A guide to our Retractable Awnings
Popular Retractable Awning Examples
To find out more about our wide range of retractable awnings – call the experts on Freephone: 0800 919117
Retractable Awnings by Deans the UK’s Leading Commercial Supplier & Manufacturer
When it comes to retractable awing solutions, Deans are the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier. In our product range, we have a wide range of commercial retractable awning styles for high street shops, flagship stores, restaurants, brasseries, cafes, pubs, bars, hotels and shopping outlets.
From traditional to contemporary, our retractable solutions will be manufactured to your exact specifications with many opportunities for customisation and branding. Among our most popular retractable solutions are the classic Deans Awning, this Victorian style awning can be retracted manually using a crank or pole, alternatively it can be retracted by remote operation. Another stylish option is the SQ2 Recessed Folding Awning with its elegant seamless facia operated by remote control. A very popular solution is the Markilux 5010, which has a folding arm system ideal for outdoor spaces like bars and restaurants, where the weather can change.
Our largest retractable awnings offer impressive coverage. The more traditional awnings have a maximum 3 metre projection and 6 metre width, but some of our contemporary folding arms solutions can boast projections of 4 metres and up to 16 metres in width.
Custom-built retractable awnings from design to installation
At Deans, we have the knowledge and expertise to build your retractable awning. Every project is different and presents a new set of parameters, that need to be taken into consideration.
The first stage of a project is to conduct a full site survey. The survey will take into account any structural or architectural needs, as well as taking detailed measurements. We use the measurements to produce detailed technical drawings. With regard to the design stage, our in-house team can either work independently or they can collaborate with architects, design studios or directly with the business owner.
The next stage is the manufacture of your retractable awning. Detailed design drawings are signed off and sent to our London Workshop to be manufactured. Each retractable awning is hand-crafted to your bespoke measurements using sustainably sourced timber for the box and canvas for the cloth. The finished awning receives a weather-resistance treatment to improve durability and strength. The finished awning is then ready to be installed by our expert installation team, who will ensure your retractable awning is fitted to the correct specifications.
Retractable Awnings – 6 key factors in choosing the right awning for your restaurant, bar, shop or hotel
1. Design
The design of your retractable awning is a key element. Our talented and experienced Design Team are skilled at working with or collaborating with commercial awning design agencies to produce a stylish, well-branded solution. On request, we can provide detailed 3D-modelling and also supply fabric samples. For grade-listed buildings in conservation areas and can provide detailed drawings for planning permission.
2. Materials
For a retractable awning to be long-lasting, it needs to be manufactured using quality materials. At Deans we use high-grade hardwood timber for all our housings. The arms and brackets are steel-forged and then powder-coated for added resilience. All timber-work is hand-treated and fabrics are solution-dyed to maintain resistance. The end result of all these processes, is the increased life span of your commercial canopy. Sustainability is also important to Deans. To enable this, we try to ensure all our materials come from a sustainable source and we also have a dedicated Environmental Manager who’s role is to ensure all staff adhere to of our environmental policy, both at work and on site.
3. Operation
We have several options for retractable awnings from manual to remote control. Our range of traditional awnings can be retracted manually by crank or pole, as well as, remote operation. Our contemporary awnings are mainly operated by remote control, but they can also utilise smart sensor technology to automatically retract or open depending on the weather at the time.
4. Branding
Deans are all about choice when it comes to branding your retractable awning. We have the ability to match any solid colour for your fabric, as well as being able to print patterns from supplied artwork. Our RAGS® Branding System is used for logos, idents and text to go on your awning material. We can match most colours and also offer special metallic options in gold and silver.
5. Weather
The British weather is always an important factor in your awning choice. This is especially so with regard to restaurants and pubs, where outdoor dining and drinking is a key element. A retractable awning provides your business with the perfect flexibility, offering protection from rain or much needed shade from excessive heat. Our wide range of retractable options allow us to tackle any size space. Some retractable solutions have smart weather sensors options, that will automatically open when rain starts and retract when it stops. A further weather-related service we provide to all our customers is email warnings for ‘Amber & Red Weather Warnings’. This helps our customers to respond to adverse weather conditions.
6. Terraces
Retractable awnings are essential for both commercial and residential terraced areas. They provide year round protection against sun, wind and rain. When fitting your retractable solution it can either be fixed to the structure or use a free-standing framework. Most of our retractable terrace solutions are modular, so any size space can be covered. They are also totally customisable and robust.
Retractable Awnings – Featured Project
Location: The Roebuck, Borough, London
Awning: Deans Awning
We manufactured four impressive traditional retractable awnings for the frontage and pavement seating areas.
Did you know Deans manufactured the first ever commercial awning in 1894
John Dean founded Deans Awnings in the 1890s. His original commercial awning design, the Deans Awning, was an instant success with traders and retailers. 130 years later and its timeless appeal remains as strong as ever, the only changes being made to the materials and finishes.
