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 are designed to use a hinged arm structure that folds out to provide shade, and folds in to tuck away neatly when not in use.
This folding arm structure folds horizontally instead of vertically, and is cantilevered out from the wall using specially designed brackets. By so doing, the folding allows these types of awnings to provide a shaded area that is free for use without having to worry about walking into any intrusive posts.
Some 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, gold 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 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 25 m (82 feet) and can provide a maximum projection of up to 4 m (13 feet). Some custom folding arm awnings may feature larger fabric sizes. The width of the folding arm awning is usually wider than the arm projection. This ensures that the arm is able to fold without any hitches.
Folding arm retractable awnings can be motorized or manual. Manual models come with a crank or handle that allows you to extend or retract the awning. Motorized 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, motorized 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 slow 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 rain water 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 are able to provide years of trouble-free operation, contributing to a significant return on investment. To ensure durability, installers also take into account 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.