how to measure AWNINGS

MIY Outdoor provides step-by-step guidance on how to install outdoor blinds and awnings with confidence.
Our DIY installation resources are designed to help you achieve a professional finish while ensuring your outdoor shading system performs at its best.

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a smooth, successful awning installation.

Spending a little extra time measuring carefully will help ensure proper coverage, clean alignment, and a seamless fit - avoiding unnecessary adjustments later.

Before recording your final measurements, take a moment to review the key considerations below. These notes will guide you through placement, projection requirements, and mounting surface suitability so you can measure with confidence.

When you’re ready to begin, make sure you have:

  • A metal tape measure for precise measurements
  • A pencil and notepad to record your dimensions
  • A sturdy ladder for safe access to mounting points
  • A level to check alignment where required

Always measure twice to confirm accuracy, and note all dimensions in millimetres.

With everything prepared, you’re ready to get started.

Things to consider before starting...

Is my mounting surface strong enough to support an awning?

Awnings must be installed onto a structurally sound surface such as solid timber, brick, or concrete. They cannot be mounted directly onto eaves, gutters, or unsupported cladding. If you’re unsure about the strength of your surface, we recommend consulting a professional before proceeding.

Do I have enough clearance for projection and operation?

Consider how far the awning will extend when fully open and ensure there are no obstacles such as downpipes, light fittings, or railings in the way. Also check there is sufficient head height to allow comfortable movement underneath.

Where should I position the awning for the best coverage?

Think about sun direction, prevailing winds, and the area you want shaded. Mounting height and width should provide adequate coverage while maintaining proper alignment with doors, windows, or outdoor entertaining spaces.

Have I checked access to power (for motorised awnings)?

If installing a motorised awning, confirm there is a suitable power source nearby. Planning this in advance avoids unnecessary cabling or repositioning after installation.

How to Care for your Awnings

Proper care extends the life of your blinds and awnings and ensures warranty coverage.

  • Brush off loose dirt regularly.
    Clean fabric with mild soap solution and a soft brush, then rinse.

  • Do not use bleach, solvents, or harsh detergents.

  • Lubricate moving joints annually with silicone spray.

  • Check brackets, bolts, and wall fixings annually.

  • Retract awning during rain, storms, or strong winds.

General Tips:

  • Do not leave products extended for long periods when not in use, for example holidays.
  • Never hang items from blinds or awnings.
  • In coastal areas, rinse with fresh water monthly to prevent salt corrosion.

Folding Arm Awnings:

  • 1-year warranty on structure.
  • 5 years on Somfy motor, fabric, and cassette.

To activate your warranty, you must register your product:

  • Install the product correctly.
  • Complete and sign the Warranty Registration Form.
  • Take photos of all main brackets, mounting points, and fixings.
  • Complete the Warranty Registration Form

Warranty Disclaimer

Outdoor blinds and folding arm awnings are designed to provide shade and comfort, but their wind resistance varies depending on size, projection, mounting height, and the environment, for example coastal, exposed, or sheltered areas.

As a general rule, larger blinds and awnings handle less wind than smaller units. The greater the fabric span or projection, the lower the safe wind tolerance.

To protect your investment and ensure warranty coverage:

  • Always retract blinds and awnings during storms, strong winds, or when away from home.
  • Products should not be left extended in wind conditions that cause visible strain, for example fabric pulling, frames flexing, or rattling.
  • Each installation is unique. It is the client’s responsibility to assess local conditions and retract products before damage can occur. MIY Outdoor accepts no responsibility for damage caused by wind exposure beyond reasonable conditions for the size and environment of the product.

We stand by the quality of our products.

If you believe your product is faulty, submit a Warranty Claim via our website.

The product or component must be shipped back at your cost.

If a defect is confirmed, MIY Outdoor will repair, replace, or refund and reimburse your freight costs.

If no defect is found, freight costs remain your responsibility.

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How Ordering Works

Measure

Use our checklists and “how to measure” guides to get every millimetre right.

Customise

Choose outdoor blinds or awnings, pick your style, fabric, colour and any extras for us to build just for you.

Install

Follow the step-by-step guides and videos. If anything looks off, send us a photo and we’ll help you sort it.

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