Outdoor Blinds vs Awnings for Patios in Plettenberg Bay
Imagine your patio on a breezy Plett evening. Friends gathered, wine poured, conversation flowing. Then the wind picks up. What happens next depends entirely on the choice you make today.
Should I choose outdoor blinds or awnings for my Plett patio?
- Awnings provide shade from above and with wind sensors retract automatically in strong wind
- Outdoor blinds provide side enclosure for wind, rain, and privacy
- Outdoor blinds should be raised in winds above 50 km/h for safety
- The right choice depends on your specific site, exposure, and how you use the space
- Many premium homes combine both: awnings for daytime shade, blinds for evening shelter
- Custom Blinds assesses your specific patio exposure before recommending a system
Need expert advice? Call Duncan on 079 523 5407 for a free patio assessment.
The right choice is not about specifications or price lists. It is about how you want to feel when you step outside. About the moments you want to protect. About living fully in your home, regardless of what the weather decides.
Cooler Afternoons
That intense Plett summer sun filtered to a gentle warmth. The patio becomes usable again, even at midday.
Softer Light
Golden hour extended. The harsh glare gone. Read a book, watch the sunset, actually see your guests’ faces.
Private Mornings
Coffee in peace. The neighbours’ view blocked. Your space feels like your space again.
No More Battling the Elements
Stop chasing cushions. Stop cancelling plans. Stop retreating indoors when the weather turns.
“We used to check the weather every time we planned a braai. Now we just plan the braai.”Outdoor blind owner, Keurboomsrivier
Your Patio is Safe with Us
We have been measuring, manufacturing, and installing outdoor solutions across the Garden Route since 2010. Every system we recommend is one we would install in our own home.
Years on the Garden Route
We understand coastal conditions. The wind, the salt air, the specific challenges of Plettenberg Bay.
Point of Contact
Measure, manufacture, install. All done by our team. No subcontractors, no finger pointing.
Ongoing Support
We remain available long after installation. Questions, adjustments, service calls. We are here.
How It Works
From first consultation to final installation, one team handles everything.
Understanding Each System
Both outdoor blinds and awnings transform patios. But they solve different problems. Knowing what each system does helps you choose the right one for your lifestyle.
Outdoor Blinds
Drop vertically from a headbox mounted at the top of an opening. Enclose the sides of a patio, stoep, or pergola to create a sheltered room.
- Wind blocking with solid PVC or mesh fabric
- Rain protection with zip track guides
- Temperature retention in winter
- Privacy screening from neighbours
- UV reduction from the side
Awnings
Extend horizontally from a wall or fascia, creating shade over an area below. Block direct sun from above, reducing heat and glare.
- Overhead shade, reducing surface temperature
- Glare reduction for comfortable sitting
- UV protection from quality fabrics
- Flexible coverage, extend fully or partially
- Wind sensors available for automatic retraction
In Plett, outdoor blinds extend patio season from “perfect weather only” to “most days of the year.”
Wind Behaviour: The Deciding Factor
Wind is the deciding factor for most Plett patios. Understanding how each system handles coastal conditions will guide your decision.
▐ Outdoor Blinds in Wind
- Vertical orientation provides good wind resistance in moderate conditions
- Zip track systems create a sealed, rattle free edge
- Should be raised in winds above 50 km/h for safety
- Every site is different. Exposure matters
⌂ Awnings in Wind
- Wind sensors available for automatic retraction
- Protects your investment even when you are away
- Somfy automation recommended for coastal properties
- Horizontal position requires careful wind management
Seasonal Recommendations for Plett
Different times of year create different challenges. Here is what works best for each scenario.
Summer Midday
High sun, intense heat, maximum UV exposure
Awnings excelSummer Evening
Lower sun, SE wind picks up, guests arriving
Blinds essentialWinter Day
Lower sun angle, variable wind, cooler air
Blinds for warmthWinter Evening
Cold air, potential rain, need for enclosure
Blinds requiredCommon Mistakes Homeowners Make
Avoid these errors and you will be happy with your decision for years.
Choosing awnings for a wind exposed patio
If wind is your main issue, an awning spends most of its time retracted. We can assess your exposure.
Overlooking morning or afternoon sun angles
Low sun enters from the side, not above. The right solution depends on your patio orientation.
Ignoring winter usage
If you want year round use, enclosure matters more than shade. Talk to us about your priorities.
Using standard materials in coastal conditions
Salt air degrades generic components quickly. We specify marine grade for the Garden Route.
The Hybrid Approach: Both Systems Together
Many premium Plett homes install both outdoor blinds and awnings. The combination creates complete climate control, but configuration depends on your specific space.
Summer Days
- Shade from above when the sun is high
- Shelter from the side when wind arrives
Winter Days
- Let the sun warm the space
- Block cold wind and retain heat
Year Round
- Adapt to any condition
- We design the optimal setup for you
A Sound Investment
Quality outdoor solutions deliver tangible returns. The specifics depend on your system and usage.
Long Lifespan
Marine grade materials outlast standard options significantly.
Energy Savings
Reduced cooling and heating costs. We can discuss estimates.
Property Value
Usable outdoor space matters to Plett buyers.
Fewer Replacements
Quality upfront avoids repeated costs down the line.
Summary: Outdoor Blinds vs Awnings for Plettenberg Bay Patios
- Outdoor blinds enclose sides for wind and rain protection but should be raised in winds above 50 km/h. Awnings shade from above and with wind sensors retract automatically
- The right choice depends on your specific site conditions, exposure, and how you use the space
- Many premium homes combine both systems for complete climate control across all seasons
- Every property is different. Correct specification requires site assessment by an experienced installer
- Custom Blinds has installed outdoor solutions across the Garden Route since 2010. Call Duncan on 079 523 5407 for a free site assessment
Which system suits your patio? Contact Custom Blinds on 079 523 5407 for a free assessment with specific recommendations for your home.
Why Local Expertise Matters
Generic solutions fail in specific conditions. Plett has unique challenges that require local knowledge.
Wind Patterns
Each property has unique exposure. We assess yours specifically.
Coastal Conditions
Salt air requires specific materials. We specify accordingly.
Temperature Range
Systems must handle Plett’s full climate. We know what works.
Usage Patterns
Holiday homes need robust, simple systems. We can advise.
From George to Plett, we know these conditions.
Ready to Transform Your Patio?
Book a free assessment with Duncan. We will measure your space, understand your lifestyle, and recommend the right solution for your specific site.
Or WhatsApp us with photos of your patio for a quick response.
