Enhancing your outdoor area with the ideal awning or pergola can significantly improve the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Whether you aim to establish a comfortable shaded area or protect your space from weather elements, choosing the right product is crucial.
The ideal awning should match the property’s architectural style, accommodate the space’s dimensions and serve the intended purpose, whether it’s shade for a garden patio or weather protection for a shop entrance. A well-chosen awning becomes a seamless extension of the building’s design whilst delivering practical benefits.
The British climate demands careful consideration of materials and mechanisms when choosing an awning. Modern options range from manually operated models to sophisticated motorised systems with wind sensors and remote controls, each suited to different needs and budgets.
You can extend your usable square metres and create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation or entertainment with the right choice. This guide will assist you in selecting the best awning or pergola for your needs, featuring sought after brands like Somfy and Weinor, known for their variety and quality.
Assessing Your Outdoor Space and Needs
Start by determining the primary function of the awning or pergola in your outdoor space. Do you need robust weather protection, or are you primarily interested in expanding your living space outdoors? Understanding these requirements will guide your decision, helping you choose a model that best suits your lifestyle and space.
Conducting a Site Survey
Measuring your outdoor space precisely forms the foundation of awning selection. We measure the width of the intended mounting area and the projection distance needed for adequate coverage. We then check the mounting surface’s material and structural integrity. Brick, concrete, and wooden surfaces require different mounting brackets and installation methods.
We take into account any obstacles like doors, windows, or outdoor fixtures that might interfere with the awning’s operation. Furthermore we determine the positions of electrical outlets for motorised options.
Key measurements to record:
- Wall height and width
- Desired projection length
- Distance to obstacles
- Sun angles throughout the day
Considering Weather Patterns
Local weather conditions directly impact awning durability and functionality. Wind speeds affect the choice between fixed and retractable models.
Install a weather sensor to monitor conditions. These devices automatically retract motorised awnings when wind speeds become dangerous.
Important weather factors:
- Average rainfall
- Typical wind speeds
- Sun exposure hours
- Snow load (if applicable)
Choose materials rated for your climate. Weinor and Somfy systems offer integrated weather monitoring for enhanced protection.
Understanding Types of Awnings
Retractable awnings provide flexibility, retracting during harsh weather. They come in manual or motorised versions, with Somfy motors being a leading choice.
Pergola-style awnings combine the benefits of permanent structures with adjustable coverage. Many include integrated heating and lighting options.
Popular features:
- Remote control operation
- LED lighting systems
- Infrared heating elements
- Weather-resistant fabrics
Modern awnings offer smart home integration, connecting to home automation systems for convenient control.
Selecting Materials and Features for Longevity
The right combination of materials and features creates a durable, functional outdoor shading solution that enhances your space whilst minimising maintenance requirements. A well-chosen awning can last 10-15 years with proper care.
Choosing Between Awnings and Pergolas
Both Somfy and Weinor produce an extensive array of styles, from traditional retractable awnings to contemporary pergolas. Somfy’s motorised retractable awnings are perfect for those who value convenience and modernity, allowing you to adjust your shade with a simple click. Weinor’s range includes beautifully designed pergolas that not only protect from the sun and rain but also add a touch of elegance to any garden or patio.
Metal-framed retractable awnings offer excellent versatility for most residential settings. High-grade aluminium frames resist corrosion and provide reliable support for fabric canopies.
Acrylic fabric stands as the premium choice for awning materials, offering 98% UV protection and exceptional colour retention. Premium manufacturers like Weinor use solution-dyed acrylic that resists fading.
Fixed pergolas suit larger spaces and can also support heavier accessories like integrated lighting and heating elements. These structures typically use powder-coated aluminium or steel for maximum durability.
Customising Colours, Size and Functionality
Your new awning or pergola should complement the architectural style of your home. Both Weinor and Somfy offer products in a variety of designs and colours that can enhance the existing decor of your residence. Choose a colour and design that harmonises with your home’s exterior to ensure a seamless blend. Our premium manufacturers offer RAL colour matching for frames.
Standard patio awnings extend from 1.5 to 7 metres in width. The pitch can be adjusted between 5-45 degrees for optimal shade coverage.
Popular functional features:
- LED spotlights integrated into front profiles
- Infrared heaters for evening comfort
- Remote control operation
- Smartphone app connectivity
Evaluating Durability and Maintenance
Quality awning fabrics require minimal upkeep beyond seasonal cleaning with mild soap and water. Acrylic and polyester blends resist mould growth and maintain their shape effectively.
Essential maintenance tasks:
- Quarterly inspection of mechanical parts
- Removal of debris from gutters and channels
- Annual professional servicing of motors and sensors
- Regular cleaning of fabric with soft brush
Somfy motors and sun/wind sensors protect the awning by automatically retracting during harsh weather conditions.
Professional Installation
We have a highly experienced team to professionally install your awning or pergola to maximise their lifespan and functionality. This is particularly important when dealing with high-end models from Somfy and Weinor, as expert installation guarantees optimal performance and durability.
Conclusion
Selecting the right awning or pergola from Winchester Awnings with renowned brands like Somfy and Weinor can transform your outdoor space into a stylish and practical retreat. With the right product, you can enjoy enhanced comfort and utility, making your outdoor living area a year-round delight.
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
Selecting the right awning requires careful consideration of materials, size, style, and weather conditions, along with proper maintenance practices for long-term durability.
Which factors should be considered when selecting an awning for your home?
The property’s architectural style should match the awning design to maintain visual harmony.
Sun exposure patterns and local climate affect the choice of awning placement and material selection.
The intended use determines features like retractability, motorisation, and fabric type.
What are the most durable materials for outdoor awnings?
Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics offer superior UV resistance and colour retention, making them ideal for constant sun exposure.
Aluminium frames provide excellent durability against rust and require minimal maintenance.
Marine-grade stainless steel hardware ensures longevity in coastal environments.
What are the guidelines for sizing an awning in relation to your outdoor space dimensions?
The awning width should extend 30 centimetres beyond each side of the area requiring shade.
The projection length needs to cover the entire outdoor space whilst maintaining a minimum height of 2.1 metres for clearance.
Window awnings should extend to cover 65-75% of the window height for optimal shade.
Could you advise on the best awning styles for patio areas?
Retractable awnings suit spaces requiring flexible shade coverage and protection from varying weather conditions.
Fixed-frame awnings work well for permanent outdoor dining areas that need consistent coverage.
Pergola-style awnings create an elegant outdoor room effect with optional side panels for additional protection.
How should one account for weather conditions when choosing an awning?
Wind ratings must match local weather patterns, with most residential awnings requiring resistance to at least 40 km/h winds.
Rain runoff requires a minimum pitch of 15 degrees to prevent water pooling.
Snow-prone areas need stronger frames and steeper angles to prevent accumulation.
What steps are involved in the maintenance of outdoor awnings?
Regular cleaning with mild soap and water prevents fabric deterioration and mould growth.
Mechanical components may need quarterly lubrication to maintain smooth operation.
Professional inspection could occur annually to check for loose fittings and fabric tension.