Drop arm awnings enhance outdoor spaces in many ways, providing both practical and aesthetic advantages for homes and businesses. This blog explains the benefits of these versatile shading solutions, which can transform any exterior area into a more comfortable environment.
Drop arm awnings offer excellent UV protection, temperature control, and energy efficiency whilst maintaining a clear view of the surroundings, making them a superior choice compared to traditional awning styles. These adaptable installations are particularly useful for properties that need flexible shading options throughout different times of the day.
1. Protection from harmful UV rays
Drop arm awnings serve as the first line of defence against dangerous ultraviolet radiation. These versatile shading solutions block up to 98% of harmful UV rays from reaching outdoor living spaces.
You can see a significant reduction in sun exposure when using drop arm awnings to shield your patio. The specially designed fabric creates a protective barrier that helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin damage.
Outdoor furniture and décor remain vibrant and fade-resistant thanks to the UV protection provided by the awning. The shade it creates helps preserve the colour and integrity of garden furniture, extending its lifespan considerably.
A drop arm awning allows you to enjoy outdoor activities safely during peak sunlight hours. The adjustable nature of the awning means you can maintain optimal UV protection throughout the day as the sun’s position changes.
The weatherproof fabric maintains its UV-blocking properties even after extended use, making it a reliable solution for your sun protection needs. This durability ensures you receive consistent protection season after season.
2. Reduction in indoor heat gain
Drop arm awnings create a significant barrier between the sun’s rays and your windows, preventing excessive heat from entering your home. This direct shading can block up to 77% of solar heat.
Indoor temperatures with and without an awning deployed, you could notice a remarkable difference of 5-8 degrees Celsius. This reduction in heat gain means you could rely less on fans or air conditioning.
The fabric of drop arm awning acts as an effective thermal shield, intercepting solar radiation before it can penetrate windows. This protection is particularly valuable during the hottest hours of the day.
You could see substantial energy savings when installing an awning, as cooling systems do not need to work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures. The reduced heat gain can make living spaces more pleasant during summer months.
Utility bills can reflect the benefits of this heat reduction, with cooling costs decreased by approximately 25% during peak summer periods. The awning’s ability to manage solar heat gain is one of its most practical advantages.
3. Enhanced privacy
Drop arm awnings offer excellent privacy benefits for outdoor living spaces. They create a discreet barrier that prevents neighbours and passers-by from peering into ground-floor windows and patio areas.
When you extend your drop arm awning, you can enjoy your garden or balcony without feeling exposed to overlooking properties. The angle of the awning naturally blocks direct sight lines from above, giving you peace of mind whilst relaxing outdoors.
The fabric of drop arm awnings acts as a subtle screen, allowing you to maintain privacy without installing permanent fencing or tall hedges. You can adjust the angle precisely to achieve the perfect balance of shade and seclusion.
This is a particularly valuable privacy feature when entertaining guests in your garden. The awning creates an intimate atmosphere for outdoor dining and socialising, whilst keeping your gathering subtly sheltered from view.
During evening hours, your drop arm awning prevents interior lighting from creating a fishbowl effect in your home. This added layer of privacy helps you feel more secure and comfortable in your living spaces after dark.
4. Extended outdoor living space
Drop arm awnings transform your patio or deck into a comfortable living space you can use throughout the day. The adjustable angle and coverage create a sheltered area that feels like an extension of your home.
These awnings are particularly useful when you want to host outdoor gatherings or simply relax with a book. The shade they provide makes it possible to enjoy outdoor activities even during the warmest parts of the day.
Your furniture and outdoor décor remain protected from sun damage whilst still being part of an inviting outdoor setting. The awning creates a defined space that helps you establish distinct zones for dining, lounging, or entertaining.
You can easily adapt the awning’s position to maximise your outdoor living area as the sun moves across the sky. This flexibility allows you to maintain a comfortable temperature in your extended living space throughout different times of the day.
The added living space proves valuable during warmer months when you seek alternatives to staying indoors. It is remarkable how a simple addition like a drop arm awning can effectively double your usable living space during pleasant weather.
5. Improved energy efficiency
Drop arm awnings significantly reduce home cooling costs during warm months. By blocking direct sunlight from entering through windows, they prevent excess heat from building up indoors.
Research shows that a professionally installed drop arm awnings can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 6°C. This temperature reduction leads to less reliance on air conditioning systems.
These awnings are particularly effective at shading south and west-facing windows, where the sun’s heat is most intense during peak hours. The adjustable angle allows you to maximise shade when needed.
Drop arm awnings can help reduce cooling costs by 25-30% during summer months. This makes them a practical investment for long-term energy savings.
