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High quality standard and bespoke outdoor living products designed to create additional beautiful outdoor space protected from the often great, but extremely variable British weather.
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With Us TodaySamson Awnings offer a vast range of fixed or Retractable Awnings, commercial Retractable Canopies, Glassrooms, Parasols, External Vertical Blinds and Freestanding Structures to protect from the UK weather and extend the use of your outdoor space all year round.
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Top Products for Rain Protection Outdoors This Summer
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors, but the unpredictable British weather all too often interrupts it. Whilst a lot of products we supply and install are for sun shading and protection from harmful UV rays and the intense heat, we are in the UK and it still rains a lot anytime of the year and often without warning.
So, which products are best to consider, specifically if you want to protect yourself, your friends and family, your pets, and so on, from the great and frequent British rain?
Parasols
This may be the simplest solution coming up in your mind. Parasols using waterproof or water resistant fabrics will of course protect you from falling rain. We can supply from smaller and standard sizes to very large sizes of parasols for domestic and commercial use. For the best overall stability and strength, we recommend centre pole supported ranges.
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Models from Tradewinds offer protection but there is also our premium May collection, parasols from a dedicated German manufacturer for domestic and commercial use.The ultimate parasol for sun, rain and wind speeds over 100km/h is the Vortex…Designed and manufactured in the UK with a wide choice of shapes and sizes this is the ultimate parasol for all year round.
Glass Verandas
For a truly outdoor weather solution, a fixed aluminium structure using large glass panels in the roof sections and providing 100% water proof rain protection from above.The glass veranda varieties are very customisable to fit your outdoor layout, whether you prefer a wall mounted sloped design, a flat roof configuration or a free standing set up.
The integrated rainwater gutting system, which directs rainfall from the roof through unseen downpipes, makes this structure even more functional. This helps to keep your patio or deck area dry and avoid splashing water.This is generally believed to be the perfect weather protection solution for the UK weather amongst specialists, but only if you also include a retractable fabric blind with the glass to provide sun shade too, for use in the hotter months. Extend the fabric awning when it is hot and sunny and have the clear glass roof for the rainfall, all collected and drained away at low level… Perfect!!…..
Additionally, you can add sliding glass walls or vertical blinds to the structure for increased comfort, which will protect you from wind and driving rain. No matter what the British summer throws at you, this structure is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. You can even sit back and watch the rain fall from the comfort of your dry, shaded sanctuary.Suggested products:
Retractable Pergola Awnings
The pergola awning system was introduced in the UK around 2009 as a made to measure retractable weather protection system offering far higher levels of wind stability than a normal folding arm awning could ever achieve, with a tighter fabric canopy because of the framework, which also meant it could deal with rain better too.There are two types of distinctive pergola fabric awning systems generally. One using an awning fabric and rolling the fabric in and out like a huge roller blind system with tracking and another, using thicker, triple layered fabric which folds in and out under the framework. Both these systems use electric motor drives as standard for the fabric cover. You can have wall mounted or free standing models as required.
A key factor for the fabric pergola is letting natural light still come underneath the covered area.. A huge factor for keeping the outdoor covered area feeling light and airy and a desirable place to spend time beneath in any weather..
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Louvered Pergolas
This product has stormed onto the UK market in the last 5 years from other countries, however you need to be aware that many models being offered are more sun shade orientated and are coming from manufacturers in hot countries, where sun shade is all that is required and rainfall protection is maybe limited depending on the drainage system size and how the blades deal with the rain too.
Be aware that any louvre roof system will always cut out all natural light when closed against rain. Undeniable but relevant to many people when fitting to your home directly as it will cut out natural light, potentially even with the blades openedA louvered pergola structure which has been designed to deal with the rain and sun means aluminium blades which connect and seal with each other, but then enhanced rainwater drainage, with sufficient drainage capabilities for heavier rain in the perimeter channels and larger size of downpipe to take water to lower levels.
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A dry and comfortable outdoor space can turn your garden into your favourite summer destination. Whether you decide on retractable awnings, glass verandas, modern pergolas with waterproof canopy, or an umbrella, make sure your space reflects your style while providing weather protection. Still have questions? Speak with our team today to have an informal chat and get prices instantly from us.
There are many other options with bespoke shapes and functionality and the larger you go the more likely planning permission would be required.
At Samson Outdoor Living, we complete a full comprehensive survey for our customer before adding a pergola, making sure it complies with local planning permission rules. The right pergola is not just about style and function – it also needs to meet height, size and placement regulations to avoid potential issues. Thus, if you have any questions, contact us today so we can help you choose a product that aligns with planning guidelines and keeps your project hassle-free.
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Do pergolas require planning permission?
Whether you’d like to create an outdoor sanctuary or simply provide sun shade and UV protection during a family gathering meal, a pergola structure can bring your vision to life as well as offer an all-season oasis, even with British weather. However, one of the most common questions we usually receive is that if a pergola installation needs planning permission?
