With a high-quality clamp awning, you can easily and reliably protect yourself from intense sunlight on your balcony or patio. But what distinguishes a high-quality clamp-on awning and what exactly should you look out for when buying one? We answer these and some other essential questions in our comprehensive guide.

A clamp awning can be easily attached without drilling

Table of Contents

Show all
  1. Types of clamp awnings
  2. Other purchase criteria
  3. What brands are there?
  4. How do I maintain a clamp awning?
  5. What accessories do I need?
  6. frequently asked Questions

    7. Types of clamp awnings

    our recommendation
    Angerer 2302/200 clamp awning Dralon No. 200, orange, 300 cm
    124.64 EUR To the product

    Clamp awnings are primarily intended for installation on balconies and terraces. The structure is always more or less the same: There are tension rods on the side - these hold and carry both the awning fabric and the roll from which you "crank" the fabric out. Apropos: To extend the awning, you always use a crank, which is part of the scope of delivery.

    There are also various clamp awnings for the window and the window sill. Mounted on the window, the awning ensures that less light and heat enters. As a result, the room does not heat up as much in the hot season, which in turn promotes a much more pleasant climate in the room (an aspect that should not be underestimated in times of climate change).

    You can now enjoy a huge selection of clamp awnings. Thanks to the gigantic range of designs and sizes, everyone has the opportunity to find a suitable awning for their own needs. The real challenge is to track down "the one". To make this quicker and easier for you, we will first introduce you to the different types of clamp awnings.

    To differentiate are:

    • Drop-arm awning versus vertical awning
    • Awning fabric: polyester versus acrylic
    • Hand crank models versus electric drive versions

    In the following, we will take a closer look at all the variants mentioned by subjecting the “pairs of opposites” to a direct comparison.

    Comparison of drop-arm awnings and vertical awnings

    Depending on the purpose or location for which you need a new clamp awning (€78.69), either a drop arm or a vertical awning makes more sense.

    Drop-arm awning tested

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    Angerer clamp awning style granite, 150 x 300 x 225 cm, 2302/005, grey
    144.50 EUR To the product

    Most clamp awnings are designed as drop-arm awnings. With these models, the awning fabric is exposed to the front on the facade. The flexible drop angle allows you to adjust the size of the shadow as needed. Furthermore, you can determine how much view to the outside should be given.

    Drop-arm awnings are ideal for small balconies/patios and windows. They often also look good and give the outdoor area a Mediterranean flair.

    Vertical awning in the test

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    Anger balcony privacy screen uni orange PE, 150 cm wide, 2319/1005
    95.59 EUR To the product

    Vertical awnings do without the projection angle. Instead, they are perfectly vertical, meaning they flow straight from top to bottom. These designs are considered a special form of the awning in general and the clamp awning in particular.

    The biggest advantage of a vertical awning (also called vertical awning) is that it effectively absorbs solar radiation and thus contributes to a constantly moderate temperature in the interior. Like an ordinary roller shutter, it is mounted above the window.

    tips

    If you are looking for sun and privacy protection for large window fronts and want a mixture of drop-arm and vertical awnings, the best thing to do is to take a look at so-called clamp markisolettes. With such a markisolette, the upper part moves vertically downwards; the lower part, on the other hand, is set up by a corresponding arm technique and allows the angle to be adjusted flexibly. Thus, this awning section runs diagonally forward like a drop-arm awning. Clamping markisolettes are surprisingly inexpensive solutions for effectively regulating daylight and shade.

    Awning fabric: Polyester and acrylic in comparison

    Acrylic is more durable than polyester but expensive and hard to find

    The material of the awning fabric is one of the most important criteria when it comes to buying a clamp awning. In fact, the texture of the fabric has a major impact on the functionality and durability of the entire awning. The fabric is usually made of polyester or acrylic.

