Best Retractable Awnings: Well, in this post, I’ll walk you through the various aspects of some of the best retractable awnings available on the market to help you to make an informed buying decision.

Furthermore, I’ll also discuss with you the parameters that you need to consider for buying retractable awnings.

On top of it, I’ll answer some of the frequently asked questions on the topic.

Most of these questions are either asked by my clientele or my readers.

So, without any further ado, let’s dive deep into the subject.

As all of us know that humans can’t control the weather condition.

Trust me, if a human has the power to control the weather conditions, then none of the matches, flights, etc would have got canceled.

But, the reality is far more different from our assumption, right?

Fortunately, God has gifted us with an incredible brain that we can use to invent and discover a product to help us get rid of certain situations or provide us with a solution to unexpected problems.

To cut a long story short, we’ve got a few products available on the market that can be used to protect our space from the sun, rain, etc.

It goes without saying that you would’ve definitely guessed the product till now.

Yes, you’re RIGHT…

It’s none other than the RETRACTABLE AWNINGS.

Whether it’s your lawn, patio, backyard, or even rooftop, these retractable awnings will serve the purpose.

Furthermore, you can even place retractable awnings near windows, entryways, and even balcony space.

You may not believe but I’ve seen quite a few people putting their entire shop below retractable awnings.

What Is The Best Rated Retractable Awning…

Product	Category	Type	Size, Ft	Fabric	Cassette	Check Current Price On Amazon
Advaning	Best Patio Awning	Electric, Manual	8×7 | 10×8 | 12×10 13×10 | 16×10	Acrylic	Semi-Cassette	$$$
Diensweek	Best Awnings for Windy Areas	Manual	12×10	Polyester	No	$$$
Sunjoy	Best Motorized Awning	Electric	14×10	Polyester	Semi-Cassette	$$$
Outsunny	Best Retractable Awning for Deck	Manual	13×7.6 | 9.6×8.2 | 8×7	Polyester	No	$$$
Best Choice Products	Best Budget Retractable Awning	Manual	8.2×6.5	Polyester	No	$$$

Note: we’ve reviewed more than 10 retractable awnings, so scroll down to read about them

So, what are retractable awnings?

Well, in layman’s language, a retractable awning is nothing but an additional overhang placed over a point of ingress on a building.

To add to it, they are an ideal way to block sun and rain on a patio or deck without permanently altering a structure or erecting obstructive support poles.

Retractable awnings are made of fabrics that are water-resistant.

On the aesthetic appearance front, these retractable awnings add beautiful colors as well as angles wherever they are installed.

Features of Retractable Awnings

• Protects outdoor areas from rain and water
• It adds to the privacy and also, serves as an allergen protection
• Furthermore, it can be used for multiple purposes such as the patio, seating areas, as well as indoor areas
• Retractable awnings can be used against different weather conditions by changing the slopes
• Once installed properly, retractable awnings can be used to lower the indoor temperature, and thus, can reduce the use of air conditioners leading to a decrease in the electricity bill

In the last couple of years, retractable awnings have become quite popular because of the tremendous increase in growing environmental awareness.

Another reason for the retractable patio awnings gaining popularity is their features such as versatility and flexibility.

Needless to say, it comes in various sizes, patterns, and colors.

Once installed, it can also help your furniture, carpets, and paints from fading.

Pros and Cons of Retractable Patio Awnings

Before we review the best retractable patio awnings, allow me to walk you through the pros and cons of the awnings.

