Don’t Lose Your Cool This Summer

As Florida’s temperatures continue to climb towards summer, it can be challenging to keep your home cool. Achieving a comfortable temperature indoors is possible, even in the hottest summer months. Here are a few small investments and changes you can make to your home that are sure to help you keep your cool this summer.

Fans

Install ceiling fans in the rooms that you and your family use most often. Operate your fan counterclockwise on the warmest days to draw cooler air upwards. 

Window Treatments and Shades

Block some of the intense heat reaching your indoor spaces with blinds, curtains, and SunSetter EasyShades. EasyShades are installed on the outside of your home’s windows and block 90% of sun, wind, and mist. They will help guard your home against intense heat and glare, resulting in lower cooling costs, greater comfort, and decreased fading of carpet and furniture. 

Trees

While it may take a few years to fully reap the rewards of this solution, consider planting more trees around the outside of your home. Trees will help reduce the amount of heat reaching your home through the ceiling and windows. 

Cooking Outdoors

Get the grill going and keep the heat outside. The kitchen can generate a lot of heat when the oven and stove are in use. Try opting to grill outside more often this summer to keep your kitchen from warming up your entire house. 

AC Maintenance

Remember to keep up with the care and maintenance of your HVAC system. With proper maintenance your air conditioner will run more efficiently, keeping you comfortable, and your cooling costs lower. 

Retractable Awnings

According to the Professional Awnings Manufacturers Association (PAMA), awnings can reduce annual cooling costs by more than 25% compared to those with unshaded windows. Installing a retractable awning to your home will provide you with a smart and stylish way to extend your outdoor spaces while keeping your home and outdoor guests cooler. 

For over ten years, Authority Home Solutions  has been keeping Florida families and homes cool! 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?

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

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.

SunSetter EasyShades for Cooler Days

Florida is known for its natural beauty, vast beaches, and exciting tourist attractions. While Florida’s beautiful sunny days allow for more fun in the sun, they also inundate visitors and residents with scorching heat! This intense heat can lead to an uncomfortable sweatiness and increased cooling costs, but America’s #1 best-selling-awning company has another solution to help home and business owners. SunSetter developed an EasyShade product that is beautiful, effective, and customizable and we are excited to share this option with you!

Models

SunSetter’s EasyShade is available in three models, depending on your preference.

• The solar-powered model saves energy while keeping you cool. During the day, a solar collection panel attached to the shade housing charges a built-in battery pack. Even on cloudy days, the collection panel will charge the battery enough for the next use. 

• The motorized EasyShade, on the other hand, plugs into an outdoor electrical outlet. Both the solar and motorized EasyShades glide up and down on cables with an easy-to-use remote.

• The manual EasyShade has all of the same benefits but requires you to manually open and close your EasyShade using a hand crank tool.

Features

EasyShades are installed on the outside of your home’s windows and block 90% of sun, wind, and mist. They will help guard your home against intense heat and glare, resulting in lower cooling costs, greater comfort, and decreased fading of carpet and furniture. 

Options

• The EasyShade aluminum storage housing is available in bronze, white, or cream. Like SunSetter’s other quality products, they feature a baked-on powder paint finish for durability. 

• The EasyShade fabric is made of durable vinyl-coated polyester. While it blocks 90% of the sun, it still lets in light and air. The fabrics are available in charcoal, coral white, cream, and desert sand. 

To experience the quality and durability of a SunSetter Awning or Easyhade product, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Authority Home Solutions is a SunSetter authorized dealer with over ten years of experience serving Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. With Authority Home Solutions you can expect high-quality products, installation, and customer service. We look forward to helping you save money and stay comfortable through these hot summer months.

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!

Why Should I Choose Professional Awning Installation?

As the warmer months approach, many homeowners are choosing to invest in awnings to extend their outdoor spaces. If you are planning to make this upgrade to your home you might be considering the “do it yourself” option to save money, but is this really the best and most affordable choice for your new awning? 

