Improving Home Comfort and Protection: The Benefits of Retractable Awnings and Storm Protection Shades in The Villages, Florida

Living in The Villages, Florida offers a wonderful lifestyle with its vibrant community, beautiful landscapes, and sunny weather. However, the Sunshine State is also known for its intense heat and occasional storms. To make the most of outdoor living while ensuring comfort and protection, homeowners in The Villages are increasingly turning to retractable awnings and storm protection shades. In this blog post, we'll explore the numerous benefits these additions offer to homes in this picturesque community.

Climate Adaptability

Retractable awnings provide versatile climate control solutions. During scorching summer days, they offer much-needed shade, reducing indoor temperatures and minimizing the reliance on air conditioning. Conversely, during milder months, retractable awnings can be easily retracted to allow sunlight to warm outdoor spaces and brighten interiors. This adaptability ensures that homeowners can enjoy their outdoor areas year-round, regardless of the weather.

Energy Efficiency

By blocking the sun's rays from entering the home through windows and doors, retractable awnings help reduce solar heat gain, thereby lowering cooling costs. This energy-saving feature not only benefits homeowners financially but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing energy consumption. Additionally, storm protection shades serve as an extra layer of insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures even during extreme weather conditions.

UV Protection

The harsh Florida sun poses risks not only to comfort but also to health. Extended exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Retractable awnings and storm protection shades act as a barrier, blocking a significant portion of UV radiation from entering outdoor living spaces and protecting residents from harmful sun exposure. This added protection allows homeowners to enjoy outdoor activities safely, whether it's lounging on the patio or hosting a barbecue with friends and family.

Preservation of Outdoor Furniture and Décor

Outdoor furniture, fabrics, and décor can suffer from prolonged exposure to sunlight, moisture, and wind. Retractable awnings and storm protection shades help prolong the lifespan of these items by shielding them from the elements. By reducing exposure to harsh weather conditions, homeowners can maintain the aesthetics and functionality of their outdoor spaces for years to come, minimizing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

Enhanced Curb Appeal and Home Value

Beyond their practical benefits, retractable awnings and storm protection shades can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of homes in The Villages. Available in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, these installations can be customized to complement existing architecture and landscaping, adding character and charm to outdoor areas. Moreover, the addition of these features can increase the overall value of the property, making it more attractive to potential buyers in the future.

Overview

In conclusion, retractable awnings and storm protection shades offer numerous benefits to homeowners in The Villages, Florida, ranging from climate adaptability and energy efficiency to UV protection and enhanced curb appeal. By investing in these versatile outdoor solutions, residents can create comfortable, functional, and visually appealing spaces that allow them to make the most of Florida's sunny climate while staying protected from its unpredictable weather patterns. Whether relaxing on the patio, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying the scenery, retractable awnings and storm protection shades are essential additions that enhance the quality of life in this vibrant community.

Expediated Delivery and Installation of Retractable Awnings and Shades

If you are getting your home ready for the season, visiting guests, or planning your own return for the winter, you may be considering ways that you can add comfort, style, safety, and value to your home. Look no further than the beauty, protection, and convenience of a retractable awning and SunSetter’s EasyShades.  

Create an Outdoor Space You Will Love

With a motorized or manual retractable awning, you can control the amount of shade in your outdoor spaces. Not only do retractable awnings block 90% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, but they also protect your family and guests from passing rain showers. SunSetter retractable awnings offer you styles and finishes that are sure to compliment the look of your home. With the touch of a button, you can quickly transform your outdoor spaces into a cozy gathering space for hosting guests, or your own private oasis for some rest and relaxation.

Create a More Comfortable Indoor Space

In the winter months, the sun appears lowest in the sky, often creating irritating glares inside your home. With SunSetter’s EasyShades you can adjust the setting to your comfort level at any time of day. They also help you save energy and protect your furniture and carpet from fading caused by sun damage. Much like retractable awnings, the SunSetter EasyShades can be customized to best suit the look of your home. You can also choose manual, solar, or motorized models.  