Pros

• Retractable patio awnings are quite flexible
• They are affordable as well as user-friendly
• You can install them on your own without the need for professional help
• Definitely, they are quite safe for children as well as pets because of the absence of poles and posts
• They add elegance and beauty to your home, backyard, patio, etc
• When retracted, they can tolerate high winds, storms, and heavy snowfalls
• They have a dual mode of operations: electrical and manual
• Ease of Use: Motorized awnings come with remote control for easy maneuvering
• You can expect a reduction in the electricity bill after installing retractable awnings because it will shade the room and prevents it from heating up
• Retractable awnings come with a lot of additional features such as wind sensors, rain sensors, timers, and remote controls
• Lastly, you can extend the outdoor living space at a much cheaper price as compared to a high-cost construction

Cons

• They aren’t cheap because of the flexibility, versatility, and convenience they possess
• An awning with an electrical sensor needs constant replacement
• In case of a power shortage, you’ll have to use a manual retraction lever
• At times, you may find some leakage through the fabrics of retractable awnings in spite of it having a weather coating
• You may be exposed to health problems due to the development of mildew and mold in case the awnings aren’t cleaned on a regular basis
• At times, you may face awnings getting stuck on the tracks because of the poor quality of materials used in tracks leading to their rusting
• Again, you need to be well-informed about the best retractable awnings else you may end up buying one that comprises of low-quality motor resulting in mal-functioning as well as repairing of the motor on a frequent basis

Best Retractable Awnings Review

Henceforth, I’ll walk you through the top retractable awnings that you can consider buying depending on your requirement and budget.

Advaning Classic Series | Best Retractable Awning For Patio

Advaning is a well-known and highly trusted brand in the awning domain.

The reputation didn’t build overnight rather it took lots of time to build a brand that is well-accepted worldwide.

Once the brand “Advaning” was built, things become quite easy for the manufacturers.

All they need to do is to do research on the gap between the end user’s requirements and the product available on the market, and then launch a product that can fill the gap between the customers’ expectations and product performance.

Though Advaning is known for its quality and high performance still I would say they are expensive more than their counterparts.

Moreover, if you’re on a shoestring budget, then this product isn’t for you.

The good news about this retractable awning is that it comes as pre-assembled and you don’t need to waste your time in the assembling process.

All you need to do is to install it.

You don’t have to worry at all about the motor in favorable weather conditions because it comes with an aluminum semi-cassette hood which takes care of the motor very well.

It can be installed on wood as well as masonry and SAE 304 stainless steel screws keeps it firmly attached to the surface.

On top of it, stainless steel cable keeps it free from rusting, and thus, the lifespan of particularly this product is much more than its counterparts.

The fabrics are of very high quality and woven in a particular way to prevent mildew growth and UV rays.

Moreover, the steel frame and aluminum roller tube provide endurance, stability, and durability to the awning structure.

The easy pitch system comprises of 3-Loop system.

The 3-Loop system is further segregated into 2 easy pitch loops and 1 crank loop.

You need to use a crank loop only when you want to open or close the retractable awning MANUALLY.

On the other hand, easy pitch loops are used to adjust the pitch of the awning to block the sunlight at different times of the day.

Another thing that gives this awning an upper edge over its counterparts is the Acrylic fabric.

 The benefits of using acrylic fabric are that it doesn’t trap hot water or moisture as compared to polyester and vinyl fabrics, so awning using acrylic fabric makes the space cooler in hot & humid conditions and vice-versa. 

On the downside, this awning is costly, and sometimes acrylic fibers can pill.

Diensweek Patio Awning | Best Awnings for Windy Areas

As per my knowledge and experience, Diensweek Patio Awning is perhaps the best awning for windy areas.

The company is not very old and they most sell online through Amazon.

However, in the context of the awning, they have one of the best offerings on the market at an affordable rate.

I think the company has used a low-cost penetration strategy to capture the market share.

To be brutally honest, I refrain from reviewing products from a company that is very new in the market.

There is nothing as such to offend them.

It’s just a part of my long-term strategy.

I came to know about this company from one of my close friends (word-of-mouth publicity).

His feedback was so enticing that I decided to buy one and later add it to my list of “best retractable awning list” if everything goes fine.

Trust me, the product has virtually exceeded all my expectations, and that is the reason I’m reviewing it at number 2.

It’s not only about the quality of the canopy, but also, the frame will impress you.

It is made of one of the strongest grades (T5) of aluminum used for outdoor residential applications.

