Custom Blinds®: Premium Awnings for Garden Route & South African Homes
Elevate your patio, deck, or balcony with awnings designed to handle the Garden Route’s unique climate—from Knysna’s lagoon mist and George’s afternoon sun to Plettenberg Bay’s coastal winds and Buffalo Bay’s salt spray. Every awning is crafted for comfort, durability, and curb appeal in South Africa’s toughest coastal conditions.
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Retractable ·
Louvred ·
Patio Shade ·
Canvas & Wedge
Belvidere, Knysna
Retractable Folding-Arm Awnings
Shade when you want it. Gone when you don’t.
Folding-arm awnings extend up to 4 metres from your wall with no posts or rails blocking your view. When the weather turns, they retract flush against the fascia in under a minute—manually or with Somfy automation.
We’ve installed these across Knysna, George, Sedgefield, and Plett beachfront—properties where afternoon sun hits hard but evening entertainment needs clear sightlines. February 2026 installations already lined up in Brenton, Simola, and Wilderness.
Why ours work on the Garden Route:
- Dicktex and Para fabrics rated for UV and coastal humidity
- Wind sensors available—awning retracts automatically in gusts
- Powder-coated arms resist salt corrosion
- Full structural assessment before we quote
Professional installers. Full insurance coverage.
Simola Golf Estate
Louvred Aluminium Awnings
Control the light without losing the sky.
Aluminium louvres that tilt, close for rain, and open for breeze. No fabric to replace. No motors to fail in five years. Just engineering that works in Garden Route conditions.
We’ve installed louvred systems across Simola, Pezula, and Plett beachfront—properties where northern berg winds and salt air destroy cheaper solutions. February 2026 installations already lined up in Brenton, Plett, Sedgefield and Simola.
What makes ours different:
- Powder-coated aluminium rated for coastal corrosion
- Integrated drainage—rain runs off, not in
- Manual or motorised with Somfy automation
- Full structural assessment before we quote
Professional installers. Full insurance coverage.
Thesen Island, Knysna
Retractable Patio Shade Awnings
Full coverage that slides away when you want stars.
Patio shade awnings run on tracks mounted to your pergola or structure—giving you complete coverage that retracts smoothly when the evening cools or you want an open sky. Ideal for braai areas, pool decks, and entertainment spaces.
Garden Route installations from Wilderness to Keurbooms—homes where the afternoon sun makes outdoor living impossible without proper shade, but the views are too good to block permanently.
Built for local conditions:
- Heavy-duty tracks handle coastal wind loads
- UV-resistant fabrics that won’t fade or crack
- Manual or motorised operation
- Custom-sized to your existing structure
Professional installers. Full insurance coverage.
Bosun’s Restaurant, Knysna
Canvas & Wedge Awnings
Classic shade. Permanent solution.
Fixed canvas awnings and wedge designs that provide constant shade without moving parts. The traditional choice for stoeps, windows, and commercial frontages—proven designs that have worked on South African buildings for decades.
We fabricate locally using marine-grade canvas and galvanised frames. Installations across the Garden Route from shopfronts to residential verandas.
Why canvas still makes sense:
- No mechanisms to fail—simple, reliable, permanent
- Canvas replaceable without new frame
- Custom colours and branding available
- Cost-effective shade for large areas
Professional installers. Full insurance coverage.
Why Choose Custom Blinds® Shutters &. Awnings for the Garden Route?
- Coastal-Grade Protection: Marine-grade fabrics and rust-resistant aluminium designed for salt air exposure in Buffalo Bay, UV intensity in George, wind loading in Plettenberg Bay, and the unique Garden Route climate challenges.
- All-Weather Durability: Shade from intense summer sun, shelter from coastal rain, and wind-rated systems proven across George, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay installations.
- Built to Last: UV-stabilized fabrics, powder-coated frames, and stainless steel components that resist coastal corrosion in even the harshest beachfront conditions.
- Designed Your Way: Custom colours, finishes, and profiles to complement Knysna timber homes, George suburban properties, modern Plett architecture, or Buffalo Bay coastal cottages.
- Perfect Fit: Tailored to your exact measurements—from compact George apartment balconies to expansive Plettenberg Bay restaurant patios.
- Smart or Manual Control: Hand-crank, motorised, or fully automated with wind sensors that respond to Garden Route’s unpredictable afternoon gusts.
