Features and Benefits

Apple Annie Awnings
Featuring the Eclipse Awning System
Phones Wisconsin 262-966-7401 - Illinois 847-559-8668
Toll-Free 866-AASHADE (227-4233)
NOT ALL LATERAL ARM AWNINGS ARE THE SAME

Feature:
STRONG-ARM TACTICS: Eclipse leads the field with 600 lbs. of spring tension (on our 5' arms) to 1800 lbs. (on 13', 14'9", and 16'6" projections) in our RETRACTABLE ARMS!

Benefit:
Proper and increased spring tension allows for the tightest fabric and increased use (when installed properly) in light rain and light wind.
The arms are the heart of a retractable awning system. The strength of the arms dictates performance of the unit. The arms transfer tension from internal springs to the front bar creating a tight fabric and high performance product. Unlike other systems offered today, Eclipse computer tests each pair of arms to make sure the spring tension is perfect, ensuring the right strength for the right projection. Because proper arm strength is the deciding factor, this testing guarantees equal tension, perfect fabric fit and no fabric sag.

Feature:
ADVANCED BELT TECHNOLOGY (A.B.T.)®

Benefit:
The longest lasting, best performing awning…period
Most systems use exposed single or double cables and/or chains. NOT ECLIPSE! ABT® is made up of nine stainless steel cables totally sealed in a poly carbon UV resistant PVC coating. This state of the art tensioning system creates more stability at the front bar, resulting in a high performance awning. The A.B.T.® system also guarantees a long life for your arm. While cables have been tested to 5,000 cycles (a cycle is one time in and out) and chains have been tested to 8,000 cycles, the A.B.T.® system has been tested to an amazing 60,000 cycles. What this means to you is simply the best looking and best performing retractable awning available. If you live in a corrosive environment, the smooth finish of the ABT will decrease friction at the elbow and won't allow salt or sand a place to compromise the painted finish. Each and every belt is tested to ensure strength and durability.

Feature:
Injection Molded INSTALLATION BRACKETS AND FRAME CASTNGS

Benefit:
The strongest possible frame in the industry.
Our castings are done with an injection-molded process. Each casting is inspected with laser technology to make sure it is within tolerance. On the rare occasion when a casting is out of specified tolerance, it is rejected and sold as scrap. All components are treated and finished with Eclipse's unique QUAL-COAT powder coating process.

The Eclipse Installation Bracket is also a state-of-the-art design: lag bolt spacing is maximized for greater fastening strength, yet the bracket remains compact to fit into tight spaces.

Feature:
Computer controlled Qualcoat FRAME FINISH

Benefit:
The longest lasting and most corrosion resistant finish possible
First, a chemical-mechanical surface erosion treatment is performed on every component (this provides the perfect texture for the application of paint). Next, an antioxidant primer is applied. Finally, your frame is finished with our unique computer controlled qualcoat powder coating process. Qualcoat requires that we randomly test our components for 1000 hours in a salt box, to simulate the harshest of corrosive environments. Unlike other systems, the Eclipse retractable arms are coated after they have been assembled. This ensures that no seam or joint is unfinished and the entire arm is of uniform tone. Each component goes through a visual inspection to make sure the finish is perfect.

Feature:
The Eclipse TORSION BAR

Benefit:
Strength and Flexibility Engineered In
The 40mm steel square bar is the shock absorber for your retractable awning. The torsion bar flexes with the movement of the awning. The large perimeter dimension of the torsion bar provides for a supremely strong foundation - that's why we expand to a 50mm torsion bar on all 13', 14'9", and 16'6" projections. The torsion bar is galvanized and powder coated. An aluminum torsion bar is available for ocean side installations.

Feature:
"I" beam six chamber FRONT BAR

Benefit:
The best looking, best performing awning
The front bar is where the fabric is connected to the frame at the front portion of the awning. The valance also connects to the front bar and hangs freely in a decorative manner. As in the previously mentioned components, strength is key in the front bar extrusion. Our front bar has a very large perimeter for added strength. Engineers often refer to this as the "I factor", similar in concept to an I-beam. Think of roof or floor construction where 2 x 12 boards are used (not 4 x 4) because of the strength the 12-inch perimeter lends. This added strength keeps your front bar from bending and combines with a strong roller tube for a great looking and great performing awning.

Feature:
Cold rolled Galvanized Steel ROLLER TUBE

Benefit:
Steel prevents bowing and fabric sag.
Our high quality roller tube is made from cold rolled steel and galvanized inside and out. It has a 78mm diameter and a 1.25mm wall thickness for optimum strength. A strong roller tube works in concert with the arms and front bar for optimum fabric tightness.

Feature:
Aluminum Qualcoat powder coated extruded HOOD.

Benefit:
Virtually endless life vs. plastic and roll-formed hoods which will bow and sag.
The optional Eclipse hood provides for year round protection from the elements and gives the unit a finished, clean look. Our hood is made from extruded aluminum for strength and durability, it is powder coated to qualcoat specifications to match the frame.

Feature:
Computer controlled double needle sewing.

Benefit:
A perfectly square cover for the tightest, best-looking fabric.
Eclipse Awning Systems uses state of the art sewing equipment designed specifically for the retractable awning industry. Trained and specialized operators make certain each cover is a perfect fit. A square cover works in concert with the frame for optimum performance. Beware of an awning sewn by any company who has not made the investment in the latest equipment and is not dedicated and committed to the retractable awning industry.

Feature:
Ultra Sonic Cutting

Benefit:
Our ultra sonic cutting system seals each cut we make in the fabric.
Cutting with ultra sound gives the same factory selvage edge as the mill applies. The sealed edge means your fabric won't fray and/or unravel.

Feature:
100% solution dyed acrylic fabric on each and every Eclipse.

Benefit:
Long life, fade resistant, and breathable acrylic fabric blocks 98% of UV, and offers over 200 beautiful patterns to choose from. Plus, unlike cheap vinyl and old-fashioned cotton goods, they have no odor.
Solution dyed acrylics are warranted not to fade, rot, mold or mildew for 5 years; in fact most awning lovers change the fabric for decorating purposes long before its useful life is over! Those who don't, can look for up to10-15 years of function with proper care. Solution dyed acrylic is a breathable fabric and does not trap the heat in, like vinyls. 98% UV blockage means you are safe under an acrylic. Many patterns to choose from means you can always find a beautiful pattern to match your house or décor. Unlike some laminated vinyl -- acrylic does not have a pungent odor. Many unwitting awning buyers think the smell will dissipate over time, but we think they just get used to it.

Feature:
Endura Gold Synthetic Thread.

Benefit:
We sew all our products with the finest synthetic thread available.
Our synthetic thread is UV stable and far stronger than standard cotton threads. Synthetic thread is warranted to match the fabric. Beware of companies who use cotton or polyester threads.

Annamarie & Ray McAlpin
Apple Annie Awnings