The Difference Between Patio Awning Cassettes: A Buyer’s Guide.

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Retractable patio awnings are designed to provide shade and protection from the sun and rain while still allowing you to enjoy the outdoors. With the addition of a retractable awning, you can create a comfortable and stylish outdoor area that can be enjoyed all year round.

Among the various types of awnings available, awning cassettes stand out for their sleek design, durability, and versatility. At Rigby’s, we supply a range of patio awnings  with different cassette options.  We’ve outlined the different types of awning cassettes below, check them out.

What Are Awning Cassettes?

An awning cassette is a protective housing or enclosure that houses the fabric and mechanism of a retractable awning when it is not in use. This design not only keeps the fabric clean and protected when not in use but also adds to the awning’s overall durability and longevity.

Types of Awning Cassettes:

There are several types of awning cassettes available, each offering unique features and benefits to suit different preferences and needs. Here are some of the most common types:

Full Cassette Awnings:

  • Full cassette awnings are characterised by their fully enclosed housing, which completely covers the fabric and mechanism when retracted. This design provides maximum protection against the elements, keeping the awning fabric clean and extending its lifespan. Full cassette awnings are ideal for locations with harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy rain.

Semi-Cassette Awnings:

  • Semi-cassette awnings feature a partially enclosed housing that covers the top portion of the fabric and mechanism when retracted, leaving the bottom exposed. This design offers a balance between protection and aesthetics, providing adequate shelter for the fabric while maintaining a sleek and streamlined appearance. Semi-cassette awnings are suitable for most residential and commercial settings. At Rigby’s our Corsica and Palladio awnings  are both equipped with a semi cassette, so they are therefore the ideal choice for a patio area.

Open Cassette Awnings:

  • Open cassette awnings have a minimalist design, with no housing covering the fabric when retracted. Instead, the fabric rolls up onto a roller tube without any additional protection. While open cassette awnings offer a more budget-friendly option, they may be less durable and prone to dirt and debris accumulation compared to full or semi-cassette models.

Features and options:

In addition to different cassette styles, awning cassettes come with various features and options to enhance their functionality and aesthetics. Here are some key features to consider:

Motorisation: Many awning cassettes can be motorised, allowing for effortless operation with the push of a button. At Rigby’s, all of our awnings come with the option of a motorised cassette, so that you can operate your awning with comfort and ease . Our  awnings can also be programmed to retract automatically in response to changing weather conditions. 

Lighting: Rigby’s Corsica awning can be equipped with integrated LED lighting allowing you to enjoy your awning in the evenings.

Colours : Our awning cassettes are available in 6 different RAL colour options including the following –  

 

Whether you require an awning for a commercial or domestic purpose the RAL Cassette can compliment the exterior of your building.

 

Wind Sensors: Our awnings are available with the additonal option of wind sensors which allow the awning to automatically retract windy conditions,offering added convenience and protection for your outdoor space.

Retractable patio awnings are a versatile and practical solution for adding shade, shelter, and style to outdoor spaces. Whether you opt for a semi-cassette, or open cassette design, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and preferences.

For more information on our extensive range of awnings you can either visit our website at  https://rigbys.com/retractable-garden-patio-awnings/ or contact our showroom on : 0208 868 7899.

 

Embracing the Outdoors: 2024 Trends in Garden & Patio Awnings

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As we step into 2024, the allure of outdoor living continues to grow, with more people seeking to create inviting and functional spaces in their gardens and patios. An essential element of these outdoor sanctuaries is the humble awning, which not only provides shade and protection but also adds style and sophistication to any outdoor setting. This year, the world of garden and patio awnings is witnessing an exciting evolution, with trends that blend innovation, sustainability, and design. Let’s explore some of the latest trends shaping the landscape of outdoor awnings in 2024:

  1. Smart Awnings for Intelligent Outdoor Living:

In an era dominated by smart technology, it’s no surprise that awnings are becoming increasingly intelligent. Smart awnings equipped with sensors and automation features are gaining popularity. These awnings can adjust their position based on weather conditions, automatically retracting during high winds or extending to provide shade when the sun is intense. Integration with smart home systems allows users to control their awnings remotely via smartphone apps enhancing convenience and comfort in outdoor living spaces.

