& Awnings BUYER’S GUIDE AWARD LEISURE www.awardleisure.com AWNINGS ... YOUR OASIS

A patio is a perfect addition to any home, as it gives you the ability to sit down and relax while enjoying your outdoor space.

However, no patio is really complete without a patio cover to maximize its use.

Awnings enable you to enjoy being outdoors in all weathers, protected from hot sun or a sudden shower of rain.

Awnings are in fact a very cost-effective solution to acquiring more living space — much less expensive than a house extension or a sunroom.

At the same time, they increase the resale value of your home, as they are a type of home improvement that is much in demand by house purchasers. So installing one is a highly affordable project that quickly pays for itself.

Of course, outdoor Awnings do far more than provide shade. They protect your garden furniture from the elements, meaning you can leave it outside most of the time rather than having to keep dragging it inside and then outside again.

With Awnings you can virtually use your patio as an extra room, thus extending your living space.

A patio cover is essentially a roof, and if its supports are attached to the house, as opposed to being freestanding, you may want to choose a style that CREATING MORE complements or matches the exterior of the house. LIVING SPACE FOR Usually the roof shape for your patio cover will be either sloping or flat. Flat roofs are very popular, and can be either solid or lattice. Lattice has the advantage of providing shade from rain, snow and the sun’s heat, LESS MONEY. while still allowing more natural light to enter. You can make it especially attractive by encouraging vines and climbing flowers to grow over it.

2 3 METAL

Metal patio covers also require less maintenance than wood. In fact, they MATERIAL ... may not even require painting, especially if they come with a surface protector, such as Teflon. They also offer a great deal of flexibility and versatility, as they come in so many different styles and textures. THE BEST CHOICE? Metal patio covers made of iron or steel have the virtue of being extremely strong, so they are worth considering if you live in an area that is prone to heavy snowfalls.

A metal cover may even allow you to continue your barbecue during a rainstorm, without having to rush indoors carrying all the food and dishes. Their appearance makes them very good for complementing the exterior of your house.

NATURAL WOOD Metal patio covers may consist of iron, copper or steel, with a zinc coating, but by far the most popular material is aluminium. Wood patio covers are popular, not because they are the cheapest or the most durable, but because they look beautiful and attractive, and are often the best for Aluminium covers are extremely durable and can withstand most blending in with the landscape and with the exterior of the house. In fact, generally types of weather. However, they will not stand up to a heavy no other style of patio covers can compare with wood for style and charm. snowfall, as will other types of metal patio covers.

The big disadvantage of wood patio covers is the amount of care and One downside of aluminium for a patio cover is that many people maintenance required. The wood needs to be stained and sealed on a regular consider that it doesn’t provide a very attractive appearance. basis — preferably every year — and also treated for termite resistance.

It can also develop mould and wood rot if exposed to too much moisture, so is not recommended for damp or humid climates, or for areas near to the sea. FABRIC

Canvas patio covers or awnings, create a colourful focal point for any patio or garden. Canvas shades can be housed in a cassette or fitted as a sail. VINYL/PLASTIC They are extremely versatile and can cover a wide area. Vinyl patio covers are virtually maintenance free, and this is making them increasingly popular with home owners who cannot spare the time and effort that wood requires. The canvas usually includes fibres like polyester or acrylic, to make it more weather-resistant. Canvas patio covers can be operated manually, Vinyl is a highly durable material that won’t warp, rot or decay, and vinyl patio or can be motorised, and operated with a remote control. covers are highly affordable and very easy to install. In fact, they are often available as kits for DIY patio covers, and don’t usually require professional installation. They have the advantage of not needing supporting structures to block the view from the patio. However, they should not be left out during bad weather, as they A further advantage of vinyl patio covers is that you can get them are not strong enough to withstand snow, winds over 8mph, hail or storms. in a simulated wood grain finish. This means you can have the appearance of wood without the maintenance problems.

Vinyl can also be supplied in recycled materials, making this option very environmentally friendly.

4 5 GAZEBOS ... YOUR GARDEN OASIS

Gazebos are a beautiful feature for perfect for both everyday use and social gatherings.

They provide an outdoor escape or can be used to add a privacy or weather cover for a hot tub / swim spa installation or simply as a gathering point in the garden.

There are an array of shapes, sizes, materials, and roof types available.

Different styles are available, from simple frame-and-canopy structures for temporary use - to elaborate, decorative customised structures. When selecting materials to cover your outdoor area, buyers should strike a balance between price range, aesthetics, and durability.

Durability is an important consideration particular is important for outdoor structures in the U.K. as buying a cheaper solution often means replacing it many times over time. Pay particular attention to how secure the roofing materials are, what they are made of and how they are secured to the joists and framework.

Many of the heavier, more substantial gazebo structures do not need foundations or indeed securing to the ground but offer a much more permanent garden feature ideal for family get togethers or a moment alone.