The fabric’s ability to block UV rays whilst still allowing natural light through means you can maintain a comfortable indoor environment without constantly running electrical cooling systems.
6. Customisation and Aesthetic Appeal
Drop arm awnings offer endless possibilities to enhance a property’s visual appeal whilst maintaining practical functionality. Their design versatility makes them a perfect choice for creating a personalised outdoor space.
Variety of Designs
Drop arm awnings come in a huge range of colours, patterns, and materials to match any architectural style. The fabric selections include solution-dyed acrylics, polyester blends, and canvas options in hundreds of design combinations.
Modern manufacturers offer customisable frame finishes, including:
- Powder-coated aluminium
- Anodised metal
- Painted steel
- Wood-look composites
The width and projection measurements can be tailored to fit specific windows or spaces perfectly. The arm mechanisms can be adjusted to create different angles and coverage areas.
7. Boosting Property Value
Well-chosen drop arm awnings can significantly increase a property’s kerb appeal and market value. Estate agents often highlight these features as desirable home improvements.
The sophisticated appearance of drop arm awnings adds a premium touch to any façade. Our custom-fitted awnings demonstrate attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
Our professional installations enhance the architectural features of both modern and period properties. The clean lines and seamless integration create an upscale, polished look that potential buyers value.
Matching awnings across multiple windows create a cohesive exterior design scheme that elevates the entire property’s appearance.
Winchester Awnings are a leading supplier of Weinor and Somfy motorised awnings in the south of England. We provide a huge range of awnings, recovering service and also servicing to existing awnings. Get in touch to see how we can help you or your business.
At Winchester Awnings we have an impressive 30 years of industry experience. We are also an authorised dealer of the highly sought after German manufacturer, Wienor.
We offer bespoke and high-quality awnings, tailored to each customer’s preferences. This includes custom-made designs in a variety of colours and fabrics. Our commitment to quality ensures the highest standards in both materials and craftsmanship.
Available Services
- No Obligation Quotations: Customers can obtain detailed estimates without any commitment.
- Expert Advice: Professional consultation to find the perfect awning solution.
- Professional Fitting: Installation is handled by trained and experienced professionals.
Areas Covered
Winchester Awnings are the only authorised dealers of Weinor awnings in the Winchester area. We cover multiple regions, including:
- Hampshire
- Surrey
- Dorset
- Sussex
- Berkshire
Additional Benefits
- Made to Measure: Each awning is custom-made to fit specific needs.
- Family Run Business: Personalised service with a focus on customer satisfaction.
- Survey Service: Initial surveys to ensure precise measurements and perfect fit.
For information on our commercial awnings, take a look at our commercial awnings or canopy pages to see how a commercial awning can draw attention to your shop or restaurant and boost your business. With over 30 years in the industry and using trusted brands such as Weinor and Somfy, you can trust in Winchester Awnings to provide you with the highest quality awnings with expert advice and knowledge.
We also provide a huge range of blinds and shutters to homes and businesses. Visit our sister site Winchester Blinds for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drop arm awnings provide practical solutions for homes and businesses through adaptable shading, weather protectionand energy-saving features. Here are some answers to common questions about these versatile window coverings.
Which factors should be considered when selecting an What advantages do drop arm awnings offer for residential properties? for your home?
Drop arm awnings create excellent shade whilst maintaining visibility through windows. They protect interior furnishings from UV damage and fading.
The adjustable angles allow you to control light levels throughout the day without completely blocking views or airflow.
How do drop arm awnings enhance energy efficiency in buildings?
Drop arm awnings can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 8°C during summer months. This significant reduction in heat gain leads to lower cooling and air conditioning costs.
The adjustable nature means you can maximise solar heat in winter by retracting them fully.
In what ways do drop arm awnings contribute to outdoor space utility?
You can create comfortable outdoor dining and relaxation areas protected from direct sunlight. The variable projection distances lets you customise the amount of shade needed.
These awnings transform unusable hot patios into enjoyable living spaces.
What are the key maintenance considerations for drop arm awnings?
We recommend regular cleaning with mild soap and water to prevent dirt build-up. Checking the mechanical components twice yearly helps ensure smooth operation.
Proper winter storage in harsh climates will extend the awning’s lifespan..
How do drop arm awnings compare in durability to other awning types?
Drop arm awnings typically last 8-12 years with proper care. Their simple mechanical design has fewer failure points than retractable cassette awnings.
The arms and fabric face less strain than traditional pivot arm styles.
What flexibility do drop arm awnings provide for sun and shade control?
You can adjust the arms to multiple angles between 0-90 degrees for precise shade control. This flexibility helps manage glare and heat throughout changing sun positions.
The arms move independently, letting you create partial shade where needed.