Moreover, the frame is rated for the class 4 winds on the Beaufort scale.

It can be used both for commercial as well as residential purposes because of the high quality of the frame and canopy.

On the downside, the canopy sags when wet, and some people may find it a bit expensive.

Rest assured, definitely, it’s a value-for-money product that is durable, stable, affordable, and long-lasting.

Sunjoy Marquise Retractable Awning | Best Motorized Awning

A great company that started its journey by manufacturing electronic accessories and later ended up creating an outdoor accessory department.

Since the background of the company is in electronic accessories, you can consider it as a good product in the “electric retractable awning” category.

Semi-cassette inclusion ensures that the electric motor and other essential components are safe and protected against any unprecedented weather conditions.

Aluminum has high endurance because it is made up of an alloy of aluminum & steel.

The frame has a long lifespan because it comprises powder-coating which protects it against any corrosion or rusting.

Well, it boasts a 14′ x 10′ footprint which is more than enough to manage a gathering in your outdoor patio.

In case, you’re not using it for your outdoor spaces such as backyard, patio, etc, then why not use it for your indoor homes?

It not only protects you from harmful UV rays, but also, your drapes, furniture, and flooring against the sunlight.

At times, when the motor malfunctions, you’ve got an option to operate it manually.

However, never try to operate simultaneously via motor and manually.

Moreover, it is a stylish awning with an eye-catching stripe pattern, so you can install it on the door to beautify your backyard.

In the context of financial benefit, you’ll find your electricity bill going down because it lowers the temperature inside your room forcing the air conditioner to consume less amount of electricity.

On the downside, this retractable awning is fairly difficult to install, and also lacks variations.

Outsunny | Best Retractable Awning for Deck

Aosom corporate umbrella is the parent company of out sunny.

They have expertise in outdoor decor and accessories and the company name is a synonym of trust and quality in the category.

In the context of retractable awnings, the company manufactures one of the best awnings for the deck.

It is made of durable and high-quality polyester.

Moreover, this awning(280g/m) is one of the heaviest canopies reviewed.

Outsunny is not only waterproof but also protects you from harmful UV radiation.

This awning is quite popular among people who are on a shoestring budget.

Furthermore, the frame and hardware are made of steel and aluminum which is definitely good to go.

Well, if you’re looking for an awning for your windows or doors, then you consider out sunny.

All your worries about outlets, cords, or batteries end here because Outsunny doesn’t need an electric motor for its operation.

On top of it, Outsunny is newbie-friendly and the installation process is a cakewalk because it comes with pre-drilled holes also comes with the mounting hardware necessary for installation.

So, for smooth opening and closing of an awning, it comes with a 63″ long hand crank.

On the downside, it comes ONLY in a single size and the frame is NOT the sturdiest one.

All in all, a complete package that you can consider taking home.

Best Choice Products | Best Choice Retractable Awning

The company was founded more than a decade ago, and initially, it was into selling billboard tables.

Soon the company realized the potential of home goods, and without wasting any time, the brand launched quite a few products in the home goods category.

After seeing the initial success, Best Choice also launched an outdoor accessory division.

Currently, the best choice deals in a wide range of products, and follow the low-price penetration strategy to capture the market share.

Keeping in alignment with the strategy, the retractable awning offered by the brand is perhaps the best budget retractable awning available on the market.

At the same time, from nowhere it means that the brand offers an inferior product because it is cheaper.

The company doesn’t compromise on the quality of the retractable awnings.

However, you may not find some of the features that are only available in high-end retractable awnings.

Similar to other awnings that I’ve reviewed in this post, the frame of this awning is also made of an alloy of aluminum & stainless steel.

Furthermore, to enhance the lifespan of the frame it is coated with powder.

The good thing about the powder coating is that it prevents the awning frame from corrosion and rust.

This awning uses high-quality water-resistant polyester as fabric, and also, acts as an additional layer of protection against UV rays.

