Sunesta® Retractable Awnings Receive Two of Nation's Toughest Building Code Approvals

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Sunesta^® Products, manufacturer of retractable screens, awnings, and shelters, is pleased to announce that its Sunesta, Sunstyle, Sunspot, Sunflair, and SunShade retractable patio awning models have achieved Florida Building Code (PDM 10447) and Miami Dade County (NOA #13-1104.18) Product Approval status.

The awning models were successfully validated for damage-free reliable performance at an industry leading 45 MPH wind speed when extended and 150 MPH when retracted as part of the product approval testing. Each unit will feature a label identifying both product approvals to make confirmation easy. Certification can also be verified by visiting www.floridabuilding.org and www.miamidade.gov/building.

Florida continues to lead the U.S. building code standards according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety's most recent “Rating the States” report published in August 2013 with Miami-Dade County having the strictest building codes in the state.

Sunesta is the first retractable awning manufacturer in the U.S. to receive the prestigious acceptance of “Miami Dade County Product Control Approved” for its retractable awnings. Most experts agree that the building codes Miami-Dade County enacted after the devastating category 5 Hurricane Andrew in 1992 are Florida's gold standard.

"Florida and Miami Dade County have the toughest building codes in the U.S., and these rigorous product approvals are testament to our commitment to build the best retractable awnings in the industry,” added Jeff Bedard, Director of Sunesta. “Meeting these building code standards allows builders, architects, and homeowners to choose Sunesta retractable awnings with an additional level of confidence in their performance and operation.”

Sunesta retractable awnings are available in a variety of styles and colors to transform outdoor spaces into comfortable living areas that offer sun when you want it and instant shade when you need it.

All Sunesta retractable patio awnings are tested and approved and include the following standard or optional features:

• Custom made to the inch width and up to 14'8” projections.
• Up to four PVC coated arm cables for superior strength.
• Smartfold arms for a projection larger than the width.
• Consumer adjustable pitch at any time.
• 180 different solids or striped fabrics with a 10-year warranty.
• Production time within five days.
• 5'5” drop valances manually or motorized for low sun protection.
• Available mounting hardware for wall, ceiling, or roof.
• Four standard frame colors in white, brown, beige, or clay.
• Wireless remotes with sun and wind sensors.
• One-piece weather sealed hoods.
• Semi-cassettes for ultimate fabric protection.

About Sunesta Products

Sunesta Products opened for business in 1981, becoming the first manufacturing company in North America to offer a national line of ready-to-install retractable awnings. Since then, the company has established itself as a pioneer in the American awning industry, inventing and developing new manufacturing processes, applications, and unique features. For more information or to contact a local Sunesta Dealer visit www.sunesta.com.