NuShade

I got my Nu Image NuShade model at my local building store. It’s a manual 14’x12’ retractable awning. I’d read the average reviews and testimonials, so I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Installation instructions could be better. I did install a 2×6 ledger board which added to the cost. There are a lot of small parts that can fall through the cracks. The aluminum frame has a baked on white finish, and I went with the mahogany stripe that was offered. There are more selections online, but I prefer seeing the color in person to viewing it on my computer – next time I will request fabric samples. The hand crank is a major workout, and I have to remember to retract it, so the rain doesn’t stretch the fabric. Hopefully, when I hose it down to wash it as per the instructions, it doesn’t stretch and the frame doesn’t rust.

I read the reviews and testimonials around the web for the NuImage NuShade motorized retractable model and decided it would be acceptable to shade our patio. A bit pricey, but that means it should be better? Time will tell! The online ordering process was confusing, but I did get through it with assistance. From the web reviews, I knew what to expect with a DIY installation, so I made sure to watch some installation videos and have extra help. The motor retracts and extends the awning as I expected from the reviews, but I’m glad it has the manual crank just in case as our neighborhood lost electricity last week from a terrible storm. I just have to remember to hose the fabric and frame down every now and then and make sure it’s dry prior to retracting and closing. I’ll add more after I’ve used it more but for now, the quality appears to be very average.

My 10 feet wide x 8 feet depth Nu Shade retractable awning by Nu Image in Harbor cloth is motorized and operates with remote control. It cost more than some others but the reviews and testimonials weren’t as bad as some others, plus the sale price was good. Assembly and installation took longer than I expected, and the instructions could have been better. The motor is not as quiet as expected, and there is a squeak that I have to find and grease. The metal parts appear to be aluminum, but the whole thing together is heavy and awkward, so extra hands are a good idea. The acrylic fabric isn’t waterproof and sags a lot if it gets wet.