FAQ
about awnings

FAQ
about awnings

Man looking with interest at a tablet
The markilux MX-2 with LED lighting, silver frame colour and light fabric.

Questions about awnings?
We have the answers

In our FAQ section you will find all the important information about our awnings - from general questions to technical questions and questions about our specialist dealers. Browse through our FAQs and find the answers you're looking for quickly and easily.

FAQ
General questions

We have been developing and producing sun protection systems, awnings and textile products for the outdoor area for over 50 years. With a high standard of design and technology, the products are manufactured entirely in-house at the Emsdetten site in Münsterland. Made to measure and to customer specifications. quality -made in germany.

You are welcome to download brochures and operating instructions under Downloads .

If you have any questions about awning prices and fixture costs, it's best to ask our specialist dealers for a personalised quote. Every markilux awning is individually planned, made to measure and professionally installed on your premises by one of our partners. You can find a recommended retail price from the manufacturer in our awning overview.

The extension of an awning refers to the retractable and extendable part of an awning that is covered with awning fabric. The extension is usually defined as a value when specifying the dimensions of awnings. Two of the most important dimensions to consider when buying an awning are the width and the extension.

The valance on an awning is the fabric that hangs down from the front profile. The valance serves as a decorative element and therefore comes in different designs, such as straight or wave-shaped. Further information and an image gallery can be found here.

Striped awnings - it could hardly be more classic. But why are many awnings striped? This design has become popular for several reasons:

  • Stripes in different colours create a fabric surface on which soiling is less visible and distracting.

  • The striped pattern allows for particularly clean cut-off and connection points.

  • Striped fabrics are associated with holidays, the sea, the beach and leisure, which is why they are particularly popular for awnings. Demand determines supply.

Nevertheless, other colours and patterns are also available for awnings. In the markilux awning cover range you will find around 200 patterns, including special designer covers designed by the experts at markilux. We can also realise your individual colour wishes on request. You can also order awning covers with logo printing for the catering and hotel industry from us. Browse our range of awning fabrics now.

When deciding which awning is right for you, there is a lot more to consider in addition to the right size. Ideally, the awning should not only provide optimum protection against sun and prying eyes, but also blend in visually with your outdoor area. As it is not always easy to decide on the right awning model when looking at our wide range, we would like to provide you with the best possible support in your search for your dream awning. Use our tools to do this:

  • Step 1 - find the right awning category.
    Use our awning finder. Filter the models and find an awning that suits your wishes and the conditions on site.
  • Step 2 - Compare awnings with other models.
    With the awning comparison to get an overview of the various technical features of our awnings.
  • Step 3 - Configure your awning & request a price.
    Configure your dream awning, taking your requirements and ideas into account. After completing the configuration, we will forward a price enquiry to a markilux specialist dealer near you.

As a specialist in customised sun protection systems, we manufacture each awning individually. Thanks to the custom-fit production of the awning and the large selection of configuration options such as colour, cover pattern, light or heat, countless combinations are possible. From over 40 models, more than 200 cover patterns and a wide range of equipment options, you can design your awning exactly as you want it. Our awning overview provides you with a good overview of the various markilux awning models. You can also configure your desired awning or compare different awning models with each other.

As markilux awnings are customised products that are made to order according to your personal requirements, it is not possible to make any general statements about delivery times. Delivery times also vary depending on the time of year and the volume of orders. Ask a markilux specialist dealer for advice. They can provide you with current delivery times for your desired configuration. In addition to delivery, they will also arrange a date for the fixture of your awning at your home.

Instead of asking how big an awning should be, we recommend a different method of determining the right awning size. Use the following questions and tips to find the right size for your awning:

  • How large is the area you want to shade?

  • Where is the area (patio, balcony, etc.) that you want to shade located and from which direction and at what time of day does the sun hit this area?

Before you reach for your paper, ruler and calculator, why not try out our practical sun compass? With this tool, you can determine the shade and thus the ideal size of your planned awning - depending on the direction of the compass and the incidence of light - with just a few clicks.

In our range you will find both static and extendable extra privacy and wind protection elements, which are modelled on our folding-arm, pergola and vertical roller blinds with a design that is both robust and perfectly formed. The markilux 790 is a customised extendable side screen. As an alternative, markilux format is available - either in the static version or in the slide and lift variants.

Of course you can view markilux designer awnings live. In our showrooms in Emsdetten, Cologne, Hamburg, Berlin, Lörrach and Salzburg, we present our models in a wide range of colours and designs and with various equipment options. A markilux consultant will guide you through the exhibition and provide you with advice. Book a non-binding consultation appointment in a markilux showroom via our online appointment booking system.

