Trade Info - Optima Glass & Lenses

Optima Inc. is a lens manufacturer and undisputed industry leader in high index polyurethane plastic lenses. And we are the only lens manufacturer to offer a complete 1.66 product line of finished, semi-finished, single vision, and progressive lenses providing revolutionary new 1.66 lens technology. And now the thinnest and lightest polarized lenses, new POLARTEC® 1.67 lenses.

To learn about Optima lenses see ABOUT OUR WINDSCREEN REPAIR PRODUCTS. For product features and benefits see PRESCRIPTION RANGES. For information on becoming an Optima lens distributor or to be added to our website referral program see PATIENT REFERRALS.

For information on the sales support materials we provide see POINT OF PURCHASE MATERIALS. And to meet our Sales Staff see OUR SALES REPRESENTATIVES.

If you would like to offer your patients lenses that are on the cutting edge of technology, call us at 800-621-1216 or send us E-mail.

For glass cleaning visit our services page for window cleaning here

Our products for window furnishings can be purchased at http://shuttershop.com.au/

Awnings – A Guide to Buying and Maintaining Awnings

Awnings from Soltex not only offer a comfortable outdoor space to people, but they also add an eye-catching element of visual appeal to homes. Furthermore, awnings shield furniture and window treatments from harsh sunlight.

No matter if you own or rent an awning, regular upkeep and care is essential to keep it looking its best. Awnings come in various materials; all require proper upkeep to ensure their durability and longevity.

Protecting Your Outdoor Furniture with a Residential Awning: A Guide to Maintenance and Care

Awnings are an excellent way to protect your outdoor furniture from weather damage and keep it looking its best for longer. Not only do they provide shade, but awnings also block UV rays which can fade fabric and paint.

Many people invest in quality patio furniture to enjoy the weather and relax outdoors. Unfortunately, like all outdoor furniture, it can become damaged due to exposure to rain, moisture, and direct sunlight.

The good news is that you can easily extend the life of your outdoor furniture by taking a few simple steps.

* Regularly washing outdoor furniture with a mild soap solution can help prevent common stains like grass and dirt from becoming embedded in the fabric. If necessary, bleach can be used to dissolve stubborn spots.

Mold or mildew can grow on dirt and foreign substances that have not been thoroughly removed from fabric. To effectively remove these stains, create a solution of 1 cup bleach (for severe mold/mildew growth, the amount may need to be increased) and 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of water. Spray over entire area and let soak for 15 minutes; rinse thoroughly and air dry completely.

Awning Fabric Choice

Fabric selection for your new awning will determine its performance and appearance. Consider the climate in which it’ll be installed as well as how you plan to utilize it before making your selection.

Generally, heavier fabrics are ideal for outdoor use since they can withstand the weight of wind, rain or snow. Furthermore, heavier materials tend to have greater tensile strength and are better equipped against rot, mildew and other damage.

Acrylic awning fabrics are a popular option due to their superior UV-stability and breathable qualities. Not only are they waterproof and resistant to mildew, but they also boast an eye-catching aesthetic appeal.

There is a wide selection of colors and patterns to choose from, such as solids and stripes, tweeds, textures, plain weave, dobby or jacquard weave. Popular hues include red, yellow, blue, orange, green as well as neutral browns and grays.

Awning Installation

Installing an awning is a relatively straightforward process that only takes some effort and patience. Depending on the type of awning you select, installation could take anywhere from several days to a week to complete, depending on how fast-growing the vegetation around your home.

Before beginning the installation of your awning, be sure to do some necessary prep work. This includes cleaning the area where it will be installed in order to eliminate any mold, fungus or pests that could potentially interfere with its installation.

Before mounting an awning, it’s essential to check its supporting materials for any holes or defects that could interfere with its support brackets. If mounting over vinyl, brick, or mortar, use a masonry bit to drill initial holes into the surface.

Once you’ve made these holes, mount the awning’s support brackets to the wall. These brackets will secure its support arms and outer canopy rafters. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing them, then tighten them securely with a helper if available.

Awning Maintenance

Maintaining your awning’s appearance and performance over years is essential if you want it to look its best. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can build up on the awning, affecting its aesthetic as well as performance.

Unchecked, these materials can quickly deteriorate your awning’s fabric and protective coatings. Not only does this limit its functionality, but it will also negatively affect the aesthetic of your outdoor living space.

For a fast and effortless way to clean your awning, use a garden hose monthly to rinse away loose dirt. Doing this helps prevent accumulation on the surface of the awning and will postpone more intensive cleaning that should occur every two or three years.

It’s also essential to trim shrubs and vines that could damage your awning fabric by rubbing against it. Furthermore, inspect the awning frame for signs of rust and repair any holes if you spot them.

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