TOP 5 THINGS: to consider before buying an awning

Awning systems are becoming one of the most popular choices for many residential properties for providing a quick and easy, yet practical and stylish, shaded area for many homes. They are a more budget suited option that can transform your outdoor space into a luxurious getaway.

With many people being a lot more conscious and willing to spend time outside, due to the effects of the pandemic, outdoor living is looking like it’s going to be sticking around for a while, so it’s time to invest in your outdoor space! We know that this decision though is not one to be taken lightly, so we have gathered the top 5 things you should consider before purchasing an awning:

 Is the awning easy to use?

Awnings are one of our most straightforward and versatile systems to use, they provide an adequate amount of shelter and a secure feeling of cosiness Due to their ease of use and aesthetic, they are a very popular product. Our motorised awnings are controlled by a very easy to use Somfy remote control, which allows you to control extending and retracting your awning system with just the touch of a button. What’s great about these Somfy remote controls, is that you can also use the same remote control for any optional extras such as heating and lighting!

So as you can see our awnings are a perfect solution for creating luxury effortlessly.

 Is the awning waterproof?

We only use top of the range materials for our awnings, and that includes using Sattler fabrics. With the UK’s infamous unpredictable weather, Sattler fabric which has a TEXGuard finish, is a perfect solution for providing water repellence. At Sattler, every single fibre is carefully covered with a protective coating. The proprietary impregnation prevents the permeation by water, humidity and dirt, thus supporting the self-cleaning effect. Dirt pearls roll down the surface like water drops on leaves. This is the TEXgard Lotus effect. Using a fabric such as Sattler, as well as having the angle of your awning, will aid the rain or dirt drops rolling off your awnings and keeping it as clean and dry as it can on its own.

However, we do recommend that you keep up with manually maintaining your system by following our maintenance guide, and keep your system retracted on heavily rainy days. (find out more about your system on extreme weather days with our weather warning guide)

 Is the awning wind resistant?

We advise that awnings should not be operated and should be retracted on extremely windy days, to keep the system safe from any potential damage. If you have purchased one of our awnings we will provide you with one of our Somfy vibration sensors. This is because our Somfy vibration sensors are a quick easy way for providing extra security for your awning system, the sensor picks up on vibrations and once it reaches the threshold it will automatically retract your awning to protect it. Our Somfy vibrations sensors are an amazing way to give you peace of mind and just making your awning experience even easier with a hands-free approach.

 Awnings aesthetic

Choosing your awnings overall aesthetic is also a big decision, especially if you are thinking of having your awning in colours that complement the space you are installing it. Firstly, you need to think about the awnings actual design, what model do you want? Which a best suited for your area? You can take a look at our different awning models on our website on our products page or awning case studies. Luckily, because we know that one awning size doesn’t fit all we offer lots of bespoke solutions for you! We also have an array of Aluminium powder coatings and Sattler fabrics for you to choose from, you can find these on our website too in our information > downloads > fabric swatches or aluminium swatches section. If you prefer a more hands on approach however, you can come and visit our showroom in Trafford Park and see how the systems look and work and see our samples.  

 How long will it take for my awning to be installed?

A high-quality well finished installation is just as important as the awning, that is why at GOSS Outdoor it is one of our top priorities. Due to our awnings being bespoke products their current wait time is 8-10 weeks, and the installation process can range from as little as half a day to no more than a full day. Finishing touches are important and attention to detail is key, due to these values that is why we will ensure a professional installation for you.

 We hope that you have found this week’s blog post useful and are more informed about our awnings. However, if you have more questions / require more information feel free to head over to our FAQ page or get in contact with us now!