Folding Arm vs Retractable Awnings: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between folding arm awnings and retractable awnings can help you create a more comfortable outdoor living space. However, these terms often describe the same type of shading solution. Folding arm awnings are retractable awnings that extend when you need shade and fold away when you want an open space.
At Blinds In Mind, you’ll find custom awnings designed for patios, balconies, decks and outdoor entertaining areas. So, which features should you consider when choosing the right solution?
How Do Folding Arm Awnings Work?
Folding arm awnings use extending arms to support a fabric cover. You can extend the awning to provide shade, then retract it when it’s no longer needed. Unlike permanent structures, folding arm awnings don’t require permanent poles across your outdoor area. As a result, they offer flexible shade while keeping your space open when retracted. Additionally, they help protect outdoor areas from sunlight, heat and glare. This makes them a practical option for Melbourne homes where outdoor comfort matters.
Explore the Folding Arm Awnings range to discover available styles and options.
Which Awning Design Is Right for You?
Blinds In Mind offers several folding arm awning designs to suit different needs and budgets.
- Open-style awnings: A practical and economical option for outdoor shading.
- Semi-cassette awnings: A protective cover encloses the fabric and components, while the arms remain visible when retracted.
- Full-cassette awnings: An enclosed housing protects the fabric and components from dirt, rain and humidity.
Therefore, consider both appearance and protection when selecting your awning. Your outdoor space, building structure and preferred style can also influence the right choice.
Should You Choose Manual or Motorised Awnings?
Another important consideration is how you want to operate your awning. Manual systems use a gear and crank handle, while motorised options provide convenient operation. Blinds In Mind offers motorisation from Somfy and Becker. You can operate compatible systems using a remote, wall switch or home automation system. Furthermore, available sensors can adjust awnings in response to sunlight or wind. Rain sensors can also retract compatible awnings when rain occurs.
Discover Blinds In Mind’s motorisation options to learn more.
Finding Outdoor Awnings in Melbourne
When choosing outdoor awnings in Melbourne, consider your outdoor layout, property’s architecture and preferred level of shade. The right solution should complement your home while making your outdoor space more comfortable.
Blinds In Mind offers personalised advice and custom shading solutions across Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and regional Victoria. With more than 25 years of industry experience, the team can help you explore suitable options.
If you’re considering outdoor shading in Melbourne, contact Blinds In Mind to discuss your requirements and find an awning suited to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Folding arm awnings are a type of retractable awning. They extend to provide shade and fold away when you want to open up your outdoor area.
Yes. Folding arm awnings provide retractable shade for patios, balconies, decks and outdoor entertaining areas.
Yes. Blinds In Mind offers motorised options, with compatible systems supporting remote controls, home automation and selected weather sensors.
Blinds In Mind supplies custom folding arm awnings across Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and regional Victoria. Contact the team to discuss your outdoor shading needs.