Chicago’s Awning Expert
The Chicago’s Awning Expert Blog is designed to provide information about Retractable Awnings for Decks or Patios, Retractable Screens, Canvas Window & Door Awnings and Canopies as well as services such as maintenance, wash, and annual services for canvas awnings. While most of the information provided on this site is meant to specifically discuss how these products perform in the Chicagoland Area, much of this information is relevant throughout the US and beyond. We hope that you will find our blog entertaining as well as informative. If you are looking to purchase products or services discussed in this blog, click the “Visit Our Full Site” to be re-directed to www.rolloutavacation.com Thank you in advance for checking us out!
Top 3 Reasons NOT to Buy a Sunsetter
Before you buy a Sunsetter, please consider purchasing from a local company that can manufacture, install, and service a high-quality, reasonably-priced retractable awning. Here are three reasons why buying from Sunsetter may be a bad idea. 1. Local, Local,...
The Value of Thatcher Retractable Awnings vs Marygrove Awning
Values are important. How a company views their customers is important. Thatcher Retractables manufactures custom retractable awnings made to order for your home. We offer only high quality fabrics, motors and components that are either made in the...
Not your Grandmother’s Retractable Awning
Over the past few years, I have heard and seen characterizations of awnings ranging from “traditional” to “old fashioned.” Well, I am here to say, “These are not your Grandmother’s Retractable Awnings.” First of all, I totally get it. When you look at the...
My Story
Everyone has their story. This is mine. I was raised in the small farm town of Wilmington, IL. My family roots run deep in Wilmington. In fact, my aunt, uncle and cousin live on the family farm on Allott Road (my last name). My brother lives just a few miles away off...
Sunbrella Fabric Awning Takedown, Storage, and Re-Installation Services (Oak Park, IL)
Many homeowners enjoy lowering cooling expenses by utilizing awnings to cover their windows and doors. In most cases, these products are used during the spring and summer months to help keep the sun’s rays out of the home, ultimately lowering the cost of cooling the...
Preparing Your Retractable Awning for Winter
While one of the key advantages of having a retractable awning versus an old style patio cover is that very little maintenance is required, there are things you can do to prepare for the winter months that will increase the life of your awning. (Note: removing the...
Chicago’s Awning Expert is Rodney Allott, Owner and All Around Good Guy of Thatcher Retractable Awnings, Pergolas, & Patio.

Thatcher Retractable Awnings, Pergolas, & Patio is located at:
650 Willowbrook Center Parkway Suite 200
Willowbrook, IL 60527
(630) 529-6464