TCT&A Industries Homepage

Awnings
Do-It-Yourself
Economy
Retractable Patio
Stationary Patio
Residential
Commercial
Backlit
Banners
Curtain Walls
Custom Sewing
Custom Graphics
Industrial
Instant Shade
Tent Rental
Wholesale
Q&A

 

Custom Manufactured Retractable Awnings  

Installation Instructions

The Solair lateral arm system is assembled on a 1.575 square aluminum supporting tube. It can be easily mounted to any surface, including wood face, ceiling, masonry, roof, brick, or the wood rafters of an open overhang.

To install the awning, first determine the ground clearance needed under the front bar of the awning. On a private residence, this would be at least 7 feet; on a commercial building it should be a minimum of 8 feet. The wall measurement (from front bar to center line of roller) can be determined from the chart on Pitch. If a steeper pitch is used, the drop of the front bar must be added to the wall measurement.

Locate wall bracket spacing as shown on chart Configurations. All brackets MUST BE in line and level so the square support tube will fit freely in the brackets. 3/8” x 4” galvanized lag scres are reommended for use in wood studs. They should also be used in masonry with a lead anchor or expansion shield.

Fastening to Surfaces

Many types of applications exist. Always check with your supplier of fasteners and they can recommend the correct one for your application.

Prior to installing the brackets on the wall, mark the spot on the wall where the brackets will be mounted. This step is done by placing the awning next to the designated wall. Make sure the brackets are not to be mounted where the arms attach to the support tube or where the center support (if needed) is located.

Brick or Block

(a) Make sure that the face is structured and not just an unsupported facade.

(b) Make sure the bricks are full brick and run from the ground through the second floor, for sufficient weight strength. The brackets should be bolted into the wood beams or studs for security. For mounting into block use toggle style fasteners. Longer bolts are needed.

(c) Make sure the wall is flat - if not, the brackets will not align properly. If not flat, mount a wood beam (2" x 8") on the wall and fasten through the beam.

(d) Use the AU-10 and wall brackets and if required AU-15 hood adapter.

 

Siding

Two common methods are used when fastening into siding.

OPTION 1: Using a pressure treated wood board

(a) Mount a (2" x 8°) board to the house and fasten the brackets through the board into the header and studs. Longer bolts are needed.

(b) It is wise to use a pressure treated wood board. The board can then be stained or painted to match the house.

(c) This type of installation will cost more than average. It should include cost of additional hardware, labor, and materials.

(d) Use the AU-10 and if required AU-15 Hood Adapter.

OPTION 2: Using a spacer between the bracket and wood

(a) Find the studs or header on which the awning can be
mounted.

(b) Drill a 1" hole 1-1/2" deep down to the studs. Use a 1/2" pipe 1-3/4" long as a spacer between the bracket and the wood stud. The spacer should be cut to extend 1/4" beyond the surface of the siding. Always caulk around the holes.

(c) Always pre-drill the studs to avoid splitting them when tightening the bolts. Longer bolts are needed than 4" in this case.

(d) Use AU-10 and if required AU-15 Hood Adapter.

Wood Frame House

(a) Doors and windows can be used to find the studs and headers. Use a stud finder and measuring tape to locate the best spot for the brackets. Whatever studs you can find on the inside can usually be utilized on the outside. Make sure the bolts are long enough to anchor 2-3" into the studs.

(b) Always pre-drill the holes to avoid splitting the studs.

(c) Do not overtighten the bolts or you will strip the thread.

Ceiling Mount

(a) Make sure the soffit or joists are strong enough to support the extended awning.

(b) Make sure you have enough clearance to mount the awning. The minimum height of a retracted awning is 9" without a hood. The unit can be made to be 6" high and is called a "Superflat" version. This is special order. AU 16-C ceiling brackets have to be used when ordering superflat version. AU 16-C brackets are an additional cost. Superflat is only available up to 20" wide. Call the office for directions if wider unit is desired (hood is not required).

 

 

(c) Special beam brackets are available for joist overhang installations. The beam brackets are additional cost.

Roof Mount

(a) This mounting type is recommended when there is insufficient head clearance or obstructions in the way. The brackets should be mounted as close as possible to the edge yet far enough in to get a solid mount. If the brackets are mounted close to the edge it is usually possible to have a BMO override motor. (Check angle to the ground)

(b) The fastening of this bracket is similar to a wood surface mount. Make sure to locate the roof rafters. Make sure the lag bolts penetrate at least 3" into the rafters.

(c) Pre-drill all holes with a small drill bit. Caulk into the holes, under and around the roof bracket to form a tight seal.

(d) This type of installation can only be used on asphalt shingles and does not work on slate or clay roofs.

NOTE: This is a more expensive installation. An additional roof bracket needs to be ordered for every standard wall bracket.

(e) Use AU-10 series bracket with AU-15 for the hood.

NOTE: A hood is recommended with this type of installation.

 


 

Custom Manufactured Retractable Awning Information

General Information
How to Measure
Fabric Colors/Types
Valance Design
Installation
Options
Features & Benefits
Pitch
Wind Load
Warranty
Shipping/ Payment Policy

Pricing & Ordering

 

 

Custom Manufactured Retractable Awning Information

General Information
How to Measure
Fabric Colors/Types
Valance Design
Installation
Options
Features & Benefits
Pitch
Wind Load
Warranty
Shipping/ Payment Policy

Pricing & Ordering

 

 

TCT&A Industries
308 E. Anthony Drive, P.O. Box 638
Urbana, Illinois 61801
217-328-5749
1-800-252-1355
FAX 217-328-5759
tctandaind@awning-tent.com
http://www.awning-tent.com/

© Copyright TCT&A Industries 2004-2007.

Products Awards Management History Contact Us Links