Professional Installation 

Installing a retractable awning on your home requires knowledge, experience, and specialized tools. A professional awning installation company will ensure that the height, projection length, hood requirements, and mounting alternatives have all been considered and measured accurately. With a quality installation, you can expect a sturdier, longer-lasting awning. With self-installation, you greatly increase the likelihood of ripping and breaking your awning, or worse, installing it incorrectly causing harm to people, pets, and patio furniture.  

Professional Maintenance and Upgrades

With professional installation, your installer becomes the point of contact for your product. If you have questions, need repairs, or want to make additional upgrades you have a professional available to work with you. If you choose to install an awning on your own, however, you would need to hire an awning repair company to make any necessary repairs required to keep your awning functioning properly. 

Quality You Can Trust and Experience

Working with a professional awning installation company allows you to access the highest quality awning parts and fabrics. Authorized SunSetter and Sunbrella installers can help you select the perfect awning and fabric to match your style and needs. With in-home demonstrations, you can ask questions and experience the quality before making your selection.

Trust the Experts at Authority Home Solutions 

When choosing to invest in the protection and beauty of a retractable awning, look no further than the experts at Authority Home Solutions. For over ten years we have been adding beautiful outdoor spaces for home and business owners in Ocala, the Villages, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas. You can depend on our expert craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and outdoor space you will love! Contact us today to schedule your free demonstration.

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.

Outdoor Living with Sunbrella Shade Fabrics

Awnings provide homes, businesses, and families with curb appeal and protection all year round. When it comes to choosing the right fabric for your investment, it is wise to choose something that is both durable and easy to clean. Is it possible to find this in an outdoor fabric without sacrificing color and curb appeal? Absolutely!  Sunbrella’s shade fabrics are designed to withstand the elements while complementing your home and awning beautifully.

About Sunbrella 

Sunbrella is a family-owned company providing high-quality textiles since 1961. While they manufacture across the globe, the main manufacturing facility is located in Anderson, South Carolina. Sunbrella has a long-standing reputation for its ongoing research and development to create products that have increased in durability, appealing design, and sustainability. They consistently go above and beyond the industry standard with their award-winning designs.  Sunbrella’s fabrics can be found on both indoor and outdoor furniture, window treatments, awnings, and even boats. 

Color and Durability

While many companies create outdoor fabrics and then coat them in a finish, Sunbrella’s performance fabrics are engineered, to their core, to maintain their rich color and strength against the elements. While surface finishes gradually wear off with exposure to the elements, Sunbrella’s 100% solution-dyed fabrics are inherently fade resistant, UV protective, and maintain their quality through cleaning, wear, and exposure to the elements. The fabric fibers are also engineered to be mold, mildew, stain, and water-resistant too!.

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 demonstration for you. Contact us today so you can experience outdoor living with the protection, durability, and beauty of Sunbrella’s shade fabrics.

Reputation is Key: Choosing Your Awning Installation Company

Deciding to have a retractable awning installed on your home or place of business is an exciting process. Imagining the time you will spend outdoors and the level of protection your friends, family, or customers will receive may have you in a rush to get the process started immediately, especially as spring approaches. How do you choose an installation company to provide you with your new awning? 

When you are on the hunt for a local awning installer, you might find yourself scrolling through websites, blogs, and social media profiles to collect information about awning installation experts. While you can get good information from these sources, we urge you to make your final decision based on reviews.

Positive online reviews can provide you with proof that a business is trustworthy, reliable, and professional. The best way to assess the expertise, experience, and reputation of an awning installer is to take a look at their online reviews. While we recommend Google as the first place to check for these reviews, you can also find them on sites like Yelp and Facebook. 

When a customer or client receives a service and a product as described, they are pleased but rarely make the effort to complete a positive online review. On the other hand, when customers receive quality products with exceptional customer service they are far more likely to take time out of their busy day to complete an online review. Positive online reviews can help you to feel confident that your new awning investment is in good hands.