If the distance to the nearest markilux showroom is too great, it is of course also possible to visit the exhibition of a markilux specialist dealer near you. The awning dealers trained by markilux will advise you on your desired awning and will also accompany you through the further steps up to the fixture.

Yes, you can configure your markilux designer awning including fabric cover and equipment options in our awning configurator . You can choose freely from the complete markilux product range and immediately admire the animated result. You can also submit a non-binding price enquiry for your fully configured awning, which will be forwarded to a specialist dealer near you. If you would like to look at your awning again afterwards, you can load your configuration using your personal configuration number.

If you would like to know what your awning will look like on the house later, the markilux AR App is the perfect solution. Using modern augmented reality technology, you can configure your dream awning and install it virtually on your house facade. In addition to the awning model, you can also select the width and extension of the awning, the installation height, the awning cover and equipment variants. The shade cast is also simulated so that you can get a very good idea of the final result.

Shadeplus is an "awning within an awning" in the front profile, which can be lowered to a good two metres and thus provides additional privacy and anti-glare protection. Shadeplus offers protection from low sun and retains the residual heat of the day for longer in the evening. The additional awning cover, which can be extended vertically either manually or motorised depending on the model, also protects against prying eyes. You can find more information and a picture gallery here: markilux shadeplus.

If you buy a markilux awning, you will hardly need to ask yourself this question. This is because the exclusive markilux awnings are equipped with a special awning fabric with a self-cleaning effect. The highlight: when drops of water hit the awning cover, they absorb dirt particles and roll off.

If you still need to clean your awning, we recommend the following procedure:

  • Remove loose dirt, such as dust or damp leaves, with a soft brush.

  • Small stains that have settled can be carefully treated with a 5 per cent soap solution (max. water temperature 30 degrees Celsius).

If you are looking for suitable solar protection solutions for the catering and commercial sectors, our markilux project planning service will help you with planning and implementation. Do you want to shade a larger area and do you want your awning system to fulfil special requirements? Then markilux project is the right partner for you.

We will be happy to advise you on the options for designing your awning in line with your corporate identity. The awning can be designed in your corporate colours and printed with your logo. Additional equipment for different areas of application can also be selected, e.g. infrared heaters or lighting options.

FAQ
Technology

To ensure the fastest and smoothest possible process in the event of a complaint or repair, please contact your markilux specialist dealer. Describe the problem and provide them with all the necessary product data. The easiest way to do this is to give the specialist company the individual fabrication number, which can be found on all markilux awnings since 2002 on the small sew-in label on the awning cover on the right-hand side of the front profile. This number can be used to clearly identify your awning with all relevant data at the factory.

If you do not know your markilux specialist dealer, you can find one near you here.

The motor noise can change over time as the awning is used. Likewise, rail-guided awning systems can also make changing running noises. On the one hand, signs of wear and tear play a role, on the other hand, dirt can also be a contributing factor. Regular maintenance and care can counteract this. Talk to your markilux specialist company about the possibility of a maintenance contract.

When it comes to the professional and safe fixture of awnings, you should only turn to professionals. You can rely on the certified markilux specialist dealers if you want to have an awning installed.

The trained markilux specialist dealers will take measurements at your premises and advise you on all aspects of our awnings. They will take care of the quotation as well as the delivery and professional fixture of your new markilux awning.

Use our specialist dealer search to find out where a markilux specialist dealer is located near you.

As with the fixture, you can also contact a markilux specialist dealer near you with confidence when it comes to re-covering your markilux awning. They will show you our current fabric collection and help you choose the right awning fabric and replace the old fabric with the new one.

Our specialist dealers will also help you if you need spare parts for your markilux awning or would like to retrofit your awning with optional accessories such as a rain sensor, sun and wind sensor or a hard-wired motor.

Find a markilux specialist dealer near you now and get in touch.

With many markilux awnings, it is possible to convert a manual awning into an electric awning. If you would like to have your awning retrofitted with a hard-wired motor, it is best to contact your nearest markilux specialist dealer. They will advise you on the options, prepare a quote for you and also take care of the professional fixture of the hard-wired motor.

Are you also interested in other accessories, such as awning lighting, radiant heaters, rain sensors, sun and wind monitors? Or would you like to control your electric awning via a smartphone app? If you have any questions, please contact us or our specialist dealers.

An electric awning naturally requires a hard-wired motor that is connected to a power source. markilux awnings can then be controlled using a wall switch, remote control or smartphone app.

