When cleaning the top side of your awning, begin at the bottom edge and work your way up using sweeping motions.

4. When rinsing the topside of your awning, rinse from top to bottom.

5. The underside of your awning could collect some grease if you frequently use a barbeque grill under it. The same mild grease-cutting soap that you used on the topside should do the trick on any grease residue.

6. Allow your awning to dry completely before you retract it.

In between cleanings, you can hose the topside of your awning, and use a broom to sweep the underside. It’s also a good idea to inspect your frames from time to time for signs of rusting.

If you are considering adding a beautiful awning to your residential or commercial space, you can count on Authority Home Solutions to provide you with the best customer service and quality products. For over ten years we have provided retractable awnings to Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a free in-home demonstration. We look forward to helping you to become the next happy owner of a Sunsetter Retractable awning!

Retractable Awnings For Your Home in Ocala, The Villages, Gainesville, and the Surrounding Areas

The holiday season is in full swing, and there has never been a better time to give the gift of a SunSetter retractable awning to you and your loved ones. SunSetter is America’s best-selling awning company and the largest manufacturer of deck and patio awnings. Their awnings are a beautiful, durable, and affordable investment that can transform your outdoor spaces. At Authority Home Solutions, we are proud to be your local authorized SunSetter dealer and look forward to making you the next happy owner of a SunSetter awning. To get started, contact us for a free, no-obligation, in-home demonstration.

Professional Installation

Choosing a professional awning installation company will provide you with peace of mind and convenience. Having your awning professionally installed ensures that it will be accurately and safely mounted to your home. At Authority Home Solutions, we order your awning for you, receive your awning from the manufacturer, deliver it to your home, and install it for you. You can expect both a high-quality installation and stellar customer service.

Quality You Can Experience

With our in-home demonstration, you will have the opportunity to touch and feel the quality of a SunSetter awning in person and discuss the many options you have to customize your retractable awning. SunSetter Awnings are engineered to last and our demonstration materials allow you to experience the construction and operating features that you can expect from your very own awning.

Fabrics

As part of your in-home demonstration, you can view samples of SunSetter’s heavy-duty, highly durable fabrics. With over 48 high-quality fabrics to choose from, you are sure to find colors and textures that will compliment your home perfectly. We offer SunSetter woven acrylic fabrics, SunSetter traditional laminated fabrics, and world-renowned Sunbrella performance fabrics. All of our fabrics are resistant to fading, mold, and mildew. In addition to being water-repellant, they also provide 99% UV protection! SunSetter Awnings have been awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of approval as an effective UV protectant.

Over 800,000 satisfied SunSetter Awning customers are enjoying their outdoor spaces, with many sharing that it is the best investment they have ever made! Are you ready to experience the luxurious quality and exceptional value for yourself? Contact Authority Home Solutions today to schedule your in-home demonstration in Ocala, The Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas.

Decorating Your Retractable Awnings for the Holidays

The holiday season has arrived and many homeowners have already begun preparing their homes for the holidays. You may have seen them struggling with a set of tangled lights or frantically searching for the missing member of Santa’s reindeer squad. While we often yearn for peace and tranquility during this time of year, it is easy to get caught up in stressful situations in an attempt to transform our spaces into a winter wonderland. To help alleviate some of that holiday décor stress, we are going to answer some frequently asked questions about how you can decorate your retractable awnings for the holiday season. Whether you are a long-time retractable awning owner or considering adding a retractable awning to your wish list, pull on your coziest socks, make a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s get to those questions!

Is it safe to decorate my home’s retractable awnings with Christmas lights? What type of lights will work best on my awning?

Adding lights to your awnings is a perfect way to take your holiday home décor to the next level. We recommend that you choose lightweight light sets that compliment your awning fabric. If colorful lights don’t pair well with your fabric colors or patterns, consider the classic look of white lights. LED lights are an excellent cost-efficient choice. 90% of the energy used by incandescent bulbs escapes as heat, making LED bulbs far more energy-efficient.  As with any indoor or outdoor light display, it’s best to plan before you start. Gather your supplies and measuring tape, and make sure that you test each of your light sets before you begin. Check for areas that may be damaged as well. Make sure to choose awning hangers, clips, or fasteners that won’t damage your awning. 

Is it safe to use holiday décor on my retractable awning?

 Again, we do recommend that you opt for lightweight décor to ensure that you don’t damage your awning. Garlands, wreaths, ribbons, bows, stockings, and even holiday figurines can add some festive holiday cheer to your home’s retractable awning. Just be sure that your décor can withstand outdoor conditions and is secured safely to your awning. 

