Al's Awning Shop builds different types of winter enclosures in Erie, PA that offer a variety of benefits for your business. Winter enclosures are custom-made with frames and heavy duty vinyl curtains intended to protect your storefront against most winter weather conditions.
Winter enclosures are perfect for blocking the cold wind and frigid snow that winters in Erie, PA are known for. Based in this snow belt city, Al's Awning Shop knows these harsh conditions first hand. They also know how disappointing it can be for customers to not be able to go outside in the winter without getting snowed on! Our experience with winter weather makes our winter enclosures intuitive and conducive to stopping some of the worst negative effects of the season from keeping your guests inside.
Winter enclosures come in a variety of forms including an outdoor smoking enclosure, winter entryway protection, temporary vestibules, and more. There are also a few residential uses including additional winter storage space, or just to protect a sunroom from the winter weather. Protect your storefront or entryway from harsh weather conditions with a winter enclosure.
Offer patrons and visitors who smoke a protected smoking space where they can smoke in peace without winter precipitation.
It's no secret that winter weather is harsh. That goes for plants, animals, and patios! Protect your deck through the coldest months.
Get the most out of the outdoor spaces you love all year round! Protect from the harsh winter wind and icy precipitation.
What kind of businesses would benefit most from a winter enclosure?
All businesses can benefit from an entrance enclosure to keep harsh winds and cold temperatures out and your heating costs down. Winter enclosures for restaurants are very popular, especially for creating an outdoor smoking space or protecting your patio and deck from damage. In addition, our temporary enclosures can create more storage space suitable for your outdoor patio furniture or snow removal gear such as shovels, salt, snowplows, etc.
Do I need planning permission for a winter enclosure?
You will need to obtain a commercial building permit to make additions and changes to your structure, including entrance enclosures. This is because it impacts sidewalk space and needs to be reviewed by the city to ensure public safety standards are met. Other services offered by Al's Awnings, such as custom storefront awnings, do not require a permit.
How much does a winter enclosure cost?
A winter enclosure can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500. Unsure of what your winter enclosure will cost? Al's Awnings can give you a free estimate when you reach out to us.
Will Al's Awnings take down my winter enclosure for summer?
Yes, we provide services such as awning and enclosure take-downs, storage, and re-installation. While the frames can stay up year-round, we can remove the vinyl curtains once the threat of winter winds have subsided. This allows for a more open-air feel for summer and will decrease re-installation time in the fall.
My customers are used to the cold. How much more hospitable will this make my business?
A winter enclosure does more than just keep the cold out of your store: it signals to your customers that you are concerned about their comfort and experience from the moment they enter your building to when they leave. It is also helpful to people with disabilities who have a difficult time traversing icy conditions and can make your entrance more accessible. Whether or not the cold bothers them, it is a kind gesture to ensure maximum comfort and accessibility.
Don't see your question answered in our FAQs? Send us a message! We pride our staff in being truly knowledgeable about all types of awnings and are happy to help you figure out the best type of awning for your home or business.