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Archive for the ‘From the president’ Category

An Architectural “Wow” Factor!

Tuesday, October 11th, 2011 by admin

Here’s something that will catch the eye. Aluminum sunshades are one of our newest products and we’re very pleased to be offering them. Not only are they known for their durability and functionality, they will definitely give any building an architectural “wow” factor, providing a fresh and modern look.

The primary purpose of a sunshade is to control the amount of direct sunlight through your building’s windows, so where you install them matters. Southern, eastern, and western exposures of you building will derive benefits from solar shading. The southern exposure is the easiest to shade, as the sun exposure is the greatest in that direction, which is why shading this area will provide the greatest energy savings.

Occupants, however, will appreciate any reduction in morning sun glare (eastern exposure) and afternoon sun glare (western exposure). These exposure can generate significant energy saving as well. Northern exposures do not require solar shading, but in order to foster uniformity and balance in the building’s appearance, it’s highly advisable that you include shades there as well.

Should you have any questions about which types of awnings would fit your style and needs, please don’t hesitate to call us at 901-368-4477.

-Michael Folk, President of Parasol Awnings

Awnings are an affordable “Plan B”

Friday, January 21st, 2011 by admin

Most retail businesses have to keep the retail experience fresh if they want to maintain customer loyalty. It’s easy for customers to grow tired with what is old and look for something that’s new and shiny.

The challenge for retailers with physical locations grows tougher as they go head to head with online stores. Last year Cyber Monday sales totaled more than $1 billion dollars and are expected to continue to increase.

The point is, if you expect a consumer to get in the car and drive to your location, you’re going to have to give them a pleasant experience when they get there. That means something attractive inside and out.

Awnings are a great, affordable way to update a retail exterior. Adding awnings over doors and shop windows can transform a dreary exterior, signaling there’s something fresh and exciting inside.
If your location already has awnings, it’s even more economical. You can change your colors and, literally, change your stripes. Keeping the awning’s frame but updating the fabric and finishing style can infuse your exterior with a new energy that will get customers’ attention.

If you’re scrambling to capture more of a shrinking marketplace, shake it up with a facelift that includes awnings.

Michael Folk
President, Parasol Awnings

Thinking Outside the Frame

Tuesday, September 29th, 2009 by admin

Most industry outsiders think canopies and awnings haven’t evolved since they were installed on their grandparent’s house 70 years ago. Those of us in the business know better.

Canopies and awnings are continually evolving to answer today’s engineering, design and energy-conservation challenges. Here and across the country craftsmen and designers are pursuing innovative applications, experimenting with new materials and pioneering new processes.

In this blog, I will share with you some of these inspiring projects. You’ll be able to read about the latest advancements in energy conservation, cost savings, extended wear and durability, new fabrication techniques and configurations as well as bold graphics. If you know of an inspiring project, email me the details.

Michael Folk
President, Parasol Awnings


 
Parasol Awnings, LLC  •  4834 Hickory Hill Rd  •  Memphis, TN 38141  •  (901) 328-6146  •  (888) 436-2190