Frequently asked questions
What is the most suitable awning for my deck?
Which awnings are suitable for pergolas?
An Outrigger sail or awning will greatly increase the life span of a timber deck and will reduce the maintenance required. A light weight sail with minimal poles and supports may be the optimum structure for seasonal shade and contentious sites where an exempt structure is required.
A retracting awning can work well to provide all weather protection, and then disappear from view when not required. A lightweight permanent structure may be the best choice when all weather protection or an outdoor room is required.
If freestanding poles are required, their location may be determined by the deck support structure, and multiple poles may be required for spans larger than 6 metres. If your deck is still in the planning stages, it is beneficial to allow for the awning in the deck design.
For pergolas, our two most popular awnings are either a retracting awning or a fixed batten awning.
Our retacting shade awning with side track works exceptionally well on a horizontal pergola and disappears from view when retracted.
A rainproof curved batten awning provides all weather protection, and also promotes airflow during the hot summer months.
Retracting awnings can sit either above or below the pergola structure and work well with external vertical shade blinds.
Shade sails are also an option for an open pergola. They offer a demountable design that may be more cost effective than a retracting or fixed rainproof structure.