Folding Arm Awnings: Open vs Semi-Cassette vs Full Cassette — Complete Australian Guide
Folding arm awnings come in three hardware styles. Open (no cassette) awnings are the most affordable but leave the fabric roll exposed; an optional hood (pelmet) is available. Semi-cassette awnings shield the rolled fabric from above and behind. Full-cassette awnings completely enclose the fabric and arms in an aluminium housing when retracted; they cost the most.
What is a full-cassette awning?
When a full-cassette awning retracts, the fabric roll and the folding arms disappear completely inside an extruded aluminium housing. Dirt, rain and UV cannot reach the fabric, which is why full-cassette awnings keep their colour and coating for decades rather than years. They are typically motorised as standard and suit smart-home integration. Awnly does not currently carry a full-cassette model — the Sirocco Semi Cassette FA48 is the closest in our range.
What is a semi-cassette awning?
A semi-cassette (or hooded) awning covers the rolled fabric from above and behind, leaving the underside open. It captures most of the protective benefit of a full cassette at a lower price, and the slimmer profile suits typical residential facades. This is the most popular choice for Australian family homes.
When is an open awning the right choice?
If your awning mounts under the eaves, under a balcony, or on a south-facing protected wall, the fabric is already shielded — paying for a cassette adds little. Open awnings such as the Sirocco Piccolo (up to 5m wide, from $2,200) are also the lightest option for balconies and small terraces. An optional aluminium pelmet can be added later for extra protection.
How wide can a folding arm awning go?
Single units in our range span up to 6.5 metres wide with projections up to 3.5 metres, depending on model (the Cross Over FA45 is the narrow-opening model, to 4.5 m wide). Wider openings are handled by coupling units side by side. Projection (how far the awning extends) is usually the dimension that determines arm hardware and price.
Should I motorise my folding arm awning?
For any awning wider than about 4 metres, yes — the fabric and arm weight make manual cranking a chore you will avoid, and an awning you retract promptly in wind lasts years longer. Motorised awnings can add wind sensors that retract the awning automatically. Premium models integrate with smart home systems via Alpha RTS or Somfy RTS motors.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the fabric last?
Quality acrylic awning fabric typically gives 10–15 years of service; a cassette meaningfully extends this by protecting the roll when retracted. When fabric does fade, a replacement skin can usually be fitted to your existing frame — contact us for a price.
Can folding arm awnings handle wind?
Folding arm awnings are sun-shading structures, not storm shelters — retract them in strong gusts. European-certified arms tolerate everyday breezes; a wind sensor automates the judgement call.
