If you’re looking for retractable awnings in Perth, a folding arm awning is one of the most practical and versatile options for your patio, courtyard, balcony or alfresco area. Unlike fixed structures, a retractable awning lets you control exactly how much shade or sunlight you want at any given moment. Extend it for full coverage on a scorching January afternoon, or retract it completely to let the winter sun warm your outdoor space.

At Kenlow, we have been manufacturing and installing retractable folding arm awnings across Perth since 1969. This guide covers everything you need to know before choosing one for your property.

What Is a Retractable Folding Arm Awning?

A folding arm awning is an overhead shade structure that mounts directly to a wall, fascia or even rafters and extends outward using a hinged arm mechanism. When you need shade, the awning extends to cover the area below. When you don’t, it folds neatly back against the wall, taking up virtually no space.

One of the biggest advantages of this design is that it requires no posts, footings or additional support structures. The entire awning is wall-mounted, which means your outdoor area remains completely open and unobstructed. The retractable design allows for optimal use of outdoor space, making folding arm awnings especially popular for entertaining areas where you want to maximise usable floor space.

Kenlow’s retractable folding arm awnings are engineered for flexibility and durability, available in various styles and materials that can be customised to match your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re looking to shade a small patio or a large commercial outdoor area, our retractable folding arm awnings can be built to suit.

Retractable folding arm awning with blue and white striped fabric shading a pool area

Motorised vs Manual: Which Option Is Right for You?

Kenlow’s retractable folding arm awnings come in both motorised and manual options to suit your preferences.

Motorised Folding Arm Awnings

Kenlow’s motorised retractable folding arm awnings offer the ultimate in convenience. Easily extend or retract your awning with the push of a button, providing seamless control over your outdoor shading from inside or outside the home.

Our motorised awnings can be paired with motion sensors and smart home devices to enhance your daily usage. This is particularly useful in Perth, where afternoon sea breezes can arrive quickly and without warning. With sensors fitted, the awning responds to changing conditions automatically, so you don’t have to be nearby to manage it.

Motorised awnings are ideal for homeowners and businesses looking for the perfect blend of style and modern functionality, and are an excellent choice for larger installations or hard-to-reach locations.

Manual Folding Arm Awnings

Kenlow’s manual retractable folding arm awnings provide a practical and cost-effective shading solution for any outdoor space. Simple to operate and highly reliable, these awnings can be easily extended or retracted to suit your needs. For smaller awnings or areas where you don’t need to adjust the shade frequently, a manual option keeps the budget down without compromising on quality or performance.

Where Can You Use a Retractable Folding Arm Awning?

Retractable folding arm awnings are perfect for patios, balconies and commercial areas. Common applications in Perth include:

  • Patios and alfresco areas where you want shade for outdoor dining and entertaining without permanent overhead structures
  • Courtyards and decks that receive direct afternoon sun and need flexible coverage throughout the day
  • Balconies on upper levels where post-supported structures are not feasible
  • Pool areas where shade is needed during the hottest parts of the day but full sun is welcome at other times
  • Commercial outdoor dining at cafes, restaurants and hospitality venues looking to extend their seating capacity and protect customers from the elements

If you are unsure whether an awning or an outdoor blind is the better fit for your space, our recent blog on outdoor blinds vs awnings breaks down the key differences to help you decide.

Commercial folding arm awning with custom branding installed at a Perth cafe

Fabrics, Colours and Customisation

Every Kenlow retractable folding arm awning is custom-made to fit your exact space and specifications. This means you are not limited to standard sizes or off-the-shelf options.

You can choose from a range of fabrics and colours to match your decor. Retractable folding arm awnings can be made with a variety of fabrics; however, acrylic is most commonly chosen for its excellent UV protection, light weight, and long-lasting durability. Kenlow’s acrylic fabrics are specifically engineered to withstand prolonged sun exposure, using a solution-dyed process where the colour is embedded into the fibre core rather than applied to the surface – delivering outstanding fade resistance. Our team can guide you through the options during your free on-site consultation, taking into account the orientation of your property, the amount of exposure the fabric will receive, and your personal style preferences.

For commercial installations, custom colours and signage options are also available, allowing you to advertise your business and showcase your brand while providing shade and comfort for your customers. Our team can also source fabric with high flame retardant (FR) ratings to ensure compliance with commercial requirements.

 

 Retractable folding arm awning in a waterfront alfresco dining area

 

Why Retractable Awnings Make Sense in Perth

Perth’s climate makes shade an essential part of outdoor living, but it is also a city where conditions can change quickly. A still, sunny morning can give way to a strong afternoon sea breeze, and winter brings periods of cool, wet weather where you want as much natural warmth and light as possible.

A retractable awning is perfectly suited to this climate because it adapts to whatever the day brings. Extend it during summer to block harmful UV rays and keep your outdoor area comfortable. Retract it in the cooler months to make the most of the sunshine. If you opt for the motorised version with automatic sensors, the awning responds to changing conditions for you.

There are energy savings too. By shading windows and glass doors during summer, a retractable awning reduces the amount of heat entering your home, which means less reliance on air conditioning. This helps keep your indoor spaces cooler and your outdoor areas comfortable throughout the year.

Caring for Your Retractable Awning

Retractable folding arm awnings are relatively low maintenance, but a few simple habits will help extend their life. Always retract your awning during severe weather or strong winds. If the fabric gets wet, allow it to dry fully before retracting to prevent mould. A gentle clean with mild soapy water and a soft brush once or twice a year will keep the fabric looking fresh. Avoid pressure washers or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric coating.

For motorised awnings with automatic sensors, the system will handle retraction in windy conditions for you. This is one of the key advantages of choosing the motorised option, especially if the awning is in a location where you may not always be nearby to respond to changing weather. If your awning is regularly exposed to the elements, it’s worth knowing how to keep the fabric in top condition. Our guide on caring for your outdoor blinds covers everything you need to know.

Why Choose Kenlow for Your Retractable Awning in Perth?

Kenlow has been manufacturing and installing shade solutions in Western Australia for over 50 years. Locally owned and operated, all of our products are made and manufactured right here in WA. This allows us to offer shading solutions that are built to last and can meet the highest specifications. Our hardware and fabric are both sourced from market-leading European suppliers, designed for Australian conditions and fabricated by our in-house team of seasoned experts.

Kenlow is both a manufacturer and retailer of our products, unlike some retailers who source their products from third party suppliers. This provides our customers with piece of mind and access to industry expertise for any future service and repairs.

Our process starts with a free on-site measure and quote. One of our experienced sales representatives will visit your property, assess the installation site, discuss your requirements, and recommend the best solution for your space and budget. We believe this step is essential because no two properties are the same, and the right awning depends on factors like wall construction, orientation, exposure to wind, and how you use the outdoor area.

With over 50% of our customers being either repeat clients or referrals, we are proud of the reputation we have built across Perth for quality workmanship and reliable service.

Get a Free Measure and Quote

If you are considering a retractable folding arm awning for your Perth home or business, Kenlow can help. Get in touch for a free measure and quote. Our team will guide you through the options and help you find the perfect awning for your outdoor space. Alternatively, you can call us at 1800 536 569 (1800 KENLOW) and we’d be happy to speak with you directly.