Choosing the right awning for your home can raise a few questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about our bespoke awnings, from how they operate and what sizes are available to installation, maintenance and optional extras.

What is an awning?

An awning is a retractable covering fitted to the exterior of a property to provide shade and help create a more comfortable outdoor space. Awnings are ideal for patios, conservatories, windows and other areas where you want additional shade and protection from direct sunlight.

At Advance Shutters, we supply and professionally install bespoke awnings designed around your property and requirements.

What are the benefits of having an awning?

Awnings can provide welcome shade over patios and outdoor seating areas, making it more comfortable to enjoy your garden during sunny weather. They can also help reduce direct sunlight entering through windows and patio doors.

As well as their practical benefits, a well-chosen awning can add an attractive finishing touch to the exterior of your home.

Are your awnings made to measure?

Yes. Our awning installations are bespoke and tailored to the individual property. We offer awnings in widths from 2 metres up to 6 metres, subject to the suitability of the installation location.

During your consultation, we can assess the available space and discuss the most appropriate solution for your home.

Do you offer manual or electric awnings?

Yes. You can choose between manual and electric operation.

Manual awnings are operated using a crank handle, while electric awnings can be operated using a wall button or remote-control handset.

Electric operation can be particularly convenient if you want to open and close your awning at the touch of a button.

What colours and fabrics are available?

We offer a comprehensive collection of premium Dickson fabrics, giving you a wide choice of colours, patterns and designs.

The awning cassette is available in White, Anthracite or a choice of RAL colours, allowing you to select a finish that complements your property.

What is a full cassette awning?

A full cassette encloses and protects the awning when it is fully retracted. This provides a neat appearance and helps protect the fabric and components when the awning isn’t being used.

Our awnings are supplied with a slimline full cassette as standard.

Can an awning be fitted to any property?

Every property is different, so the installation requirements need to be assessed individually.

Our approved engineers will assess the proposed installation area and determine the most suitable fixing method. Where additional support is required, we can provide custom-made stainless steel powder-coated brackets for more challenging installations.

How is an awning installed?

Our approved engineers carry out the installation and ensure the awning is securely fitted and operates correctly.

Before installation, we consider the structure of the property, the available fixing points and the size and position of the awning. This allows us to provide a secure and professional installation.

Can I have an awning with lights?

Yes. Integrated LED lighting can be added to selected awning systems.

LED lighting can help extend the use of your outdoor seating area into the evening while providing an attractive finishing feature.

Can an awning have wind, sun or rain sensors?

Yes. We offer optional wind, sun and rain sensors.

These can be added to electric awning systems and can provide additional convenience by helping control the awning according to the weather conditions.

The available options will be discussed with you during your consultation.

Can I add heating to my awning?

Yes. Outdoor wall heaters are available as an optional extra.

This can be useful if you want to make greater use of your patio or outdoor seating area during cooler evenings.

How much does an awning cost?

The cost of an awning depends on a number of factors, including its size, fabric, cassette finish, method of operation and any optional extras required.

Because our awnings are bespoke, we provide a tailored quotation based on your individual requirements rather than a standard one-size-fits-all price.

How long do awnings last?

Our awnings are manufactured using durable, high-quality materials and are designed for long-term use.

The full cassette helps protect the fabric when the awning is retracted, while professional installation ensures the components are securely fitted.

Regular care and maintenance will also help keep your awning operating correctly and looking its best.

Are awnings difficult to maintain?

No. Awnings require relatively little routine maintenance.

Keeping the fabric and components clean and following the manufacturer’s care recommendations can help maintain the appearance and performance of your awning. For electric systems, we can also provide advice on looking after the operating system.

Can I use my awning in bad weather?

Awnings are designed to provide shade and shelter, but they should be operated appropriately according to the weather conditions and the manufacturer’s guidance.

Optional weather sensors, including wind, sun and rain sensors, are available for suitable electric systems and can provide additional protection and convenience.

Can I choose an awning to match my home?

Yes. With a wide selection of Dickson fabrics and a choice of cassette finishes, there are plenty of options for creating an awning that complements your home’s exterior.

Whether you prefer a subtle neutral colour or something more distinctive, we can help you explore the available options.

Do you offer advice before installation?

Yes. We can discuss your property, available space, preferred style and how you would like the awning to operate.

Our team can explain the different options available and help you choose a solution that suits your requirements.

You can also visit our showroom to see working awnings and try the different operating systems before making your decision.

Where do you install awnings?

We supply and install awnings throughout Hampshire and Dorset, including the New Forest and surrounding areas.

We cover areas including Lymington, Christchurch, Bournemouth, New Milton, Brockenhurst, Ringwood, Highcliffe, Milford on Sea, Southampton and other surrounding locations.

If you’re outside our usual service area, please contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss whether we can help.

Can I see an awning before I buy?

Yes. We have a showroom where you can view and try working awnings.

You can see the different operating systems, explore fabric options and discuss your requirements with our team before deciding on your awning.

How do I get a quote for an awning?

The best way to get an accurate quotation is to contact Advance Shutters to discuss your requirements.

Because every installation is bespoke, we’ll consider the size and location of your proposed awning, your preferred fabric and finish, the operating system and any optional extras.

We’ll then provide a quotation tailored to your project.

Why choose Advance Shutters for my awning?

Advance Shutters is a family-run business established in 1989, specialising in garage doors and awnings. We supply and fit bespoke awnings using our own experienced installation team.

Our focus is on providing a professional, friendly service, from helping you choose the right awning through to installation and ongoing support.

Ready to find the right awning for your home?

Whether you’re looking to create a shaded patio, make your conservatory more comfortable or add an attractive feature to your home’s exterior, our team can help.

Contact Advance Shutters today to discuss your requirements and arrange a consultation.