Expedited Delivery and Installation 

At Authority Home Solutions, we are offering both expedited delivery and installation services. Many of our valued customers, especially snowbirds traveling back to the Villages for Winter, will be happy to hear that we can have your retractable awning and EasyShades installed and ready in just 2-3 weeks! You can also count on high-quality installation and friendly customer service. We are proud to be an authorized SunSetter dealer and look forward to helping you add value, protection, and comfort to your home. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration of our SunSetter retractable awnings, EasyShades, or motorized garage door screens.


How Efficient is Your Air-Conditioning System?

A retractable awning providing shade over a front porch in the villages florida

Over 75% of U.S. homes have air conditioning. With Florida temperatures frequently hovering in the 90s, air conditioning has become a necessity. There are a few steps home and business owners can take to ensure that their air conditioning units are running efficiently for many years to come.  

Professional  Maintenance

Air conditioning units that aren’t running properly lose up to 50% of energy costs. A little bit of maintenance and care is necessary to maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your air conditioning unit. Ideally, a certified service technician should check your unit annually. Investing in these yearly maintenance checkups can help prevent a much larger and more expensive repair or replacement in the future. 

DIY Maintenance

In between annual service checks, there are a few things you can do to help keep your unit running efficiently.

Outdoor Maintenance

Keep the outdoor area surrounding your condenser free from objects and plant growth (about a 2 ft. radius). You can also use a small brush or brush vacuum attachment to clean debris from the condenser fins and fans, just remember to turn the power to your unit off first and avoid getting any water on your fan motor. Refer to your owner’s manual to see if your unit requires occasional lubrication to the fan. 

Indoor Maintenance

To maintain your internal evaporator and blower you should regularly clean the evaporator coils with a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Check your evaporator drain for clogs and mold. In the event that you need to thoroughly clean this area, a wet-dry vacuum will come in handy. Remember to change your filter regularly as well. 

Reduce the Solar Gain

According to a study conducted by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers, solar radiation through glass is responsible for approximately 20% of the load on an air conditioner. To reduce the amount of heat coming into your home, consider adding trees, shades, and outdoor awnings to your structures and property. A 2007 study found that awnings significantly impact cooling costs and electrical demand by reducing solar gain through windows and glass doors. Installing a retractable awning can ensure that you have a stylish, affordable, and easy way to open and close your awning with the touch of a button. You may find that adding that solar gain back in the cooler months helps to keep you comfortable too! 

For over ten years, Authority Home Solutions has been providing expert consultation, installation, and customer service to the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. As an authorized SunSetter provider, we offer the highest quality retractable awnings, Easyshades, and storm protection available on the market. We love helping home and business owners to create comfortable and safe outdoor spaces affordably. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Manual vs. Motorized: Which Retractable Awning is Right for You?

A retractable awning providing shade over a pool at a home in the villages florida

Retractable awnings are a smart investment, especially in the sweltering heat of sunny Florida! Having the option to retract your awning in heavy winds, or when not in use, extends the life of your awning and ensures that it will continue making your outdoor spaces cooler and safer from harmful UV rays for many years to come. 

As you consider your options for a new retractable awning, you may be wondering if you should choose the manual or motorized version. While both models provide you with quality shade and rain protection, you may find some features that make one more suited to your needs than the other. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the type of awning for your home or business. 

Operation

Manual retractable awnings are operated with a hand-crank to open and close and do not require electricity. Motorized awnings, on the other hand, require electricity to extend and retract.

Ease of Use

While the manual awning hand-crank is fairly easy to turn, it may be difficult for the disabled or elderly to operate. It is also important to consider that you can only operate the manual versions from outside of your home or business. With the motorized models, you can operate your awning remotely with ease. Studies have shown that motorized retractable awnings get used four times as often as their manual counterparts because of the ease of use. 

Cost

Manual retractable awnings are more affordable options compared to motorized models. The motorized retractable awnings require more installation time and materials. That being said, both options will end up saving you money over time by reducing the overall energy costs for your home or business. 

