Awnings solve the problem that most Australian outdoor entertaining areas eventually face: in summer, the space is too hot and sunny to use comfortably between 10am and 4pm; in spring and autumn, light rain makes the same space unusable on otherwise mild days. An awning extends the practical use of an outdoor area significantly.

Retractable folding arm awnings are the most popular and versatile option. They extend on a pair of articulated arms when deployed and retract to a compact cassette mounted to the wall or ceiling when stored. This allows the awning to be deployed for shade and shelter on demand and retracted when clear skies are preferred or during windy conditions. Most folding arm awnings are not designed to remain extended during strong wind — the arms are not structural members and will be damaged by sustained wind load.

Fixed patio awnings — roof-mounted or wall-mounted permanent cover structures — provide year-round shelter regardless of conditions. They're more robust than retractable awnings, but can't be adjusted to allow sun in when it's wanted (during cooler winter days in Melbourne, for example, solar gain through a north-facing window or patio is genuinely valuable).

Motorised awnings are a significant convenience upgrade over manual operation — particularly for wide awnings where manual rolling is physically demanding. A motorised awning with a wind sensor that automatically retracts the awning in high-wind conditions is worth considering for unattended deployment.

Fabric selection affects both UV protection and longevity. Australian conditions demand UV-resistant, breathable fabrics that handle wet-dry cycles without deteriorating. Look for fabrics with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ for effective UV screening.

Browse our awning range online with fast delivery across Melbourne and Australia.