What the ADA actually requires for window shade controls The ADA doesn't have a section written specifically for "window shades." Instead, shade and blind controls fall under the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 309, "Operable Parts", the same standard applied to switches, outlets, and other user-operated building controls. When a window covering's control is the kind of operable part...

Why shade is a revenue decision, not just a comfort decision For a restaurant, an unshaded patio is unusable real estate for a large part of the day. Direct sun drives surface temperatures on tables and seating high enough that guests avoid those tables during peak lunch and early dinner hours, exactly when a restaurant needs every seat filled. A properly shaded patio keeps those tables in...

What is a zipper track patio shade? A zipper track patio shade is an exterior roller shade where the fabric's side edges are fitted with a zipper-style bead that slides into and locks inside aluminum tracks mounted on either side of the opening. As the shade lowers, the fabric stays continuously zipped into the track instead of hanging free, so there's no gap for wind, insects, or light to slip...

How a retractable awning works A retractable awning is a fabric canopy mounted to the wall or roofline of your home that extends outward and downward on folding arms, creating a sloped roof of shade over a patio, deck, or entryway. When you don't need the shade, the arms fold back in, and the fabric rolls up into a protective cassette or hood mounted against the house. Because the fabric spans...

By Polar Shades When homeowners shop for a retractable awning or large motorized patio shade, they naturally focus on fabric colors, appearance, price, and motorization. But homeowners should ask another question: who is actually installing it? Large exterior shading products aren't the same as hanging curtains or installing a small interior blind. Depending on the product and installation, they...

By Polar Shades Fall has arrived, and in Las Vegas and Phoenix that means something very different than it does in much of the country. While other regions are preparing to move indoors, homeowners throughout Nevada and Arizona are entering one of the best outdoor-living seasons of the year. Cooler mornings, comfortable evenings, football weekends, family gatherings, and outdoor entertaining make...

The Lowest Quote Doesn't Tell You the Whole Story When comparing estimates for a large exterior shade or retractable awning, it's natural to look at price. But there's another question homeowners should ask before signing a contract: who is actually going to install this product on my home? Large exterior shades and retractable awnings aren't simply decorative accessories. They are substantial...

Shade When You Want It. Open Sky When You Don't. Your patio should feel like an extension of your home. But in Las Vegas and Phoenix, intense sunshine can make an uncovered patio difficult to enjoy during large portions of the day. Building a permanent patio structure isn't always the answer. A retractable awning from Polar Shades provides another option: expansive shade when you want it with the...

When You're Investing in Custom Shades or Awnings, Who Actually Makes Your Product Matters When homeowners begin shopping for window shades, exterior patio shades, or retractable awnings, many assume the company providing the estimate also manufactures the product. Often, that's not the case. Many companies operate primarily as dealers or installers, purchasing products manufactured somewhere...