We bought out first canopy in 2005 for a patio cover. The climate where we live is quite sunny and hot with occasional high winds and downpours on now and then. The canopy lasts between 1.5 and 2 years. We also discovered that duct taping the joints of the metal frame  helps in preventing the canopy from tearing quicker than if the rough joints were not taped. It is a great product and I recommend it highly.