In short, most pergolas do not require planning permission. However, there are a few exceptions. In this article, we will go over the requirements for pergolas to help you decide whether you need a planning permission.
WHAT SIZE ARE YOU CHOOSING?
The size and type of pergolas will affect if you need planning permissions. If your pergola is small, standard sized designed for residential gardens, it should be fine.
Following the general rule from 1st October 2008*, pergolas and other garden structures are generally exempt from seeking planning approval as long as the following requirements are met:
1. No structure forward of the principal elevation fronting a highway.
2. It must be one story, with a maximum eave’s height of 2.5 metres and a total height of no more than or equal to 4 metres for a pitched roof or 3 metres for any other type of roof.
3. The maximum height can be more than 2.5 metres within 2 metres of a boundary.
Planning permission is probably required if the pergola you expect is larger than these and enclosed by walls and a roof. This is due to the fact that it can be considered as an expansion of your property. However this a very grey area in terms of whether the structure is a ‘temporary’ structure or not. All these pergola systems are designed for outdoor use and do not require foundations as used in normal domestic house building or indeed damp proof floors and building control sign off.
DO YOU LIVE IN A CONSERVATION AREA?
You will most likely need planning approval if you live in a conservation area or if the structures will be built on the side of your house between the house and the boundary. Both conservation areas and the side spaces between homes are locations where councils want to strictly control development, therefore, a pergola would probably need approval first.
Similarity, if your property is a designated listed building, you will need planning authorization. To maintain the historical integrity of a listed building, permission is required for any external changes. Pergola installation would be subject to listed building rules since it would be considered an external change.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PERGOLA FOR YOUR GARDEN
The word and definition of ‘pergola’ has significantly evolved in the last five years in the UK.
Originally we only ever heard the term referring to a timber structure used in gardens and terraces for light sun shade and growing various climbing plants up and along the roof beams. It defined an outdoor seating area for relaxing and enjoying outdoors
Now however, whilst the intended purpose may be similar, the term ‘Pergola’ refers to various aluminium and steel structures with integrated fixed or retractable roof systems which can offer far greater performance. These can be structures with awning fabrics, triple layered waterproof fabrics, rotating aluminium blades and even glass. With their intended use, they have effectively become more like the definition of a ‘gazebo’ for their function.
Pergolas in 2025 are being used to create defined outdoor spaces with either sun shade or rain protection or both of course, with even further weather protection from infilling one or more sides of the structure..So, which pergola is right for you?
Basic Sun Shade
A wide range of sloping or flat roof structure pergolas with retractable, outdoor specification fabrics. The most basic systems just slide back and forth with a pulley system and can be manual or electric operated.Sun Shade and Light Rain
More advanced pergola systems, with far higher wind ratings, operate in and out of a closed cassette under great tension and some models will be zipped into the side channels for 4 sided fabric tension.. This tension provides greater wind ratings and also ensures when used in rain the weight of the rainwater doesn’t sag the fabric and cause water pooling and damage on the cover.Sun and Rain (with wind protection options)
Many systems exist for rain protection, with and without built in rainwater guttering.
The structures are usually stronger and can also incorporate additional products to the sides for protection against wind and driving rain.
Fabric roof systems retract where louvre bladed systems generally do not, although there are some models which do retract to expose around 80% open clear roof.
Think carefully on louvre bladed systems as when being used for rain protection they are totally closed and act like a blackout blind blocking all natural light, where fabric roof systems can let good level of light through special fabrics designed for this purpose whilst still 100% waterproof. This can make the area underneath very pleasant or very dark.There are many other options with bespoke shapes and functionality and the larger you go the more likely planning permission would be required.
At Samson Outdoor Living, we complete a full comprehensive survey for our customer before adding a pergola, making sure it complies with local planning permission rules. The right pergola is not just about style and function – it also needs to meet height, size and placement regulations to avoid potential issues. Thus, if you have any questions, contact us today so we can help you choose a pergola that aligns with planning guidelines and keeps your project hassle-free.
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Embrace the summer with Weinor Cassita II awning: Where elegance meets durability
Where elegance meets durability. Summer is a season that entices us to embrace the outdoors, bask in the warm glow of the sun while enjoy the gentle caress of a refreshing breeze. However, sometimes the sun’s rays can be overwhelming, and we desire for a shady retreat to relax and unwind. This is where the Weinor Cassita II awning shines. Combining clean and elegant design, premium material quality, high wind resistance and an array of fabric colours and patterns, the Cassita II effortlessly elevates your outdoor experience to new heights.
