care & maintenance
[ terms & conditions ]
Frames
TUUCI frames are constructed from durable and weather resistant materials, including anodized
aluminum, Durateak, fiberglass and marine quality hardwood. All fasteners (nuts, bolts, pulleys,
cam cleats, etc.) are stainless steel and will withstand the most difficult environments. However,
proper care and maintenance is important to extend the useful life of the product. TUUCI products
used on ocean front properties, or other salty environments, should be regularly washed with
fresh water to limit oxidation.
Prior to opening, ensure that the shade product is properly secured to its shade anchor, using
the locking system intended for the specific product (star knob, hitch pin or cam lock).
WHEN
OPENING A TUUCI PARASOL, GENTLY 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 and tearing the fabric.
TUUCI frames have been tested for structural integrity in winds exceeding 50 miles per hour, and
are very durable. However, these tests were performed with special, extremely secure shade
anchors; caution and common sense must be applied in extreme winds and weather. TUUCI
generally recommends that its shade products be closed in any weather that is uncomfortable
for the people using the products, and 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 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 100F.) Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. Allow fabric to air dry. DO NOT USE
DETERGENTS!
For stubborn stains clean with TUUCI Fabric Cleaner TM. 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 TUUCI Fabric Shield TM).
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 will occur.
