History tells us that awnings were first used in Ancient Egypt and Syria as a secondary covering to provide additional shade to homes and, particularly, market stalls. What started with the basic concept of a woven mat has evolved into structural visions of beauty that are as practical as they are functional.
Awnings have come a long way from their origins as simple sunshades. Not only are they still the number one shading solution, but they also contribute to spaces for entertaining and relaxing, and can even complement a home’s kerb appeal.
Let us take a look at how the range of awnings from Watson Blinds can hit all three of these targets in this quick guide. We will cover all of our awning options, how they differ from each other, and which awning might be the best option for you.
Our Range Of Awnings
Our awnings let Australians navigate the weather on their own terms. If there is a passing shower, or the sun gets way too hot, an awning is the key to instant protection and shade against the elements.
It’s no secret that Australian weather can be harsh and unpredictable. For this reason, you may require an awning that will not only protect and shade your property from the extremes of rain and shine, but also be durable enough to do so for a significant period of time.
Because awnings are designed to prevent the sun from shining through windows and glass doors, they can also keep temperatures inside cool, which can help save on air-conditioning costs in the long run. In addition, they also help prevent carpets and furniture from fading by keeping direct sunlight off of them, extending their longevity.
If you want to make the most of your outdoor living spaces while being guarded from harsh sunlight, an awning may be the perfect solution. But how do you decide on which awning is the best for your space, budget, and needs? We have made these decisions much simpler, breaking down the benefits of each of our awning options to help you make the right choice.
1. Folding Arm Awnings
A folding arm awning usually consists of two lateral arms that are spring-loaded, which are attached to a bar that is then attached to an exterior wall. The folding lateral arms manoeuvre the awning open or closed, and can be either automated or operated manually. Manual operation requires the use of a crank handle while an automated version can open and close with the touch of a button.
Folding arm awnings are great for small spaces where permanent structures are not possible or viable. It is the perfect compromise between temporary and everlasting. Roll it out when you need the shade, roll it back in when you need the space. What more could you want from this nifty contraption?
2. Sundream Awnings
If you are looking for versatility between seasons, our Sundream awnings are the go-to option for you. Engineered to keep excess heat out during summer, but still allow the light to shine through during winter, it gives you the best of both worlds.
While the Sundream awning can be mounted above glass roofs, skylights, or pergolas, it is also a self-mounting system that eliminates the need for an existing structure. This essentially means that you can create a whole new living or entertaining space for a fraction of the conventional investment.
3. Cassita II Awning
The Cassitta II awning (by Weinor) features a slim, purist design that features built-in LED lighting that will keep you socialising long after the sun has set. Boasting German engineering at its finest, the Cassita II comes with a full cassette that protects the fabric and mechanisms too, ensuring the unrivalled longevity of the awning.
4. Sintesi Retractable Roof
The Sintesi Retractable Roof is carefully crafted to keep you protected from any type of weather in an outdoor setting. Italian-designed, it features an integrated gutter and downpipe system that is stealthily included into the mounting frame so that it can channel away water without you even knowing it was there. The best part is that the Sintesi is a permanent-looking structure that requires no development approval to install!
5. Plaza Viva
Another offering by Weinor, the Plaza Viva is a self-mounted pergola awning that enables you to make use of your patio all year round. Wind-resistance and self-mounting means that there is no existing structure needed for the Plaza Viva, and it can adapt to any façade. An aesthetically pleasing, compact design combined with a quiet, smooth operation makes this the awning to have if you like year-round entertaining.
6. Semina Awnings
If durability, longevity and value are what you need, look no further than the Semina awning. This retractable awning is arguably our most versatile offering – balancing aesthetics, technology and practicality to bring you a low-noise, LongLife arm with a high-tension force. This attribute keeps the fabric well-positioned at all times, even during the most gusty conditions.
7. Window Awnings
At Watson Blinds, we have a vast collection of window awnings that offer a cost-effective solution to steamy summer temperatures. Our collection includes automatic, fixed-guide, straight-drop and pivot-arm window awnings.
8. Automatic Window Awnings
Automatic window awnings are so-called because of an intelligent, automatic locking system. These awnings have a self-shutting mechanism that offers a layer of protection in cases of heavy winds. Ideally made for windows on the ground level, automatic window awnings are great at keeping the rays away without sacrificing any brisk, fresh airflow.
