Made For The Shade

London Company Keeps Customers Cool

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

With Old Man Winter in the rearview mirror and summer on the doorstep comes the urge to get outdoors and enjoy the sunny season. But that welcome sunshine can heat up to uncomfortable levels, driving us back to air-conditioned comfort. Enter the solution: awnings and shade screens.

These options are embraced by homeowners seeking sun protection, says Christina van Dorst, co-owner with her husband Dennis of London Awnings. The company specializes in retractable models that are easily opened for shade or privacy and withdrawn when the sun’s warmth is desired. “They provide an attractive outdoor staycation area to entertain friends and family while still being protected from the sun,” she says.

Clients also appreciate the health benefits of sun protection, van Dorst says. “The fabric on the awnings and mesh on the screen systems have a high level of protection from ultra-violet rays. They block both UVA and UVB rays.”

London Awnings, a second-generation family business serving the region since 1982, offers a wide range of models and styles, both motorized and manual, for decks, patios, porches, pergolas and more. Ninety per cent of their clientele is residential. Classic and cassette overhead awnings are popular with homeowners. The ~ story continues on page 38

OPPOSITE PAGE Overhead awnings for porches and backyard decks are smart options to create cool, sun-safe spaces for outdoor entertaining.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT

Retractable awnings may be opened for shade or withdrawn to enjoy the sun.

• Permanent awnings allow outdoor spaces to be used in light rain, as well. • Retractable side screens provide privacy as well as temperature control.

• An awning can be a cost-effective alternative to constructing a covered patio or an enclosed terrace.

• Awnings are available in four standard colours with powder-coated aluminum frames.  newest style, the cassette awning, retracts into a sleek box. When it’s closed all that’s seen is a slim box, as the fabric is tucked inside. With the standard classic awning, a valance hangs down when retracted. All come in four standard colours with powder-coated aluminum frames.

Van Dorst notes that their awnings are manufactured in Ontario, guaranteeing quality and speedy service turn-around times. The company provides custom installation with its own fabrication shop, allowing the ability to meet clients’ unique needs and specifications. It is also known for its post-installation service, she adds. “We don’t just install an awning and walk away. If there’s a break, we come out and fix it. We really pride ourselves on the service we provide from start to finish.”

This has built a strong reputation resulting in frequent word-of-mouth referrals, she says. “We’ve had many clients tell us they want to deal with us because they’ve heard from family or friends that we are the best in the business. We get a lot of feedback from clients saying how wonderful our technicians are during on-site installing.”

London Awnings serves the region within an hour outside the city, from Sarnia to Woodstock and Grand Bend to the Lake Erie shoreline. At its showroom, located in the city’s west end, customers can view working models of the awnings and screen systems. 

Building in London and area’s most prestigious communities with attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship.

“