Home FAQS FAQs Page 2

  • Can I install a retractable awning by myself?

    It is possible, but we don’t generally recommend it. Awnings are heavy and usually need at least two people to lift and hold in place safely. Awnings over around 6m wide require specialist lifting equipment in most cases. The wall brackets are the most critical component. Their positioning and fixing method must be carefully considered, and extra brackets are often needed to spread the load.

    For safety, warranty and a clean finish, we recommend professional installation, which we provide. Professional surveying for anything slightly out of the standard flat 2 storey wall is also recommended for the best final outcome.

  • How do I clean and maintain my awning?

    Awning fabric needs very little routine maintenance if it’s looked after regularly. Brush off loose dirt, leaves and debris every few weeks during the main season, and hose the fabric down from time to time to prevent build up.

    For marks or light staining, use a soft brush with lukewarm water and a mild, non‑detergent soap, then rinse thoroughly and allow the fabric to dry completely before retracting. Treat any bird droppings, tree sap or stubborn marks as soon as possible so they don’t have time to set into the material.

    Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, bleach or pressure washers, as these can damage the fabric and seams. Do not retract the awning while it is wet for long periods, as this can encourage mould or mildew in the folds.

    We also recommend a quick visual check of the arms, brackets and fixings a few times a year to make sure everything is secure and moving freely, and to clear any debris from around the cassette. For cassette awnings, an additional protective cover or hood can help shield the unit and fabric from the worst of the weather when not in use, extending the life of the awning.

  • Can I add LED lighting, heating or sensors to an awning later?

    Some features are best and easiest to specify at the time of order because they’re integrated into the cassette and arms, particularly LED lighting and certain heating options. Others, such as wireless sensors and smart home control, can often be added later.

    The majority of folding arm awnings we sell now have an IO protocol as standard meaning they are future proof for any smart app control at a later date. This means for most people control by smart phones from anywhere but also access to creating actions autonomously, such as open the awning at 10am on a weekend and close at 8pm.

    Many modern infra red heaters ca be bought separately at any time and there are some LED lighting systems which also can be a retro fit, but usually fixed separately from the awning cassette itself.

    If you think you might want lighting, heating or a drop down valance in future, it’s worth telling us at the quote stage so we can recommend a model that allows it.

  • Do I need planning permission for a retractable folding arm awning?

    In the vast majority of cases, no. A retractable awning is generally treated as a temporary fixture and does not require planning permission for a typical domestic property. As it retracts fully when not in use then it is very unobtrusive and is a preferred shading method for anyone wanting nothing seen when not required.

    Exceptions can apply to listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, and flats/maisonettes, where consent may be needed. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your local planning authority will confirm your situation.

     

  • What smart features are possible apart from the basic app open or close on an awning?

    Beyond the simple app control, many smart retractable awning setups support automation via sun, wind, temperature, light and rain sensors, letting the awning react to weather conditions automatically.
    Various sensors are available from Somfy which automatically extend the awning such as when a room gets to a certain temperature with the sunlight. Again, if it is too windy the awning should close itself from the motion or wind sensor always overriding the sun or temperature sensor for safety.

    With Somfy based systems, you can also schedule timed events, create scenes (for example, “evening mode” with awning and lights together) and monitor or adjust your awning remotely when away from home.

     

  • What is a smart app controlled retractable awning?

    A smart controlled retractable awning is a motorised awning you can extend or retract via a smartphone or tablet app instead of (or in addition to) a remote control handset or other control accessory. Systems typically use a motor in the roller tube incorporating wireless control such as Somfy RTS or io-homecontrol, giving remote operation and the option to integrate with a wider smart home platform.

    If you use your smartphone to control lights, music, blinds and other products around your home then your awning definitely needs to be included in that.
    Nearly all the retractable awnings we sell from Samson Awnings are with Somfy electric motors as standard now.

    You only require a simple plug and play hub to access a whole world of additional control with smart technology, such as the Somfy Tahoma Switch hub, plugged into your home router. You can then add multiple other controls and also access ‘scenarios’ to create actions at certain times of the day or night

  • How does Somfy app control work on an electric awning?

    Somfy powered electric awnings use Somfy specific motor units paired with wireless controls and a smart hub system (such as TaHoma Switch or Connectivity) so you can drive the awning from an iOS or Android app.
    Download the Somfy app for free and set up your awning from there.
    Once paired, you can open or close the awning, make it stop in certain positions and group it with other Somfy devices, including sensors such as thermometers. Also then create timed scenes so, for example, the awning extends automatically on summer afternoons for a period of time and then retracts.

