Guide to Retractable Awnings

What are Retractable awnings?

Retractable awnings, also referred to as folding arm awnings, are a type of outdoor awning for your home. These awnings are unique in that they have the ability to fold out when you want to use them and can be folded away when there are strong winds, or you want them out of sight.

How do Retractable awnings work?

Retractable awnings are fully supported by a building, meaning that they need to be attached to a strong structure (for example, the side of your house).

These awnings tend to be thought of as an extension to your roof, giving you up to 3 metres of additional shade coverage.

The importance of creating shaded areas outside your home

Creating shaded areas in your outdoor area is so important, particularly in the Aussie sun! Depending on the amount of space you have, and the ideal amount of shade you'd like, Retractable awnings could be the right fit for your home as they are a compact option when you don't need them, and they can provide much needed shade when you want to enjoy the outdoors.

How do Retractable awnings work?

Retractable awnings are cantilevered, which means they have a folded structure allowing them to contract and extend when you want them in use.

These awnings are fully supported by the building they are attached to and can rest completely against the wall.

Their ability to retract means they're able to stay out of the elements when not in use, extending their lifespan so they remain a solid long-term investment.

Benefits of Retractable Awnings

They're great for reducing the temperature inside your home

Designed to maximise comfort by minimising sun exposure, Retractable awnings are great at keeping the sun at bay and moving excess heat away from your window. This makes them a more efficient (and cost effective) option than relying on internal window coverings alone.

Enjoy your outdoor space more often

Designed to fold out and retract when not in use, these awnings can create shade over your garden or table when you need it.

Help increase the life of your outdoor furniture

Retractable awnings can also help to extend the lifespan of your outdoor furniture as they are reducing the exposure your furniture has to UV rays.

Constant exposure to the sun can make your furniture more brittle and fade your fabric over time.

For more tips on protecting your outdoor furniture, head to our blog!

They can save you money in the long run

Retractable awnings have a higher upfront cost, but they often end up saving you money in the long term, due to the shade they provide to the inside of your home.

Providing shade on your windows means your home doesn't heat up as much and your air conditioner doesn't have to work as hard to cool your home, resulting in lower electricity bills. ­­

Retractable awnings can be motorised

One of the main benefits of Retractable awnings is their ability to make your life easier by being compatible with motorisation technology.

With ABC SmartHub motorisation, Retractable awnings are one of many window coverings options that can connect to the Smart Hub, and be controlled using the hub, by pairing it with your smartphone, Google Home, or Alexa device.

This hub gives you the ability to pair up to 20 sets of window coverings throughout your home and has added benefits!

If you struggle with mobility, having a motorised option gives you independence to operate your blinds without any assistance. Motorised Retractable awnings are also great for times the weather turns quickly and you don't want to brace wind or rain to lower your awnings.

To learn more about motorised blinds, head to our blog!

They're available in a huge range of colours and styles

Retractable awnings don't need to be an eye-sore in your outdoor area. These days they come in so many styles, colours and fabrics, there is bound to be an option to complement your home design.

Choose from high-quality fabrics including polyester, cotton, canvas, acrylic, mesh, blockout and sunscreen.

If you're not sure what each of these fabrics are, head to our website to find our guide to window fabrics.

Cleaning your Retractable awnings

All awnings need to be cleaned regularly (at least once per season), especially if your awnings are prone to moisture or dust, which can lead to unhealthy mould growth. Give them a wipe down and a bit of TLC, and they'll be serving you well into the future.

Price of Retractable awnings

Retractable awnings aren't the cheapest outdoor awning option for your home, but they're also likely to last a lot longer than non-retractable awnings as they can be protected from the elements.

Non-retractable awnings are consistently exposed to all elements, meaning they're more prone to damage and to have a shorter lifespan.

Can retractable awnings be used in the rain?

When it starts to rain it's best to lower your awnings, so they are protected from the majority of the water. While they are somewhat water resistant, it's best to keep them lowered when they aren't in use.

Lowering them is also a good idea if strong wind comes with the rain. Retractable awnings can only handle minimal winds, so make sure to keep an eye on the weather when your awnings are in use!

To arrange a free measure and quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on 13 13 15 or fill out this simple online form. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.

The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor's comparable item and we'll beat it by 5%.