You can use it over your windows, patio, balcony, courtyard, etc to create a space for specific purposes such as lunch, dinner, community meeting, etc.

However, if you’re looking for an awning for windy and rainy conditions, then this is not the product to go for.

Though the installation process is easy still you would need a few helping hands for the same.

For the best result, you need a solid surface such as concrete for the installation of this canopy.

On the downside, the canopy is sort of transparent, so it may not provide you with adequate privacy.

To add to it, the canopy is also known to sag a bit in the middle when it becomes wet.

BestMassage Patio Manual Retractable Sun Shade Awning | Best Budget Retractable Awning

As the name suggests, it’s a manual retractable awning made with the purpose to cater to the needs of people who are looking for awnings for their patio as well as indoor uses.

At the same time, installing it can add an element of decoration to your home.

The good thing about these awnings is that they can be mounted anywhere with almost negligible effort.

For example, quite a few of my clients have mounted this awning on their doors and walls, and the feedback that I’ve received is positive.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a retractable awning that can deal with heavy rains and winds, then this is NOT the awning to go with.

The awnings consist of a frame and canopy.

The frame is made of aluminum and coated with white powder to protect it against all weather conditions.

Moreover, the canopy is made of high-quality polyester which is not ONLY water-resistant but can also protect you against UV rays.

These awnings can deal with mild rains but there are better options available on the market.

Furthermore, these retractable awnings measuring 12 x 8.2 feet are lightweight and some of the preferred locations of outdoor uses are a patio, garden, and rooftop.

Nonetheless, the stripe design is quite attractive and may grab your attention.

Since the material used in the frame is aluminum, so you don’t have to worry about problems such as rusting.

They have a good lifespan and are affordable too.

Check BestMassage Current Price

Uenjoy Patio Awning Manual Retractable | Best Retractable Awning For Rain

Whether it’s the outdoor table in front of your restaurant, coffee bar, or your backyard deck, house window, garage, balcony, etc you can trust Uenjoy awnings to protect the spaces against sunlight, UV rays, and heat.

This lightweight awning is a unique blend of non-corrosive aluminum and steel which performs really well against structural stress.

The installation process is newbie-friendly, and all you need to do is to screw two holes on each side.

Moreover, the installation can be successfully done manually without the need for any specific instruments or professional help.

The thing that I really liked about this retractable awning is that it can be mounted over any type of wall effortlessly.

Be it your home or camping venue, you can carry this retractable awning with you.

It doesn’t need electricity to operate and has a long lifespan because the materials used in the controlling gearbox are of premium quality.

On top of it, the high-quality polyester fabric protects you from getting wet in the rainy season.

So, all in all, a highly balanced retractable awning is on offer at an affordable price.

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Awning Assist Brace Retractable Patio Awning | Best Retractable Awning For Balcony

To begin with, the Awning assist brace is one of my favorite retractable awnings because it protects and guards me against sudden wind gusts, unnecessary wind damage, and all the noises surrounding these events.

Keeping first-time users and newbies in mind, the awning comes with a user-friendly installation process as well as a manual that talks about the complete installation process in the most simplified way.

Needless to say, these awnings will keep your patio or outdoor workplace safe from unwanted wind and UV rays.

They perform really well against the light winds.

This 3/4″ thick and 7-tall awning comes with supporting poles to make your work easier.

On top of it, the supporting legs are removable, so you can use them as per your requirement.

They are long-lasting and highly durable products because the entire kit is powder-coated.

All said and done, a great retractable awning to deal with sudden lighter winds and sunlight at an affordable price.

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Royal Shade Beige Rectangle Sun Shade | Best Retractable Awning For Terrace

This 8’X12’ rectangular sun shade canopy comes with 200GSM high-density polyethylene.

Moreover, it blocks up to 95 percent of the UV rays.

On top of it, the canopy remains unaffected even after exposure to sunlight for a longer duration.

The company has given much importance to the installation process and comes with the proper arrangement to prevent any sort of sagging.

