Are Awnings Waterproof?

Awnings, by their very nature, are designed predominantly for use in sunny conditions. UPF 50+ fabrics offer protection against harmful UV rays and provide sufficient shade so that you can make the most of your outdoor area during the sunnier months.

No awnings on the market are intended for use in moderate to heavy rain or extreme windy weather, and as such this is never recommended by manufacturers. The danger being that water can start to collect in the fabric and damage the awning or structure.

Nevertheless, some owners may choose to keep the cover extended during the occasional light shower to avoid having to retreat inside. This is common with higher quality awnings which can be resilient enough to withstand moderate conditions without any damage, although this depends on the model you choose.  This would however require a pitch of 15 degrees to prevent any damage and avoid voiding the products warranty.

Can My Awning be used on a Windy Day?

SBF awnings are tested at various wind speeds and can withstand up to 23 mph speeds. Higher speeds of up to 30 mph can be achieved on pergola and freestanding awnings which have been designed to provide added protection for more exposed areas.

With retractable patio awnings you have the added benefit of a wind vibration sensor which is included as standard. The sensor will automatically retract the cover when speeds increase to help protect the arms from any wind damage.

Is Awning Fabric Waterproof?

Our awning fabrics are designed to be water-resistant only. The acrylic fabric we use does however come with a special waterproof coating which make it more repellent to water and ideal for commercial outdoor areas.