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.