Not Everything You Hear About Awnings and Screens Is True
It’s surprising how many misconceptions homeowners come across when researching retractable awnings or motorized screens. Friends share stories they heard secondhand. Old information gets repeated online. And before long, people believe things that simply aren’t accurate—especially here in Florida, where the sun, humidity, and storms make outdoor systems a big part of everyday life.
At Made in the Shade North Central FL, we hear the same myths over and over. The truth is that modern SunPro awnings and motorized screens are nothing like the products people remember from decades ago. Materials have improved, engineering has advanced, and technology has made outdoor shade systems smarter and stronger than ever.
Let’s clear the air and look at the real story behind the most common myths.
Myth 1: Awnings Fade Quickly in Florida Sun
This belief comes from older awnings made with cheap, printed fabrics. Those products did fade because the color sat only on the surface of the material.
Today’s premium awnings—especially those from SunPro using Sunbrella® fabrics—are entirely different. The color is woven into the fibers themselves, meaning the Florida sun can’t bleach it away. Homeowners can expect years of use without noticeable fading.
The fabric is also mold and mildew resistant, which matters in a humid climate like ours. A modern awning is built specifically to withstand Florida’s intensity.
Myth 2: Motorized Screens Tear Easily
Older roll-down screens sometimes tore at the edges or pulled out of their tracks. Those problems largely disappeared once manufacturers began reinforcing tracks, using stronger mesh, and designing the screens to handle more movement.
SunPro’s screens use high-quality Phifer® and Twitchell® materials, which are known for their strength. The tracks are engineered to reduce deflection and keep the screen firmly in place. These screens are not delicate. When raised during storms and treated properly, they hold up year after year.
Myth 3: Awnings Can’t Handle Wind
This myth contains a half-truth—awnings should always be retracted during storms or high winds. But that does not mean awnings are weak. Modern retractable systems are built with powder-coated aluminum frames, reinforced joints, and secure mounting brackets.
When used correctly, a SunPro awning easily handles Florida’s normal breezes. Many models even include optional wind sensors that retract automatically if unexpected gusts occur. The key is responsible use, not unrealistic expectations.
Myth 4: Motorized Screens Make Outdoor Areas Feel Dark
This misconception comes from mixing up solid shutters with solar mesh screens. A motorized screen does not block all light. Instead, it filters sunlight to make outdoor spaces cooler and more comfortable.
Depending on the fabric chosen, you still see the view clearly, and the area feels open and bright—just without the harsh glare or heat. Many homeowners say their porches feel more inviting with the screen lowered because the light becomes softer and more pleasant.
Myth 5: Awnings and Screens Are Difficult to Maintain
In reality, they require very little care. A quick rinse with the hose every so often is usually enough. For awnings, a gentle cleaning of the fabric once or twice a year keeps it fresh. For screens, clearing the tracks of leaves or sand ensures smooth movement.
Most homeowners say the maintenance is easier than caring for patio furniture.
Myth 6: These Upgrades Aren’t Worth the Investment
This myth disappears the moment someone experiences the difference firsthand. A shaded patio becomes a daily living space rather than an unused slab of concrete. A screened lanai becomes a peaceful extension of the home instead of a bug-filled zone. A garage outfitted with a motorized screen turns into a home gym, workshop, or breezy hangout.
The value isn’t just in the product—it’s in the space you gain and the comfort you enjoy.
Myth 7: Installation Takes Forever or Damages the Home
Not true. Professional installation is efficient and clean. A typical awning or screen system is installed in a single visit, and the mounting points are designed to protect the home’s exterior. SunPro’s brackets, arms, and cassettes are engineered for long-term stability without stressing the structure.
The Truth Is Simple: These Products Work
Modern awnings and motorized screens are designed for Florida’s climate, and they solve real problems homeowners face every day. They reduce heat, improve comfort, expand living space, and make outdoor areas usable in ways many people never imagined.
If you have questions or want to see these systems in person, Made in the Shade North Central FL offers free consultations and expert guidance. One conversation can clear up years of misinformation.
