Welding Awnings and Shades

Most awnings are made from PVC-coated acrylic or polyester. They are robust, watertight, dirt-resistant, and water-repellent. Since awning fabric sheets are mainly produced with fixed widths, they must be welded together.

Leister’s high-quality equipment welds sheets together quickly while ensuring that welds are watertight. This allows for awnings and shades to be pre-cut to size. Also, unlike fabrics that are sewn together, seams that are welded result in a smoother finish with a more aesthetic appeal. Since awning fabrics are generally produced with fixed widths, the sheets have to be welded together. Leister speeds up the finishing process by welding sheets together and making them watertight. This allows the tarpaulin for the shades and awnings to be pre-cut to size. Also, unlike fabric parts that are sewn, seams that are welded in this way are smooth and less noticeable.

Awnings

Awnings are typically used to provide color and architectural accents as well as protection from the sun. The harmful effects from UV rays are greatly reduced, making it easier to enjoy warm weather in the shade on a balcony, terrace or other location.

Awning fabrics are subject to direct sunlight, strong winds and sometimes humidity and rain. To ensure that the awning has a long life and can withstand intense use, both high-quality fabrics and a reliable welding process are essential. The individual sheets must be properly joined to produce a perfect, watertight fit. Hem seams, piping, and concave welds must be capable of withstanding great strain. With Leister’s welding machines like SEAMTEK, producing durable welds is no problem at all. Leister’s welding machines and heat guns are excellent choices for awning manufacturers. Awnings have been organized into wind resistance classes for the customer’s reference. In addition to color and pattern, another criterion for selecting an awning is whether it is dirt-resistant, which will result in less maintenance.

Awnings come in different designs for different uses: cassette awnings, half cassette awnings and folding arm awnings, all available as electrical and manually extendable versions. There are also specialty awnings such as mobile awnings, clamp awnings, vertical awnings and side awnings, all of which are mostly used for wind protection.

More information about shades and awnings for larger architectural projects and buildings can be found in the expert’s report, “Textile Roofs and Facades.”

Shade Sails

Shade sails, as well as other flexible shades and awnings consist of a large, flexible piece of tarpaulin or fabric and most are made from synthetic fiber. These shade sails and flexible shades and awnings are not affixed to a vehicle or house, but instead mounted and dismantled as needed.

Shade sails, awnings and shade screens are easy to retract on campers and motorhomes using the specially mounted tracks. Shade sails must also be equipped with hems, pole pockets and grommets.
Shade sails are a standard feature in motorhomes and campers, intended to provide protection from the sun. Although permanently installed awnings are not always the best choice for motorhomes due to their weight and/or location, shade sails are a great alternative.

Using the tailor-made Leister welding machine, HEMTEK K-ST, piping can be made easily and quickly, without having to make grueling changes that occur with a sewing machine. The HEMTEK K-ST is quick, sleek and efficient, making it perfect for shade sails with durable piping. Camping is back in style and shade sails can be a lucrative source of revenue.