Answering Your Questions In Arizona: Awnings & SPF

Oftentimes, the sun can feel relentless on a summer day in Arizona.

With hundreds of hours of sunshine during just about any given month of the year, it goes without saying that Arizona residents are especially susceptible to long-term sun damage, particularly if they do not take the proper precautions to avoid ultraviolet light exposure.

And with that said, you may be wondering: Do awnings have SPF ratings? And how can an awning enhance your protection at home?

Here’s what you need to know… 

How Does SPF Work?

Manufactured to protect one’s skin from both ultraviolet A and B rays (UVA and UVB, respectively), sunscreen bottles are marketed and labeled with their sun protection factor, or SPF.

“The SPF value indicates the level of sunburn protection provided by the sunscreen product,” as explained by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Higher SPF values (up to 50) provide greater sunburn protection.”

And particularly as the State of Arizona exhibits a summer average UV index of approximately 9 or 10 according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) climatological records, residents should be vigilant and invest in products with the best protection possible.

Do Awnings Offer An SPF Rating?

Awnings — in addition to other fabric and glass products — are reviewed entirely separately from sunscreens and sunblocks. Thus, while awnings are not marketed with an SPF rating, a company can apply to have their products given an ultraviolet protection factor rating, or UPF.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation — who commonly rates a variety of protective products — in order to qualify for the organization’s Seal of Recommendation, an awning must have a “minimum of 30 UPF on the lightest shade in the range.”

It must also produce acceptable results according to standard testing guidelines, meaning all products undergo the same process.

Where Can I Find A UPF-Rated Awning?

No matter where in Arizona you reside, you’ll always be able to purchase and install a Sunesta awning with your local dealer. After all, not only has Sunesta received the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation, but our retractable products are also guaranteed to keep you up to 20 degrees cooler!

In other words, living life in the shade has never been easier in Arizona.

With the nation’s leading warranty in addition to custom-designed and American-made products, we guarantee you’ll love your Sunesta awning! To learn more about our products or get your FREE estimate today, simply contact us by calling 1-800-SUNESTA. Your outdoor comfort and protection are our priority!