5 Factors to Consider When Choosing an All Weather Retractable Awning

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Retractable awnings have you covered (literally) allowing you to maximise your outdoor space no matter the season. When choosing an awning for your home, it’s important to pick the right one that meets your needs.  

Here, we’ll go into the 5 key factors you should consider when choosing a retractable awning for your home.

What Is an All Weather Retractable Awning? 

An awning is a covering attached to the exterior of a commercial or residential building designed to protect against the elements. A retractable awning can be extended or retracted depending on the weather conditions – protecting you from Australia’s harsh heat.  

Helioscreen’s retractable awning range will enhance your outdoor entertaining space and have the capability to withstand the harsh Australian climate.  

What Does All-Weather Mean?

All-weather retractable awnings are designed to withstand most weather conditions including moderate wind and rain, but they can become damaged if conditions turn extreme.  

Most awnings are pitched to allow runoff for rain and snow, however they are not designed to hold large pools of water. Additionally, strong winds can tear and damage the fabric of your awning, so most manufacturers recommend retracting your awning should weather conditions become difficult.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Retractable Awning: 

An awning is a long-term investment. To ensure the awning you choose is practical, visually appealing and cost-effective, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. These include: 

Weather

When choosing an awning for your home, it is important to consider what type of weather it will be exposed to. All weather retractable awnings are made with heavy duty materials that can endure the scorching sun and mild wind and rain. And as they are retractable, they can be conveniently stored away in cases of extreme winds and weather.  

The best retractable awnings are ones fitted with sun and wind sensors that can detect dangerous winds or strong sun and will extend or retract accordingly.  

Functionality

It is important to consider the primary purpose of your awning. Will you be using it for glare control, sun or rain protection? Most home and business owners utilise awnings to provide outdoor shade, protection from the elements and create curb appeal. The functionality of your awning will determine what size and materials you should opt for. 

If you are planning on using your awning on a daily basis. You should consider adding automation and motorisation features so you can control the elements at the touch of a button.  

Size

The size of your awning will dictate the coverage area, awning height and its aesthetic appeal. You want to be able to add functionality to the space without blocking any views so it is important to consider the desired outcome of your awning when choosing its size.  

Placement

The direction your home faces will affect the projection of your awning. North, east and west facing facades will typically need a longer projection than south facing areas. A greater pitch (angle of inclination) is also recommended on awnings facing west to cut out more harsh afternoon sun.  

Adding an awning over your deck or patio is a common home improvement for West and East facing properties. This will not only increase the value of your home, but help lower heating and cooling costs throughout the seasons.  

If you’re unsure about how the direction of your building will impact placement, reach out to a reputable supplier to discuss your options.  

Materials

Your awning colours and materials can transform a functional awning into a stylish addition to your home. From cotton, eco-friendly designs, solution-dyed acrylic and more, choosing the right material can be difficult.  

Whatever you decide, make sure to choose a fabric that is easy to clean, fire retardant and made from an anti-fungal material.  

With so many options, it’s best to speak to a reputable supplier that can help you choose the best colour and material to suit your home.  

What Are the Benefits of an All-Weather Retractable Awning? 

A retractable awning protects, shelters and adds value to your home’s exterior. Some of the benefits of an all-weather retractable awning include: 

  • Saves you money: Awnings help keep the inside of your home cool by blocking the sunlight. This reduces the need for air conditioners. 
  • Protects your home: An awning not only protects your outdoor furniture from harmful UV rays, but indoor furnishings as well.  
  • Added style: Finding a supplier that can customise an awning to suit your home’s aesthetic can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home.  
  • Protects from the elements: A retractable awning provides protection from the sun and light rain, allowing you to optimise your time spent outdoors.  
  • They’re retractable: Retractable awnings can be retracted in extreme weather conditions or when not in use. This helps improve the longevity and durability of your awning.  

How Durable Is An All-Weather Retractable Awning?  

Retractable awnings are designed to be resistant throughout the seasons. The best modern retractable awnings are durable and have a rating of 6 on the Beaufort Wind Scale. This is a measurement of wind speed that ranges from no wind to hurricane conditions. A rating of 6 means the awning can still be used in conditions where large branches are swaying and umbrellas are difficult to use. Any winds stronger than this and it is recommended that you retract your awning to protect it from damage.  

It is also important to note the fact these awnings are retractable, therefore enhancing their durability. This means that in instances of extreme winds or rain, the awning can be retracted quickly.

All-Weather Retractable Roof

If you’re looking for a shade solution that is durable throughout all seasons, Helioscreen’s retractable roof systems have been proven to withstand Australia’s harsh conditions. They offer high wind protection and their integrated water seals are 100% waterproof, making them a more durable alternative to retractable awnings.  

Helioscreen’s retractable roof range uses architectural grade aluminum and stainless steel fixtures to ensure smooth operation and high durability against harsh Australian conditions.  

What Type of Retractable Awning Is Best For My Home? 

Each style of retractable awning operates in a different way and provides a different level of protection and function to your home. Some popular retractable awning styles include:  

Helioscreen Rubix Cassette

The Rubix Cassette is ideal for modernised buildings due to its rectangular, slim design. Its multiflex 4 cable arm system is perfect for Australia’s tough conditions and is suitable for daily and extensive use.  

Helioscreen Full Cassette

The Helioscreen Full-Cassette offers maximum protection and style for any deck or patio. The awning fully retracts into a cassette enclosure that protects the awning from erosion, dirt and salt.  

Helioscreen Fabric Cassette

The Fabric Cassette is an open style awning that protects the fabric and materials from the elements. It is highly durable with an elegant style that comes in over 100 fabrics and frame colours 

Choose Australia’s Quality Awning Supplier

The right retractable awning for your home makes a more comfortable experience for your family and brings life and functionality to your property’s exterior.    

When choosing an awning for your home, it’s important to prioritise a durable and functional retractable awning that will provide a long-lasting shade solution custom made to your outdoor area. Helioscreen is Australia’s leading supplier of retractable awnings for a variety of residential buildings. Contact us for more information. 

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