Awnings Designed for Garden Route Conditions
From George to Plettenberg Bay, the Garden Route presents unique challenges for outdoor awnings. Custom Blinds® specifies materials and systems proven to perform in coastal environments across Knysna, George, Plett, and Buffalo Bay:
| Challenge | Where You’ll Find It | Our Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Salt Air Corrosion | Buffalo Bay, Brenton-on-Sea, Plett beachfront, Leisure Isle | Marine-grade aluminium frames, stainless steel hardware, powder-coated finishes |
| Intense UV Exposure | George, Wilderness, Plett hilltop properties | Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics with 98%+ UV protection, fade-resistant coatings |
| Afternoon Wind | Plettenberg Bay, Buffalo Bay, exposed Knysna properties | Wind-rated retractable systems, secure fixed awnings, optional wind sensors |
| High Humidity | Knysna forests, lagoon-side properties, George valleys | Mould-resistant fabrics, breathable materials, quick-dry canvas options |
| Coastal Rain | All Garden Route areas, especially winter months | Waterproof PVC options, proper pitch design, drainage considerations |
Explore Our Complete Range of Awnings
Each awning type is pictured and featured below with real installations from George to Plettenberg Bay. Click through to see detailed specifications, pricing, and photo galleries:
| Awning Type | Best For | Key Features | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retractable Folding-Arm Awnings | Patios, decks, balconies in George, Knysna, Plett | Extends & retracts, motorised options, wind sensors, adjustable pitch | View Details → |
| Retractable Patio Shade Awnings | Large patios, outdoor dining areas, Plett restaurants | Wide spans, custom fabrics, remote control, UV protection 98%+ | View Details → |
| Aluminium Louvred Awnings | Modern homes, George commercial facades | Adjustable louvres, rain protection, ventilation control, powder-coated finish | View Details → |
| Wedge Awnings | Windows, small balconies, George & Plett storefronts | Fixed frame, classic profile, UV-resistant canvas, branding options | View Details → |
| Canvas Awnings | Traditional homes, Buffalo Bay coastal cottages, Knysna properties | Natural aesthetic, breathable fabric, custom colours, timber or aluminium frames | View Details → |
| Outdoor Weather Blinds | Patios, verandas, pergolas across Garden Route | Clear PVC or mesh, ziptrak systems, wind-rated, side channels for stability | View Details → |
Automation & Smart Controls
Add motorised control with Somfy motors, weather sensors, and smartphone app operation. Compatible with leading smart-home systems for hands-free comfort. Wind sensors automatically retract awnings in strong Plettenberg Bay or Buffalo Bay gusts, protecting your investment. Read more about automation benefits.
Expert Garden Route Service & Installation
From site survey to final installation, our Knysna-based team serves the entire Garden Route with daily service to George, Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Buffalo Bay, Brenton-on-Sea, and Mossel Bay. We measure, advise on coastal considerations specific to your location, and install with proper wind-loading calculations for your area. Every project is backed by reliable warranties and aftercare.
Ready to transform your outdoor space in George, Knysna, or Plett? WhatsApp us for a free consultation or shop online for competitive pricing with free nationwide delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions: Awnings in the Garden Route
What’s the difference between retractable and fixed awnings?
Retractable awnings extend and retract for flexible coverage—ideal for capturing winter sun in George while providing summer shade in Plettenberg Bay. Fixed awnings like wedge awnings stay in place for permanent shelter and are better suited to high-wind coastal areas like Buffalo Bay and exposed Plett properties.
Which awning materials suit Garden Route coastal areas?
Marine-grade aluminium frames and solution-dyed acrylic fabrics resist rust, UV damage, and salt air corrosion. These materials are essential for Knysna lagoon properties, Buffalo Bay beachfront homes, Plettenberg Bay coastal installations, and any Garden Route property exposed to salt spray. Read our guide on what lasts at the coast.
Can I automate my awning with wind sensors?
Yes. We install Somfy motorized systems with wind sensors that automatically retract your awning during strong afternoon winds common in Plettenberg Bay, Buffalo Bay, and exposed George properties, protecting the fabric and frame. Integration with smart-home apps available. Learn more about blind automation in the Garden Route.
Will an awning lower indoor heat in summer?
Absolutely. Awnings block direct sunlight before it reaches windows and glass doors, keeping interiors significantly cooler during hot George and Plettenberg Bay summers and reducing air conditioning costs. Louvred awnings offer additional ventilation control for Garden Route humidity.
Do you offer custom sizes and colours for Garden Route homes?
Yes. Every awning is made to measure with a wide range of fabric colours and frame finishes. We match architectural styles from Knysna’s timber cottages and George’s suburban homes to Plett’s contemporary beach houses and Buffalo Bay’s coastal properties. See our complete awnings range.
How do I maintain an awning in coastal conditions?