    In principle, there are also PVC awning fabrics. However, since these primarily refine fixed awnings and are only rarely found with clamp awnings, they do not play a major role for us. But we still wanted to mention them.

    tips

    Ideally, the awning fabric has a PU coating (PU = polyurethane). This makes the fabric - regardless of its exact material - water-repellent or even waterproof and elastic(er). Due to the properties of the base material, some awning covers are inherently water-repellent and, moreover, resistant to dirt and UV light. If you see information such as "spun-dyed fabric" in product descriptions, you can be sure that you have found a hard-wearing example (mostly polyacrylic awning fabrics).

    Polyester awning fabric tested

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    Awning fabrics Tent fabrics Sun protection Awning fabric Awning cover Substitute fabrics Various colors including valance ready-sewn (4x3m, SPD016)
    139.99 EUR To the product

    Polyester awning covers are very light. In addition, they are characterized by their high elasticity, which in turn promotes good rollability. At the same time, polyester models are absolutely convincing when it comes to tear resistance.

    The only disadvantage is that polyester awning fabrics are not UV-resistant without a special coating.

    advantages: light, elastic, easy to roll up, very tear-resistant, inexpensive

    Disadvantages: not UV-resistant (extra coating required)

    Acrylic awning fabric tested

    Unlike polyester awning fabrics, the acrylic versions are inherently UV resistant, so they don't necessarily need an additional coating to be suitable for outdoor use and durable. In addition, acrylic awning covers impress with their color fastness.

    There are no functional disadvantages. Of course, acrylic awning covers are more expensive than polyester models.

    advantages: UV-resistant, suitable for outdoor use, durable, colour-fast

    cons: more expensive

    A comparison of models with a hand crank and versions with an electric drive

    As far as the operation of the clamp awning is concerned, there are two variants to choose from: the classic solution with a hand crank and the modern version with an electric drive.

    Clamp awning with hand crank

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    Outsunny awning clamp awning sun protection folding arm hand crank balcony aluminum blue 300 x 150 cm
    EUR 89.90 To the product

    Your strength is required for a clamp awning with a traditional hand crank. By moving your hand, you extend the awning fabric to the desired position.

    advantages: classic-traditional, more elegant, cheaper

    Disadvantages: higher effort required

    Clamp awning with electric drive

    If the clamp awning has an electric drive, your own physical strength is more or less superfluous. All you have to do is press a button or something similar - the awning (or the motor) does the rest on its own.

    advantages: easier to use, less effort, sometimes programmable

    cons: more expensive, electricity required, less aesthetic

    Other purchase criteria

    If you are planning to buy a clamp awning for your balcony, terrace, window or window sill, you should also consider a few other criteria in addition to the types described above in your individual test and comparison of several awnings in order to choose the best model for your needs detect:

    • size
    • fabric thickness
    • frame
    • weather resistance
    • adjustability
    • handling
    • design
    • scope of delivery

    In the next paragraphs we explain what needs to be considered in relation to these points.

    size

    Clamp awnings for the balcony, terrace, window, window sill or sloping roof are available in different sizes. Important dimensions are

    • the depth,
    • the width and
    • the installation height.

    Normally, the depth of a clamp awning is 120 to a maximum of 150 centimeters.

    The width offers far more leeway. Clamp awnings can

    • 150cm,
    • 200cm,
    • 250cm,
    • 300cm,
    • 350 cm or even
    • 400 cm

    be wide. The steps are usually in 50 centimeter steps. Thanks to the very large range of widths, there are still suitable clamp awnings available to you even if your balcony, terrace or window takes up two, three or four metres.

    tips

    Be sure to measure the required width before ordering a clamp awning. Some manufacturers also offer the option of making a custom-made awning for you.

    Like the width, the installation height also varies from terrace to terrace or balcony to balcony. Usually it is between 200 and 300 centimeters. It is best if the height can be adjusted by up to one meter.

    If you need a special height for your sun and privacy protection, there are ways to have a custom-made clamp awning built for you.

    fabric thickness

    our recommendation
    Angerer clamp awning style granite 400 cm, 2304/005
    158.86 EUR To the product

    The good news is: All clamp-on awnings guarantee a certain degree of privacy and sun protection - whether small models for the windowsill or large versions for balconies and terraces.

