How Do Retractable Awnings Work

This process is completed by manually winding a shaft clockwise or counterclockwise to unroll or roll up your retractable patio awning.

How do retractable awnings work.

The awning is extended or retracted by rotating this clip. Aluminum types roll up into the cassette pushed by arms on the sides of the window. Retractable awnings mean that you can move it in and out. These may extend and retract either manually or automatically depending on the type of awning.

There are two types of arms that allow an awning to be retractable. Many people assume they push the cover open but the arms simply automatically follow the cover as it opens or closes. No matter what they protrude and obscure the window they are intended to shade. The other end will have a hook that fits into a clip next to one of the brackets.

As the cover extends the arm springs and elbows open to provide horizontal support. The awning rolls up into the cassette that protects it from the weather when not in use. The arms work because of a spring tension system or gas pistons. A manual retractable patio awning uses articulated arms that open and close in stages.

First the spring loaded arms extend. One end will have a handle that is slightly offset allowing it to be turned easily. Another turn or push and the awning extends providing blessed relief from the sweltering sun. Canvas types work similarly to roller blinds with spring tension.

Articulated and telescopic arms. The awning handle is designed this way so that it can easily be removed from the frame and kept inside. The spring loaded arms and angled design coupled with the front bar weight helps draw the retractable canopy out. Afterward the other arms extend.

The tension from the springs or pressure of the gas ensures they open and close softly. The first arms are usually spring loaded and the ones after those furl to retract the awning or unfurl to extend it.