Awnings

Blindmaster

This family business has been doing internal blinds for 35 years, but  branched into customised external sunshading 15 years ago. It imports its own range of German Markilux awnings, which are the No. 1 company in Europe for quality fold-up awnings. Blindmaster installs between several hundred each year, more than 80 per cent of them motorised. Waiting time is six to eight weeks. Markilux awnings have a five-year guarantee on the frame, motor and material and a 25-year guarantee on the folding arm component, which is the most critical part. The fabrics are Teflon-coated and mildew-proof, rot-proof and 99 per cent UV-resistant. Popular designs include the Jellybean, a cassette-type awning, and the Uber Cocoon, a café-style cassette awning with an extra-strong folding arm.