Automatic vs Fixed Guide Awnings

When choosing an awning for your home, two popular options are Automatic Awnings and Fixed Guide Awnings. While they look almost identical once installed, the way they operate and how they perform in different conditions can make a big difference in choosing the right solution for your space.

In this guide, we’ll explain how each one works, their advantages, and how they can be used together to create a consistent and practical setup.

What They Have in Common

Both Automatic and Fixed Guide awnings share many visual and structural features:

• Colorbond® roll-formed hood

• Five-sided Colorbond® bottom rail

• Same fabric options and finishes

• Gold passivated arms and guides (or stainless steel for coastal areas)

• Identical balances and appearance

• Only fixed at each end (no middle fixing point)

Once installed, it’s almost impossible to tell them apart visually. This is what makes them perfect to use together on the same home.

Automatic Awnings (Spring Operated)

Automatic awnings are spring-loaded and manually operated.

Key Features:

• Spring-operated system

• Can be left down in moderate windy conditions

• Designed mainly for traditional windows

• Locks in position when pulled down

• Released by pushing slightly down before rolling back up

• Very stable due to spring tension

Best For:

• Ground floor windows

• Areas exposed to occasional wind

• Homeowners who want a simple, durable solution

Fabric Options:

• Canvas

• Acrylic

• Mesh (most popular)

Note: Clear PVC is not suitable due to stretching.

Fixed Guide Awnings (Crank or Motorised)

Fixed guide awnings have no spring system. They operate using a crank handle or motorised control.

Key Features:

• No spring tension

• Can be motorised or manually cranked

• Should not be left down in windy conditions

• Bottom rail can move in strong wind

• Ideal for high or hard-to-reach areas

Best For:

• First or second floor windows

• Large drop areas

• Homes where manual operation isn’t practical

• Users wanting motorised convenience

Wind Performance Comparison

When to Use Them Together

Using Automatic and Fixed Guide awnings together is a smart solution:

• Automatic awnings on lower windows

• Fixed Guide (motorised) awnings on higher windows

• Same fabric, same hood, same colour

• Visually seamless result

• One unified exterior look

From the street or inside your home, both systems look exactly the same.

Maintenance & Care

All awnings require simple maintenance:

• Hose down regularly

• Use mild washing-up liquid

• Soft brush if needed

• Avoid strong chemicals or detergents

Care instructions are sewn directly into the awning for convenience.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Automatic Awnings if:

• You want wind stability

• You’re installing on accessible windows

• You prefer simple manual operation

Choose Fixed Guide Awnings if:

• Your windows are high

• You want motorisation

• You want effortless operation

Many homes benefit from using both, combining function with visual consistency.

Final Thoughts

Automatic and Fixed Guide awnings aren’t competitors – they’re complementary. Each solves different challenges, and together they create a practical, elegant shading solution that works across every level of your home.

If you want the look of uniform awnings with tailored functionality behind the scenes, combining Automatic and Fixed Guide systems is the perfect choice.