Typically, when thinking of garden awnings, people picture a structure that provides overhead shade and protects from the midday sun. However, these awnings have come a long way over the years and you now have the option to incorporate retractable sides into the design of your garden awning. Sides can enhance the functionality and comfort of your outdoor living space, and transform your garden into somewhere you enjoy spending time all year round.
Awnings with sides are an excellent addition to any home, offering extended protection and privacy while maintaining the aesthetics of your garden. Below we have explored these innovative solutions in more detail.
What Are Retractable Side Awnings?
Retractable side awnings are versatile attachments that can be added to the existing structure of an overhead awning, designed to provide more protection against the elements. These sides can be extended or retracted as needed, similar to the main canopy. This makes them perfect for the unpredictable UK weather, from blocking sideways rain to shielding against low-lying sun. Made with durable and waterproof materials, these side awnings can maintain a seamless look with the main structure, ensuring it’s both visually pleasing and practical.
Reasons to Install a Patio Awning with Sides
Installing a garden awning with sides offers several benefits to your outdoor living space. Here’s why this additional feature can make a huge difference;
- Enhanced Privacy
One of the main benefits of retractable side awnings is the privacy they offer. They are ideal for creating a more secluded living space in your garden, especially in urban areas where houses are built close to each other. With the sides down, you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about people looking into your garden, making it perfect for lively gatherings with friends and peaceful mornings with a good book.
- Increased Protection
While traditional awnings provide excellent protection from the sun overhead, retractable side awnings offer additional shelter from side winds and low-angled sun. This makes your outdoor space more comfortable and usable throughout the day and into the evening, regardless of the weather conditions. They also help to prevent rain from blowing into your seating area, ensuring your outdoor plans can continue without interruption.
- Extended Outdoor Use
By installing awnings with sides, you can extend the usability of your outdoor areas. They enable you to enjoy your patio during the colder months or less-than-ideal weather conditions by providing a barrier against cool breezes and light rain. This transforms your garden into a year-round area for relaxation or entertainment. Not to mention, these awnings can be quickly retracted when they’re not needed, offering flexibility in how you use your outdoor space.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Awnings with sides don’t just offer functional benefits, they also enhance the visual appeal of your garden. Available in a variety of materials, designs and colours, these awnings can be customised to complement the exterior of your home, adding a touch of elegance and style to the overall look. They often become an eye-catching feature that enhances the architectural character of your outdoor environment.
- Versatility in Use
Retractable side awnings are incredibly versatile. Whether you need them for a side facing your neighbour’s garden, as a windbreak or to block the evening sun, they can be adapted to suit your specific needs. This versatility makes them a practical choice for homeowners looking to customise their overhead shading solutions. They can also be deployed in various configurations depending on your needs, making them a smart addition to any home.
- Increased Energy Efficiency
Similarly to overhead awnings, retractable side awnings help regulate the temperature of both your indoor and outdoor spaces. By blocking the sun’s rays from entering your home at different angles, these awnings reduce heat buildup inside, helping to keep your indoor temperature more comfortable and contributing to energy savings. They are an eco-friendly option that reduces the need for air conditioning during the summer months.
Investing in a Garden Awning with Sides
It’s fair to say that investing in garden awnings with sides is a smart choice for enhancing the comfort, privacy and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living space. These retractable side awnings improve the functionality of traditional overhead awnings, ensuring your garden is a versatile and enjoyable part of your home.
As an official UK partner for the award-winning Weinor Awnings, we can provide you with a variety of awning solutions at Cambridge Awnings. For over two decades, we have been designing and installing unique solutions for homeowners and we can bring your ideas to life. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss how we can transform your garden into a year-round usable space in more detail.