Fixed or Retractable Awnings: Which Awning Is Best in Windy Conditions?

The first thing you think about when choosing an awning design is whether to go for a fixed or retractable model. Fixed awnings are set up permanently; retractable awnings can be put up or down.

This is an important decision that you want to get right, especially if you live in breezy coastal areas or in a region that is subject to high winds. While many awnings are marketed as being able to withstand windy conditions, some are more prone to wind damage than others.

Which type of awning copes best with wind?

Fixed Awnings and Wind

Fixed awnings deal with some wind conditions well. For example, a well-made awning is likely to cope with light or even medium winds without getting damaged. However, high or persistent winds can damage the fabric and frame of a fixed awning, even if it has built-in wind resistance.

Wind batters fixed awnings more because they give it a fixed surface to blow against. If the wind is strong enough, it can push against fabric and frames and break or move them.

Even if a fixed awning survives high winds, it can be easily damaged by other things because it's out in the open. For example, high winds can blow things on top of the awning's fabric or against parts of its frame.

While you may be able to dismantle a fixed awning if there is a risk of dangerously high winds, this isn't necessarily a quick or easy process. If you're caught on the hop and the wind is already out there, then you may not have time to get it down.

Retractable Awnings and Wind

While a retractable awning that is left up can also be damaged by wind, these awnings can be closed up and stored away easily. This makes them a better option in windy conditions — the awning isn't in the wind's path if it is retracted. If it is stored way, it can't get damaged by the wind or random flying objects.

All you have to do to retract an awning is to wind it up. If the awning has an automated system, you just push a button to close it. This means you can shut the awning down very quickly even if you get caught out and the weather is already really blustery. 

To find the best awning for local weather conditions, talk to blinds companies about available options.

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