Awnings in Wind and Rain
British weather changes fast. Here is how to keep an awning safe when the wind gets up – and how sensors can do it for you.
A retractable awning is a large sheet of fabric held out from the wall on spring-loaded arms. In a sudden gust it acts like a sail, and the forces on the arms and wall fixings rise very quickly. Wind is the most common cause of awning damage, and rain pooling on the fabric comes a close second.
Neither needs to be a problem. Knowing your awning's wind rating, using it sensibly and – ideally – fitting sensors will keep it working for many years.
Wind resistance classes
Awnings sold in the UK and Europe are tested under the standard EN 13561 and given a wind resistance class from 0 to 3. The class tells you the wind speed the open awning has been tested to withstand.
- Class 1 – around 17mph (Beaufort force 4, a moderate breeze)
- Class 2 – around 24mph (force 5, a fresh breeze)
- Class 3 – around 30mph (force 6, a strong breeze)
- Class 0 – not tested or not rated; treat with caution
How wind, sun and rain sensors work
A wind sensor, usually a motion sensor clipped to the front bar or a small anemometer on the wall, measures vibration or wind speed and tells the motor to close the awning when a set threshold is reached. It works whether you are at home or away, which is why many installers recommend it on every motorised awning.
Sun sensors open the awning automatically when it is bright, keeping rooms cooler, and rain sensors close it at the first drops. Most systems can be adjusted so the awning does not open and close constantly on a changeable day.
Simple rules for British weather
Close the awning when you go out or go to bed, and whenever wind starts to move the front bar noticeably. Do not use it as shelter in heavy rain unless it is designed for it, and increase the pitch in showery weather so water runs off rather than pooling.
If the fabric gets wet, open it again to dry fully within a couple of days. Rolling up damp fabric for weeks leads to mildew stains that are hard to remove.
Typical sensor and protection costs
| Job | Typical UK price |
|---|---|
| Wireless motion (vibration) wind sensor | £120–£250 |
| Wind and sun sensor with control unit | £200–£450 |
| Rain sensor (added to existing automation) | £100–£250 |
| Repairing wind-damaged arms or front bar | £250–£800 |
Indicative UK prices including fitting on a compatible motorised awning. Older motors may need upgrading to work with sensors.
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Wind and rain: common questions
How much wind can an awning take?
It depends on its wind class and size. A Class 2 awning is tested to around 24mph, but gusts can exceed the average wind speed considerably, so it is wise to close it well before that point.
Can a wind sensor be fitted to a manual awning?
No. A sensor needs a motor to act on. You would need to convert the awning to electric first.
Will my insurance cover a storm-damaged awning?
Some home insurance policies cover awnings as part of the building, but many exclude damage caused by leaving them open in high winds. Check your policy wording.
What is a valance for?
The valance is the short strip of fabric hanging from the front bar. It is mainly decorative, though it adds a little extra shade when the sun is low.
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