Solution-Dyed Acrylic Awning Fabric Explained: Sunflexx® vs. Sunscape® Fade-Resistant Fabric for Florida (2026 Guide)
What Is Solution-Dyed Acrylic Awning Fabric?
Solution-dyed acrylic awning fabric is the fabric used on the Sunflexx® and Sunscape® retractable awnings sold by 1800Awnings. In a solution-dyed fabric, the color is added to the acrylic while the fiber is being made, so the pigment runs all the way through each thread rather than sitting on the surface. That is why solution-dyed acrylic is the standard choice for retractable awnings in sun-heavy markets like Tampa and the rest of Florida. Both lines offer hundreds of fade-resistant solids and stripes, and every awning is made to order at our Tampa factory.
This guide explains what solution-dyed acrylic means, how the fabric and frame work together on the Sunflexx® and Sunscape®, what you can and cannot expect from any fabric in a Florida climate, and how to order. Every spec below comes from the live product pages on 1800Awnings.com.
Key Specifications: Sunflexx® and Sunscape® Fabric and Frame
| Feature | Sunflexx® | Sunscape® |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Hundreds of solution-dyed acrylic colors and stripes | Solution-dyed acrylic, hundreds of fade-resistant solids and stripes |
| Frame warranty | 15 years; patented urethane shoulder joint warranted 10 years | Limited 10 years |
| Frame material | Powder-coated aluminum castings; 38,000 PSI A356-T6 aluminum arm castings | Powder-coated castings and components, made in the USA |
| Hardware | Stainless steel hardware; 2,400 lb breaking-strength 304 stainless steel arm cables | Stainless steel nuts, bolts and arm cables throughout |
| Frame colors | White, Bronze, Beige or Ivory; premium Black or Anodized | White, Bronze, Ivory |
| Starting price | $3,473 (8' wide x 6' projection) | $3,064 (8' wide x 6' projection) |
| Lead time | 2-3 weeks from order | 2-3 weeks from order |
| Shipping | Free to all 48 contiguous states | Free to all 48 contiguous states |
The product pages do not publish a separate fabric warranty, so the warranty figures above apply to the frame and shoulder joint as listed. Ask us for the fabric warranty terms in writing when you request your quote.
Why Solution-Dyed Acrylic Stands Out
Color Runs Through the Fiber
Surface-printed or piece-dyed fabrics rely on a coating or a dye bath that only reaches so far into the yarn. In solution-dyed acrylic, the pigment is part of the fiber itself. That is the reason solution-dyed acrylic is chosen for fade resistance in strong, direct sun, which is exactly what a Tampa patio sees from spring through fall.
Built for Outdoor Life, Not Indoor Upholstery
Acrylic awning fabric is woven to be used outside. It is designed to shed water and to breathe, so a retractable awning can dry out after a Florida afternoon storm once you roll it back in. Retracting the fabric when it is wet, windy, or unused is still the best way to extend its life.
Hundreds of Solids and Stripes
Both the Sunflexx® and the Sunscape® offer hundreds of fade-resistant solids and stripes. That means you can match a stucco color, a roof, or a pool-deck palette instead of choosing from a handful of stock colors. A quiet solid works on a modern home; a bold stripe suits a coastal or traditional look.
The Frame Carries the Load
The fabric provides shade, but the frame is what holds it in place. The Sunflexx® uses 38,000 PSI A356-T6 aluminum arm castings, 240,000 PSI arm springs delivering 700-800 lbs of cable tension, and 2,400 lb breaking-strength 304 stainless steel arm cables, with certified engineered wind load ratings. The Sunscape® pairs its fabric with powder-coated castings and stainless steel nuts, bolts, and arm cables throughout.
Made to Order in Tampa
1800Awnings cuts and sews fabric in-house at our Tampa factory at 4608 N Hale Ave, and controls welding, powder coating, and aluminum woodgrain sublimation under the same roof. Each awning is built to your exact width and projection.
Sunflexx® vs. Sunscape®: Which Fabric-and-Frame Package Fits You?
| Choose... | If you want... |
|---|---|
| Sunflexx® | The longest frame warranty (15 years), engineered wind load ratings, premium Black or Anodized frame colors, and the Wind & Rain Package with drop-down support legs and locking pins. |
| Sunscape® | A lower starting price ($3,064), a 10-year limited frame warranty, widths from 8' to 24' online (up to 80' by quote), and projections of 6', 8', 10', or 11'6". |
Either awning can be ordered manual (crank) or motorized with a Somfy motor and electronic controls, and either can be paired with a protective hood, end covers, and a front-bar valance. The Sunflexx® also offers a front-rail drop valance shade screen for low-angle afternoon sun.
