10 Best Garden Awnings [Buyer Guide]
We review the products we think are best in the category. By purchasing a product through an affiliate link, we may earn a small commission that helps keep the site running. Learn about our product selection process here.
All that space in your garden or patio and you don’t know how to put it into a good use? Or is there not enough room under your patio umbrella for you to hold a hangout in your garden on Sunday afternoon with your families and friends? Why don’t you put that space into a great use and upgrade your patio umbrella to a Garden awnings and create a comfortable space with an excellent view of your garden for your friends and family.
We always want to have a great time in the garden lying down on a rattan sun lounger on a cool day by the pool side during the hot summer, while taking an occasional break to relax and sit on an outdoor bean bag. All these activities we want to do away from the sun’s rays and light showers. This highlights some of the many benefits of garden awnings. Apart from protecting you from the sun’s rays, a garden awning also enhances the appearance of your home and garden and protects your outdoor furniture from heat. There are various types of this product in the market, because of the high demand for it. This is like that because garden awnings are the best and the most economical way to transform your garden deck space into an outdoor room for hosting family and friends. You can finally plan that weekend brunch you’ve always wanted.
To help you through the process of transforming your garden space with garden awnings we’ve taken the liberty to give comprehensive details on the top 10 garden awnings out there. This article will help make your choice easier when searching for your next garden awnings. We listed our top 3 picks just in case you don’t want to read the whole article. We also discussed in detail each awning, the features, specifications and also took some time to list out the pros and cons of each. We included a summary of the whole article, a buyer’s consideration, and frequently asked questions and answers about the products.
OldPAPA Sun Shade Sail
OldPAPA Sun Shade Sail is a rectangular waterproof sunshade made from waterproof oxford polyester fabric that is of very high quality. This material helps block 95% of the UV rays and provides a great sunscreen effect without any sunburn. This product is a lightweight rectangular canopy that is light and thin, occupying just little spaces and very easy to store at home.
This product employs the DIY policy with how easy it is to install. Simply place the D-ring at the edge of the four corners, and proceed by hanging each corner of the shade sail on the hook. Comes with a knot for proper reinforcement and ensures proper fittings for wind protection and adequate safety. The product is resistant to damage and moisture, making it ideal for the anti-exposure and waterproofing of garden furniture. The product is perfect for families who love having a great time in the garden, by the poolside, and picnics.
Key Features:
Material helps block 95% of the UV rays and provide a great sunscreen effect without any sunburn
Material helps block 95% of the UV rays and provide a great sunscreen effect without any sunburn
Knot for proper reinforcement, sturdiness and proper fittings.
Resistant to damage and moisture.
Specification:
Brand
Vchoco
Colour
Grey
Dimension
36.9 x 29.5 x 10.1 cm
Weight
1.5kg
Pros
It is very easy to install.
Great protection and privacy from the sun.
Cons
Waterproof property may not be to everyone’s liking.
Greenbay 3 X 2.5m DIY Patio Retractable Manual Garden Awning
Greenbay 3 x 2.5m DIY Patio retractable Manual Garden Awning is the perfect Garden awning for those who love to get things done in their homes by themselves (the do-it-yourself people). This canopy is the best product to select for your patio if you’re looking for a top-quality product. This product is made with a steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller to provide durability other awnings don’t. The awning has to be fixed to a solid wall.
This product steel square torsion bar comes in a dimension of 35 x35 x 1.2mm and the aluminium roller is 60mm diameter. The product is made of water and UV-resistant polyester fabric that comes in various designs to fit your garden. Although the product is quite heavy to lift, once installed it adds a stylish touch and provides shade on your patio. This product is TUV and GS certification approved, so be rest assured of getting the best value.
Key Features:
Made from water and UV resistant fabrics.
Steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller for reliability and sturdiness.
TUV and GS certification approved.
Adjustable Awning angle for a more shallow slope.