Award Leisure have many choices and options to create the perfect garden escape area including unique roofing options such as thatch or skylight.

MAKE YOUR GARDEN We can help you find the perfect solution to fit your garden, landscape and price range.

INTO THE BIGGEST Our gazebos can offer you long term protection from the UK weather and open ROOM IN YOUR HOME up an entirely new outdoor space for you to use and enjoy with family and friends AND USE IT ALL YEAR all year round for years to come. ROUND.

6 7 5. DO I NEED A BASE? 7. TALK TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS In order for a garden gazebo to Make sure that you talk to your 7 TOP THINGS TO be safe and stable, it has to be set neighbour about your project. up so the weight of the gazebo is evenly distributed across all Most of us don’t want to have the CONSIDER ... of the main support posts. gazebo/awning right up against our own homes and this means that many times The optimum surface is a level lawn, and it’s installed very close to property lines. 1. HOW MUCH WOULD I PAY? the worst surfaces would be damp clay or on an incline. Rocky terrain is suitable This can cause problems with You may prefer to have your patio covers for an outdoor gazebo as long as the neighbours, especially if they feel as if professionally installed, but DIY patio covers supports are independently levelled. you are encroaching on their property. are cheaper, and are easy to do if you are reasonably handy. Most kits are supplied with We are not all blessed with great everything you need for installation, apart 6. WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? neighbours and even if we are it’s from the tools. Suppliers usually also provide One of the best things about having always respectful and also just a nice detailed instructions, and many in addition are a covered garden structure in your gesture to inform them of your plan. very generous with advice and information. garden such as a gazebo, awning or garden pavilion, is that you have Who knows, they may end up a private getaway from the regular spending us much time as you 2. BENEFITS OF COVERING YOUR PATIO household activities and noise. under your new shelter. Here’s to Outdoor areas nowadays are about more than just new friends and good times. strolling in the garden. They are as much a part of You have a place where you can sit living and home design as any room in your house, quietly, read a book, take a nap, have While it’s not necessary by any and require as much attention and creativity. outdoor meals, or even sleep overnight means, just the act of doing so can during the warm summer nights. ease an uptight neighbor’s tensions Awnings are an essential aspect of this The great thing about gazebos is that and save you and your family years creativity, and make your outdoor space an they come in many shapes, sizes, of aggravation and problems. integral part of your social and family life. structures, and forms to fit your needs and to match your style and garden. It’s a simple gesture that can really be worth it! 3. USING YOUR OUTSIDE SPACE What makes a gazebo or pavilion unique is that it is placed away from the house Most of our customers tell us that they want to and it changes how you perceive and extend their entertaining space into the garden enjoy your outdoor space, giving you a so they can enjoy their hot tub, al fresco dining or different focal point and even affecting just chilling at all times of the day and night. how you walk around your garden. In which case we recommend adding integrated lighting and heating to your awning so you can eat out comfortably as much as possible. PRETTY LIGHTING, OUTDOOR 4. ARE YOU READY? Buying a gazebo is a big decision, and takes HEATERS, AL-FRESCO DINING a little thought, but you won’t regret it. You’ll love the stunning array of options available, — CREATES A MAGICAL SPACE. and you’ll delight in the beauty and comfort the gazebo adds to your home, as well as the way it opens up endless possibilities for your life. ALL YOU NEED IS A ROOF OVER

You may also, of course, receive a pleasant YOUR HEAD. surprise when you find out how much value it has added to your property.

8 9 There are many choices of various sizes, materials and prices. Obviously, you’ll get what you DIFFERENT pay for—so plan and choose wisely. The more stable and permanent the structure, the less likely you’ll ever have to replace it. With this in mind, decide how much time you want to spend STYLES ... outdoors and make sure that whatever you are going to put under the cover actually fits!

PERMANENT CASSETTE BASIC GAZEBOS SAILS OPEN AWNINGS AWNINGS AWNINGS

These are available in many Made from aluminium, Retractable awnings provide an Shade sails are one of the A wooden can provide Often the saviour to landscapes shapes and sizes. A great these beautiful structures open air overhead protection few ways of getting weather shade and shelter outdoors. which have been designed with solution for summer parties. can stand alone or be from sun, wind and light rain. protection which can be easily no consideration for cover. Many come with the option attached to your property. taken down if you want to let Wood is affordable, easy to of cloth sides and the frame They have a pitched fabric light into the house at any time. work with and allows for nearly Sunbathe or ensure your BBQ can be in metal or plastic. With options such as lights, roof and can be mounted limitless sizes and shapes. always goes to plan—they louvres that open for sunny to a wall or within a metal Although long lasting and can be aesthetically beautiful They are portable and very days and close when its raining, frame with a maximum durable, sails are expensive Bamboo, reed and plastics with removable roofs and easy to assemble.. Basic heaters and music, they are the span of around 4 metres. and not great at protecting can be added to create make all accessible Gazebos cost between £50 ultimate in outdoor opulence. you from the rain. all around shelter. throughout the seasons. and £1,000 depending on The awning can be opened and the size and stability. They will enable you to use your closed manually or mechanically. They are amazingly Built too close to the house USE - 39 WEEKS OUT OF 52 outdoor space all year round. aesthetically fantastic and they can block views and clash However, remember that they You’ll have to retract these architecturally stunning. with the overall appearance of are not suitable in bad weather.. USE - 52 WEEKS OUT OF 52 awnings in winds over 10 mph. your property and garden. USE - 10 WEEKS OUT OF 52 USE - 4 WEEKS OUT OF 52 USE - 8 WEEKS OUT OF 52 USE - 40 WEEKS OUT OF 52

