Are Retractable Awnings Worth It?

Australians love the outdoors, but when the weather isn’t on your side, it’s hard to make the most of it. Retractable awnings provide shelter, reduce glare and protect your furniture all year round so you’re no longer at the mercy of the elements. They’re extremely flexible, adaptable and long-lasting.

In this article we will look at the benefits and value a retractable awning can add to your home.

Are Retractable Awnings Worth It? 

Retractable awnings give you the flexibility to control light and protect yourself from the elements, all while adding style and value to your home. Here’s why they are worth the investment:

Provide Space For Entertaining All Year Round

A retractable awning allows you to maximise your time spent outdoors, rain, hail or shine. With a retractable awning, you won’t have to worry about imminent weather ruining your outdoor entertaining again.  

Convenient and Attractive  

An automated retractable awning can be extended or retracted at the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy your space however you please. This means they can block the sun in summer and allow you to bask in it in winter, providing greater flexibility as opposed to a fixed roof or pergola.  

Retractable awnings are also generally more visually appealing and modern than fixed awnings.  

Great Return on Investment  

In addition to saving you money on energy bills, retractable awnings also provide a much more cost effective and flexible option than adding a permanent roof over your deck or patio.  

They are also a highly desirable feature that can add significant value to your home when you come to sell.

Protects Your Indoor and Outdoor Furnishings

The sun’s bleaching effect can damage your furniture and fabrics. A retractable awning not only protects your outdoor furniture, when placed correctly, they also help protect your indoor furnishings from sun damage.

How Much Do Retractable Awnings Cost? 

It is important to note there is no set cost for retractable awnings as their price greatly depends on a number of factors. These include:  

• Manual or motorised: For a retractable awning that is motorised, with features like sensors and remote controls, you can expect to pay a little more. However, you’ll probably find that the convenience this automation offers is well worth the investment.  
• Standard or custom: If you’re choosing a custom size or fabric option for your awning, this may also result in a higher price. However, the benefits of having an awning that perfectly fits the look and size of your space far outweighs the extra cost. 
• Warranty: A DIY awning will have an approximate warranty of 1-3 years, whereas a tailored solution will offer you a warranty of 5 years (with a much longer expected life span). This means it is worth considering the longevity of your awning when making your purchase decision. 

To read more about the cost of a retractable awning, see our article here.

Retractable Awning Alternatives

Awnings are a fantastic way to add shade and protection to your garden or deck. However, they can be an investment and not all buildings or landlords will allow them. If you are looking for retractable awning alternatives, some other offerings Helioscreen provide include: 

Indoor Blinds

Indoor blinds can screen or block the entry of natural light, reduce heat and increase privacy in your home. They are easy to use and come in a range of fabrics that are functional, long lasting and aesthetic. 

Outdoor Blinds

Designed to control the entry of natural light, heat and radiation, outdoor blinds and external screens allow you to extend your outdoor living area. They also offer similar weather protection to retractable awnings. 

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.