We’ve decided to start off the new year by launching our ShadeFX Retractable Canopies Blog. This will be something that I hope to keep updated monthly with news on recent canopy installations, tips, upcoming tradeshows and anything else I think might be of interest to our dealers and customers. I hope you enjoy it and I hope that 2011 is a happy and profitable year for you all!

All in all, 2010 proved to be a good year for ShadeFX in spite of the slow economy. We handily exceeded 400 installed systems since our start in 2008 and we’re already looking forward to what 2011 will bring.

There are some great new things to talk about for the coming year.

First, we have made ShadeFX more accessible by increasing the range of non-motorized canopies. So, sizes up to 18’ long and 16’ wide (288 sq-ft) can now be had for as little as $4406 ($15.29/sq-ft). That’s about 44% off the equivalent motor drive.

Second, we extended the size range by improving the drive beam carrier bearings. As of 2011, all ShadeFX Canopies have sealed stainless steel bearings that the wings glide on.
This reduces friction and makes no drive (now called manual) and rope drive (still called rope drive) operation suited to much larger sizes.

Thirdly, and finally, the manual system has also been greatly improved in how it operates. In the past there was a rope pigtail that needed to be tied off at the rafter when extended. Unless you had a low pergola (or were inordinately tall) you needed a ladder or step to do that. Now the manual system has a 5’ long aluminum rod to push the canopy out (or in) and a threaded pin retainer that will lock the canopy anywhere along its length. No more ladders or rope pigtails needed. Just the turn of a rod/crank and the canopy is set. The rod is removable so it stores in a handy clip in an out-of-the-way place.

If you haven’t been to the website lately you’ll find a mildly refreshed look and some really special and new project pics in our installation gallery.

Thank you for your continued interest in ShadeFX and have a great 2011!