At Authority Home Solutions we love how often we have the opportunity to receive positive feedback from our clients and customers. How our customers feel about our products and installation is at the heart of our business. We can’t wait to help you create the outdoor space of your dreams with a new awning. Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews! Contact us today to schedule your free demonstration. 

Gerry King

2 reviews·5 photos

4 years ago

I can't say enough good things about Authority Home Solutions (AHS)!!

Chris and the team were courteous and very helpful and delivery was

fast! They helped us with our first SunSetter rollup Awning and now delivered us 3 rollup SunSetter shades last month. We live on a lake with west facing windows in our living room. The SunSetter shades Chris recommended us have drastically reduced our afternoon temperature in our living room by almost 20 degrees! We are so much more comfortable in the late afternoons an we still can see our beautiful view since we can see through them!! Thank you authority Home Solutions for allowing us to enjoy our peaceful view during the hottest months of the year.

Linda Hoo

2 reviews·1 photo

a year ago

I want to express my appreciation and gratitude to Authority Home Solutions, Sunsetter and their excellent installation team, Kurt and James. When I had a serious issue with my new awning, making it unusable, everyone went above and beyond to help give me the ability to use the product as intended. I would do business with this company again without any reservation. I am beyond impressed and satisfied with the excellent customer service experience at every level.

Kathy

6 reviews

2 years ago

Our experience with Authority Home Solutions has been fantastic!  From the time our sales rep, Scott, came to talk to us and place our order, to our installation yesterday, everything about this experience has been first class. Our installers, Kurt and James, were extremely professional and did a great job of installation. During the installation, they kept us updated on what they were doing and how it all came together. After the installation, Kurt sat down with us to explain all the functions of the remote and the operations of the Sunsetter Awning.  These two guys are first-class installers and were great.  Everyone involved in this process were very professional and pleasant to deal with.  We would highly recommend Authority Home Solutions for all your Sunsetter Awnings!

Awnings Are A Great Investment for Your Business

Your commercial storefront has the opportunity to attract attention to your brand and increase sales. Have you considered how you could improve this space? Having an awning installed on your business can make a huge impact. With the affordability of awnings, it makes good business sense to consider how this small business expense could benefit your brand and your business.

Protection

Awnings block harmful UV rays and rain. Your employees and customers will appreciate the cool shade and protection provided by an awning at your storefront, windows, or other outdoor spaces. As an added bonus, it will also decrease the cooling costs for your business, which is especially helpful during the warmest Florida months. Don’t let rain or heat keep your customers away!   

Curb Appeal

Awnings come in so many colors, patterns, and fabrics. If you choose to have an awning installed at your place of business, you can expect to find an option that looks beautiful and compliments both your business and your outdoor spaces. With the added outdoor space, you can even consider adding seating, plants, or additional lighting to take your curb appeal to the next level.

Brand Visibility

With all of the added curb appeal provided by your new awning, you are far more likely to generate the interest of potential customers. Your awning will allow you the opportunity to highlight your business logo and colors, creating a friendly and recognizable location for customers and clients. 

If you are interested in making this smart investment for your business, you can count on the expertise and customer service at Authority Home Solutions. We have been providing high-quality awning installation for over ten years in the Villages, Ocala, Gainesville, and surrounding areas. We would love to help you elevate your business space and increase your brand visibility. Contact us today with any questions you may have or to schedule your free demonstration.

What is the UV Index?

The UV index is typically reported with most weather forecasts, especially during the summer months. You can find it on your weather app, in the newspaper, on the radio, and on the television weather reports, but what does it mean exactly?

What are UV Rays?

Ultraviolet radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun. The level of radiation is significantly higher in areas closer to the equator. While Florida enjoys warmer weather most of the year, we also must contend with higher UV radiation exposure. UV radiation can also come from man-made sources like tanning beds and welding torches.

How Do UV Rays Affect People?

Ultraviolet radiation can cause significant damage to the eyes and skin, especially with overexposure. The more time you spend in the sun without proper sun protection, the more likely it becomes that you will develop sun-related eye diseases and skin cancers. It also causes premature aging of the skin, sun damage, and other skin conditions diagnosed and treated by dermatologists. 

