Rocklin business keeps customers cool in the heat

Rocklin residents Tony and Rhonda Rakela, owners of the family-owned and operated AR Sun Screens have been offering their services to locals the past 11 years.The company offers a wide range of services and products including retractable screen doors, roll-down sunscreens, custom patio covers and their most popular item, custom sunscreens. In addition to the products, AR Sun Screens services include the installation of the items as well as service and repair. The sunscreens that the company uses cover an entire window and are meant to block out rays and heat from the sun. The screen, which consists of woven polyester yarn, coated with a PVC vinyl coating, can keep a home seven to 16 degrees cooler depending on certain variables including what time of day it is and where the sun hits. With sunscreens installed, customers can look forward to a reduction in glares and harmful rays, increased daytime privacy, protection of indoor furnishings, protection from insects and a reduction in energy bill costs.The couple has run their small business out of their home since 1998 when they couldn't get anyone to do work on their house, they said. "My husband and I decided we were going to do the work ourselves," Rhonda Rakela said. "We ended up getting a business license and started doing work for friends. It just went from there." Since then, the business has expanded thanks to their customers, she said. "Everyone we have dealt with has been so nice," Rhonda Rakela said. "The people in Rocklin are so loyal and pleasant to do business with. They put the word out for you. It's been a great experience."The Rakelas said they are looking to expand their business."We see ourselves expanding in the community and spreading outwards," Rhonda Rakela said.Rhonda Rakela said she gives the credit of the success of the business to her husband."What makes our business unique is Tony," she said. "He does it all."Tony Rakela meets with the customers and builds and installs all the products that the company offers with the exception of the installation of the custom patio covers. The screens come in two different percentages, 80 percent and 90 percent, which refers to the amount of sunrays that are being blocked out, each available in varying colors. The Rakelas advertise through the community teams and schools including a banner at Rocklin High School. "We like to advertise through sponsorships with the schools," Rhonda Rakela said. "We are very community-oriented. Any time we can give back, we always do."AR Sun screensWhat: Patio covers, sunscreens, screen doorsInfo: 435-2119