Specification:
Brand
Greenbay
Colour
Grey
Dimension
3 x 2.5 m
Material
Metal and Fabric
Pros
Great design and outlook
It is very sturdy
Cons
Item packaging may not be to everyones’ liking.
Greenbay 4 m x 3m DIY Patio Retractable Manual Garden Awning
Greenbay 4m x 3m DIY patio retractable manual Garden Awning is a top-notch contemporary designed standard manual awning for any patio or garden space. Perfect for hosting guest guests over brunch and dinners. This product is a great value for money.
The product is designed with a steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller to provide more durability for the awning. This product comes with two brackets to help attach the awning to a solid way. This product fabric material is made from PU-coated water-resistant polyester fabric for rainy seasons and summer sun. It features a crank handle on the left side to manually retract the awning. The awning can be sloped between 5 -35 degrees. It is TUV and GS certification approved making it perfectly safe and usable.
Key Features:
Designed with steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller to provide more durability for the awning.
Designed with steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller to provide more durability for the awning.
It is TUV and GS certification approved.
Crank handle on the left side to manually retract the awning.
Specification:
Brand
Greenbay
Colour
Grey
Dimension
4m x 3m
Material
Metal and Fabric
Pros
It is very sturdy and durable.
It offers great protection against UV rays.
Cons
Water-resistance may not be to everyone’s liking.
Greenbay DIY Manual Patio Garden Awning Sun Shade - 3m x 2.5m
Greenbay DIY Manual Patio Garden Awning Sun Shade is the perfect awning for shading windows and balcony doors. Not only does it create a space for you and your friends to have a cold drink on a hot summer afternoon, but it also makes your house look elegant. This product comes with both a steel torsion bar and an aluminum roller for installation.
This product is designed to be retractable with the aid of a steel crank handle which makes it easy to project and retract when needed. It is made from UV-resistant and water-resistant 300gsm polyester with PU coating which makes it strong and long-lasting. The product comes as a complete unit ready to be fitted with all brackets, fixings, and winding handles included for a quick and easy installation. The Awning has a slope of approximately 5 -35 degrees that is adjustable from the horizontal. It is important to note that the product is only suited for concrete wall installation.
Key Features:
It adds an elegant touch to your house.
Comes with both a steel torsion bar and aluminum roller for installation.
Made from 300gsm Polyester coated with PU coating which makes it UV resistant and Water-resistant.
Retractable with a steel crank handle, easy to project and retract.
Specification:
Brand
Greenbay
Colour
Grey
Dimension
304 x 17 x 15.5 cm
Material
Plastic, Metal and Fabric
Pros
It is very easy to project and retract.
It is very easy to project and retract.
Cons
Water-resistant features may not be to everyone's liking.
Ankuka 2m x 3m Rectangle Sun Shade Sail
Ankuka 2m x 3m rectangle sun shade sail is a top-quality shade sail for those who want to put their garden space to good use and enjoy a cool and relaxing day in their garden. This product is made of brand new high-density polyester with PU coating which makes it resistant to adverse weather conditions and water.
The product is designed to put your health first, it protects you against harmful UV rays and prevents them from passing through the awnings. You can relax and enjoy the cool afternoon weather without worrying about sunburn. This product is very easy to install with rope or a fixing kit. It is lightweight and very sturdy with its double-edged sewing threads and stainless steel D-rings. It is advisable to install at an angle of 20-40 degrees to ensure maximum tension and allow rain to run off.
Key Features:
Made of brand new high-density polyester with PU coating resistant to adverse weather conditions and water.
Protects against harmful UV rays and prevents them from passing through the awnings.
Easy to install with the aid of a rope or a fixing kit.
Lightweight and very sturdy with its double-edged sewing threads and stainless steel D-rings.
Specification:
Brand
Ankuka
Colour
Cream
Dimension
29.5 x 27.2 x 6.2 cm
Weight
985 Grams
Pros
Lightweight and very durable.
