How to Select Retractable Canopies or Roofs | ShadeFX
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How to Select Retractable Canopies or Roofs | ShadeFX

  • Available in

  • Use

    External
  • Applications

    Residential, commercial, hospitality
  • Characteristics

    Easy to install, custom-built, flexible deployment, resistant to wind and rain
  • Guarantee

    12-year warranty
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ShadeFX provides retractable solutions that offer privacy and protection for outdoor spaces. This can be in the form of a roof or a canopy for complete sun and rain protection. When searching for the optimal shade structure, some factors like the life span, quality, versatility, and shade warranties can ultimately help to decide which solution is best, but it also comes down to personal preference.

Retractable Canopy vs. Retractable Roof

Both canopy and roofs are custom built to fit any structure. Both provide sun and rain protection, operate on a ShadeFX patented single-track system, and both include a 12-year warranty. Here is a breakdown of the differences between canopy and roof structures, and which would fit best on your outdoor project.

Retractable Canopy Retractable Roof
Mounting The retractable canopy mounts underneath the rafters of the pergola, with the shade hanging below the track.

If the structure is intended to be a focal point as a result of detailed craftsmanship or aesthetic design, a retractable roof mounted above the pergola would allow the details to remain in full focus.

Installation Can be easily installed by two people with a ladder and a drill Requires more technical guidance as it is usually larger and heavier to handle.
Coverage With the retractable canopy mounting underneath the structure, coverage is usually confined by beams and structure posts. Can cover the entire topside of the structure from edge to edge. This also allows for rainwater to drain past the structure. Enjoys some additional freedom and flexibility in design.
Drive Options

Available in three drive options:

  1. Manual with a detachable handle,
  2. Rope that operates similar to a pulley system
  3. Motor with a push of a button or the Somfy MyLink App.

Only available in the motor drive option.

Winter Storage

The underside canopy fabric should be unclipped (quick and easy exercise), and then stored away for the winter.

The retractable roof needs to be retracted and not operated in below-freezing temperatures.

Details of every project are different and the requirements requested by each client differ. As each project is custom, so is each retractable canopy or roof. ShadeFX Product Specialists can help decide which product may be the better option.

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