Weather in Melbourne and its environs can be harsh and unpredictable. At certain times of the year, the weather may change quickly from calm and sunny to cold and windy. The wind speed can go up to 120km/hour! Melbourne has been described as having four seasons in one day. Unsurprisingly then, every business and home owner wants to protect their property against the elements as well as provide shade over their doorway or shop window. This article explains why retractable roof systems and awnings are the favourites of businesses and homeowners in Melbourne for achieving these objectives.

What are awnings and retractable roof systems?

An awning is a sheet of canvas or other material stretched on a frame that is attached to a building’s exterior wall in order to provide shade and protection over a window, door or patio. In addition, an awning can add to the aesthetics of a building.

A retractable roof system is an openable roof that rolls back the central roof covering whenever this is required. The membrane of the retractable roof is made of a PVC-coated polyester fabric that is waterproof. An aluminium frame and lightweight track system allows the roof to extend or retract. Extended, the fabric is held under tension, which enables it to become resilient to high winds. When it retracts, it folds evenly along the side rails and then stacks neatly under a protective cover.

Why do businesses and homeowners love retractable roof systems and awnings so much? 

Here are seven reasons:

2. Save on energy!

Retractable roof systems and awnings provide the home with excellent insulation against heat. According to the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association, “fabric awnings and exterior shades can help homeowners reduce cooling costs by more than 50%.”  They help in reducing the load on air conditioners, especially in the hot summer weather.

When several homeowners in the community are able to cut their energy use by installing retractable roof systems and awnings, aggregate demand for energy use at peak usage periods drops, leading to overall energy savings. This is a welcome development because power companies burn less fossil fuel with corresponding reductions in carbon emissions.

3. Expand your living area!

Retractable roof systems and awnings help in extending the living space outdoors by providing an easily accessible shaded outdoor living space in which you can relax and enjoy with family and friends. They are available in a variety of styles and applications. For example, the Pacchetto Belt Driven Pleated Patio System provides shade and shelter protection all year round while the stylish Paravento, a side awning, can protect against inquisitive neighbours, sunlight and cool side winds.

4. Add mood lighting outdoors

You may wish to create a warm, cosy atmosphere outdoors suitable for night-time use and entertainment purposes. The Pergotex II Retractable Patio Roof does just that. It offers optional high-power LED lighting systems. The Pergotex II also provides protection against UV rays, which makes it suitable for use in both coastal areas and cities.

 5. One-touch automation

Retractable roofs are equipped with state-of-the-art remote control mechanisms that automate the system for opening and closing. For example, when the sun is up, the fabric of the Pergotex II Retractable Patio Roof can remain retracted while you are savouring the warmth of the sun, but if the weather suddenly gets bad, the roof can be extended with just a push of a button without you leaving your patio.

6. Highly durable roof materials

The retractable roof systems and awnings are manufactured in Australia with high-quality, industrial-grade materials designed to withstand the harsh Australian weather. These include strong weather-proof fabrics, stainless steel and powder-coated aluminium.

Things to consider when buying retractable roof systems and awnings

Making a decision on the type of protective roof to buy can be perplexing. However, you need to determine what features you require on your premises.

The retractable roof tends to be a fixed, stationary structure while an awning allows you to adjust the space and the side of the building you want the structure to protect.

The retractable roof usually covers a smaller space. If you are thinking of covering a larger area, a retractable awning may be more suitable.

Retractable roofs are usually freestanding, so they have the ability to be enclosed and used in cooler weather, but retractable awnings usually provide shade in an outdoor area and cannot be enclosed.

Also bear in mind that the retractable roof is usually a long-term installation. This needs to be taken into consideration when buying a retractable roof system. Materials like aluminium and wood are very durable and will last for a long time.

Call now for a free consultation

Melbourne retractable roof systems and awnings are the ideal choice for protecting your outdoor space against the fluctuating weather conditions in Melbourne and the surrounding areas. They will ensure your family and customers enjoy your outdoors all year round regardless of the prevailing weather condition in Melbourne. Call us today to arrange a consultation and our team of experts will help you choose the best system for your home or business.