Folding arm awnings provide a great way to create an inviting and comfortable outdoor living space or sitting area that is protected against the sun and light precipitation. These retractable awnings feature a hinged arm that extends for shade and folds away when not in use.
From the best folding arm awnings for your space, to different folding arm awning prices, we break down everything you need to know to create an outdoor space you’ll love.
These awnings have a folding arm that extends horizontally from the wall using specially designed brackets. The folding allows them to provide a shaded area that is free for use without having to worry about walking into any intrusive posts.
Some outdoor folding arm awnings feature an adjustable pitch, which gives them extra versatility allowing for greater shade control. With these awnings, you can maximise sunshine by retracting the awning completely or adjusting the pitch (angle) for a variety of lighting and spatial effects.
Folding arm awnings are typically crafted for heat control and UV protection and can be operated either manually or through an automation feature. They are ideal as a roll away shade cover for a patio, deck, balcony or commercial applications such as awnings for shops, restaurants, hotels, pubs, cafes, golfd courses and other hospitality establishments.
Folding Arm Awnings – Installation
These awnings can be mounted onto the wall of a building or the rafters of the roof. For wall mount awning installation, approximately 7 courses of 
bricks above the awning fixing position are required to anchor the weight. The folding arm awning should be fixed at least 25 cm (or about 3 bricks) above any window or door frame.
Unlike some bulky retractable awnings out there, this style of awning can be fixed to fascia boards or from the rafters of the roof where there are insufficient brick rows in the wall to provide the necessary support. The awning’s fascia or eve bracket is fixed by cutting a slot into the fascia just below the gutter. The awning bracket is then pushed in through this slot and bolted tightly to the adjacent rafter. Once the bracket is firmly attached to the roof structure, the outdoor folding arm awning is simply mounted onto the brackets for a secure fit. This is actually one of the best ways to install this style of awning as it ensures that the awning is secured firmly to the roof structure and also allows the shade covering to be mounted up high near the roof gutter.
Folding Arm Awnings – Operation
These awnings come in widths of up to 8 m in one awning or 13 m linked and can provide a maximum projection of up to 4 m (13 feet). The width of the folding arm awning is usually wider than the arm projection. This ensures that the arm can fold without any hitches.
Folding arm retractable awnings can be motorised or manual. Manual models come with a crank or handle that allows you to extend or retract the awning. Motorised versions automatically unfurl and roll up with the help of an electric motor, and the only thing you need to do is to press a button on a remote control or control panel to operate the motor. For added convenience, motorised folding arm awnings can also be equipped with sun and wind sensors where the awning will automatically come out on a bright sunny day or retract back if a quick storm comes through.
Folding Arm Awnings – Pitch
Typically, this style of awnings allows for an adjustable pitch and you can easily adjust the slope of the shade cover using an Allen key. Some models even provide customer adjustable pitch control through a crank handle. Being able to adjust the slope of the awning is particularly helpful when it comes to dealing with light showers as it ensures that the rainwater doesn’t pool on the fabric. However, it is important to note that these awnings only work best as a sunscreen and cannot be used as a retractable roof to provide protection against heavy rain due to their light construction and wind restrictions.
Folding Arm Awnings – Durability
Folding arm retractable awnings are typically constructed from top quality materials and components. This ensures that they can provide years of trouble-free operation, contributing to a significant return on investment. To ensure durability, installers also consider various factors, including the specific mounting application and weather conditions, during the awning design and installation process.
Folding Arm Awnings – Fabrics
The fabric range available for folding arm retractable awnings is extensive, and includes dozens of long-lasting, water and UV resistant fabrics featuring over a hundred colours and numerous patterns. To ensure the fabric’s longevity, the high-quality cloths are made to be extremely flexible and can be treated with protective coatings to boost resistance against moisture and mildew.
Folding Arm Awnings — Price Considerations
- Size and coverage — The larger the awning, the more material and support structure is needed, which can significantly increase the cost.
- Material quality — Awnings are available in different materials, including fabric, aluminium and more specialised composites. High-quality materials that offer durability, UV resistance, and weatherproofing tend to be more expensive but are crucial for longevity and performance.
- Mechanism type — Manual awnings are typically less costly than motorised versions. Motorised awnings — equipped with sensors and remote controls for automatic adjustment — require more complex mechanisms that are priced higher.
- Customisation and features — Custom colours, patterns, or added features like wind and sun sensors, lighting, and heating elements can also increase the price. Each additional customisation or feature adds complexity and cost to the installation.
- Installation complexity — The installation complexity can affect costs. A straightforward wall mount might be less expensive compared to installations that require special brackets or are intended for challenging locations.
Get a quick estimate today, and our team will help you select an outdoor folding arm awning that enhances your outdoor living or commercial space, ensuring you make the best investment for your needs.
Discover the perfect solution for your outdoor space
Whether you’re looking for style, functionality or a blend of both, Ozsun provides the best folding arm awnings at competitive prices. Explore our various designs and learn more about the folding arm awnings price that fits your budget and aesthetic requirements.
View our range of folding arm awnings to choose from a selection of premium materials and innovative designs. See how others have transformed their spaces by visiting our projects, or take a closer look at the detailed craftsmanship in our gallery.
FAQs
Are outdoor folding arm awnings suitable for all weather conditions?
While folding arm awnings provide excellent protection against the sun and light precipitation, they are not recommended for extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds. For best performance, retract them during such conditions to avoid damage and extend their lifespan.
Can I customise the size of a folding arm awning?
Yes, the size of a folding arm awning can be customised to fit specific spaces. Whether you need a small awning for a balcony or a large one to cover a restaurant terrace, the best folding arm awnings offer flexibility in dimensions to meet diverse requirements.
What is the lifespan of a folding arm awning?
The lifespan of a folding arm awning typically ranges from 10 to 25 years, depending on the quality of materials and maintenance. Regular folding arm awning repairs and proper folding arm awning installation are crucial for maximising durability.