What is the UV Index?

The UV Index is a measure of the level of UV radiation. Because these values vary throughout the day the values of the index vary as well. Typically, when reporting the UV index rating for the day, the maximum level for the day will be reported. This occurs during the 4 hour period around solar noon (typically between 12-2). 

How Can You Use the UV Index?

UV Levels 

Recommendation 

0-2

Safe to be outside

3-7

Seek cover during midday hours and use sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

8+

Avoid being outside during midday hours and use sun protection 

The UV Protection of SunSetter Awnings

SunSetter Awnings have an SPF rating over 50, blocking 99% of harmful UV rays. Retractable awnings ensure that families can enjoy their outdoor spaces, even when the UV Index is higher.  In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends SunSetter awnings as an effective UVA and UVB ray protectant. 

At Authority Home Solutions, we are proud to be your #1 local SunSetter 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 start enjoying your outdoor spaces with peace of mind and UV protection in 2022.

Latest SunSetter Products to Look for in 2022

SunSetter has been providing outstanding awnings and accessories for over 20 years. They are the most trusted brand in retractable awnings, and customers rave over how their outdoor spaces have been transformed by their beautiful and durable products. We are excited to share that SunSetter has released some new products for 2022. If you are considering extending your outdoor spaces with the protection and beauty of a SunSetter retractable awning, these latest products will make it even easier to customize an awning that fits your home and business.

Performance Acrylic Fabric

SunSetter’s latest Performance Acrylic Fabric has been engineered to be both durable and retain its rich quality colors and patterns over time. The Performance Acrylic Fabric is available for the Platinum Series awnings only and offers over 18 different 100% solution-dyed color choices and patterns. You can choose classic vertical stripe patterns, or opt for a solid color. The new solid colors offered are sure to provide you with the bold, earthy, or neutral look that best compliments your home or business. As with many SunSetter fabric offerings, the Performance Acrylic Fabric offers a 10-year limited warranty and is fade, mold, and mildew resistant. In addition to being water repellant, it also blocks 98% of damaging UV rays.

Frame Colors

We are excited to share that SunSetter now offers two new frame colors to compliment your home or business. It is now easier than ever to find the perfect frame color to pair alongside your beautiful awning color and pattern selection. The addition of white and cream awning shades is sure to help many awning owners to customize an awning for their home or business that they will love for many years to come.

Extended Projection

SunSetter’s awnings extend out from 10’2” and 11’8” typically, but now they have added a 13’1’ option for extended projection. This additional coverage allows home and business owners to create even larger outdoor spaces under the protection of their SunSetter awnings.

Somfy’s Sun and Rain Sensors

Somfy’s quality motors are a standard for SunSetter retractable awnings. Their latest sun and rain sensors automatically open and close your awning based on pre-set standards. Your awning can be prepared for weather changes, even when you aren’t!

At Authority Home Solutions, we are proud to be your #1 local SunSetter 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 start enjoying your outdoor spaces more in 2022.

Enjoying Your Outside Spaces Again

While Florida is known for its mild winters, occasionally mother nature will surprise us. This past weekend we had some of the coldest weather in years, with many counties on freeze and wind chill watches. On those cold days, you can still enjoy your outdoor spaces with the protection of your retractable awning. With a few adjustments, you can still be a warm host in chilly Florida weather! 

Patio Heaters

Patio heaters can warm you and your guests while you enjoy your outdoor spaces both day and night. When deciding what type of patio heater to purchase, first consider what type of fuel you would prefer to use. If you have a natural gas hookup, you can opt for a gas patio heater. If you would prefer propane your heater can be a bit more mobile. The safest choice for those who have children and pets would be an electric patio heater. Once you know the type of heater you would like to purchase, measure the space you would like to warm so that you can select a heater that works best for your patio size.