Electric awnings can also be equipped with various accessories for even more convenience, including a:

  • Rain sensor

  • light sensor

  • Wind monitor

These accessories retract or extend your awning independently depending on the weather conditions and are therefore a practical addition to the basic equipment. Explore the options for awning accessories offered by markilux electric awnings now.

When planning an awning, you should of course consider the height. It is not only the height of the cassette that is relevant, but also the angle of pitch of the awning when extended. You should therefore take the latter into account. As a guideline, we recommend calculating with a headroom of approx. 2 metres and an inclination of approx. 15 degrees for extended awnings.

The markilux range also includes special awnings with a particularly large angle of pitch.

markilux awnings for outdoor use comply with the current technical requirements of the European standard DIN EN 13561 for awnings in terms of construction and fixing brackets.

According to this standard, markilux folding-arm awnings are CE-certified and generally fulfil the requirements of wind resistance class 2. markilux vertical blinds, glass canopy awnings and pergola awnings fulfil wind resistance class 2 or 3, depending on the model and size. Your markilux specialist company will be happy to provide you with detailed information on this.

If the awning is used above the permitted wind speed, this can result in considerable hazards. In this case, the awning must not be extended. The wind resistance class is only ever fulfilled in conjunction with an appropriate fixture of the markilux awnings.

Wind resistance class 0

0 to 3 Beaufort - the awning must not be used in windy conditions.

Wind resistance class 1 & 2

5 Beaufort | speed 28-37 km/h = 7.5-10.4 m/s - the awning may remain extended up to a maximum wind speed, Beaufort force 5. Definition according to Beaufort: fresh breeze, fresh wind, small deciduous trees begin to sway, whitecaps form on lakes.

Wind resistance class 3

6 Beaufort | speed 38-48 km/h = 10.5-13.4 m/s - The awning may remain extended up to a maximum wind speed, Beaufort force 6. Definition according to Beaufort: strong wind, strong branches sway, umbrellas are difficult to hold, telegraph lines whistle in the wind.

An important decision criterion when choosing your new awning is which type of operation you decide on. There are various types of operation available:

  • Crank

  • Radio control

  • Automatic awning control

  • Smart home

Find out more about the different operating options for your markilux awning.

The bionic tendon and the twin steel-link chain are two different technologies used in awnings to transmit power and move the folding-arms. Here are the main differences:

  • Bionic tendon: Inspired by nature, it is made of high-tech fibres that enable optimal power transmission. It bends silently and with low friction, similar to a tendon in the human body.
  • Twin steel-link chain: Proven technology in which two round steel chains run in the folding-arms and provide the movement.

Yes, our awnings are smart home compatible. You can find more information here.

Yes, spare parts are generally available for markilux products to ensure the long operating life of your awning. Simply contact the markilux specialist dealer from whom you purchased your awning. They will look at the problem on site and determine which spare part is required and then order it for you. As soon as the spare part arrives, it will be professionally installed.

FAQ
awning models

The most important differences between folding-arm awnings and pergola awnings lie in the respective design and the intended use.

Depending on the model, twin round steel link chains or the patented Bionic tendon ensure robustness and durability for markilux folding-arm awnings. Our pergola awnings with higher wind resistance classes are even more resistant and can also be used in mixed weather. This awning variant uses a rail system to tension the awning cover. Thanks to the optional telescopic posts, you can also tilt our pergola awnings slightly for better water drainage.

Both types of awning can be realised in both roof and face fixtures. Optional extensions such as a retractable vertical privacy and solar protection (shadeplus), LED lighting and infrared heaters are also possible, depending on the awning model.

If you want permanent, high-quality shade for your favourite spot in the middle of the garden, by the pool or swimming pond, you can rely on freestanding awning systems from markilux - 100% Made in Germany.

Our awning systems are sun, privacy, weather and wind protection all in one. The award-winning design of these durable systems is visually outstanding. In combination with awning fabrics from the markilux collection, the markilux awning systems are an upgrade for any patio or garden.

Both the pergola and folding-arm awnings from our range, which are mounted on the free-standing systems, can be combined with the markilux shadeplus as an optional extra, depending on the model. Depending on the system, various vertical roller blinds can also be attached to it.