The stainless D rings and the finished edges make the installation process user-friendly.

To add to it, D rings are attached to each corner for an easy and less time-consuming installation process.

The sunshade is water-resistant and the knitted fabrics help the wind and water to pass through but prevent the pooling water.

So, what are you waiting for?

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CO-Z Retractable Deck Awning | Best Retractable Awning For Cold Climatic Condition

The CO-Z Retractable deck awning comes in a dimension of 13’X8’.

Well, the good thing about this canopy is it’s resistant to flame and water.

Placing it on the patio or in the vicinity of your home can protect you from UV rays.

Moreover, it comes with some sort of thermal insulation that provides warmth in cold conditions and vice-versa.

The frame is made of aluminum alloy and protects the awning from rusting.

Furthermore, it comes with a hand crank that makes the opening and closing of the awning effortless.

On the downside, it is ONLY made for wall mounting.

All you need to do is to screw it to the wall or the woodshed.

If we talk about the installation, then it’s quite easy and can be done in a couple of hours without any hassle.

On top of it, this awning covers an area of 56 square feet, so you don’t need to replace unnecessary furniture.

In short, you’ll get a feeling of home away from home.

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Goplus Manual Patio Retractable Deck Awning | Best Retractable Awning For Car Parking

Even before, I start reviewing this product, let me tell you, Goplus Manual Patio needs to be mounted to a brick or a concrete wall.

The awning is a good way to keep yourself cool and comfortable against the hot and humid climate.

Whether it’s your backyard or entryways, this awning will definitely beauty space.

It will also protect you from UV rays.

You don’t have to worry about the rusting of the frame because it is made of aluminum and coated with white color powder.

The fabrics are high quality as well as water-resistant.

Lastly, this canopy comes in a measurement of 8.2’X6.5’.

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Goplus Retractable Deck Awning | Best Retractable Awning For Outdoor Use

Well, again I’ve come up with a product from the brand Goplus.

The reinforced texture of this canopy is good at dealing with the UV rays and protects your space as well as furniture against these rays.

Unlike other awnings, you can expect the opening as well as the closing of this canopy simpler because the hand crank makes it all possible for you.

Similar to the other retractable awnings that we reviewed earlier, the frame of Goplus is also made of aluminum coated with powder.

It not only provides endurance, durability, and stability but also improves the lifespan of the product by protecting it against rust.

On top of it, the retractable sunshade comes with a measurement of 6.4’X5′.

Furthermore, this canopy acts as a thermal insulator and makes your living space warmer in cold conditions and vice-versa.

So, why not give it a try?

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E.share Retractable Sun Shade | Best Awning For Pool Area

The thing that grabbed my eyeball was its idiosyncratic color.

It goes without saying that awnings in sand color definitely beautify your outdoor patio and pool area.

To protect you against the ill effects of UV rays, it blocks around 90 percent of them.

Again, if we talk about the area that it can cover, then let me tell you, a single unit covers an area of 20x20x20 feet which is not at all bad if we consider the price at which it comes.

Moreover, the installation process is newbie-friendly, and you’ll not need any help with this.

The canopy comes with a D-ring available at the corner of each edge to make the entire installation process smooth and hassle-free.

On top of it, the ropes used in the process are weather-resistant and durable, so you can expect the awnings to have a longer lifespan.

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Tentproinc Awning Sun Shade | Best Retractable Awning For High Winds

The best about this awning is that it is a complete package in itself.

In layman’s terms, it doesn’t provide shade only from the top but also from the front making it a favorable choice for the house owners.

Another important thing that I would like to bring to your notice is its capability to withstand crosswinds.

As compared to its counterparts, you’ll feel more comfortable and relaxed in these retractable awnings because the air can flow in from the sides.

On top of it, it comes with thermal insulation, so you’ll feel cooler inside the awnings in the hot climate and vice-versa.

These retractable awnings are available in a variety of color options, so you can select the one that can beautify your outdoor patio.

You can even take it for camping or other outdoor events as it is lightweight and easy to transport.