Fire Pit

Fire Pits near your patio area can be festive and warm. Just remember to place your fire pit 10 feet away from anything that is flammable. Avoid grassy surfaces, wood decks, or enclosed porches. To safely light your fire, avoid lighter fluid, gas, or kerosene. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

Grilling

When you are grilling food for you and your guests, avoid placing the grill in the middle of your patio’s awning cover. It is best to place it closer to the sides so that smoke can escape easily. Make sure that your awning is fire-resistant or coated in a flame-retardent. Fire-resistant materials consist of fibers that inherently won't melt or catch fire. Flame retardant fibers are coated with chemicals or a solution to make them nonflammable. 

Blankets and Sweaters

When you are entertaining outdoors, consider keeping a container or storage bench filled with warm throw blankets and sweaters. Your guests will love cozying up with a warm beverage and enjoying the beautiful outdoor space you have created under your awning. 

Are you and your family ready to invest in the high quality and durability of a SunSetter Awning and its 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!

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 Manual Lateral Retractable Awning Models

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.

Home Improvement Resolution for the New Year

In just a few days people all over the world will be committing to a new habit or task they would like to complete within the next 365 days. While many New Years’ resolutions are difficult to stick with, improving your home is one that you don’t have to accomplish alone! The start of a new year is a great opportunity to consider how you can enjoy and preserve your home’s indoor and outdoor spaces. You may even discover that your home improvement projects help you accomplish other resolutions like saving money, spending more time with family and friends, or getting additional exercise. Here are some projects to consider for your home in 2022.

Organizing and Decluttering

Having an organized space helps you find things quickly, and also reduces stress levels. Before you begin any organizing task in your home, consider what items you may be ready to part with. If there are items that you no longer want or use, consider donating them to a local charity shop or passing them along to a family or friend. When you do begin to organize, it can be helpful to designate a specific place for things so that it is easy to put them away when they aren’t in use.

Paint

Painting a space is a very affordable way to improve your home. Applying a fresh coat to the existing color of a room or outdoor space can help to make your surfaces look cleaner and brighter. A simple change of paint color can also transform your space with minimal financial investment.

Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air in your room affects your health. Adding plants or an air purifier can help decrease the amount of mold, pollen, dander, and dust you are breathing indoors. Regular maintenance on your HVAC system will help with this too. Remember to keep track of when your filters are due to be changed.

Lighting

As your existing light bulbs go out this year, consider replacing them with LED bulbs. Light-Emitting Diodes(LED) last longer and are much more energy-efficient. Making this switch can save you more than $150 per bulb compared to incandescent bulbs!

Outdoor Spaces

Investing in your outdoor spaces adds curb appeal to your home, and creates additional spaces for you to relax, dine, and enjoy spending time with family and friends. Adding a retractable awning to your patio is a functional and stylish way to improve your home. A retractable awning will allow you to enjoy your outdoor spaces and host gatherings regardless of the weather.

In 2022, you and your family can be enjoying your outdoor spaces with the protection and ease of a retractable awning. With so many models to choose from, you are sure to find something that fits your needs. Authority Home Solutions has provided attractive, high-quality awnings for Ocala, the Villages, and surrounding areas for over ten years. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration. We look forward to helping you make your New Years’ resolutions happen!

SunSetter’s Pro and Pro XL Awnings

You deserve to enjoy your outdoor spaces any time of year! 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. Much like the Motorized and Motorized XL awnings, SunSetter’s Pro and Pro XL awnings come with the beautiful and convenient features that you have come to expect from any quality SunSetter product, with a few distinct differences.

Quality SunSetter 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.

Experience the Protection and Versatility of the Weatherbreaker Panel

The Pro and Pro XL awning models feature a Weatherbreaker Panel made of durable woven acrylic fabric. This panel unrolls quickly to give you daytime privacy and protection from the elements. With an easy-to-use hand-crank, you will have a 90% sun filter and wind protection in seconds! The panel drops a full 5 feet but can be rolled down partially to your desired length.

Features at a Glance:

PRO:

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

Widths from 8 to 20ft. available in SunSetter woven acrylic fabric only.

PRO XL:

11 ft. 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.

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.