Whether window widths or heights up to 600 cm, whether rectangular or triangular windows or conservatories - at markilux you will find the right customised vertical blind for many structural conditions. At markilux, your supplier of awnings "Made in Germany", you can choose between the following awning models for first-class vertical shading:

  • Vertical cassette awnings for windows, patio roofs and conservatories: the awning cover is guided vertically in front of the window over the entire height and offers optimum privacy and anti-glare protection. When retracted, the awning cover is protected from wind and weather in the full cassette; when extended, it is perfectly tensioned.
  • Drop-arm cassette awnings: Drop arms with gas pistons tension the fabric cover of this vertical blind at an angle of up to 140 degrees to the window. The markilux 730 is a classic-looking cassette awning that protects against the sun while still allowing a view to the outside. If you are looking for a vertical blind without drilling, you can order this model as a clamp awning.
  • Marquisolette: A marquisolette is a combination of a vertical and drop-arm cassette awning. In the upper area, the protection against sun and prying eyes for windows runs vertically, while at the bottom, the incidence of light can be flexibly determined by the drop arms of this sophisticated vertical blind.
  • Triangular blind: The customised markilux triangular blinds are a clever system for special solutions. Triangular windows, skylights and conservatories receive customised solar protection thanks to markilux.

If you have any general questions about markilux vertical blinds, please contact the markilux end customer service by phone or email. If you would like to experience markilux awnings for windows live, visit one of our in-house markilux awning exhibitions. Experienced solar protection consultants will be happy to guide you through the showrooms and show you how our vertical blinds work.

The markilux vertical blinds are mounted on the outside and thus provide effective sun, cover profile and climate protection. This minimises the use of air conditioning on hot days. In cooler temperatures, the heat stays inside your own four faces for longer thanks to an external vertical blind.

Cassettes and model-dependent, lateral guide systems protect the fabric cover of our vertical blinds with aluminium frame colour. High-quality materials ensure the durability of our vertical shading systems.

The markilux pergola stretch offers a wide range of options for catering establishments in particular, fulfilling guests' desire for experience-oriented hospitality in the fresh air. Thanks to the uncomplicated operation of this large awning, you can react quickly and flexibly to weather conditions.

The markilux pergola stretch weather protection awning is the ideal weather and solar protection not only for restaurants, hotels and cafés, but also for large, private terraces. This awning creates the perfect ambient for cosy hours for two or pleasant moments with family, friends and guests.

FAQ
Awning covers

The fabric cover of the awning weighs around 300 g/m², depending on the design. It is manufactured in a special fabrication from panels that are joined together using state-of-the-art adhesive technology. Due to its own weight, the fabric cover bends slightly downwards between the panel joints. The tension of the awning is therefore higher at the so-called longitudinal seams than in the panels. The necessary seams stabilise the surface of the awning cover.

The difference in tension in the seam area is caused by the double layer of fabric. The diameter during winding is correspondingly larger there than in the rest of the fabric area and leads to increased cover tension. This has the visual effect of forming puckering. This is a physical phenomenon that is technically conditioned and unavoidable. It occurs at the seams themselves, but also in the shape of a washboard ripple (waffle effect) next to the seams. These effects can occur through the use of the awning. Climatic influences also play a role here.

If the puckering occurs at the sides of the fabric edges, this is referred to as side seam stretching. The fabric cover is usually kept under almost permanent tension by an active spring system. Seams and hems act as a reinforcement, but must also be able to withstand the greatest stress. When the fabric cover is rolled up, the hems and seams lie on top of each other, which increases the pressure and tension. As a result, they are particularly stressed and stretched. This can lead to the side seams being slightly puckering when the awning is extended.

Puckering is a typical characteristic of awning covers. These are generally known phenomena that can occur with all awning fabrics. This is mainly due to physical reasons. However, this does not affect the actual quality and function of the fabric cover. Your markilux specialist company will be happy to advise you on this.

Ultrasonically welded sheet joints ensure a homogeneous appearance. The high-density surface bonding offers many advantages: The sheet joints (former seams) are water, light and heat resistant under normal circumstances. The fabric cover has a longer operating life due to its non-abrasive surface.

In principle, it is possible to replace the fabric regardless of the model. If you would like to give your awning a new look, please contact a qualified specialist dealer for advice. They will of course also be happy to replace the awning cover afterwards.

We offer you a variety of timeless cover patterns in a wide range of colours and patterns. In addition to the look, the focus is also on the functions of the fabric covers. Naturally, the markilux awning covers offer the highest possible solar protection. Special fabrics offer additional heat protection thanks to heat-reflecting aluminium particles. The choice of opitimal fabric cover differs depending on the area of application. You are welcome to browse through the markilux collection with our awning fabric finder. If you would prefer to get an overview of our collection in person, visit us in one of our markilux showrooms. You can also familiarise yourself with the collection at a regional markilux specialist dealer.

As every markilux awning is unique, the awning covers are also customised. It is therefore important that you give your specialist dealer the identification number ("BA number"). Since 2002, this has been located on the right-hand side of the front profile in the shape of a small stitched-in number on the awning cover. This number can be used at the factory to identify the exact model, including dimensions, options and accessories.