For Buffalo Bay, Plett, and other coastal locations: clean monthly with mild soap and water to remove salt deposits. Check moving parts and mounting hardware annually. Retract during extreme weather. Motorized models with wind sensors require minimal manual intervention. Read our cleaning guide.
Do professional awnings add property value?
Quality awnings enhance outdoor living spaces, reduce energy costs, and improve curb appeal—all factors that increase property value, especially in Garden Route lifestyle properties in Knysna, George, and Plettenberg Bay where outdoor entertaining is essential to the coastal lifestyle.
Do you service areas beyond Knysna?
Yes. We provide daily service throughout the Garden Route including George, Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Buffalo Bay, Brenton-on-Sea, and Mossel Bay. Free consultations and on-site measurements available across all areas.
What’s the best awning for restaurants and commercial use?
For restaurants and commercial properties in George, Knysna, or Plettenberg Bay, we recommend motorized retractable awnings with weather sensors, or fixed louvred awnings for durability and low maintenance. Both options can accommodate branding and signage.
Can awnings be used with outdoor weather blinds?
Yes. Many Garden Route customers in George, Knysna, and Plett combine outdoor weather blinds with awnings for complete patio enclosure—awnings provide overhead shade while weather blinds protect sides from wind and rain. Read about outdoor blinds for outdoor dining.
Are your awnings suitable for extreme weather like Buffalo Bay winds?
Yes. Our wind-rated systems are specifically designed for exposed coastal locations like Buffalo Bay and Plettenberg Bay. We calculate wind loading based on your specific location and install with reinforced mounting systems. Motorized options with wind sensors automatically retract during dangerous gusts.
Is Custom Blinds the same as Blind Guys or other franchise operations?
No. Custom Blinds® is an independent, family-owned manufacturer and installer based in Knysna since 2010. We are NOT affiliated with Blind Guys, Blinds 4 Less, or any other franchise operation. Our independence allows us to offer competitive pricing, custom solutions, cross-brand repairs, and personalized service that franchises cannot match. Read more about Custom Blinds.
Expert Insights: Awnings & Outdoor Living in the Garden Route
- Awnings Garden Route – Complete guide for George, Knysna, and Plett
- Benefits of Louvre Awnings in South African Climate – Climate-specific advice
- Top Retractable Awnings Comparison – Compare your options
- Outdoor Blinds for Outdoor Dining – Perfect for Garden Route lifestyle
- Outdoor Living: Make Home Feel Bigger – Design inspiration
- What Will Last at the Coast – Material durability for Buffalo Bay & Plett
- Retractable Awnings South Africa – Comprehensive overview
Serving George, Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Buffalo Bay, and the entire Garden Route.
Technical Documentation
Awning Engineering Case Study
Northern wind events off the Outeniquas, why we specify Somfy automation as standard, and the structural policies that protect your investment in extreme Garden Route conditions.
Field notes from Simola, Pezula and coastal installations
Wedge Awnings
Wedge awnings create clean, fixed cover over doors or windows. They offer reliable shade and shelter from the rain.
Aluminium Louvred Awnings
Aluminium louvred awnings have louvre panels that can be opened and closed to suit all types of weather, giving you extended outdoor living all year round.
Retractable Patio Shade Awnings
Shade awnings are suspended on trolleys which run on tracks attached to the beams of a Pergola which folds away neatly.
Retractable Folding Arm Awnings
Folding arm awnings serve to extend your living space. They enhance the exterior of your home.
Indoor Blinds
With a wide range of leading designer styles to choose from we can assist you in framing your windows in style by adding texture and colour to your design scheme.
Outdoor Weather blinds
Looking to enhance your home with an outdoor ‘space’ or to protect it from the harsh South African weather, then we have the perfect outdoor product range for you. All custom made to fit, look impressive, and add value to your home. Entertaining outside has never been more comfortable or stylish.
Awnings: From Wedge, Fall Arm, Retractable through to Louvred
Designed specifically for the South African love of entertaining outdoors. We have a great choice for areas such as pergolas, verandas and balconies as our products provide privacy and protection from the sun, wind and rain. Whatever the weather you can alfresco all year round.
Shutters
Transform your home lifestyle with stylish, versatile and affordable Shutters providing complete flexibility with light control, privacy and insulation in mind.
Shade Port & Sails
Our Shade Ports & Sails are designed to protect your vehicles, boats and caravans from direct sunlight rain and even hail. We have solutions that are not only practical, but also look stylish enhancing your property, whilst protecting your vehicle assets.
Safety Bars
We provide a range of aesthetic security barriers to keep intruders as well as wild animals out of your home or business.