Whether you are still undecided or ready to schedule an installation, Authority Home Solutions is here to assist you. Our dedication to quality products, expert installation, and friendly customer service has made us the #1 awning and shade installation company in The Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Which Awning Installation Company if Right for You?

A retractable awnings providing shade over a pool in the villages florida

Adding a retractable awning to your home or business is a smart investment. Awning owners enjoy cooler, dryer outdoor spaces safe from intense and damaging UV rays. To ensure that your investment is safely mounted and long-lasting, you want to be sure you are choosing an awning installation company that offers quality products, expertise, and experience. 

Quality Awning Products

Make sure that your awning installation company offers options that fit your individual needs. Research the brands that they carry to ensure that you are selecting awning frames and fabrics that will stand the test of time. Choosing durable, mildew-resistant, solution-dyed fabrics will extend the life of your awning and make it much easier to clean and maintain.  

Retractable Awning Expertise

Protect your investment by making sure you select an awning installation company that is licensed and insured. Try to opt for an installation company that has been in your community for a substantial amount of time and is an authorized provider. 

Retractable Awning Experience

Select an awning installation with a good reputation and customer satisfaction. Check out reviews on a company’s Google Business Profile, and ask your friends and neighbors who are satisfied with their own awning installation. Websites like Yelp and Angi can also provide you with information on customer satisfaction. 

At Authority Home Solutions, we have been assisting home and business owners with their awning needs for over ten years. We serve the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with high-quality products, expert installation, and excellent customer service. As an authorized SunSetter provider, we guarantee that you will be satisfied with the options you have to create beautiful outdoor spaces at your home and business. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see why we are the best awning provider in the area!

Beat the Heat this Summer with A SunSetter Retractable Awning

A retractable awning providing shade to a walkway in a home in the Villages, Florida

Florida’s summer months can be brutally hot. From June to September, Florida's weather reaches the upper 90s most days with heat indexes that feel more like 103℉-110℉.  Like the climbing temperatures, the UV Index is also dangerously high by mid-day. Many residents find it difficult to enjoy their outdoor spaces during these scorching summer months. As you prepare for summer, imagine the difference it would make to add a retractable awning to your home!

Affordability 

Retractable awnings have an impressive return on investment! They save you so much money compared to adding a roof over your existing deck or patio. With a new retractable awning, you can also expect a 25% reduction in cooling costs for your home! 

Safety

Protecting your family and pets in the summer heat is essential. A retractable awning will block up to 90% of the dangerous UV rays linked to painful sunburns, skin cancers, and premature aging.  With children and pets often walking barefoot on porches, patios, and decks you can expect a cooler surface area for walking as well. Your patio and outdoor spaces can be cooler and safer places to spend your summer under the protection of a retractable awning.

Versatility

Opting for a retractable awning over a stationary awning offers you versatility. You can control the level of sun exposure and shade with the touch of a button. Retractable awnings can be customized to fit your home and your style, adding both function and beauty to your home and outdoor spaces.

Retractable Awnings

You deserve exceptional customer service and installation when you decide to invest in the outdoor space of your dreams.  The experts at Awning Authority have been serving Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. Schedule a free consultation so that you can experience the beauty and function of a SunSetter retractable awning from an authorized SunSetter provider.

Light Up the Night Under Your Sunsetter Awning

When you invest in the outdoor space of your dreams, you want to spend as much time there as possible. Thanks to SunSetter’s energy-efficient dimming LED lights, you can do just that. Imagine spending evenings under your beautiful awning entertaining, cooking, and relaxing with LED lights that attach right to the arms of your awning.

SunSetter’s energy-efficient dimming LED lights never have to be taken down during awning operation. They attach directly to the arms of your awning and are controlled using a multi-channel remote control. The remote turns the light on and off, but also allows you to set the mood using the dimmer switch feature for soft or brighter illumination. If you have a motorized awning, your remote will operate both your awning and your lights, with the quality you have come to expect from both SunSetter Awnings and Somfy motors.  

