Best Window Awnings

The folding arms can easily break on awnings, so it's important that they are durable. Aluminium lasts longer than plastic and has the added benefit of being lightweight. Also consider which material the awning canvas should be made of. Usually window awnings are made of acrylic or polyester – two synthetic materials that can withstand a lot.

• Acrylic has the advantage of retaining colour well, so the fabric won't fade from exposure to the sun. An acrylic awning can also let in different amounts of light, measured on an eight-point scale. The higher the number, the less light is admitted.

• Polyester can be woven thinly and still be durable, which is a clear advantage. On the other hand, it fades more easily in the sun than acrylic does.

• Screen fabric is usually made of glass fibre mesh that allows sunlight to pass through the fabric. You can see through the fabric even when the awning is down.

We recommend that you choose an awning housed in a box. The advantage is that the awning is stored in the box when it's raised and is therefore protected from wear and tear.