ᐅ Sun protection for southwest-facing terrace

Created on: 17 Jan 2023 19:47
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C.beckmann1986
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C.beckmann1986
17 Jan 2023 19:47
Hello everyone,

Since I’ve had so many good experiences here, I just have to ask a question again.
We live in a new build with a southwest-facing terrace measuring 3.3 x 6 m (11 x 20 ft).
Last year, we used a gifted sun umbrella with a diameter of four meters (13 ft) to shade the terrace. Unfortunately, despite its size, the umbrella was always placed “wrong” and I would have had to put it on the lawn to provide shade for the terrace.

Since we currently have two small children, we need something new.

I would prefer a fixed structure with a louvered roof or something similar, but that is unfortunately not really affordable at the moment.

So now we are considering a retractable awning. The problem is that on the south side of the terrace, there is a downspout installed by the builder that extends 60 cm (2 ft) towards the terrace.
We are therefore thinking about an awning sized 5 x 3.5 or 5 x 4 meters (16 x 11 or 16 x 13 ft) with a valance. There is also an electrical connection available. The valance is meant to block the low sun and also to allow the children to play in the shade on the terrace floor.

One of the consultants advised against the valance because it would be very susceptible to wind and constantly swing. He only recommended a deeper awning to block the evening sun. Of course, whether that is enough can only be seen once it’s too late.

What are your experiences with a southwest-facing terrace? Is a retractable awning an adequate sun protection? Or is there perhaps a better solution?
Currently, we have an offer for a fully electric retractable awning with valance, sized 5 x 3.5 m (16 x 11 ft), for about 6,000 euros.

I would really appreciate any tips and suggestions.
i_b_n_a_n17 Jan 2023 19:55
no pictures, no cookies!

No idea why original posters always seem to imagine the situation in their head in 3D with a lot of overthinking. YOU want something, so don’t make it harder for the people who are willing to help you and provide proper pictures promptly. From now on, I’m in favor of no longer answering threads that require pictures but don’t include any. Sorry, but I just had to say this, no hard feelings.
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Benutzer 1001
17 Jan 2023 20:38
Alternative 6x5m (16x13 ft) sunshade sail

Ours is wind-permeable, so it remains stable on top regardless of storm or rain. I install it from May until around September.
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henning181
17 Jan 2023 21:31
Good evening, I bought a 4m x 4m (13ft x 13ft) pergola awning from Sowero in 2021 and paid 3900 euros for it. I know prices have gone up since then, but just have a look around. It’s easy to find by searching online. We are very satisfied with the quality...

Regards
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C.beckmann1986
18 Jan 2023 08:37
Thank you very much for the initial feedback.
I wasn’t aware that photos would be so important in this case, but of course I am happy to provide some.

Gartenterrasse vor weißem Haus mit Glasschiebetüren, Holzdielen und beleuchteten Kugeln.


Moderne weiße Hausfassade mit Glas-Schiebetüren, beige Terrasse, abgedeckter Grill und grünem Rasen.
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hanghaus2023
18 Jan 2023 09:08
The neighbor managed that well with an awning.

I have had a 6 x 4 m (20 x 13 ft) sunshade for 20 years. However, it is now clear that its lifespan has ended. It has withstood all storms so far (April - October). In winter, you need the sun inside the house anyway.