Electric Awnings have gained popularity over the last 10 years, and the explanation is quite obvious. If you’re going to be using the awning frequently, the ease of just pressing a button to open or retract the awning as opposed to manual cranking is a major bonus. However, there’s a lot more to consider when choosing an electric awning.
The greatest benefit, and most obvious of the electric awning, is the ease of operation. Being able to open or retract the awning in a matter of seconds would definitely encourage the use. Now the manual crank awning is not difficult or impossible, people tend to shy away from using the manual crank due to the amount of effort involved in the opening and closing of the awning. The process of enjoying a morning coffee outside on the patio deck is certainly more inviting when you don’t have to crank the handle to open the awning.
Electric motors have the ability to accommodate much larger awning sizes compared to the manual versions. As you can imagine, opening a 5 metre wide electric awning would be largely effortless. If you’re looking to cover a substantial outdoor area, then that is certainly an important feature to consider.
Some negative aspects should be considered. The most significant downside is the cost. Electric awnings cost about £500-£1000 more than a manual option. You also have to think of the fact that new moving parts will be placed outside, making it more susceptible to maintenance issues. Motors will fail, and replacing them isn’t cheap.
What Makes a Good Company?
This is the most interesting part of the equation. The awning itself is the most important, but it’s only worth it if the installation is done well. Electric awnings require a professional installation because it involves actual wiring. Plus, the awning itself is heavier, meaning that the mounting is more critical than with a manual version.
Companies that hire their own installers as opposed to subcontracting are examples of what to look for. You want someone who has installed awnings daily, and not just a general contractor who does the odd one. It’s best to stick with companies that have been around longer than 10 years.
Warranty is another consideration. A standard five-year warranty should be issued for the motor, while the fabric guarantees differ from five to ten years. Be wary of companies offering lifetime warranty, the fine print is often a letdown.
The Local Question
Should you use a local Installer? Typically, yes. A service centre that is a 200-mile journey away won’t be able to help you if there is an issue at the 2-year mark. Local companies also often have a better understanding of local building codes.
However, regional and national firms should not be overlooked. Some cover great distances service wise and have greater purchasing power for good parts. The most important part is to know who’s actually going to do the work and who’s going to be the contact should you need to contact them.
What to Actually Look For
Acrylic fabrics generally have a greater service life than polyester, but they also have a greater cost.
A solution-dyed fabric (where the colour is added during the manufacturing process) will fade less than a printed fabric.
The material will also play a role. Powder coated aluminium is perfectly acceptable. Some companies for the sake of branding offer stainless steel components as a premium. Fair enough for coastal locations, but everywhere else, it is simply overkill.
It is best to have wind sensors. They retract the awning automatically if wind speeds go to an expensive damage risk. Rain sensors are the opposite; they are overly sensitive. They retract the awning at a drizzle, when most people prefer the awning to stay out.
Improving Your Outdoor Space
Electric awnings give the ability to use your outdoor space at anytime. During an unexpected shower, it makes using your patio more practical. Having the ability to control the shade and rain from without having to get out of your seat is a nice touch.
Some people prefer the clean lines of a modern cassette awning. Others appreciate a more traditional approach. It is simply aesthetic. Full cassette models are good for longevity as they protect the fabric when retracted, adding bulk to the unit.
An electric awning is definitely a decision that deserves careful consideration. Make sure to get at least three estimates and do detailed reviews of the contractors (not just the website reviews). Be sure to understand the line-item details of the estimate (i.e. are installation and electrical work included; if there is an approval for building regs; and other details that should be clear).
