If you’re living in sunny Santa Ana or San Diego, you’ve probably considered retractable awnings for comfortable outdoor shade. But as the seasons change, you might wonder—are retractable awnings suitable for rain protection? The short answer is no. Retractable awnings are designed for shade and sun control, not for withstanding heavy rain or wind. Let’s explore why retractable awnings aren’t recommended for rain and how to best use them to enhance your outdoor space while also prolonging the lifespan of their Sunbrella® fabric.

Why Retractable Awnings Aren’t for Rain Protection

Retractable awnings are crafted for sun and UV protection rather than for redirecting or blocking rain. While Sunbrella® fabric is highly durable, it’s not waterproof. When left extended in the rain, water can pool on the fabric, creating weight and strain on the fabric canopy and awning’s arm structure. This puddling effect can cause the fabric to sag, risking potential tears or even damage to the frame or mounting.

The Problem with Awning Pitching for Rain Runoff

Some may think angling or “pitching” their awning will help rainwater slide off. However, pitching an awning deep enough for runoff can put additional weight on the mounting brackets and even compromise the structure it’s attached to. This added strain can lead to costly repairs down the road, especially if your awning isn’t designed to support rain loads.

Best Uses for Retractable Awnings: Shade and Sun Control

Retractable awnings truly shine as shade solutions. They are ideal for creating comfortable outdoor spaces that stay cool even in direct sunlight. They also help reduce indoor temperatures by blocking UV rays from entering windows, which can lower energy costs, and also provide a level of privacy. For homes in Santa Ana and San Diego, where sunlight is abundant year-round, retractable awnings are an excellent addition for sun control—but not for rain protection or rain redirection. We recommend stationary awnings, to help with protection and redirection of water, in addition to rain gutters and other forms of water protection for your home. Although, keep in mind, Sunbrella® fabric stationary awnings are water repellant and will help redirect the flow of rain, but they are not considered waterproof.

Maintaining Your Retractable Awning for Lasting Quality

To ensure your awning stays in top condition:

• Retract during heavy rain and storms: Keep your awning closed to avoid pooling and weight-related damage.
• Regular cleaning: Dust and dirt can accumulate, so spray down the fabric with a light pressure hose periodically. You can also source fabric cleaning guides for tough stains or blemishes in the fabric.
• Inspect for smooth operation: Regularly check the retraction mechanism to ensure it’s working well and the fabric is properly aligned.

Why Accent Awnings Recommends Against Using Retractable Awnings in the Rain

If your awnings no longer provide adequate sun protection due fabric wear such as frayed edges, fading color, tears or holes in the fabric, and framework rusting, or they now decrease the curb appeal of your home due to fading and deterioration, it’s a clear indication that fabric replacement is necessary. Keeping an eye on how your motorized awnings perform will also help you decide when to replace them, ensuring that your outdoor spaces remain protected, enjoyable and functional.

Trust Accent Awnings for Your Awning Replacement Needs

At Accent Awnings, we prioritize providing the best solutions for sun and shade control. While our retractable awnings are perfect for enjoying shaded outdoor spaces on sunny days, we advise against using them for rain protection. If you’re looking for rain-resistant structures, we recommend exploring alternative outdoor coverings that are specifically designed for all-weather use. At Accent Awnings, transparency is unparalleled and our customer’s needs come first, even if our sun control solutions aren’t the right fit. 

To learn more about how our retractable awnings can enhance your outdoor space for sun protection, shade and privacy, contact us at (800) 332-2866.