care & maintenance

2009 TUUCI Care and Maintenance

FRAMES

TUUCI frames are constructed from durable and weather resistant materials, including marine-grade fiberglass, aluminum, Durateak composite and sustainable hardwood timber. All fasteners (nuts, bolts, pulleys, cam cleats, etc.) are marine-grade stainless steel and will withstand the most corrosive environments. Proper care and maintenance is important to extend the serviceable life of all TUUCI products. Fresh water rinses once a month will enhance the life and long lasting beauty of your shade equipment.

Prior to opening, ensure that the shade product is properly secured to an adequate shade anchor, using the locking system intended for the specific product (star knob, hitch pin or cam lock). When opening a TUUCI parasol, separate each rib 4" to 6" from the center post, before raising the hub. Do not force hub if it does not rise easily. When closing the parasol, pull the fabric out from between the struts to avoid pinching or damaging the TUFF SKIN canopy cover.

Although TUUCI frames have been tested for structural integrity in winds exceeding 50 miles per hour. It is always recommended that caution and common sense be applied in extreme winds and weather. TUUCI generally recommends that collapsible shade structures be closed in wind and weather conditions which exceed 25 MPH. Although it is common for wind to gust to levels much higher than this (especially during severe weather phenomena's) the use of durable and heavily weighted anchor structure is mandatory for safety and proper operation. Stability of TUUCI shade products in heavy wind and weather conditions is directly related to the size, weight and security of the shade anchor. Please use reasonable and cautious judgment when determining when the parasol should be closed.

CANOPIES

TUUCI's TUFF SKIN parasol canopies are normally made with Sunbrella® fabric, and should be cared for as described below (for fabric other than Sunbrella®, refer to manufacturer). Sunbrella® fabric should be cleaned regularly before dirt is allowed to accumulate and become embedded in the fabric. The fabric canopy can be cleaned without being removed from the frame. Simply brush off any loose dirt or particles; hose down and clean with a mild soap in lukewarm water (no more than 100° F.) Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. Allow fabric to air dry. DO NOT USE DETERGENTS!

For stubborn stains clean with a mild soap. Scrub vigorously with a soft bristle brush, sponge, or clean towel. Allow fabric to air dry. This method of cleaning may remove part of the water repellency. If water repellency is a factor, the fabric should receive an application of an air-curing water repellent treatment (such as SM fabric guard).

Sunbrella® may be machine washed but a water repellent treatment must be applied to the fabric after washing to reestablish water repellency. Sunbrella® is made from 100% acrylic fiber and is thermoplastic or heat sensitive. When washing or cleaning, DO NOT SUBJECT TO EXCESSIVE HEAT as the fabric will shrink. DO NOT STEAM PRESS OR DRY IN ELECTRIC OR GAS DRYERS, but allow air to dry.

In cases where the parasol is taken down and stored during the winter season, the Sunbrella® canopy should be cleaned, allowed to air dry, and stored in a dry, well ventilated area. A TUUCI Protective Cover should be used when umbrella is not in use.

SHADE ANCHORS

ALWAYS BE SURE THAT PARASOL CENTER POLE IS FIRMLY ATTACHED TO BASE BEFORE OPENING PARASOL. Clean above ground parasol bases regularly to maintain appearance. To clean, gently wash with soap and water using a non-abrasive cloth or pad. Check three bolts in base plate regularly to ensure that they remain fully tightened. Inspect weekly if parasol bases are moved on a regular basis.

Do not roll ACF (Aluminum Shell, Concrete Filled) bases on their side as damage to shell or finish can occur. Touch up bases with exterior paint as needed. Touch up can be ordered from the TUUCI parts department. Wheeled parasol bases are intended for use on even surfaces. Move bases slowly and with caution on uneven surfaces. Do not use on stairways or over distances, which exceed 50 feet, as damage to welded wheel tray may occur.