What is a Cassette Awning?

Awnings offer style, convenience and functionality to any outdoor space, but their strength begins to fade with frequent exposure to the elements. Protecting the materials and components of your awning extends the lifetime by decades, saving it from corrosion and replacement. 

Cassette awnings include an enclosure case (the cassette) to store the awning when not in use. The cassette protects the fabric, materials and components of the retractable awning either in a full or partial sealing. Let’s have a look at the different types of cassette awnings and how to choose the right retractable awning for your outdoor area.

Types of Cassette Awning

Full-Cassette Awnings

Full-Cassette awnings completely encase the awning and its components to protect it from weathering and exposure to the elements. When the awning retracts, the retractable arms fold inward into the cassette enclosure to seal and secure it in place until it is ready for use again. The enclosure protects the awning from weather damage, dirt and salt, extending the lifetime of the awning.

As a high-performing and durable shade solution, full-cassette awnings provide robust protection from the elements and are suitable for large outdoor areas. They can be more expensive but the durability of the full-cassette awning ensures a long-lasting shade solution throughout tough conditions for decades.

Semi-Cassette Awnings

A semi-cassette awning includes a partial enclosure cassette, providing it with some level of protection from weather damage. There will be some exposure of the underside of the awning, omitting the level of protection in comparison to the full-cassette.  

A semi-cassette still provides the same level of shade and protection to the outdoor area and are generally more cost-effective than a full-cassette awning. They are a great addition to smaller, sheltered gardens and patio areas.

Which is the Right Cassette Awning For You?

The right cassette awning must protect your outdoor area, make it more functional throughout the year and be a stylish addition to the space. Here’s what you need to consider:

Budget

To begin with, think about your budget – this will dictate what type of awning you can purchase. Be realistic, if you have specific shade requirements or a large area in need of protection the price will go up accordingly. 

If you need a strong level of protection then a full-cassette will be your best choice. They are generally more expensive but they offer the most robust level of protection in their range and will last for decades. If you have a smaller outdoor area, then a semi-cassette may be more suitable and will fit a more conservative budget.

Direction & size of outdoor space

Consider the size of your outdoor space, the direction of the building, the external facade and how much of the area you want to protect. These will help you gain an understanding of the awning type, width, projection and pitch while allowing you to plan for any potential obstacles.

If you are unsure about what awning will suit your outdoor area, contact an outdoor awning supplier to discuss your options.

 Australia’s Most Popular Cassette Awning Models

Helioscreen’s series of cassette and fabric cassette awnings offer robust protection and a tidy design for any outdoor facade.

Helioshade Cassette

Using German technology and a sleek Italian design, Helioscreen Cassette seamlessly protects the awning from harsh Australian conditions with a cassette enclosure. 

Its components are engineered with chromatised aluminium and marine-grade stainless steel screws to ensure durability and functionality. With high-strength extruded brackets, it ensures durable fixing on even the toughest facades and can be automated with both motion and wind sensors.

 Helioshade Fabric Cassette

The Helioshade Fabric Cassette provides complete protection of the fabric and motors from weathering with an adjustable angle cassette. It is mounted via an integrated torque bar with several mounting options, making it suitable for a versatile range of applications. 

All aluminium parts are chromatised with all screws and nuts made of marine-grade stainless steel, making them incredibly resistant to corrosion. The awning extension is powered by a SOMFY motor, backed with a five-year warranty and comes with the option of automated sun, wind or rain sensors.

Choose Australia’s Quality Retractable Awning Supplier

It’s important to prioritise a durable and functional retractable awning that will provide a long-lasting shade solution custom made to any residential or commercial outdoor area. Helioscreen is Australia’s leading supplier of retractable awnings, contact us for more information on choosing the right retractable awning for your needs.