If a beautiful and affordable retractable awning is on your Wishlist this year, you can count on the quality and customer service of Authority Home Solutions. For over 10 years we have been providing Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with elegant, practical, and affordable awnings that extend outdoor spaces. Contact us today for a free estimate. We are ready to help you make your winter wishes come true!

How to Add Holiday Curb Appeal to Your Home or Business

In the most recent Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) report, the Harvard University Joint Center for Housing Studies forecasted that remodeling industry revenues will reach $352 billion this year. Many homeowners have been eager to transform their living spaces after spending more time working from home or starting their retirement. As the holiday season approaches, homeowners are beginning to host friends and relatives for the first time in over a year, and they are eager to add some extra charm to their hosting spaces. Have you considered how you might make your own home more welcoming to potential visitors this holiday season?

One way to prepare your home without breaking the bank is by adding curb appeal and completing some basic outdoor maintenance. Your yard is the first thing visitors and neighbors see. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy and affordable ways to make a great first impression with this space.

Lights

Walk around the exterior of your home and take note of any lights that may need to be replaced. Check to make sure that fixtures are clean and aren’t in need of replacing or repair.

Greenery

Check your bushes and trees to see where they may need trimming. You may even decide to plant some new greenery that you will enjoy for years to come. If you choose to add trees, opt for fast-growing trees and remember to water them often in their first year. It is important to note that trees add value to your property and improve air quality!

Windows

Making sure your windows are clean also adds to an overall well-manicured look for the exterior of your home. A simple mixture of one part vinegar to two parts water in a spray bottle can easily remove any dirt and debris that has built up on your windows.

Pressure Washing

If you have access to a pressure washer, this is a great way to get rid of any dirt, mold, and mildew that may have built up outside your home. Driveways, walkways, fences, gutters, patios, and even patio furniture can be quickly cleaned with a pressure washer. We recommend starting on the lowest setting and working your way up!

Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings are an affordable and practical way to add to your home’s curb appeal. If you are looking for the eye-catching results of a major remodel without remodeling costs and timelines, retractable awnings are the way to go. Add additional usable outdoor spaces over your windows, entry areas, and patios. With so many ways

to customize your awning, you can create a cohesive color palette that compliments your home’s existing brick, siding, painted wood, or stone.

If you are interested in adding character and value to your home, look no further than Authority Home Solutions. We have been providing high-quality retractable awnings to the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. We are a well-respected Sunsetter authorized dealer and we love helping our customers find more joy in their outdoor spaces! Contact us today to get a free quote. We look forward to helping you add value, comfort, and protection to your home.

Can I Really Save Money With a Retractable Awning in Florida?

Many homeowners conduct a cost-benefit analysis when carefully choosing investments for their homes. This process involves carefully considering an expense's benefits before deciding to purchase an item or service. If you are considering investing in a retractable awning for your home, you might be asking: Does owning a retractable awning really save you money in Florida? The short answer is: yes! The benefits of owning a retractable awning are numerous, but the money-saving appeal is especially noteworthy.

Saving Energy 

The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association conducted a 50-city study showing that awnings significantly reduce cooling costs for homeowners. Florida homeowners can reduce the solar heat gain on their windows by 65% to 77% with an awning, resulting in over 200 dollars in energy savings. With a retractable awning, homeowners can lower their heating costs by retracting their awning and allowing that solar heat gain to return, resulting in lower heating costs during the occasional cold fronts that visit Florida in the winter. 

Preserving Property

With the installation of a retractable awning, homeowners can expect a decrease in the amount of wear and tear on their air conditioning systems. A reduction in maintenance, repair, and replacement expenses can be extremely helpful to a homeowner’s budget. The use of awnings also protects outdoor items from becoming damaged by sun and rain. Patio furniture, grills, decor, and even partial shade plants will last longer on the protection of an awning. 

Adding Value

Adding a retractable awning to a home increases its value. It adds shade, creates additional space, and adds curb appeal for potential buyers. Many buyers are looking for homes that allow them to enjoy the outdoors without being chased indoors by the sweltering Florida heat. 

Protecting Your Health 

According to Cancer Care Centers, “Florida ranks second in the nation for the highest rate of skin cancer cases. About 8,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in Florida every year, and that number is increasing throughout the Sunshine State.” Many skin cancers are avoidable with the use of sun protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the use of awnings to protect homeowners from the UVA and UVB rays that cause skin cancer. Awnings block up to 90% of these damaging rays from the sun. Homeowners should be able to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the dangerous and costly threat of skin cancer. 

