Waterproof sunshade

In the Netherlands, too, outdoor living is gaining in popularity. Naturally in sunny weather, but also when it rains, people like to be able to sit outside in the garden or on the balcony. A waterproof awning can provide protection from the sun as well as from rain, wind and other weather conditions. In this article, we will give you more information on this.

What does a waterproof awning cost?

Logically, the price of a waterproof awning depends on several factors, such as the dimensions, the type of awning, the material and any additional options you choose. Prices start at £475 and go up to £3,000 on average.

Below you will find an overview of the average cost for different types of waterproof awnings.

Types of waterproof awnings

There are several types of waterproof awnings on the market, including drop-down awnings, articulated awnings and awnings.

Drop-down awnings are attached to the house or building and drop down. The fabric can be folded down at different angles to regulate the desired amount of sunlight. This type of awning is suitable for use on terraces, balconies and other outdoor areas.

Canopy awnings are awnings that are attached to the house or building with two arms. These arms articulate horizontally outwards when in use. The fabric is often made of strong and waterproof material, such as PVC or acrylic, and can come in a variety of colours and types.

Marquise are a type of awning that is attached to the top of the window or door and falls outwards in a half-dome. The fabric is often made of fabric or PVC and can be folded down at different angles to regulate the desired amount of sunlight. This type of awning is suitable for use on window and door openings and offers both sun and rain protection.

There are often several additional options available to customise a waterproof awning, such as choosing the material, colour and controls. For example, you can often choose between manual or electric operation. It is also possible to have an awning equipped with a special coating that makes the fabric even more water- and dirt-repellent.

Advantages of a waterproof awning

Waterproof awnings have the biggest advantage over normal awnings in that they are more resistant to rain. Normal awnings can be damaged or wear out faster if you leave them unfolded during a rainstorm. In addition, waterproof awnings often not only offer protection against sun and rain, but are also resistant to wind and other weather conditions.

A disadvantage of waterproof awnings is that they are generally more expensive than regular awnings because of the material they are made of.

How to make an awning water repellent yourself?

An alternative to waterproof awnings is to make an awning water repellent yourself. This can be done by treating the fabric with a special water-repellent coating. After treatment, the awning no longer absorbs water. Instead, most of the water runs off by itself and any residue can be easily knocked off.

The biggest advantage of making an awning water-repellent yourself is that it is cheaper than buying a waterproof awning. The downside is that it takes more time and effort than buying a ready-made awning and the results may not be as good. In addition, there is a chance that after a few years, the water resistance will diminish. You will then have to treat the awning again.

Step plan

If you want to make an awning water repellent, clean it well first. You do this by treating it with cleaning vinegar to remove all algae and then washing it with soapy water and a soft brush. Then rinse the awning well to avoid leaving any soap residue.

There are various products available to make an awning water repellent. These often involve an environmentally-friendly impregnating agent that covers the awning with a water-repellent coating. The coating is not visible to the eye and adheres well to the awning fabric. Apply the impregnating agent with a sprayer or a low-pressure sprayer and make sure to apply two coats.

Let the first coat dry for a day before applying the second coat so that the water-repellent coating is sealed. Then let the awning dry thoroughly and spray water over it to check if it works. After the first rainstorm, it is of course wise to check this again carefully.

Handy tips for waterproof awnings

• With a waterproof awning, make sure it has good drainage so that rainwater can drain away.
• Does your awning not come in a cassette? If so, use a special cover to protect the awning from dirt, water and weather conditions when not in use.
• Make sure the awning is maintained regularly, such as cleaning, oiling the frame and replacing worn parts.
• Check the awning regularly for damage or loose parts and have it repaired or replaced if necessary to keep the awning waterproof.
• Make sure to check the awning’s warranty conditions and make sure you comply with them to keep the warranty.