    With any automatic opening protocol you must ideally always have a wind sensor or motion sensor included so the awning will retract in bad windy weather in case you are not around to do so.

  • Can I integrate a Somfy controlled awning with Alexa or Google in the UK?

    Yes, Somfy’s smart hubs (for example TaHoma Switch or Connectivity) are designed to integrate with popular voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for hands free operation. Once set up on your home Wi‑Fi, you can trigger awning scenes or basic extend/retract commands by voice or through routines alongside lighting, heating and other smart devices.

    Simply programme to react to ‘Open awning…’ as a command and it can do so. Or ‘Close awning…’ Take it further and have a halfway out setting if required.

    Any electric awning with automatic operation should have a wind or motion sensor included as standard so the awning will automatically retract if it is too windy outside. If you can open the awning on your smartphone from anywhere in the world then this is essential as a safety measure.

  • What is the difference between a glass veranda, glass room and a louvre pergola?


    The main difference between a glass veranda, a glass room, and a louvre pergola is their level of enclosure, roof design and how they control light and weather.

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  • Glass Veranda Prices in the UK! Things you need to know

    If you are planning to enhance your outdoor living space with a glass verandas, there are some factors which can decide the prices. From sun, rain, to high winds, the British climate sets high demands on outdoor structures, making careful selection of your veranda’s specification not just wise, but necessary.

    A glass veranda is a top choice for sure for all year round use and will provide excellent rain protection as well as sun shade when specified with a retractable fabric blind, but do be aware of the differences in quality and performance in the longer term.

    What Drives Price Differences in Glass Verandas?

    Several main factors play a significant role in determining the price of a glass veranda can be listed:

    1.Size and Design Complexity:

    Larger verandas mean more glass, frame, and engineering—costs rise accordingly. Designs that include curves, elaborate supports, or full glass walls at the sides will incur further expense compared to straightforward, open-roof models.
    Many excellent flat roof models are now available but can be more costly than basic lean to models, for the right reasons.

    2.Glass Quality and Type:

    The glass choice is important for both price and quality. High quality glass as thick laminated safety glass (usually 8.8mm to 10.8mm) offer better impact resistance than thinner or standard glass. Some other features such as tinting, self cleaning coating or UV protection also increase comfort and performance, as well as total price.

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    3.Frame Material and Construction: Superior powder coated aluminium, the foundation of any verandas, guarantees longevity and durability, even in coastal regions where corrosion could be a concern. Timber and steel designs may attract different costs and require more maintenance, but aluminium is always the best. Precision manufacturing and robust fixings are essential to outlast strong winds and driving rain. High quality paint finish always seems to be a strong factor we encounter with cheaper painted veranda profiles tending to fade very quickly indeed when positioned in the full sun and a south facing position.

    4.Enclosure: Simple open-sided verandas (just a glass roof) are more affordable. If you want to enjoy year-round protection and comfort, enclosed glass rooms, multiple sliding doors, and advanced drainage or heating features all increase the budget needed.

     

    5.Installation and Location: Professional, experienced fitting guarantees the integrity and safety of your veranda, but can affect cost depending on site access and local labour rates. Extensive groundwork or preprepared concrete bases obviously affect the time on site for construction.

    Why Budget Models Deserve Caution in the British Climate

    It can be tempting to select a glass veranda based simply on a headline price, but beware – budget systems may simply not be fit for purpose in the UK. Cheaper verandas often use thinner glass and lightweight support structures. They might work in milder mediterranean climates, however, UK weather is famous for strong wind gusts, heavy rains and storms. Therefore, poor quality glass and frames run the risk of bowing, cracking or failing completely and leading to costly repairs or replacement. 

    Investing in a high-quality system – engineered specifically for the UK, or mainly Northern European climate means superior durability, safety, and peace of mind.
    At Samson Awnings, our bespoke glass verandas are meticulously specified using robust, weather tested components suitable for the harshest British conditions with certified performance.

    Final Guidance for UK Buyers

    • Prioritise proven quality, not just headline prices.
    • Ask for examples or go and see for yourself and try to see systems which are installed outside and have been for a while
    • Ask for details on glass specification, frame material, and weather ratings.
    • Choose certified installers with a track record of safety and professional service.
    • If in doubt, consult our expert team for honest advice and tailored recommendations.

    A glass veranda is a long-term investment in your outdoor enjoyment and property value. With Samson Awnings, you can be confident your solution is designed to stand up to the unique demands of British outdoor living.

    See our Price Examples page for Glass Verandas for further information:

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    Contact us to arrange a showroom visit, or send an image and measurements for a tailored quotation, all backed by our decades of expertise and commitment to quality.

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