For easy and less time-consuming installation, it comes with a storage bag that consists of plastic stakes & bungee balls.

And, you get all of the aforementioned features at an affordable price.

Do I still need to convince you to take this product home?

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Important things to consider while choosing a best retractable awning

In this section, our discussion will be more about all the parameters one should consider while buying a retractable awning.

If you’re a frequent buyer of awnings, then you can definitely skip this section.

On the contrary, if you are a newbie and a first-time buyer, then I would suggest you should go through this section very carefully.

On top of it, you’ll NOT only end up making an informed buying decision, but you’ll also be in the situation to guide others to buy smartly.

Needless to say, the market is saturated with retractable awnings, and you’ve lots and lots of options to choose from.

Meanwhile, it is also important for you to understand that all the costliest products aren’t the top-performing ones and vice-versa.

So, without any further ado, let’s begin…

Manual vs Automatic

Well, it goes without saying that for the most part, you need to operate retractable awnings manually, and I hope you’ll also agree with my view.

In terms of convenience, definitely automatic awnings have an upper edge, but at the same time, you need to keep in mind that it comes with an additional cost.

If you’re ready to put in some effort, then there isn’t anything wrong with using the manual unit.

All you need to do is to use a bar to turn the mechanism that retracts the awning.

However, you need to be a bit careful while going for a manual awning.

For smooth and hassle-free operation, the bar needs to be always accessible else you may end up getting stuck with the canopy being in and out.

Correct me, if I’m wrong.

Definitely, there are certain benefits of using a manual version of the retractable awnings.

Let’s understand it with an example.

In the manual version, you can adjust the awning as per your requirement.

Depending upon your requirement, either you can shorten it or elongate it.

In short, the process becomes more flexible and you can have a customized option.

On the contrary, the automatic version doesn’t come with a customized option.

You’re only allowed to retract or extend fully, but at the same time, the automatic option will definitely save you time.

Nonetheless, if you’re ready to spend a good chunk of money, then you can opt for the high-end version.

Going with the high-end version will help you with some idiosyncratic features such as they have sensors installed that will tell you in advance about the wind, rain, etc.

On top of it, they will retract automatically if the rain is coming, and you don’t have to worry at all about whether the awning is left open or NOT.

Overhead vs. Side Awning

If you’re a first-time buyer and don’t have much idea about the retractable awnings, then allow me to throw some light on it.

To some extent, a retractable awning resembles an umbrella, and most the retractable awnings will extend over your head just like an umbrella.

The fabrics of the overhead awnings are of high quality, and the primary purpose of these awnings is to protect you from sunlight as well as prevent UV rays from damaging your screen.

These overhead awnings are good at blocking most of the UV rays.

The frame of the majority of the overhead awnings is made of aluminum and coated with powder to enhance their lifespan by protecting them against rusting.

On the contrary, the main aim of the side awning is NOT to protect you from sunlight but to act as a divider for your space.

The good thing about the side awning is that it can provide privacy to your outdoor patio.

On top of it, you can segment your patio as per requirement.

In short, you can expect a side awning to provide you with a customized and adjustable space divider solution.

Size

How many of you’ll agree if I say size does matter?

Bigger is always better?

In the context of awnings, you need to buy an awning whose size fits the space that you’re trying to put in.

Buying a too bigger or too smaller may end you in trouble.

A mismatch of size may give passage to heavy winds and rains, and the worst part is that you’ll not be able to reap the benefits of installing a retractable awning.

So, what’s the solution?

First and foremost, you should take the measurement of the space where you are planning to install the awning.

Having measurements handy will help you to get a correct fitting awning.

Secondly, choosing the perfect size will make the installation process easier, and you’ll also be able to utilize your awning to the maximum potential.

A too-small or too-big awning will prevent you to attach it to the right anchor points.

Lastly, while picking up the right awning for you, it is very important to check how far it will stick out.

This is very crucial from the point of view that it will decide the extent to which you’ll be able to use the awning.

