When the outdoor season comes to an end: Winterproofing your sun shading systems

The days are getting shorter and there has been a drop in temperatures. For many restaurants and cafés, this signals the end of the outdoor dining season. Before guests retreat to the warmth of the indoors, the parasols, pergolas, sun sails and awnings that were used to provide shade need to be packed up and put away for the following year. There are certain measures that need to be taken now in order to ensure everything is fully functioning once again next spring.

Most important rule: Leave to dry completely before packing away

Whether it’s a pergola, terrace awning or retractable system, anything involving drapery needs to be left to dry completely before being rolled in or up, generally over the weekend. This is particularly important if they won’t be used for an extended period of time, usually the entire winter. Rolling up damp materials can result in mould stains, mildew and permanent damage to the fabric. It is therefore important to pick a dry day when moving the items to storage or leaving everything to dry in a well-ventilated area beforehand.

Please note: Do not keep awnings, pergolas, parasols and other systems covered in plastic over the winter months as there is the possibility of moisture getting in, creating the perfect conditions for mould. The designs provide sufficient protection against the weather,

Before storing anything away – clean it first

Another important step before storing anything away is a thorough cleaning. Foliage, pollen, bird droppings, insect remains and spider webs clog the textile material over time. This residue should be removed as carefully, and as thoroughly, as possible. A soft brush, clear water and special cleaning agents for outdoor materials will help to clean the material without causing any damage.

Particular care should be taken when dealing with stubborn dirt and stains. Do not use any aggressive agents or brushes that are too hard and could damage the protective impregnation layer. Pressure washers should be avoided at all costs, as the strong burst of water can attack the structure of the fabric and permanently damage the material.

Fold up and pack away parasols correctly

There are also clear rules to follow for the storage of parasols. Before packing them away in a protective cover, the fabric panels should be carefully and correctly pleated. This prevents any kinks or material fatigue. The parasol should then be sufficiently strapped down to prevent it from opening again in the wind. Only then should it be placed in the suitable protective cover, which should ideally be made from breathable material.

Convenient all-round service from Schirmherrschaft

Anyone too busy to organise the cleaning, repair and storage of sun shading systems can call on specialised service providers. Schirmherrschaft in Hamburg provides a professional winter service (www.schirmherrschaft.de). They will collect the parasols and stands directly from your business premises, professionally clean them, carry out any necessary repairs and put them safely into storage. The items are then set up again at your premises before the new season starts. A particularly attractive service for businesses with larger outdoor areas.

Sails need care too

Sun sails are becoming very popular, particularly on modern and design-oriented terraces. There are both fixed and retractable sail solutions. While the retractable sails are treated in the same way as awnings, the tensioned, fixed versions may need to be dismantled completely for the winter period. Strong winds and heavy snowfall can damage the sail or loosen its anchoring system. The following rule applies here too: Only put sails into storage once they are clean and dry. They should be packed away as flat as possible and kept in a well-ventilated sack or net. Make sure that there are no wet leaves or other items trapped between the layers.

Act now, benefit next spring

Anyone who acts now is not only protecting their investment, but ensuring a smooth transition into the next outdoor season. Maintained shading systems leave a good impression on guests and save money in the long term. Therefore, use this time at the end of the summer to winterproof your sun shading systems. Your terrace will thank you.

Professional tip: Many businesses selling sun shading systems run special maintenance and cleaning promotions in the autumn. Book your appointment early to avoid disappointment.