Everything You Need To Know About Retractable Awnings

Imagine having the flexibility to soak up the warm sun in winter and shield it during the sweltering summer months, all without installing a permanent structure. With a retractable awning, it’s possible.  

Retractable awnings are a valuable investment, giving you the luxury of flexible light control to maximise the use of any outdoor space. 

Here, we’ll look at everything you need to know before purchasing a retractable awning, including what is an awning? how much do they cost? and what models are available? 

What Is A Retractable Awning?

A retractable awning is a flexible shading system that can easily open or close to suit the weather. Made with water and UV resistant fabrics, they extend to offer shelter on scorching summer days, or retract to allow for uninterrupted sunlight when conditions are ideal.  

Retractable awnings attach to the side of a wall or building to cover decks, patios, courtyards, restaurants, pools – you name it. Even better, when retracted, they almost completely disappear into the side of the façade. 

The benefits of retractable awnings are endless, making them a valuable investment for any home or business. They offer: 

• Flexible light control 
• Protection for your indoor and outdoor furniture 
• Easy operation 
• Significant energy savings 
• Highly customisable designs 
• Level 6 Beaufort wind scale rating (Helioscreen models) 

How Do Retractable Awnings Work?

Retractable awnings work via two horizontally articulated arms with an elbow. The arms are spring loaded and extend or retract the awning’s front bar while keeping the fabric taut. 

Retractable awnings have the option to operate either manually using a simple crank or effortlessly via a remote control, wall switch or smartphone app. Helioscreen’s motorised retractable awnings, for example, are powered by an industry-leading Somfy motor.  

For total convenience, you can also automate your retractable awning with timers and weather sensors. Program it to extend during the afternoon heat, and retract once the sun sets, keeping your space cool and comfortable, no matter the time of day. 

5 Types Of Retractable Awnings (& What’s Right For You)

Helioscreen’s retractable awnings are market leaders in durability and performance. They’re highly customisable and available in a variety of fabric types, colours and styles, so there’s something to suit all aesthetics.  

Our retractable awning models include: 

1. Cassette Awning

The Cassette Awning is the perfect addition to any backyard, deck or outdoor dining area. Its fully closing cassette design protects the fabric and componentry from the harsh Australian climate without compromising on style.  

The Cassette Awning has a maximum projection of 4m and can cover any area up to 8m wide, so it’s the ideal shade solution for large residential or commercial spaces. 

2. Rubix Awning

With an elegant, eye-catching design, the Rubix Cassette Awning seamlessly integrates into any modern facade. Its slimline cassette enclosure makes it the ideal solution for anyone seeking maximum shade coverage with a minimal, understated and luxurious design.  

The Rubix Awning has a maximum projection of 3.5m and can cover any area up to 6m wide, so it’s well-suited to shading smaller balconies, decks and courtyards. 

3. Classic Awning

Helioscreen’s Classic Awning is a simple yet stylish shade solution that perfectly complements any residential or commercial building. Mounted via an integrated torque bar, the Classic Awning range has numerous attachment options for a range of facades. 

The Classic Awning has a maximum projection of 4.5m and can cover any area up to 8 metres wide. From large terraces to small balconies, this model is ideal for enhancing your outdoor spaces. 

4. Cocoon Awning

Helioscreen’s Cocoon Cassette is the height of minimalist design for modern homes and businesses. Made from premium European components, fabrics and a fully closing cassette, the Cocoon Cassette offers all the protection you need in one sleek system.  

The Cocoon Cassette has a maximum projection of 3.5m and can cover any area up to 5.5 metres wide, making it a great option for smaller residential and commercial decks, patios and pools.  

5. Fabric Cassette

The Fabric Cassette awning combines elegance and durability to enhance any external façade. With a compact design and numerous mounting options, the Fabric Cassette is ideal for a variety of applications, from decks and courtyards to outdoor dining spaces.  

The Fabric Cassette has a maximum projection of 4.5m and can cover any area up to 7 metres wide.  

Optional Extras To Consider

Helioscreen offer a range of additional accessories sure to give your awning that extra ‘wow factor’. These include: 

Weather Sensors

Sun, wind and rain sensors are a great way to automate your awning without you having to lift a finger.  

Sun sensors detect when the sun comes overhead and extend the awning, whereas wind and rain sensors detect dangerous weather conditions and retract the awning. They bring peace of mind knowing your awning will stay safe from damage from the elements.  

Vario Valance

Helioscreen’s Vario-Valance is a vertically adjustable hanging fabric that attaches to the front bar of either the Cassette, Fabric-Cassette, or Classic awning. Put simply, it’s like outdoor blind that hangs from the end of your awning. 

It seamlessly integrates into the overall awning appearance and extends up to 1.6m, offering extra protection from the heat and glare of the harsh afternoon sun. An especially valuable addition for western facing awnings. 

How Much Does A Retractable Awning Cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,800 for a small, manually operated model to $12,000 for a large, top of the range motorised system.  

However, the price of a retractable awning will vary depending on the size, model and additional extras you choose. 

To ensure your awning adds value to your home and won’t rust, tear or break in a few years’ time, choose a model from a reputable supplier like Helioscreen. We stand by the quality and durability of our retractable awnings, which is why we offer a 5-year warranty on the motor, fabric and hardware. 

To find out exactly how much a retractable awning will cost for your home or business, see our awning price calculator tool or contact one of our friendly team today.  

Choose Australia’s Leading Retractable Awning Provider

When choosing a retractable awning for your home or business, it’s important to prioritise a durable and functional system that will provide a long-lasting shade solution.  

Helioscreen is Australia’s leading retractable roof supplier for a variety of residential and commercial applications. Contact us today for more information.