Style

Style isn’t a relative parameter.

As an informed buyer, style may or may not be your top priority.

On a personal front, I always give priority to style and appearance, and most often these parameters do influence my buying decisions.

Moreover, the retractable awning is going to stay for a longer duration, so it’s good to buy one that will beautify your home.

Buying a dull one may offend you or your family members.

After all, who doesn’t want his home to look attractive?

Awnings come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can choose one that syncs well with your home decor.

Whether you’re gonna place the awning in the backyard, on an outdoor patio, or near your pool, you’ll always find a color that will beautify the space.

Though I have used quite a few retractable awnings in the last couple of years still I couldn’t find a single awning whose color doesn’t fade away with the passing season.

To be brutally honest, I’ve tried both the high-end ones as well as their cheaper counterparts.

So, I’ll not commit to you that the color will NOT fade away rather I would accept that the color of the retractable awnings with the quality fabrics will fade away slowly and gradually.

It is quite obvious that the awnings will lose color as they are exposed to tough weather conditions.

Materials

From the material, we mean the canopy of the retractable awning.

Material plays a crucial role in deciding how well the canopy will respond to different weather conditions.

Similarly, you’ll also get to know the durability of the canopy after knowing about the material used in it.

Let’s have a look at some of the materials that are used in the canopy.

Having proper information about the material can help you to make an informed decision.

Canvas

Well, most of the traditional retractable awnings use canvas as a material.

Canvas is a naturally occurring fiber and is usually made of cotton or linen.

It goes without saying that canvas is durable as well as an expensive material.

In the context of durability, the canvas has more tensile strength than most of the materials used for the canopy.

However, aluminum has more tensile strength than canvas.

But, in terms of flexibility, canvas leads the show followed by aluminum.

On the downside, canvas, an organic material, is more likely to suffer from climate-related degradation.

Untreated canvas is more prone to mildew because it is one of the least hydrophobic materials which means it will not only hold the water but also feed the mildew.

Lastly, the canvas is also prone to UV deterioration, so while selecting a retractable awning that uses canvas-like fabric, you need to be well aware of the pros and cons of the canvas to make an informed buying decision.

PVC

PVC is abbreviated as polyvinyl chloride.

It is one of the first synthetic materials which was used in the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

Though PVC has some short-term advantages over organic materials still it isn’t a favorable choice because of its low tensile strength.

As compared to the other materials used in the manufacturing of canopies, PVC is more prone to tear and bear.

PVC is nothing but a form of plastic, so it is expected that it will have the features of plastics.

In terms of flexibility, PVC scores high.

Since they are plastics so you can expect them not to retain water.

On top of it, they are naturally resistant to mildew and are waterproof as well.

Polyester

Polyester is universally accepted as one of the favored choices for the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

No one can put a question mark on its versatility, right?

But, at the same time, polyester does have some loopholes as well.

Mostly, the canopied made of polyester are affordable because polyester is one of the least expensive materials used in the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

Of course, PVC can challenge Polyester in terms of price, but it is much inferior in quality as compared to polyester.

Though polyester is a great option to go for still it is not the best material.

Polyester is resistant to UV rays and can be treated to perform better as well.

They are naturally hydrophobic and will retain less water than the canvas.

To my knowledge, polyester is by far the most resistant fibrous material used in the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

Moreover, they are also resistant to mildew growth.

So, all in all, a great material to consider for your canopy.

Aluminum

Aluminum is definitely durable, but at the same time, its flexibility is a point of concern.

However, you’ll find some brands using aluminum for manufacturing retractable awnings for industrial or commercial purposes.

As we all know, aluminum has a long lifespan as it is naturally resistant to corrosion and rust.

Moreover, it can be treated to further enhance its resistance to corrosion.

I can say with full confidence that aluminum has by far the highest tensile strength as compared to any other materials used in the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

Well, on top of it, aluminum is naturally resistant to mildew and UV radiation.

