Full Cassette, Non-Casette Awnings: What’s the Difference?
When you think about a cassette, you probably remember the tapes from decades ago that were filled with your favorite songs. But at Rollac, we know cassettes have another purpose-they play a key role in retractable awnings.
The half-cassette and full-cassette awnings are part of our retractable shading selection at Rollac. If you’re unfamiliar with the difference between a full-cassette retractable and a half-cassette awning, a drop-arm awning, and window shading in general, we’re here to clear things up! Explore the benefits of each and see how Rollac’s high-quality awnings can transform your outdoor space.
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What Is a Cassette Awning?
A cassette is the metal casing that houses the awning when it retracts. It offers protection and a sleek, compact design. Unlike our compact shading products, a retractable cassette awning extends outward, providing shade and protection for various spaces. This durable covering is designed to shield the awning from the elements–rain, dirt, dust, hail, and more-helping to expand its lifespan. Cassette awnings can be opened and closed using a remote, switch, or app for the motorized version or turn crank if you have a manual awning.
The following are the three different types of cassette awnings.
Full-Cassette Awning
At Rollac, we’re often asked, “What does a full-cassette awning mean?” These awnings are designed to completely enclose the roller, arms, and fabric for maximum protection. When closed, the fabric rolls entirely into the cassette, and the awning arms fold inwards. This design protects the awning fabric and moving parts from rain and wind and provides a tidy appearance. Plus, with all components safely tucked away, it requires less cleaning and reduces the need for awning fabric repair or replacement. This lower overall maintenance ensures your awning has a longer lifespan, making it a wise, low-maintenance investment.
Semi-Cassette Awnings
Semi-cassette awnings partially cover the awning fabric and arm mechanisms. They’re the perfect addition for areas not prone to high winds, such as back gardens or sheltered patios. In this case, the semi- or half-cassette awning provides a partially enclosed structure that covers the awning’s top but exposes the underside.
Open-Cassette Awnings
Open-cassette awnings are a budget-friendly alternative to full-cassette awnings. While they offer a protective barrier at the top of the awning, it remains partially exposed when retracted. They’re perfect for home or business owners looking for a retractable awning that’s easier on the wallet. Though they don’t protect like full or half-cassette awnings, they’re ideal for locations with existing under-wall projections, such as window sills, overhangs, or eaves. Open-cassette awnings are an excellent choice for home or business owners seeking an economical option without compromising functionality.
Choosing the Right Solution
Cassette awnings, like most retractable awnings, are versatile and have many applications, including terraces, patios, decks, and balconies, making them a popular choice for homes and businesses.
When researching the right awning for your business or home, the first thing to consider is size. Generally, a full cassette awning is larger than a half cassette awning. Also, don’t forget the valance or the scalloped fabric covering at the end of the awning. Awnings with valances will cost slightly more, but they might add flair to your covering. Also, consider if you will invest in a motorized or manual cassette awning. A motorized one is easy to operate, but you may encounter more problems with awnings than a manual cassette because it has a motor.
Discover the Perfect Shading with Rollac
Choosing the right outdoor shading system for your residential or commercial space can elevate its comfort, functionality, and style. Whether you’re deciding between an awning, pergola, or canopy or debating if your decades-old retractable awning needs to be repaired or replaced, we can help at Rollac.
With a wide variety of the latest colors, fabrics, patterns, and motorization options, we’re keeping our finger on the pulse of retractable awning trends. This ensures we have exactly what you need to create your space’s perfect look and feel.
If you’re ready to elevate your outdoor area, contact Rollac today. Whether it’s a cozy patio for your home, an elegant terrace for your restaurant, or an inviting storefront, we’ll help you buy the ideal cassette awning to bring your vision to life.