Clean and Elegant Design
The Weinor Cassita II awning boasts a sleek and modern design that effortlessly complements any architectural style. Its minimalistic structure allows it to blend seamlessly into the facade of your home, creating a refined and polished look. Whether you have a contemporary urban dwelling or charming countryside retreat, the Cassita II adds a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. Available in a variety of sizes and colours, the Cassita I awning can be customised to match your aesthetic preferences perfectly. Its slim profile and hidden hardware ensure that the focus remains on the beautiful fabric, enhancing both the aesthetics and practicality of your outdoor area.
Premium Material Quality
Weinor is renowned for its commitment to using only the finest materials and the Cassita II awning is no exception. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the awning’s frame is constructed from high quality aluminum, making it both light weight and durable. This ensures that the awning remains resilient against the elements and maintains its lifetime appearance for years to come. Moreover, the structure will come with 10-year warranty, as a statement for their quality. The fabric awning, equally crucial to the overall performance of the awning, is made from high quality fabric that offer excellent UV protection. It acts a shield to protect you and loved ones from harmful sun rays, making your time outdoors safer and more enjoyable.High Wind Resistance
The Weinor Cassita II has been designed to handle summer winds with its robust construction and advanced engineering. It is built to withstand moderate to high wind conditions and consequently copes easily with winds up to force 5 on the Beaufort scale.Various Fabric Patterns
Personalisation is key when it comes to creating an outdoor space that reflects your taste and style. With the Cassita II awning, you have the freedom to choose from a massive selection of 171 fabric patterns and more than 200 frame colours. Whether you prefer vibrant tones that make a bold statement or subtle hues that show tranquillity, Weinor has an option to suit every preference.
When it comes to enjoying the summer season in style and comfort, the Weinor Cassita II awning checks all the boxes. Investing in a Weinor Cassita II not only elevates your outdoor space but also enhances your overall lifestyle during the summer months. Contact us today for more information and speak with our experts.
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New Vertical Blinds for Retractable Roof System
Pergola awning plus vertical awning from weinor
Reliable all-round protection The very popular concept of the retractable pergola system is now one of the best selling outdoor living products from Samson. Providing exceptional levels of sun shade and rain protection on medium or large areas this product now has more to offer… (more…) -
The New Weinor LED RGB Lighting Strips
Now available from German awning and glass roof manufacturer Weinor is the brand new accessory for their verandas and glass rooms, LED RGB strip bars.
These coloured LED bars aim to help you create the perfect ambience. There is a massive choice of 48 different colours, plus three different varients of white. This helps to create a variety of atmospheres, from a calming blue tone, or an energising red, to a more normal white colour. This allows you to create the perfect atmosphere for your mood or need. Meanwhile, the subtle and aesthetically pleasing framing itself can be any of 200 colours.
Like all LED lights, the RGB strip lighting is extremely energy efficient, with 30% less energy being consumed when compared to more traditional lighting, helping you save on your electricity bills whilst creating a more stylish outside area. Operation of the LED lighting strips couldn’t be easier, with the BiEasy 15M Go! hand transmitter controlling all functions, allowing you to create the perfect lighting situation at the press of a button. These can be utilised in multiple ways, from being attached to a house wall, to various different Weinor products and can installed quickly, easily and flexibly.
For more information, contact us, or view the PDF.
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The Weinor Terrazza Pure – Coming Later in 2019
The Terrazza Pure, an exciting new 90° glass roof system from Weinor, will now be coming to the UK and Samson Awnings later this year.
A new free-standing roof system from Weinor, the Terrazza Pure is a brilliant sun and weather protection system from the innovators at Weinor. Usable as either a free standing or lean-to system, meaning it can either be constructed to attach onto an existing wall or structure, or be made to stand independently itself.
It has a cubic design, with special lighting and decorative strips that ensure this system looks fantastic wherever it is erected, and with a large range of features, it can be customised to suit whatever needs you may have.
The Terrazza Pure is based upon the already existing Terrazza. Weinor have took this model and converted it to a cubic design, allowing it to be a truly free standing system. The system uses a cubic design, whilst rainwater is drained via the guttering down the posts. LED strips are available to provide lighting, available in up to 48 colours and three different types or white. The colours can even be dimmed or adjusted via the Weinor transmitter. The sides can be filled in too, with the options for either vertical blinds, glass sliding doors or glazing, enabling you to fully close off the system and convert it into an outdoor room.
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Weinor VertiTex II
Weinor has recently launched the new VertiTex II. A compact, vertical awning, the VertiTex II by Weinor is a fantastic option for shading from the sun. The unobtrusive design creates an elegant awning that can be applied in a number of applications, including patio roofs, windows, conservatories and more. Available in widths of up to 6 meters, the VertiTex is suitable for various requirements you may have – it can be fitted virtually anywhere! The awning is manufactured with three different operational methods that you can choose from: – Zip: The fabric is held tight on both sides, meaning that it is highly tensioned and therefore wind-resistant – Rail: The fabric is guided in a rail, the standard, universal option. – Rope: Guided by a rope, this is the light version, and the most aesthetically delicate. Weinor’s extensive fabric colours, patterns and material designs, as well their offering of over 200 frame colours mean you are able to own the most ideal vertical awning that is perfect for your home’s façade.
