Can I use my garden awning all year round?
An awning is excellent at shading your garden from sun and rain, so it’s only natural to want to get as many years of use out of it as possible. Although awnings are built to withstand the elements, they’re not invulnerable. The most important steps you can take to lengthen your awning’s lifespan are knowing when you can and can’t use your awning, and properly storing it when it’s not in use. Read on to find out how to protect your awning from unnecessary damage, and if you can use it all year long.
Maximising the Lifespan of Your Garden Awning: Essential Care Tips
An awning is a superb addition to any garden, providing essential shade on sunny days and shelter during unexpected rain. To ensure you enjoy your garden awning for as long as possible, it's crucial to understand the best practices for its use and maintenance. Here’s how you can protect your awning from premature wear and determine its all-year usability.
Is it Safe to Leave an Awning Out in the Rain?
Enjoying the gentle sound of rain while comfortably sitting under your awning is one of life’s little pleasures. However, to ensure your awning can handle the rain without damage, it should be made of fully waterproof material. Additionally, the awning must be installed with a minimum pitch of 14 degrees to facilitate water runoff, preventing pooling that can stretch and damage the fabric. Our range includes awnings crafted with waterproof-tested acrylic fabrics, available in over 100 colours, combining style with functionality.
Can Awnings Withstand High Winds?
While awnings are designed to endure typical wind conditions, high winds can pose a risk by potentially tearing the fabric or damaging the structure. It’s advisable to retract your awning during storms, particularly in the storm-prone autumn and winter months. Our Prestige range features awning arms robust enough to withstand winds of almost 50 km per hour, offering peace of mind during gusty weather.
For added convenience, our awnings are equipped with several retraction options, including crank handles, remote control, and fully automated systems. If you’re concerned about accidentally leaving your awning extended, consider upgrading to a model with wind sensors that automatically retract the awning under high wind conditions.
Proper Storage Practices for Awnings
Proper storage is key to extending the life of your awning. The method depends on the specific model you own:
- Standard and Half-Cassette Models: These models leave some of the awning fabric exposed, making them vulnerable to adverse weather conditions. To protect these, consider investing in a storage bag that provides complete coverage
- Full-Cassette Models: Models like the B-28, B-28 Elite and B-28 Prestige, offer the best protection as they fully encase the awning when retracted. This design shields the fabric from moisture and potential tears, making them ideal for year-round use.
Enhancing Your Home with a Durable Awning
Choosing the right awning can dramatically enhance your outdoor space by making it more versatile and welcoming. Whether you need protection from the sun's rays or shelter from a sudden shower, a well-maintained awning is an investment that pays dividends in comfort and aesthetics.
If you take this advice on board, you’ll be able to use your awning in almost all conditions. Our garden and patio awnings come with a range of fabrics, accessories, and retract options to choose from - get a quote on 01202 679012!