  1. Eco-Friendly Materials and Sustainability:

As environmental consciousness continues to rise, there’s a growing demand for eco-friendly awning materials. Manufacturers are responding by offering awnings made from sustainable and recyclable materials such as recycled aluminium, fabrics, and eco-friendly polymers. Not only do these materials reduce the environmental footprint of awnings, but they also add a natural and rustic charm to outdoor spaces. Additionally, innovations in energy-efficient designs are making awnings more sustainable by reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling indoors.

  1. Versatile and Modular Designs:

Flexibility and adaptability are key considerations for modern outdoor spaces. Garden and patio awnings with modular designs allow users to customise their shading solutions according to their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s creating a cosy alcove for intimate gatherings or extending shade over a larger area for outdoor dining, modular awnings offer versatility without compromising on style. These adaptable designs also make it easier to integrate awnings seamlessly into diverse architectural styles and outdoor layouts.

  1. High-Tech Fabrics and Patterns:

The fabric is a fundamental component of any awning, and advancements in textile technology are revolutionising outdoor shading solutions. High-tech fabrics with enhanced durability, UV protection, and weather resistance are becoming standard in the industry. Moreover, the availability of a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures allows homeowners to express their personal style and complement the aesthetics of their outdoor spaces. From vibrant stripes to subtle textures, awning fabrics are evolving to become statement pieces that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and patios.

  1. Minimalist and Sleek Designs:

In line with contemporary architectural trends favouring clean lines and minimalism, garden and patio awnings are embracing sleek and understated designs. Slim profiles, minimalist frames, and simple mechanisms characterise modern awnings, creating a seamless integration with the surrounding environment. These streamlined designs not only exude elegance but also maximise the feeling of openness and spaciousness in outdoor areas, making them ideal for both residential and commercial settings.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of outdoor living, garden and patio awnings play a vital role in enhancing comfort, style, and functionality. In 2024, the latest trends in awnings reflect a fusion of innovation, sustainability, and design, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s embracing smart technology, prioritising eco-friendly materials, or exploring versatile designs, the world of garden and patio awnings continues to evolve, offering exciting possibilities for creating enchanting outdoor retreats.

For more information on our extensive range of awnings you can either visit our website on https://rigbys.com/retractable-garden-patio-awnings/ or contact our showroom on 0208 868 7899.

What are the new Wood-Burning stove regulations?:

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The government has recently announced in the Environmental Improvement Plan 2023, that it is NOT considering a ban on domestic burning in the UK. This is reassuring news for households that rely on solid fuel burning either as their primary heat source or as a valuable, low-carbon, energy grid-independent, and cost-effective secondary heating source. The government have introduced tougher measures on open fireplaces and old non-compliant woodburning stoves.

In summary, the plan reiterates the importance of using a modern eco-design ready appliance, with a good installation, and good authorised fuel.

Check out our top tips below for choosing the right stove:

1.Choose an Eco-Design Ready stove :  If you currently use an open fire or an older, very basic wood burning stove consider upgrading. A modern Ecodesign compliant wood burning stove, such as a clearSkies model, releases up to 90% less emissions than an open fire and can be up to 80% less than some older stoves

2. DEFRA: If you live in a smoke controlled area your stove will also need to be Defra exempt. All clearSkies Level 3 and above models are certified as Defra exempt.

3.Safety: Ensure your stove if fitted and maintained by an appropriately qualifed person, all our our engineers are HETAS registered.

4.Quality: Ensure you burn good quality wood. Look for the ready to burn logo, and invest in a moisture meter to ensure you are burning the right wood.

5.Maintenance: Have your chimeny swept at least once a year. We provide a chimney sweep service!

For further information please feel free to contact us or if your would like to see our range of wood burning stoves.