It is very easy to install.
Cons
Colour may not be to everyone’s liking.
Panana 4 x 3M Manual Awning Retractable Canopy Sun Shade Shelter
Panana 4 x 3m manual awning retractable canopy sun shade shelter is perfect for anyone looking to beautify their house by turning their empty patio or garden into a relaxation spot for their families and friends to hang out. This product is made of a high-quality white powder-coated aluminum frame and completely waterproof polyester fabric.
The product is designed to be manually retractable. With this, you can adjust the awning into any suitable width of your choice. When not in use, you can also retract it, without taking it down from the concrete wall. This product is very easy to assemble with its simple and classic constructions. It comes with wall installation brackets and anchors for easy installation. The product is made of high-quality materials that can protect you from harmful UV rays and harsh weather conditions. It is ideal for large spaces because of its wide coverage width.
Key Features:
Made of high quality materials that can protect you from harmful UV rays and harsh weather conditions.
Manually retractable and adjustable to owners suitable width.
Comes with wall installation brackets and anchors for easy installation.
Ideal for large spaces because of its wide coverage.
Specification:
Brand
Panana
Colour
Yellow-stripe
Dimension
162 x 23 x 19 cm
Weight
10 Kilograms
Pros
Fantastic quality and very sturdy in wetter weather.
Easy to install
Cons
Colour may not be to everyone's taste.
iropro DIY Patio Retractable Manual Awning
The Iropro DIY Patio Retractable Manual Awning is made from premium material. The awning frame consists of treated spray paint and aluminum alloy with an oxidation surface. It consists of a polyester cloth fabric with PU surface treatment, waterproof and Uv-resistant properties. With this Awning your friends and guests are protected from harmful UV radiation, sunburn, and drizzles.
The product is retractable, which means it can be extended and retracted with a 1.2m hand crank. This manual retraction gives you the freedom to adjust the awning to suitable width or retract it when not in use without taking it down from the wall. This product has a wide coverage and offers a large protected area. It can be used in a wide range of places like a balcony courtyard. This product comes with all the necessary kits for its installation.
Key Features:
Made from UV resistant, water-resistant, 300gsm polyester with PU coating.
Comes with a steel torsion bar and aluminum roller assembly.
TUV & GS Certification approved.
Comes with a steel crank handle on the left hand side.
Specification:
Brand
iropro
Colour
Green
Dimension
135.5 x 29 x 17 cm
Weight
19.5 Kilograms
Pros
Well engineered and great quality
Easy to install
Cons
Bolt and nut fittings may not be to everyone’s liking.
Innoo Tech Sun Shade Sail 2 x 3 m Rectangle Awning
Innoo Tech Sun Shade Sail 2X3m rectangle awning is knitted with permeable shade fabric that was made from heavy-duty 185GSM high-density polyethylene. This fabric allows light and cooling breezes to pass through for great aerated and comfortable spaces.
This product features a strong stitched seam and durable stainless steel D-rings in each corner to ensure the sail’s shade is strong and very durable. The product features a curved edge design to improve the pull strength of the sail and prevent the shade sail from drooping. These shade sails provide shade and protect you against 98% harmful UV rays. It comes with the necessary kit and instruction manual for proper installation.
Key Features:
Strong stitched seam and durable stainless steel D-rings in each corner to ensure the sail’s shade is strong and very durable.
Allows saturation of light and cooling breezes to ensure comfort.
Comes with the necessary kit and instruction manual for proper installation.
Curve edge design to improve the pull strength of the sail and prevent the shade sail from drooping.
Specification:
Brand
Innoo
Colour
Cream
Dimension
38.4 x 32 x 10 cm
Weight
1.16 Kilograms
Pros
Perfect shield against the sun.
Easy to install and very durable
Cons
Texture may not be to everyone’s liking.