10 11 SEMI WOODEN FULLY ENCLOSED TRADITIONAL GAZEBOS GAZEBOS/CABINS GAZEBOS

Ideal for hot tubs and They can be any style or The “traditional” gazebo garden rooms where you shape with any designated brings to mind a garden are not overlooked. amount of sides. pavilion with delicate lattice ornaments on the walls - the Be careful that the wood doesn’t These can be a phenomenal classic Victorian gazebo. need treating (cedar wood is way to enjoy your gazebo even best) and the metal will not rust! when the weather outside starts The closed or roofed gazebo to change with the seasons. however is not limited to If you are having a hot tub, a hexagonal floor plan. make sure it fits inside the Choosing one with windows gazebo (and the hot tub will ensure your view is not Modern gazebos can be an cover can be removed). inhibited and and perfect exotic Bali gazebo draped with for all year round use.. sheer fabrics that is very chic USE - 40 WEEKS OUT OF 52 when placed by a poolside USE - 52 WEEKS OUT OF 52 adding a tropical theme.

In addition, closed roof gazebos can also be made of marble or stone and are reminiscent of Greek architecture or a Japanese style gazebo that gives your garden a tranquil Zen atmosphere.

IMAGINE YOUR NEW USE - 40 WEEKS OUT OF 52 OUTDOOR SPACE — TO USE AND ENJOY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS ALL YEAR ROUND FOR YEARS TO COME.

12 13 BUDGETING ... WHY BUY Check out exactly what you will get FINAL THINGS TO for your money and if there’s warranty A GAZEBO on all fixtures and fittings. CONSIDER ... OR AWNING Some products are made more affordable and don’t include floors (ideal for positioning on existing concrete or paved surfaces) FROM AWARD and to keep costs down some don’t come with roofing material (allowing you to LEISURE? finish the building your own way).

Also, many of the more expensive models (made from 70mm timber with double glazed windows) are also available in a similar designs but with thinner (and cheaper) timber and single glazing.

THIS NEEDS CONTENT NOT PLANNING PERMISSIONALREADY ... IN OTHER PAGES If the log cabin will be sited within two metres of the boundary and no higher POWER ... A family-run business established than 2.5m, then the answer is NO. Number of lights and sockets in your log cabin. for over 30 years, that has become Power requirement: i.e. are you having a hot tub? the number one retailer for Otherwise, planning permission must be Distance from the main supply or consumer unit. Gazebos, Hot Tubs, Swim Spas & the starting point for any log cabin search. Whether there are any spare ways within it. Outdoor Leisure Products, in the UK This is because planning constraints dictate Route of the supply cable to your log cabin your choice of cabin both in terms of its size Exit route from your consumer unit in the house to the outside. With five award-winning outlets (height) and location. A word of warning providing an extensive choice here; log cabin sellers are interested in and an impressive display, for selling log cabins. Whether the log cabin is INSULATION ... customers seeking quality suitable for your needs and will comply with You can fit Celotex board between the floor joists. The walls can products and exemplary service. planning regulations is YOUR responsibility. be studded, insulated and panelled. Damp Proof Membrane can be fitted in your base Celotex boards can be fixed between your We cater to all aspects of Before you choose a log cabin check the rafters and Insulation boards can be fixed under the roof tiles customers’ requirements, with planning laws in your area as different rules professional site surveys so the apply for Conservation Areas, National Parks, purchasing journey is easy and Listed Buildings etc.. And before you buy PAINTING ... smooth, as expected with the a log cabin once again make a final check Leave the assembled cabin for at least a week before you paint purchase of any luxury product. that it conforms to planning regulations, not just in general, but in the exact location in or stain it. This will allow all of the sap to dry out. Make sure the the garden where the cabin is to be sited. wood is dry and always choose a good quality product (paint, stain or varnish) to coat the inside and outside of your cabin. 14 15 With the Valkea product range you OUTDOOR can make your outdoor dreams come true. PLEASURE ALL YEAR LONG

Our specially chosen designs for Gazebos, Hot Tub Enclosures and Patio Awnings are sure to provide the perfect solution to your Garden Building or outdoor leisure needs.

Quality is assured with our 5 year guarantee.

16 17