Question 1

What is a folding arm awning?

Accepted Answer

A folding-arm awning is a retractable awning whose arms fold in on themselves as the fabric rolls back into a cassette above.

They're the most popular residential and commercial format because they're neat when closed, project 2–4.6m outward when open and can span up to 14m in a single unit with the right frame.

Larger awnings will have multiple arms across the width.

Question 2

What's the difference between full, semi and open cassette awnings?

Accepted Answer

The cassette is the housing that protects the fabric when the awning is retracted.

- **Full cassette** — fabric and arms fully enclosed. Best weather protection, longest fabric life.
- **Semi cassette** — top and back cover only. Arms visible. Lower cost.
- **Open** — no housing, hood or roller exposed. Rare on modern residential jobs.

Aura Plus, Epica and Zenith are all full cassette. See [Our Range](/our-range).

Question 3

How wide can a folding arm awning go?

Accepted Answer

Aura offer end fix awnings up to 6m, this means that the awning only requires two end fixing points, this is a great solution for bi folding doors as the weight distribution is at either end of the awning.

We can build awnings right up to 14m+ with the correct fixtures, brackets and joins in the units.

For any awning between 6m - 9m we will join the unit onsite, and it will require fixing points along the length of the unit. These can either be into the wall where possible, or onto a goal post style steel frame.

Speak to our team about your requirements and we will be able to suggest the best solution, a safe installation approach and the right product for you.

Question 4

What projection can I get?

Accepted Answer

Awnings are all made to measure and built to order - bespoke for your project.

That means that you can design the projection that suits your space best. Anything from 1.6m up to 4.6m depending on the width of the awning.

The width is important because an awning cannot often project out further than it is wide (aside from a couple of unique options).

As a general rule we have the below as a guide:

2m wide = 1.6m projection
3m wide = 2.6m projection
4m wide = 3.1m projection
5m wide = 4.6m projection

As our team for more information on your exact specifications.

Our [estimate tool](/estimate) shows the projections available for your width automatically.

Question 5

How much wind can a folding arm awning take?

Accepted Answer

Aura folding-arm awnings are rated to **Beaufort Class 5** as standard, which is up to around 29-38km/h.

Described as a Tense Wind or a fresh breeze.

An Eolis wind sensor (fitted as standard to all our motorised units) retracts the awning automatically when gusts exceed the threshold, protecting the arms and fabric. See [wind and weather guidance](/knowledge-hub/awning-wind-resistance-rain-and-weather-limitations).

Folding Arm Awnings FAQs

What is a folding arm awning?

What's the difference between full, semi and open cassette awnings?

How wide can a folding arm awning go?

What projection can I get?

How much wind can a folding arm awning take?

Still have questions?