9. Fixed-Guide Window Awnings
If you are in the market for awnings for those hard-to-reach windows, i.e. those that are situated at a height, then our Fixed-Guide window awnings are exactly what you need. As opposed to awnings with locking arms, Fixed-Guide awnings have an innovative mechanism that provides the awning with the flexibility to open up to a desired amount without the need for a secure base rail.
Over and above aptness for high-level windows, Fixed-Guide awnings offer several operating methods like manual control (cranking by hand), a spring operation, as well as automation for utmost convenience. This versatility allows you to easily adjust the awnings from the inside so that you can comfortably adapt to changing weather conditions. Furthermore, they promote excellent airflow between the fabric and the window, ensuring optimal comfort.
10. Wire-Guide Awnings
If you are looking for shade above all else, our Wire-Guide awning was made with you in mind. It has a neat style and sleek features that make it the perfect choice for anyone who seeks a strong cover against the elements, without the bother of bulky fixtures. With high-tensile, rust-resistant stainless steel cables, these awnings are made to last – and we have a variety of fabrics and colour options to suit every space, taste, and preference.
11. Straight Drop Window Awnings
Simple, elegant, and functional, straight-drop window awnings are the go-to for exceptional weather protection. This option is designed in a traditional style that offers UV protection and optimal airflow. Available in a range of colours and fabrics, we do not doubt that you will find an option for your taste and preference.
12. Pivot Arm Awnings
The arms and textiles of our Pivot Arm awnings collaborate seamlessly to form a specialised arc that enables air to flow behind the awning to limit the amount of hot air that can circulate through the windows. They are fully adjustable and can comfortably cover entire windows while still enabling cool air to circulate throughout the home.
Watson Awnings: Benefits And Features
At Watson Blinds, we believe that the weather should never have a say in how you spend your time. Whether it is a family gathering that has been planned months in advance or a spur-of-the-moment get-together, you should be entitled to having your socials, your way – without rain or shine affecting anything.
With that in mind, here are some of the features you can expect from a Watson Awning:
1. Trendy Designs
At Watson Blinds, you can expect to find the most up-to-date and trending awning designs. Our collection embodies innovation that meets creativity in sought-after aesthetics that redefine what it means to have an exquisite awning.
2. High-Quality Fabrics
Specially designed for Aussie weather, our fabrics are made to face any storm or harsh sunlight. In fact, we put so much trust in our quality that we provide a 10-year warranty on all our awning fabrics. Durability is the order of the day, especially with Duraguard Fabric Protection which not only guards against the elements, but also the development of bacteria, mildew, and fungi.
3. Custom And Locally Made
No two homes are the same and no two awnings should be either. Our awnings are manufactured in our own factory to exact sizes and specifications, ensuring that your awnings are as one-of-a-kind as you are.
4. Choice Of Control Options
When it comes to control options, there are plenty! All are easy to use and are available across the board (depending on the design) – from hand-cranking to a fully motorised solution that can be controlled with the touch of a button. There is even an optional motion sensor on some ranges that can automatically detect when an awning should retract, for next-level safety.
5. Unmatched Pricing
Local manufacturing means that we can keep our prices not just competitive, but unrivaled without having to compromise on quality.
6. Privacy And Weather Protection
Throughout our range of mesh, canvas, acrylic, and PVC materials, there are options for open or closed-weave fabrics so that you can control your privacy, and the weather, on your own terms.
7. Telescopic Support
Telescopic support enables an awning to easily be extended and kept secured in high-wind conditions by stabilising the front bar. Telescopic poles have removable feet and front rail clips which can collapse for convenient storage when not being used. This option is available with certain awnings in our range.
8. Pitch Control
Variable pitch control enables anyone to adjust the angle of the awning, to suit the season that you are in. Ranging from between a 5° and 40° projection angle for our Folding Arm awnings, this feature puts you in control at all times. Operation is made easy so that anyone can do it. The unique, easy-tilt function allows simplified adjustment when the awning is being projected, so that you have the perfect covering all year round.
If you are ready to transform your outdoor living space with a functional and stylish shade solution, Watson Blinds is here to help. Our expert team is committed to delivering the perfect awning tailored to your unique needs.
At Watson Blinds, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality installations combined with excellent, professional services. Take the first step to a transformed outdoor area and contact us today for all of your awnings needs. Our team is standing by and we cannot wait to make your vision a reality!