    But: The more opaque and light-proof the clamp awning should be, the more weight should be attached to the fabric thickness of the awning fabric.

    The covers of clamp awnings are generally between 180 and 300 grams per square meter thick. The rule is that thicker fabric is more robust and lets less light and heat through. A stronger model is also often better at keeping out moisture.

    frame

    Basically, the frame of the clamp awning should be stable. On a smaller, sheltered balcony, an aluminum base will usually suffice. The material is particularly popular because of its light weight.

    If the clamp awning is exposed to all weather conditions, including strong winds and storms, the frame must be made of a heavier material. In this context, powder-coated steel has proven particularly useful.

    weather resistance

    The entire clamp awning should have a high level of weather resistance - after all, it is only used outdoors and is confronted with a wide variety of influences there - whether with intense sun, pounding rain or gusts of wind.

    When buying a clamp awning, make sure that all components from the awning fabric to the frame and the additional elements are weatherproof. The materials are decisive.

    adjustability

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    EUR 99.90 To the product

    It is essential that the telescopic rods (i.e. the tie rods) are height-adjustable in order to be able to individually adjust the installation height to the conditions on the balcony or terrace.

    Furthermore, with drop-arm awnings, the angle of inclination should be continuously adaptable to the respective needs (the position of the sun). Some versions allow an inclination of up to 180 degrees.

    handling

    Of course, easy handling of the clamp awning is desired. Electric drive models are obviously more convenient to use, as they only require the push of a button (or similar) while a hand crank requires extensive manual operation to move the awning fabric to the targeted position.

    tips

    If you still want to buy a clamp awning with a hand crank, you should definitely make sure that you choose a model with a high-quality, smooth-running crank. You don't have to make the act of cranking unnecessarily difficult. It is also advisable to check the length or height of the crank, especially if the clamp awning is to be attached relatively high up.

    A not insignificant aspect, which also has to do with handling, is the installation. In the ideal case, the clamp awning can be set up alone. Just check the manufacturer's installation instructions when comparing awnings.

    design

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    119.00 EUR To the product

    Although a clamp awning is primarily functional, the visual component also plays an important role. The selected version should match the terrace or balcony furnishings, i.e. pick up on the style and reflect it as far as possible.

    Fortunately, clamp awnings come in many different colors to choose from. Models in anthracite or another gray are particularly popular. Awnings in beige also appear very elegant and Mediterranean. If you are looking for striking and cheerful shades of yellow, green or blue, you will also find what you are looking for from some manufacturers.

    scope of delivery

    The larger the scope of delivery, the better it is. But when in doubt, you should always prioritize quality over quantity. So it is better to have one less accessory than many unnecessary or inferiorly processed elements.

    As an example, we list the typical scope of delivery of a drop-arm awning for clamping with a classic hand crank:

    • Cloth roll with roller tube, awning cloth and drop profile
    • Tension support with drop arms, gear and wind lock
    • hand crank
    • Mounting hardware and accessories (such as screws, nuts and brackets)
    • Instructions on how to assemble the clamp awning (you may not have to assemble your awning at all, but "only" mount it at the desired location)

    Basically, we recommend looking through various sites with advice or customer reviews before you buy, in order to ultimately purchase a high-quality clamp awning that is also convincing in practice.

    What brands are there?

    our recommendation
    Angerer clamp awning style anthracite, 150 x 300 x 225 cm, 2302/262, grey
    143.21 EUR To the product

    Many companies now manufacture robust clamp awnings. Trusted brands include:

    • angry
    • FLORABEST (Lidl brand)
    • POCO
    • paramondo
    • spettman
    • vidaXL

    The best way to buy a clamp awning is to go to an offline or online hardware store. Alternatively, you will also find what you are looking for in classic furniture stores and sometimes even in discounters. You can often get away very cheaply there. Potential contact points for clamp awnings at a glance:

    • BAUHAUS
    • HORNBACH
    • OBI
    • hagebaumarkt
    • toom
    • Danish bed camp
    • Amazon
    • Lidl
    • ALDI

    How do I maintain a clamp awning?

