Can Retractable Awnings Withstand Wind?
Retractable awnings are perfect for providing shade against the hot sun, but how much wind can a retractable awning withstand? The roof-like structure of fabric awnings will shelter you as you enjoy your outdoor living space, but only up to a certain point. In this guide, AAA Awnings, a top retractable awning provider in Orange County, CA, explains how retractable awnings hold up to windy conditions.
How Much Wind a Retractable Awning Typically Withstands
Retractable awnings can fold up and extend out as necessary. The retraction helps protect the awning structure from damage during major storms that could rip the fabric and bend the supports. Still, the awning should provide some shelter for anyone who chooses to shelter under it on a windy day.
So how much wind can a retractable awning withstand? Most varieties include details about their wind resistance within their specs. Awnings undergo reliability testing in laboratories, and some structures can hold up against wind conditions up to 25 miles per hour, not accounting for gusts or constant exposure to high winds.
Wind Resistance for Retractable Awnings vs Fixed Awnings
Retractable awnings have self-supporting structures that securely anchor to a building and can withstand windy conditions better than fixed fabric canopies. The self-supported variety has spring-load steel or aluminum arms that maintain the awning’s extension and elevation.
Fixed canopies can handle some wind but can’t hold up to survive high winds like retractable awnings can. If you can close the awning before the wind’s intensity increases, you’re less likely to have wind damage on your fabric awning.
Best Awnings for Wind Resistance
Installing wind-resistant awnings is the best way to have patio, deck, and window shade in a windy area. Class 2 awnings and models with a Beaufort 5 rating can withstand winds up to 25 miles per hour. Awnings with a Class 3 or Beaufort 6 rating can handle up to 31 miles per hour of sustained winds.
Retractable awnings offer the best wind resistance — in up to 100mph winds — when they are closed.
How To Protect Your Awning From Wind Damage
Besides installing a high-quality retractable awning with a high wind resistance rating, you could use a wind or motion sensor to detect high winds. A wind sensor keeps track of wind speed. The motion sensor in the front bar of the awning detects excessive motion.
In high-wind or gusty conditions, the sensors trigger and close the awning to prevent holes, tears, and other damage from the wind.
Get Customized Retractable Awnings for Your LA Home or Business
Instead of wondering how much wind can a retractable awning withstand, turn to AAA Awnings in Los Angeles, CA, for fully customizable wind-resistant awnings. Our crew knows how to transform outdoor living spaces with stylish coverings and supply excellent protection against the elements using high-quality materials, fabrics, and installation procedures. We also have one-year workmanship warranties on all products for your satisfaction and peace of mind.
Call AAA Awnings at (714) 373-5918 for an appointment for a retractable awning installation and experience the advantages of outdoor awnings yourself.