Surviving Oak Pollen Season in Florida
Many Floridians relish the arrival of spring. With the weather becoming more suitable for swimming, fishing, boating, and spending time outdoors, Florida outdoor recreation kicks off earlier than many other states. Unfortunately, that also means that Florida has one of the earliest starts to the dreaded pollen season.
Mighty Oak Pollen
You may have noticed a thick yellow powder coating your cars, awnings, porches, patios, roofs, and gutters. Or worse, you are suffering from itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose. Oak pollen is a major culprit for collected outdoor debris and seasonal allergies. With over nineteen oak species that are native to Florida, there is plenty of pollen to blame.
Preventing Negative Impacts of Oak Pollen
While oaks are strong, attractive trees that provide habitats and food for Florida’s beautiful wildlife, they also have a longer period of pollen production. There are, however, a few things you can do to minimize the negative impacts that pollen season has on you and your home.
The pollen count is often highest between the hours of 5 and 9 a.m. If possible, try to stay indoors during this period of time. The time immediately following rain has lower levels of pollen in the air as well.
Plan to clean your home’s air conditioning filters more often during the pollen season.
If you are doing outdoor chores, consider wearing a mask to protect your respiratory system. Eyeware can also help to protect your eyes from airborne pollen.
After working outside, shower and change clothes quickly to avoid the spread of pollen throughout your house and on your furniture.
Use over-the-counter decongestion medication specifically tailored to seasonal allergies, as needed.
Don’t forget to keep your furry friends clean too! Your pets can carry pollen into your home and onto your furniture. Using pet wipes and bathing your pets more frequently during this time can really help!
Cleaning Pollen from Your Retractable Awning
Keeping your retractable awning clean during pollen season can be a challenge, but with regular maintenance, your awning will keep looking fantastic while it protects you and your guests from damaging UV rays and rain. Rinse your fabric awning frequently from top to bottom to remove debris. If your fabric still appears dirty, we suggest using mild soap and a soft bristle brush to protect any coatings on your awning fabric. With more stubborn stains, you can use a stronger cleaner but plan on spot cleaning only.
Helping You Love Your Outdoor Spaces
While we can’t fix your pollen problem, at Awning Authority, we can help you to love and enjoy your outdoor spaces more. Not only that, but we can also add value to your home, protect your loved ones from damaging UV rays from the intense Florida sun, save you money and energy, and help add living space to your home. For over ten years we have been providing residents in the Villages, Ocala, Leesburg, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas with retractable awnings, storm protection, and state-of-the-art EasyShades. As a SunSetter authorized dealer, we provide the highest quality products. As Florida’s #1 awning supplier and installer, you can also count on us for superior installation and customer service. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration.
