One of the most common questions homeowners ask when they think about buying and installing an awning has got to be, but what size awning do I need? It makes sense. An awning is an investment, and choosing the right size can make all the difference to how much you enjoy your outdoor space.
An awning that’s too small may leave your seating area exposed to the sun, while one that’s too large might dominate your patio or provide shade where you don’t actually need it. The good news is that choosing the right size isn’t as complicated as it might seem.
In this blog we will explore what to consider when deciding what size awning to get for your outdoor space.
It’s not just about the width
When people start looking at awnings, they often focus on how wide they should be.
While width is important, it’s only half the story.
Projection, which is how far the awning extends away from your house, is just as important.
For example, a wide awning with a short projection may shade your doors but leave your outdoor dining table sitting in full sunshine. Likewise, an awning with plenty of projection but not enough width might only cover part of your patio.
Finding the right balance between the two is key.
Think about how you’ll use the space
Before deciding on a size, ask yourself a simple question:
What do you actually want your awning to cover?
For some homeowners, it’s simply a pair of garden chairs for enjoying a morning coffee.
For others, it’s a large dining table where family and friends gather throughout the summer.
Perhaps you’d like to create shade for children playing outside, protect a hot tub from the midday sun, or make your patio comfortable enough to use throughout the afternoon.
The way you plan to use your garden should influence the size of awning you choose.
Consider the direction your garden faces
The position of the sun changes throughout the day, so the orientation of your garden can have a big impact on the amount of shade you’ll need.
South-facing gardens generally receive the most sunshine, especially during the middle of the day. Homeowners with south-facing patios often benefit from a larger projection to create a comfortable shaded area when the sun is at its highest.
West-facing gardens tend to experience strong afternoon and evening sunshine, making them popular for entertaining but also particularly warm during summer. A professional survey will take this into account when recommending the most suitable awning size.
Don’t forget your furniture
It’s surprisingly easy to underestimate how much space your outdoor furniture actually occupies.
Rather than measuring just the table itself, think about how much room people need to comfortably move chairs in and out or walk around the seating area.
If your awning only covers the furniture and not the surrounding space, you may still find yourself sitting in direct sunlight.
Planning for the whole seating area rather than the furniture alone often produces a much better result.
Bigger isn’t always better
Some homeowners assume they should simply install the biggest awning possible.
In reality, that’s not always the best approach.
A well-proportioned awning should complement your home rather than overpower it.
Choosing the right size creates a balanced appearance while ensuring the awning performs exactly as you need it to.
A professional installer will consider your property’s dimensions, the available wall space and the overall look of your home before recommending the most appropriate option.
Every home is different
No two properties are exactly the same.
Patio doors vary in width, brickwork can affect fixing positions, and every family uses their outdoor space differently.
That’s why there’s no single answer to the question, what size awning do I need?
The ideal size for your neighbour’s garden may not be the right choice for yours.
Instead of choosing based on photographs or online measurements, it’s always worth having your property professionally assessed.
Why a home survey matters
During a home survey, your installer won’t simply measure the wall.
They’ll also consider:
- The size of your patio
- The position of doors and windows
- Your outdoor furniture
- The direction your garden faces
- How much shade you’d like throughout the day
- The most suitable projection
- Safe fixing points for installation
This ensures your awning is tailored to both your property and the way you use your garden.
So, what size awning do I need?
If you’re wondering what size awning do I need, the answer depends on far more than simply measuring your patio.
The best awning is one that provides shade exactly where you need it, complements your home and suits the way you enjoy your outdoor space.
A professional home survey takes all of these factors into account, helping you choose an awning that’s perfectly proportioned for your property and ready to provide years of comfortable outdoor living. Get in touch with us and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have!
Frequently Asked Questions
The right size depends on the width of your patio, how far you’d like the awning to project and what area you want to shade. A professional survey will help determine the best option.
In many cases, yes. A slightly wider awning often provides better shade and creates a more balanced appearance, but the ideal size depends on your property’s layout.
The projection should be sufficient to shade the area you actually use, whether that’s a seating area, dining table or outdoor lounge.
Yes. An oversized awning can dominate the appearance of your home and may provide more shade than you need. Choosing the right proportions is just as important as choosing the right width.
The easiest way is to arrange a professional home survey. Accurate measurements and expert advice ensure you choose an awning that’s perfectly suited to your property and lifestyle.
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