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The Semina Life, a Brand New Awning from Weinor
A new awning from Weinor, the Semina Life is an extension of the already existing Semina line. The Life is a full cassette awning which not only looks great, but is also technically impressive. A great all-rounder, this awning is incredibly well built, and comes with a host of extras.
Aesthetically, the Semina Life is difficult to beat, with modern clear lines. There is a choice of over 150 fabric patterns, with a state of the art nanotechnology ensuring that dirt simply rolls right off.
There is also 200 frame colours to choose from. 50 of these colours come as standard, howver there are 150 additional RAL colours to choose from as an extra. The powder coating for these is all done at the in-house factory, ensuring the highest quality finish. The stainless steel headplate rings on the side provide a visual highlight and enhance the customised combination of the frame colour with fabric pattern.
The Weinor LongLife Arm has a very high tension force, which protects against even incredibly windy conditions, and allows the awning to have a maximum projection of 6.5 metres x 4 metres.
Alongside this, the Semina Life has a host of extras. The Semina Life LED has warm white LED lighting built into the cassette, which can be dimmed and brightened as needed. Alongside this, there is also the Tempura heating system.
With the motor drive system, and the weinor BiConnect radio control, the system is easily operated, and you can even use the BiEasy app to operate the system via your phone or tablet.
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Weinor Product Awards
Weinor Product Awards In recent years one of our manufactures, Weinor have won numerous design prizes for the superb design of its patio products. The awards confirm that the products we offer are not only high quality in technical terms, but also set high standards from a visual perspective. These weinor products have won prizes:
- The under-mounted conservatory awning Sottezza II
- The Livona open folding arm awning
- The avant-garde cassette awning Zenara
- The timeless and classic cassette awning Opal Design II
- The sleek cassette awning Cassita II
- The extensive Pergola awning Plaza Pro
- The light-flooded Glasoase
Zenara
The sleek and modern design gives it a stylish appearance and it sits seamlessly on the wall as it only requires two wall connections, even for the largest 6.5metre sizes
- Reddot Award 2014 – Winner
- Product Design Award 2014
- Good Design Awards
- German Design Award- Special mention 2014
- Focus Open Silber 2012
Cassita II
The Weinor Cassita II LED is structurally identical to the regular Cassita II patio awning except this is an awning with a built in lighting system
- Reddot Award 2014 – Winner
- Focus Open 2014 – Silver
- Product Design Award 2014
Opal Design II
The Weinor Opal Design II is the ultimate jewel for your home. Standing out among the crowd for their exceptional aesthetics, superior technology and striking looks, this awnings combines technology and appearance with long lasting quality.
- Product Design Awards 2014
- German Design Award – Special Mention 2014
Livona
- Design Awards 2015
- Reddot Award 2014 – Special Mention
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Glasoase
All year round protection with an almost frameless view of your garden- spend hours of enjoyment in your garden glass room and let a place filled with light and transparency work its magic on you.
- Reddot Design Award 2009 – Winner
VertiTex
VertiTex vertical blind offering translucent shade
- Reddot Design Award 2008 – Winner
Plaza Pro Our textile and extendable weather protection system for professional users goes by the name Weinor Plaza Pro - Product Design Award 201
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London Roof Top Installation
Samson Awnings have just completed the roof top installation of a Weinor Pergotex system on the 7th floor of an office block in central London. Due to the high and exposed location the Pergotex was chosen as it has a tested capability to deal with winds up to Beaufort scale 8 and with the PVC cover coupled with lateral support bars the system has a high level of fabric tension enabling it to withstand heavy rainfall too.
The location is stunning and the area has been designed for corporate hospitality for the clients offices.
This attractive addition to the London skyline can be viewed from every major central London building.
The Weinor Pergotex is one of the products Samson Awnings regularly install for all year round weather protection but with the added advantage of being able to fully retract the fabric roof system when the weather dictates. The fabric roof is fully automatic with various control systems for operation and safety systems in case of extra high wind conditions.
The tough PVC fabric roof is further strengthened with aluminium support struts along the width and in this installation 2 units were coupled together for a large cover of approximately 70 square metres!!
The front and sides can be filled with various optional systems such as vertical blinds, sliding glass doors and so on to truly create an outdoor room area for many people to use all year round.
The aluminium framework is prefinished in a choice of colours and the rainwater is directed into a front guttering profile where the water is dispersed down one or some of the support legs and out to clear the covered area.
With the fabric roof fully retracted the Pergotex still looks smart on any building, gone are the days of multiple support tubes across the width making the framework overpowering and unattractive when not in use.