Greenbay Manual Awning Canopy
Greenbay Manual Awning Canopy is designed specifically to create a cool space for you to relax in your garden from the sun. The product is UV-resistant, made from high-quality 300g/m2 polyester with PU-coated water-resistant fabric.
This product comes with a steel square torsion bar and aluminium roller that provides strength and durability. The product is retractable and features a steel crank handle that makes it open and closes without any hitch up. This Awning has a slope of approximately 3-35 degrees and it is completely adjustable from the horizontal. This product is only suitable for installation on a solid wall or concrete wall.
Key Features:
UV resistant ensuring that you're well protected from the sun when underneath
Retractable with a steel crank for opening and closing
Specification:
Brand
Greenbay
Colour
Grey
Dimension
4 x 3M
Material
Plastic, Metal, Fabric
Pros
Instructions are clear to follow and awning easy to set up
Very sturdy brackets
Quick delivery
Outsunny 3 x 3 Meters Canopy Metal Wall Gazebo Awning
Outsunny 3 x 3 Meters Canopy Metal Wall Gazebo Awning is the perfect outdoor shelter for those who love to take a quick nap in their garden. This awning is a beautiful addition to your garden space and a great place to host parties and BBQs.
The product features a tough and durable powder-coated and rust-resistant metal frame. It comes with a polyester canopy that weighs 180gsm and is capable of protecting you from light wind, rain, and sunlight. It features an elegant design that makes it stand out and look beautiful in your space. All needed accessories are included for easy assembling and installation.
Key Features:
Powder-coated metal frame is rust-resistant, tough and durable all year round.
Polyester canopy for protection against light wind, rain and the sunlight
Eight ground stakes to secure to the ground.
Four drainage holes to prevents water build up
Specification:
Brand
Outsunny
Colour
Grey
Dimension
162.5 x 36 x 17 cm
Weight
26.1 Kg
Pros
It is easy to install.
Beautiful addition to garden space.
Cons
Colour may not be to everyone’s liking.
Summary
In this article, we’ve discussed in detail the top 10 garden awnings you can select from for your patio space or garden. Garden awnings are needed in any modern garden because of the great advantages it has. You can now host dinner parties or BBQs in your garden while your guests sit on rattan garden chairs or rattan garden benches under the garden awnings. A Garden awning lets you put the empty space in your garden into good use and beautifies your space.
However, when selecting a garden awning or shopping for a new one, there are some factors to put into consideration. These factors are listed below and discussed in detail.
Things to Consider When Buying a Garden Awnings
Size
Size is an important factor when shopping for garden awnings. You will not want to buy a garden awning that you can’t use to host your friends and can’t cover your outdoor bar table and chairs fully. Measure your available space and get the appropriate dimensions. You can now use this dimension as a reference point when shopping for your garden awnings.
Strength and Durability
The outdoor weather condition can be a little bit harsh at times and wearing is more reason to buy awnings made from strong materials and are very durable. It is advisable to go for awnings with a torsion bar because these ones are more often stronger and durable than those without. Although these awnings are strong and durable, you can help improve their lifespan by retracting your awnings when the weather gets too windy.
UV Resistant and Water Resistant
This is a very important factor to consider when buying a garden awning. The main reason for buying an awning in the first place is to shield you from the intense sunlight, the last thing you want is to get sunburn. A good garden awning should be able to block around 98% of the sun’s UV rays.
Another thing is to consider is the water-resistant feature. You don’t want your guest and rattan cube garden furniture getting wet from the rain.
FAQs
Can I use awnings for the garden on the patio?
These products are very versatile, meaning they can be used in a whole lot of places. So it is possible to use the same awnings in your garden on your patio.
How can I get garden awnings fitted?
The garden awnings always come with the necessary instruction manual and accessories to get fitted and install easily.
Video on how to set up a garden awning yourself
Further reading on garden awnings
https://www.nytimes.com/2000/04/30/realestate/your-home-hot-patio-extend-an-awning.html