Your SunSetter LED lights are custom-made to the exact size required for your specific awning model. The lights come equipped with an 18-foot power cord that plugs into a standard 110-volt outlet. It also includes a waterproof transformer box that converts 110 volts to 12 volts, helping you to conserve energy. SunSetter’s lights are designed to match your awning hardware, illuminate your space perfectly, and save energy! 

At Authority Home Solutions, we are proud to be your #1 local SunSetter and Sunbrella authorized supplier. We are locally owned and operated and have been serving Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over ten years. We offer unmatched customer service and installation quality and would love to schedule a free consultation for you. Contact us today so you can experience outdoor living with the protection, durability, and beauty of SunSetter’s retractable awnings and accessories. We look forward to making evenings spent under your awning, a time to remember.

SunSetter’s Manual Lateral Retractable Awning Models

Retracable awning installation in the Villages FL

With SunSetter retractable awnings, you can affordably create the outdoor space of your dreams. With so many models to choose from, it is important that you select the model that is right for you and your home. The Sunsetter Manual Lateral Model is a non-motorized version of lateral arm style retractable awnings. If the convenience of a motorized awning is not for you, you can opt for this non-motorized version to create a protective outdoor getaway for you and your family. Sunsetter’s Manual Awnings include the beautiful and convenient features that you have come to expect from any quality SunSetter product. 

Quality SunSetter Features

 Manual Operation

SunSetter Manual awnings open and close in less than a minute, using a hand-cranked gear mechanism. 

Lateral Arm Technology

Lateral Arm technology gives your retractable 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 Manual Lateral 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. 

Features at a Glance: 

Manual Lateral Model:

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

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

Manual Operation:

Manual hand crank (included). Operates from the right side of the awning, as you are facing the house.

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.

How to Add Holiday Curb Appeal to Your Home or Business

Holiday Decorations and Awnings Outside Home In the Villages FL

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.

The Versatility of Retractable Awnings: Are you ready for Fall and Winter Weather?

A Retractable Awning Protecting Patio Furniture From Harmful UV Rays In The Villages, FL.

Many Floridians pulled out their sweaters and turned on the heat as cooler temperatures crept in this past week. While the cold front may have been unexpected, it is no surprise that our weather can vary drastically during the fall and winter months. To ensure that your home is prepared for these weather changes, you can rely on the versatility of a retractable awning.

Retractable awnings are an inexpensive way to add adjustable extensions to your home. In the fall and winter months, a cold early morning can often transition to a hot early afternoon. As Florida’s weather changes, you can adjust your motorized awning to the desired position easily and within seconds. On Florida’s warmest days your retractable awning can supply you with full shade protection from unwanted heat and UV rays. On those cooler days, it can be adjusted to offer you full or partial sun. Being able to manage the light reaching your home can be especially useful on foggy and overcast days as well.

Retractable awnings help keep you comfortable while also cutting energy costs. When the temperatures drop, exposing your home to the full sun helps to keep your interiors warm. You may never need to turn on the heat again! As temperatures rise, returning to full shade helps to keep your interiors cooler and provides maximum protection from UV rays. Your air conditioner and your wallet will thank you!

Regardless of the weather, you can count on Authority Home Solutions to provide you with outstanding services. As a Sunsetter authorized dealer, we know you will be happy with the quality and performance of the products we provide. We have been serving The Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas for over 10 years. Are you ready to be the next happy customer? Contact us today to get a free quote. We look forward to helping you add value, comfort, and protection to your home.

Top 5 Reasons to Install a Retractable Awning in 2021!

Retractable Awning Installed in The Villages Florida

#5 Year-Round Protection From The Elements

You can protect your home from UV Rays that can cause damage to your siding, patio furniture, and even your precious plants. Having a Sunsetter retractable awning can provide shade and protection at the touch of a button.

#4 Recovers Your Patio Spaces

Having some protection from the unrelenting Florida sun can help you enjoy your homes outside spaces again. Hang out by the pool or have lunch on the patio. The shade provided by our easy to use retractable awning can reclaim the space that’s yours.

