Not every project around the house requires a handyman. Cutting out installation costs allows for extra expenditure on quality products. At ShadeFX, our retractable canopies are designed and engineered for easy installation by homeowners.

“The installation only took a few hours and it fits perfectly. I would recommend ShadeFX canopies personally and professionally to anyone.”

– David Barnes, Berwyn, PA

The Process

As highlighted in our blog Never too Early to Get Started, purchasing a custom retractable canopy begins with a simple phone call, e-mail or by walking through our front doors.

There are three steps to ensure you get the retractable shade you’re looking for: concept, design & order, and of course, build. Throughout the entire process, a knowledgeable ShadeFX Product Specialist will be by your side, guiding you along the way.

“I looked at lots of companies to make a retractable shade cloth to go under our pergola. One mistake was that we had the pergola built before finalizing the design of the shade. ShadeFX ended up being the best fit for our needs. Hernan patiently answered all of my endless questions. Because our design was not centered, it did not exactly fit into their paradigm. With Hernan’s help, we managed to figure out the deviations that would be required. I am very happy with the result. It is very well made. It looks like it will last a very long time and it functions exactly the way that I had hoped.”

– Ken Flagg, Solana Beach, CA

Product Specialist Importance

Product Specialists ensure you have a positive experience while ordering a custom product for your project. They’ll show you how and where to measure, walk you through available features and ask the right questions to deliver a smooth fit and operating system.

“We want to thank Kevin Hadley from ShadeFX. Kevin was amazing to work with. He walked us through the process of measuring our backyard pergola, while showing us all the different fabric collections, and options available for our underside canopy. My wife and I picked up our canopy and curtain one afternoon, and we installed it before sunset. The ShadeFX workmanship, 12-year guarantee, and quality certainly shows in their product. We’ve had our ShadeFX canopy, and curtain for over a month now … our family, and dog love it!”

– Alex Novak, Grand Valley, ON

Each ShadeFX canopy is made to order for your project and your project only. An order acknowledgment is put through by your Product Specialist with all the details of your wants and needs.

“ShadeFX to the Rescue! With the undertaking of a completely new backyard, deck, and outside kitchen renovation, we also wanted the permanency of a pergola and the ability to sit beneath and enjoy the sky and stars, but also have the option of shade and rain protection. Our designer recommended ShadeFX and we were immediately impressed. Our design and functional needs were communicated with one of ShadeFX’s Project Specialists and from there the decision was made. The components and fabrics are top-notch, installation was simple, and the ease with which the canopy can be removed for winter storage was a breeze. Thanks again for being there.”

– Bev & Bart Evans, Toronto, ON

Installation

Once your canopy lands on your front door, the fun part begins. ShadeFX will provide you with a comprehensive installation guide. Not only does it give you a step by step on how to install the canopy, but it also highlights product components, pre-installation details and post-installation considerations.

“Ordering process was simple. Just took a few measurements on my end and the canopy fits perfectly. Installation was also pretty simple as long as you have the necessary tools. Best installed with 2 persons.”

– Howard Lance, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

The time and number of people required for installation depend on a range of factors including canopy size, structure material, method of operation and more. However, regardless of size or mounting option, the fundamental simplicity of the system remains.

“The team at ShadeFX were a pleasure to work with. I’m a DIY kind of person, so having David take the time to explain the options and get the answers to my questions was greatly appreciated. Installation was a breeze; the instructions were clear and easy to follow. I also like that the canopy can be easily taken down for winter storage. Given the amount of direct sunlight that our deck receives, having a high-quality shade solution was very important to me and my wife. I am very happy with our ShadeFX canopy and look forward too many days on my deck.”

– Yanik Cousineau, Ottawa, ON

Proper installation will preserve the life of the ShadeFX retractable system. There are essentially three steps to installing the retractable canopy efficiently and effectively. Below is a simplified version for you and a friend to tackle.

Step 1: Mount the drive beam

Step 2: Attach the canopy

Step 3: Position and secure stabilizers

“Wanted to let you know that I received the package and I was able to, at 70 years of age, hang everything in less than an hour. Your system works great and installing is a snap. The canopy is up, and I can enjoy the shade on my patio.”

– Richard Boucher, Raeford, NC

Every system includes the drive beam, canopy and hardware. Stabilizers can be purchased directly from ShadeFX or made on-site with the same material as the structure. Keep in mind, the stabilizers play a vital role in the operation of the retractable shade.

“We did a lot of research to try and find the right product to suit our needs. We wanted to keep the sun and rain out. We are extremely happy with our result and the installation was very easy. We did it together :). No divorce!! LOL

You do need two people though. Everyone at ShadeFX was lovely to deal with. This is a product that met our needs exactly, made our outdoor living area comfortable and protected. The team at ShadeFX is professional, courteous and prompt. It was truly a pleasure dealing with such a wonderful group of people that supply an amazing retractable shade and incredible service.”

– Laura Woodhouse, Collingwood, ON

Through exceptional consumer service, detailed consultation and our installation guide, mounting the ShadeFX system is a breeze for any homeowner. If you do run into trouble, simply call us and we’ll help you find your way.

Ready to take on a DIY project with long-term, quality results? Contact us today.