    Even if clamp awnings are undoubtedly one of the cheaper representatives within the large awning family, you certainly want to be able to enjoy your chosen model for as long as possible. To ensure that the clamp awning stays in good condition for many years, it is important to clean it regularly. We cannot provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed here, as different methods or agents are recommended depending on the substance. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions in the instructions for use for your model.

    But one thing applies in general: Do not use any cleaning agents that could damage the protective layer (e.g. the UV protection) of your clamp awning. Otherwise you risk the awning losing its functionality.

    tips

    As a rule, the awning fabric can be washed in the washing machine at low temperatures (maximum 30 to 40 degrees). Buying a clamp awning with a self-cleaning effect is also a good solution.

    Even if the clamp awning you have selected is described as water-repellent, waterproof or generally weatherproof, we clearly advise you to always retract it in wet or stormy conditions so that you do not unnecessarily expose it to the respective weather conditions, which would uselessly accelerate wear and tear.

    Important: Always roll up your clamp awning when it is dry, not wet/damp. In this way you prevent dirt from settling on the fabric or equally unsightly mold stains.

    Apart from maintenance, the clamp awning also needs maintenance every season. Our recommendation: Check in spring, before the awning is to be used more frequently, whether all the individual parts are still fully intact.In the case of smaller problem areas, it is best to use replacement elements and repair kits - the manufacturer often offers suitable products themselves.

    tip: In the case of major defects, a complete replacement of the awning is usually more worthwhile.

    What accessories do I need?

    Basically, a clamp awning does not require any specific accessories. Only if there is repairable damage to components does it make sense to buy replacements.

    frequently asked Questions

    What is a clamp awning and how does it work?

    our recommendation
    Angerer 2302/200 clamp awning Dralon No. 200, orange, 300 cm
    124.64 EUR To the product

    As the name suggests, a clamp awning is clamped between the floor and the balcony or terrace ceiling. It acts as a practical alternative to the awnings that are permanently installed. While the latter is associated with a high level of installation work in most cases, you can attach an awning for clamping without drilling.

    Each clamp awning consists essentially of tension rods, an awning fabric, a roller and a crank. The rods hold the cloth, which is turned out of the roll by means of a crank. Models with a classic hand crank and also innovative solutions with an electric drive are available in stores - for those who are looking for a particularly comfortable variant.

    Who benefits from a clamp awning?

    All people who

    • want to sit comfortably on your balcony or terrace without being constantly blinded by the sun,
    • want a simple but effective sunscreen and
    • are not allowed or want to drill in the apartment or house.

    Depending on the design, clamp awnings are also suitable for windows, window sills and sloping ceilings.

    What alternatives to the clamp awning are there?

    To avoid drilling, you could simply use a parasol with an articulated arm as an alternative to the clamp awning - at least on the balcony and terrace. But: parasols are bulkier, they take up more space. In addition, they often prove to be less weather-resistant than clamp awnings.

    How do I install a clamp awning?

    One of the biggest advantages of the clamp awning is the uncomplicated installation. It does not have to be firmly and stably connected to the house facade. Instead, all you need to do is clamp the telescopic poles (tension supports) between the floor and ceiling of the balcony (or patio/window). You can do this without any drilling, dowels or screws. In this way, no damage is caused to the structure.

    In order to be able to attach a clamp awning, you only need a wall projection of about 20 centimeters in the upper area. In general, the assembly succeeds fairly quickly, even if you do not have manual skills and experience. With height-adjustable telescopic rods, you can quickly reach the optimum installation height. The other parts, such as the stand and the drop arms, can also be connected relatively quickly. Finally, set the appropriate tilt angle.

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