#3 Adds Value to Your Home

Not only are Authority Home Solution Awnings stylish but they can add market value you to your home. They bring appeal to potential homeowners that are looking to enjoy their outdoor spaces especially here in Ocala Florida.

#2 Provides Another Area For Entertainment

Ever feel inspired to take dinner outside but remember sitting out in the intense sun can be awful? Now you can set the table outside for those large gatherings, holidays, and celebrations just by having one of our specialists install a retractable awning on your home.

#1 Reduces Energy Costs

Keeping the sun off your windows means lest heat counteracting your air conditioning. You can end up saving up to 23% on annual energy costs. Before you know it your Sunnsetter Retractable Awning has paid for itself!

Unexpected Florida Weather

Have you noticced the weather is changing here in Florida? Don't be caught outside in the blazing sun, enjoy a SunSetter Retractable Awning. You never know what to expect with the weather, so have peace of mind with a wind sensor that automatically retracts your awning in to protect it from wind damage.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to purchase a SunSetter retractable awning. Or if you are a current SunSetter awning customer and would like to purchase a windsensor, you can reach us at (352)351-3642.

The Villages Community, Central Florida Awning Company

Need help finding the perfect retractable awning model for your home. Discover all the features, sizes, fabric choices and more.

Learn why life is better under a SunSetter Retractable Awning in Central Florida. Are you located in The Villages Community, On Top of the World, Stone Creek, and other retirement communities? We are your local authorized awning dealer servicing your area for 14+ years.

Contact us today! (352)351-3642

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Roof Mount Retractable Awning Installation

Authority Home Solutions an authorized SunSetter dealer has trained installers to do the most appropriate installation of a retractable awning. Not enough wall space, no problem we can mount your awning on the roof covered by a hood for protection. Ask about how we can install an awning on your manufactured home as well. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, (352)351-3642.

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Stationary Awnings

Just another day in The Villages community providing shade for our customers. Did you know we offer stationary window awnings along with retractable awnings to match? Contact us today (352) 351-3642

Retractable Awning Special

Receive $200 off the purchase of a Retractable Awning

Authority Home Solutions is an authorized dealer for SunSetter awnings. SunSetter is America's #1 best selling awning. Enjoy this Florida weather under the shade of a motorized awning.

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Terms and Conditions
Can not be combined with other offers. Previous sales excluded.

Bussiness as Usual with Percautions

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To all Authority Home Solutions Customers or Future Customers:

First and foremost, we hope that you and your families are healthy and safe. I am writing to you as a member of our local community and the office manager of Authority Home Solutions. All of us have been overwhelmed with information regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). The health and safety of our employees and our customers are of utmost importance.  

Our team is here. We are working. Throughout all of our projects, safety continues as our top priority. We are taking guidance from the CDC, and other federal, state, and local authorities every day. When one of our design consultants, an installation team, or anyone from Authority Home Solutions comes to your home, know that we are taking appropriate steps, including social distancing, to ensure that we are all safe.

Our goal is to help you transform your home into the oasis you always dreamed it could be. Perhaps now, as all of us plan to spend more time in and around our homes, that goal is even more important. In addition to our internal safety precautions, you can also rest assured that whether you are interested in a retractable canopy, solar shades, or storm protection shades, it is manufactured or fabricated right here in the USA.

I know that together, our community will remain strong and healthy. On behalf of Authority Home Solutions and all of our families, we hope that you are well and look forward to seeing you soon.

 

Sincerely,
Lydia Veith
Authority Home Solutions
(352)351-3642

 

Central Florida SunSetter Awnings

Another beautiful day in Central Florida. Authority Home Solutions is staying busy installing SunSetter Retractable awnings in Ocala, The Villages and surrounding areas. Contact us today to find out how you can provide shade for your deck, patio, and home. (352)351-3642

Retractable Awning Inside Screen Lanai

Beautiful retractable motorized awning installed in The Villages Community. Authority Home Solutions is a dealer for SunSetter, Americas #1 best selling awning.

Many of central Florida have enclosed patios and looking for shade. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to provide yourself with shade, (352)351-3642.