Retractable awnings are attractive, easy to use, useful, and economical.  If you are interested in making this economically sound investment in your home, look no further than Central Florida’s #1 retractable awning and storm protection supplier and installer. At Authority Home Solutions, we have been helping homeowners in the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas to create safe, beautiful outdoor spaces that add protection and value to homes. As a SunSetter authorized dealer, we are happy to help provide you with the highest quality products and service. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

Getting Your Outdoor Spaces Ready

With the end of the rain and hurricane season approaching, homeowners in Florida begin preparing their outdoor spaces for enjoyment. Cooler weather is ahead and Floridians are spending more time outside doing the things they love. Here are a few tips to help get your outdoor spaces ready for maximum relaxation and fun in the fall.

Cleaning Up Yard Debris

When cleaning up yard debris, remember to wear gloves. Cleaning up any fallen leaves, and branches, and pulling weeds ensures that you are keeping away pests looking for shelter in the upcoming winter months. Using aerating tools will also help to ensure that oxygen, nutrients, and water reach your soil for optimum grass growth. If you compost, your yard waste makes great future fertilizer for your plants. If not, trash collection and recycling centers collect yard waste in your area. 

Trimming and Pruning Branches and Shrubs

Survey your yard area and locate any dead or weak branches. These are usually easier to remove. We also recommend removing any branches from hazardous areas. Use a quality pruning tool to cut back any overlapping, dead, or overgrown branches and stems from your hedges. With this yard maintenance, your space is safer and looks more manicured. 

Clean Outdoor Furniture and Walkways

For cleaning outdoor furniture, we always suggest using warm water with mild detergent and a soft bristle brush. Once you have cleaned your furniture thoroughly, you can spot-clean it with diluted bleach for any stubborn stains, mold, or mildew. Make sure to spot-test an area before using any harsh cleaning agents. For walkways, decks, and patios, we recommend using a pressure washer to clean away any stubborn dirt, mold, or mildew that has accumulated from the rainy season. This will ensure that your surfaces last longer and are safer to walk on.  

Give Your Awning Some Attention 

Your retractable awning gives you a reprieve from the intense and damaging rays of the sun. It also provides a nice shelter during passing rain. To keep your awning looking beautiful all year round, we recommend hosing it off as frequently as debris collects. If you notice dirt left behind, use a mild cleaner and soft-bristled brush to clean your awning fabric and keep it looking sharp for many years to come. 

At Authority Home Solutions, we are ready to help you enjoy your outdoor spaces any time of year! Whether you are looking for the protection and privacy of EasyShades, durable state-of-the-art storm protection, or the luxurious comfort of a SunSetter retractable awning, you can count on us! As Florida’s #1 awning provider and installer, we are passionate about providing our customers with the best products and services. We serve the Villages, Ocala, Leesburg, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration.

How to Choose a Retractable Awning Installation Company

Adding a new retractable awning to your home is a wise investment. Retractable awnings provide protection from 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays while adding style and value to your home. For the best installation and durability, it is recommended that you have your awning provided and installed by a professional awning installation company. With several available in your area, choosing which one you should work with can be difficult. Here are a few tips to help you decide! 

Reputation

It is crucial to choose a trustworthy and reputable company to install your new retractable awning. Utilizing reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp can help you get a sense of the level of customer service and installation you will receive from that business. Look for plenty of reviews from verified buyers that detail both the quality of their product and their service. It can also be helpful to notice if a reviewer's negative reviews were addressed and resolved by a member of that company.

High-Quality Materials 

Many retractable awning providers and installers will offer information on their websites about the products they sell. Look for a company that is transparent about the type of products they use, and includes information about the supplier. A quality provider will also share detailed information about product warranties, promotions, discounts, durability, and options available to consumers.

Customer Service

A quality provider and installer will prioritize customer service. When speaking to an associate from the design or installation team, you should feel that they are knowledgeable and friendly. If they aren’t able to answer your questions immediately, they should be able to follow up with you in a timely manner and offer free demonstrations of their products if needed. 

Central Florida’s #1 Awning Supplier and Installer 

At Authority Home Solutions we have been helping home and business owners in the Villages, Ocala, Leesburg, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. As Central Florida’s #1 awning supplier and installer, we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service, experienced installation, and providing the highest quality products on the market. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!