Retractable folding arm awnings are manufactured in a huge range of stylish designs and even larger range of sizes up to 14 metres wide and projections up to 4 metres.

All awnings fall into three main categories as follows:

Full cassette awnings
This is an enclosed awning where the roller, fabric cover and arms are completely protected and stored in a closed cassette when retracted. These awnings are the right choice for exposed installations and for anyone wanting maximum protection all year round and when the weather turns bad. The cover fabric will stay cleaner a lot longer if used sensibly

Semi-cassette awnings
There are varying degrees of protection given by semi cassetted awnings as the casings from manufacturers differ in design. Generally the protection is given from the top and the front only by an aluminium or steel coverboard. Where complete protection is not a requirement such as underneath a soffitt these awnings can be useful.

Open cassette awnings
If the location for installation is well protected then open cassette awnings are a good economical way of shading. The mechanisms and roller tubes are left completely exposed.