Awnings: Stylish & Practical Outdoor Coverings

Awnings are fabric or aluminium structures attached to your property, offering shade, weather protection, and a pleasing to-the-eye, aesthetically beautiful outdoor space. Available in formats that are flexible to your requirements –  such as manual, motorised, retractable, freestanding, or fixed –  they transform outdoor spaces into comfortable extensions of your home or business at the click of a button.

Types of Awnings

A quick look at the most popular options for UK homes and gardens:

Retractable (Folding-Arm) Awnings

Extend or retract as needed –  manually or via motor –  ideal for patios and decks where flexibility is key.

Fixed Awnings

Permanently installed canopies that offer permanent shelter over doors, windows, or seating areas.

Cassette vs. Semi-Cassette

Cassettes protect the fabric and mechanism when retracted –  fully enclosed for maximum protection or semi-covered for budget-friendly durability.

ST-BOX 400 Awning

Pergola Awnings

Combine pergola framework with retractable fabric tops –  stylish, robust, and perfect for contemporary outdoor living areas.

How to Choose the Right Awning

  • Match the Type to Your Needs
    • Want flexibility? Go for retractable or motorised models.
    • Need permanent cover? Consider fixed or pergola systems.
  • Material Matters
    • Acrylic: Durable, fade-resistant, water-repellent.
    • Polyester: Cost-effective, but less UV-resistant.
    • Micro-perforated or coated fabrics: Offer airflow, UV protection, and easy cleaning.
  • Operation & Automation
    • Manual awnings are affordable and low-maintenance.
    • Motorised ones offer fingertip control and can include wind or sun sensors
  • Size & Projection
    Measure your space carefully. Retractable arms typically extend between ~1.5 m to 4 m. Ensure your awning provides sufficient overhang for effective shade. Please note that your awning should be wider than the projection.
  • Weather Durability
    Choose awnings constructed for UK weather –  aluminium frames, UV-resistant fabrics, and wind-rated designs are key for longevity.

Extra Enhancements
Add-ons such as integrated lighting, heaters, or smart sensors that provide year-round usability and weather-responsive performance

 Installation Tips & Maintenance

  • Professional Installation:
    Ensure secure mounting and smooth operation through expert fitting.

  • Maintenance:
    Keep fabrics clean –  dust regularly and wash with mild soapy water. For retractable models, retraction during bad weather extends lifespan.

Regulations:
Most awnings don’t require planning permission, but check for listed buildings or conservation area restrictions.

Key Benefits for UK Homes

  • Extended Living Space
    Extend your home outdoors –  perfect for entertaining, dining, or relaxing, no matter the weather.
  • Weather Protection
    Shelters from intense sun rays and light rain, helping your garden and patio remain usable year-round.
  • UV & Heat Management
    Modern awnings block up to 98% of harmful UV radiation, while keeping homes and furniture cooler.
  • Energy Savings
    By shading windows, awnings reduce indoor heat gain –  helping to lower cooling costs during warm spells.
  • Enhanced Visual Appeal
    Available in many styles, colours, and fabrics –  awnings can complement your property’s architecture and boost kerb appeal.

Property Value Boost
Attractive outdoor upgrades like awnings can increase property value –  sometimes by up to 10%.

Quick Reference Table: Awnings at a Glance

TypeBest ForKey Benefits
Victorian (Box-Lot)Historic storefronts, conservation areasHeritage appeal, planning-friendly
Greenwich / MarlesburyElegant period-style modern storesTimeless, understated aesthetics
RetractableFlexible outdoor areas—cafés, terracesVersatility, neat when retracted
Drop-ArmHigh windows, small façadesAngled shade, compact design
Dutch CanopyShopfront branding & protectionBranding surface, classic form
Cassette / BoxHigh-use commercial zonesMechanism protected, low upkeep
Twin Fixed & FreestandingOpen seating areas, standalone shading zonesStructural stability, no wall attachment
Fixed CanopyEntrances, permanent coverageDurable, secure weather protection
Bioclimatic LouversUpscale restaurants, weather-adaptive zonesAdjustable shading & ventilation
Roller WallsVariable-shade or enclosed outdoor spacesFlexible weather control

Discover Your Awning!

Enhance your shopfront or outdoor space with a timeless awning – explore our range today and bring style, shade, and character to your property. Shop Now!