Pricing
| Model | Size | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sunscape® Retractable Awning | 8' wide x 6' projection | $3,064 |
| Sunflexx® Retractable Awning | 8' wide x 6' projection | $3,473 |
Larger sizes, motors, and sensors increase the price. Fabric is not priced as a separate line on the product pages. Free shipping is included to all 48 contiguous states, with curbside delivery on larger units.
Who Is This Best For?
- Florida homeowners with a west- or south-facing patio, lanai, or pool deck who need durable, fade-resistant shade.
- Buyers who want to match a specific color or stripe to their home rather than settle for stock fabric.
- Restaurants, bars, and shops in Tampa Bay and across Florida that want branded, colorful shade.
- Seasonal and snowbird residents who want a motorized awning with sensors to retract on its own.
- Anyone comparing the Sunflexx® and Sunscape® who wants to understand what the fabric does and what the frame does.
How to Order
- Measure the width of the wall and the projection you want. Our measuring guide walks you through it.
- Choose your model: Sunflexx® or Sunscape®.
- Pick your fabric solid or stripe, frame color, and manual or motorized operation.
- Request a quote or check out online. Quotes usually come back within an hour.
- We build your awning in Tampa in about 2-3 weeks and ship it free to your door.
FAQ: Solution-Dyed Acrylic Awning Fabric
What is solution-dyed acrylic awning fabric?
Solution-dyed acrylic is a fabric whose color is added to the acrylic while the fiber is made, so the pigment is throughout each thread. It is the fabric used on the Sunflexx® and Sunscape® retractable awnings, and it is chosen for its fade resistance in strong sun.
How many fabric colors can I choose for a Sunflexx® or Sunscape®?
Both offer hundreds of solid and striped solution-dyed acrylic options. You can choose a color that matches your home, and pair it with a frame in White, Bronze, or Ivory (Sunscape®) or White, Bronze, Beige, Ivory, Black, or Anodized (Sunflexx®).
How much does an awning with solution-dyed acrylic fabric cost?
The Sunscape® starts at $3,064 for an 8' x 6' size, and the Sunflexx® starts at $3,473 for the same size. Larger sizes, motors, and sensors add to the price, and shipping is free to the 48 contiguous states.
Can I get a retractable awning motorized?
Yes. Both the Sunflexx® and Sunscape® can be ordered with a Somfy motor and electronic controls, or with a manual crank. Sensors and remote controls are available with motorization.
How does the fabric hold up in Florida sun and storms?
Solution-dyed acrylic is designed for fade resistance in strong sun, but no fabric is meant to stay out in a storm. Retract the awning before high wind or heavy rain, or add a motor with wind sensors so it retracts automatically. The Sunflexx® also offers a Wind & Rain Package with drop-down support legs and locking pins.
What warranty covers my awning?
The Sunflexx® frame carries a 15-year warranty, and its patented urethane shoulder joint is warranted for 10 years. The Sunscape® frame carries a limited 10-year warranty. A separate fabric warranty is not listed on the product pages, so ask for those terms in writing when you get your quote.
Can I return an awning if I do not like the fabric color?
No. Every awning is made to order to your size and fabric, so orders cannot be returned once confirmed. Request samples or ask our team for color guidance before you order.
How fast can I get a quote?
In most cases, within an hour. Because 1800Awnings controls welding, powder coating, fabric cutting, and sewing in-house, we can price your job quickly.
Bottom Line
Solution-dyed acrylic gives a Florida retractable awning the color stability it needs in strong sun, and the Sunflexx® and Sunscape® both offer hundreds of solids and stripes so you can match your home. The fabric does the shading, but the frame does the work of holding it: the Sunflexx® adds a 15-year frame warranty and engineered wind load ratings, while the Sunscape® gives you a lower entry price and a limited 10-year frame warranty.
Whichever you choose, you are buying factory-direct from the manufacturer in Tampa, with free shipping to the 48 contiguous states and a typical 2-3 week lead time.
See the Sunflexx® Retractable Awning | See the Sunscape® Retractable Awning or call 1-800-AWNINGS (296-4647).
Written by Corey Courtright | 1800Awnings.com | Tampa, FL
Written by Corey Courtright
Second-Generation Awning Manufacturer & Industry Expert
Corey Courtright is a second-generation awning manufacturer and a recognized innovator in aluminum TIG-welded structures within the awning industry. With over 38 years of hands-on experience, he has worked across every facet of the business—from fabrication and sewing to welding, installation, sales, and service—giving him a rare, comprehensive understanding of the craft. Starting his career as a pipe threader, Corey went on to build and lead multiple successful awning companies. Now based in Florida since 2016, he brings deep technical expertise, proven leadership, and a legacy of innovation to every project and insight he shares.