The automatic awning gives modern convenience to outdoor living. With a press of a button, these extended covers deploy out or roll up based on weather and your choice. They create comfortable spaces to relax in while protecting your house and furniture from sun damage.
How Automatic Awnings Work
Automated awnings operate through motorised parts. The motor is attached to a rolling unit which extends or retracts the fabric cloth. Remote control features are incorporated on the majority of units, enabling utilisation anywhere in your property or even inside the house.
Smart sensors provide added functionality. Sun sensors track light levels and deploy the awning automatically when the sun strength reaches a certain point. Wind sensors roll in the awning in strong gusts to prevent damage. Rain sensors deploy the awning to create a dry area or roll it in to protect the mechanism, depending on the unit.
Most contemporary automatic awnings are connected with home automation systems. The integration offers smartphone app or voice control. You can even program automatic deployment for specific times of the day.
Benefits to Home Protection
Solar heat gain through windows is blocked by automatic awnings. The cooling advantage may lower indoor temperatures up to 15 degrees during peak summer days. Energy savings due to such cooling usually recoup the initial investment within a few years.
UV protection extends the life of your home furniture indoors. Sunlight in direct exposure leads to carpet, hardwood floor, and furniture discoloration. A motorised awning stops up to 98% of harmful rays when mounted above glass doors and windows.
Rain protection offers freedom of use in outdoor living areas. Rain awnings that come with water-proof material and rain angle drainage are some examples. The construction allows the patio and deck to be used in light rain showers.
Patio and Garden Applications
Dining areas are much improved with automatic awnings. They create warm spaces for family meals regardless of sun position. The shade allows for longer times of outdoor dining without overheating or squinting.
Outdoor sitting areas are transformed by adjustable coverage. Morning coffee or nighttime relaxation is enhanced with protection from direct sunlight. The ability to retract also allows plants below to receive full sun when needed.
Pools and hot tubs become more accessible with strategic awning placement. The shade offers daytime soaking convenience without excluding nighttime stargazing when the awning is rolled back.
Material and Design Options
Acrylic materials lead the pack in popularity for motorised awnings. The materials are water-resistant, fade-proof, and sun-resistant for years to come. They come in hundreds of colour and pattern options to match any home exterior.
Frame materials have an impact on durability and look. Aluminium frames are durable but not excessively heavy. Powder-coated finishes are resistant to corrosion in damp environments.
Designs range from traditional to contemporary. Full-cassette designs enclose the fabric and mechanism when closed, with a clean appearance. Semi-cassette and open designs offer different aesthetic opportunities at different price points.
Installation Considerations
Professional installation ensures proper function. Mounting brackets should be attached to exterior structural members of your residence. Improper installation may result in damage to your home and awning during windy weather.
Size limitations depend upon your own space. Typical widths range from 10 to 25 feet. Projections are typically 8 to 13 feet from the mounting surface. Special sizes are available for specialty applications.
Electrical requirements include motor power. The majority of installations call for a separate weatherproof receptacle. There are some solar-powered options in cases where electrical access is not convenient.
Maintenance Requirements
Seasonal cleaning extends fabric life. Brush loose debris off with soft brushing and mild soap cleaning. Always dry thoroughly before retracting to prevent mildew.
Lubricating mechanisms keeps things running smoothly. Apply manufacturer-recommended lubricants to moving parts annually. Basic maintenance prevents frequent operational problems.
Winter storage varies with climate. For snow-prone areas, removal of the fabric or enclosing the entire assembly in a winter cover protects against ice and snow load damage.
Cost Factors
Quality automatic awnings initial cost starts at around £2,500 for the smaller sizes. Large custom installations may run over £6,000 depending on size, quality of material, and smart features.
Cost savings from energy are partially offset. Lower use of air conditioning in summer months reduces the utility bill. These savings translate over the life of the awning.
Value is added to a property through well-designed shade solutions. Automatic awnings are part of the outdoor living enhancements that attract prospective buyers when well maintained.
Choosing the Right Automatic Awning
Measure your area accurately before going shopping. Your minimum dimensions are determined by width and projection requirements. Add extra width on each side of the area you want to shade for optimal coverage.
Consider your primary function. Sun protection, rain shelter, and beauty each suggest different features and materials. Prioritise these functions when considering models.
Local weather determines appropriate decisions. Windy sites require more robust frames and quality wind sensors. Wet sites require water-proof materials and proper drainage angles.
Check warranty protection carefully. Quality automatic awnings come with 5-10 year fabric and mechanism guarantees. The best companies stand behind their products with complete protection and local support.