However, it may fade on continuous exposure to sunlight, so you need to have a powder coating to prevent fading.

Acrylic

Acrylic is mostly used as a protective potential covering other base materials.

You’ll find the base material of a canopy comprising acrylic fibers.

The probability is very high that as a newbie, you may find them both as same, but the fact is, they are quite different in many aspects.

To your knowledge, most of the acrylic-coated canopies used canvas as a material.

To make the canopies made of canvas resistant to variable weather conditions, a coating of acrylic paint is placed on top of it.

On the other hand, acrylic fibers function far differently and are more akin to polyester than cotton fibers.

They are also resistant to UV rays.

Durability

It goes without saying that durability is an important parameter that can influence the buying decision.

Coming back to retractable awnings, durability is as important as other parameters because in the context of an awning, replacing a failed component isn’t a great idea rather it’s good to replace the entire awning.

The durability of a retractable awning to a great extent depends upon the material used in the canopy, so it’s quite easy to evaluate the durability of a canopy.

For example, aluminum is more durable than other materials used in the manufacturing of retractable awnings.

Mildew

I hope you’ll agree with me that the most fragile part of a retractable awning is the canopy.

Well, the reason is quite simple, other components are made of either metals or plastics.

Mildew is something that you need to get rid of at the earliest.

The canopies are prone to mildew and their growth on the former can be a potential threat to you as well as your property.

So, what’s the solution?

You can prefer canopies made of plastics over ones made of fabric.

Plastic prevents mildew growth.

There are some ways to prevent the growth of mildew.

You can use some coating to prevent mildew growth, but the problem with this method is that it will NOT last long.

According to my knowledge and experience, I can affirm that the best method to get rid of the mildew would be to treat the canopy even before it is ever woven or welded so that it remains protected inside and out.

UV rays

Ultraviolet rays aren’t good for the skin.

Even though UV rays make up only a small portion of the sun’s rays still they are the main cause of the sun’s damaging effects on the skin.

To cut a long story short, some awnings handle UV rays better than others because of the materials used in the canopy.

If the canopy isn’t treated to resist the UV rays, then you can expect a degradation in the structural integrity of the canopy’s material.

Canopies comprised of plastics are more prone to UV rays than ones that are made of fabric.

But, both are prone to the issue.

Some canopies can even fade when exposed to UV rays for a longer period of time without any protection.

The solution to combat the ill effects of UV rays is simpler than you can think.

All you need to do is to purchase a retractable awning that is made of a naturally durable material and comes with a coating that will either block or reflect the UV rays.

Does it sound good?

How to Install a Retractable Awning?

Even if you’re a first-time buyer or a newbie, the good news is, you can easily install a retractable awning without any professional help.

I’m attaching a self-explanatory video to help you understand and execute the installation process in a hassle freeway.

It’s A Wrap

Till now, you would have definitely understood that there is no product that could be given the title of “Best Retractable Awning”.

Depending upon one’s requirements and willingness to spend a certain amount of money will decide whether a particular product is best for him or NOT.

For example, if your priority is convenience, then I’m sure your first preference would be an electric retractable awning.

Correct me, if I’m wrong.

Similarly, if you’re on a shoestring budget, and looking for a value-for-money product, then I think a manual retractable awning will suit you better.

Moreover, if you don’t have any budget constraints, and your first priority is the quality of the product, then I would recommend you opt for Advaning. (check the current price on Amazon)

It’s not that Advaning is overall a quality product, but I would rather say each and every component possesses high quality.

This acrylic canopy comes in a variety of sizes and styles, and in the context of quality, it tops our list.

On top of it, Advancing can be used as both electric as well as manual depending upon your needs and preferences

However, it doesn’t mean in any way that the other products on our list aren’t worth it.

All the products that were made to our list are “value for money” products and target different end-customer needs and market segments.

Did your quest for the best retractable awning end here?

In case, you need any guidance or you’ve any doubts about the post, then feel free to contact us.

Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.

After all, sharing is caring.

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