If you would like to replace your awning cover, it is best to contact your regional markilux specialist dealer. In addition to providing expert advice on the various patterns and fabric types, the specialist dealer will also carry out the fabric replacement professionally.

You will find the right fabric for every taste and every area of application in the large markilux awning cover range - regardless of whether you are looking for a pergola awning, folding-arm awning, conservatory awning or vertical blind. The markilux awning fabric finder offers you a structured overview of the awning fabrics available from markilux and makes your decision easier. Try it out and discover all the design options. You can also order fabric samples there.

All markilux awning covers from the current collection offer UPF 50+, the highest possible UV-protection for textiles. The skin's own protection factor is increased more than 50-fold.

The choice of awning fabric colour is always a question of personal taste and the desired look. When making your choice, consider the atmosphere you want to create in your outdoor area. Let us advise you and use our fabric sample collection. You can also use the markilux AR App to configure your desired awning and simulate it directly on your home.

With regard to UV-protection, however, the following applies: markilux fabrics offer 100% protection for dark colours. With lighter colours, up to 97% of UV rays are blocked.

In addition to the patterns in our awning cover collection, you have the option of choosing your own personal favourite colour for your individual awning cover. With the colour on demand service, you can choose from 1625 colours. The basis for this is a plain white fabric cover of the proven markilux sunvas quality, which is dyed using state-of-the-art and highly lightfast dyeing processes.

Yes, we offer you the option of customised textile printing. Just send us your lettering or logo and we will be happy to make you a special offer for multi-coloured prints.

markilux awning covers are high-quality products and are made from innovative high-tech polyester and acrylic fabrics. All fabrics are produced on state-of-the-art weaving machines. Careful checks also ensure that only functionally perfect fabric covers are delivered.

markilux awning covers are certified to Oeko-Tex standard 100 and are therefore guaranteed to be free from harmful dyes and chemicals.

Solar protection fabrics are impregnated with a water-repellent finish and, when used according to the manufacturer's instructions and at an angle of pitch of at least 14°, remain resistant to rain during a short, light downpour. During longer periods of wetness and/or heavy rainfall, the awning must remain closed or be retracted to prevent damage. Once the fabric cover has become wet, the awning must be extended again immediately after the rain to dry out in order to avoid mould stains.

If you prefer a waterproof awning cover, you should opt for the special

perla FR
fabric. This is a waterproof and also flame-retardant fabric with a transparent coating on the underside of the fabric. It offers protection against rain and fulfils special fire protection regulations.

Like so many other questions about awnings, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this one. The area of application and your individual preferences and needs determine which awning fabric is the best.

In the exclusive markilux awning cover range, you will find the right awning fabric for every wish: whether light transmission, air permeable, waterproof or flame retardant. Find the right fabric now with the markilux awning fabric finder!

The

perfotex
fabric is particularly suitable for conservatory awnings - regardless of whether they are over- or under-glass models. Woven-in reed gaps make the fabric permeable to water and air. The risk of water pockets, water troughs and heat build-up in strong sunlight is reduced. The special treatment of the 332 ... design series with aluminium pigments also results in increased radiation reflection. This further reduces heat radiation.

The

transolair
fabric is ideal for window and glass canopy awnings. The sunvas fabric with special perforation technology stands for pleasant transparency as well as good light and air permeability. Air exchange between the glass and fabric cover is guaranteed. This reduces heat build-up. The perforated awning cover also allows you to see outside while protecting you from prying eyes.

The

transolair
fabric is particularly suitable for shadeplus. If you are sitting under the awning, you can look out into the distance when the shadeplus is extended. At the same time, you are protected from prying eyes from outside.

FAQ
Specialist dealers

One of the most frequent questions we hear here at markilux is why we only sell our awnings through specialist dealers. There are several good reasons for this:

  • markilux is an awning manufacturer: as a manufacturer of quality products, markilux has to concentrate on its core competences. All the expertise, logistics and, not least, skilled labour that would be needed to bring the awnings to your home is invested in what we are really good at: Developing and manufacturing awnings.
  • Specialist dealers offer more: The specialist dealers who sell our awnings (and other products) offer you much more than we could. Many of them offer windows, lightning conductors, blinds and curtains, gardening and landscaping or garage doors, among other things. This means that you don't need to go to a different dealer for each trade for a comprehensive renovation or new build. You get everything from a single source and have the same contact person for all matters.
  • Proximity to the customer: As a company based in Emsdetten, Westphalia, it is easier for everyone involved if the entire process is handled by a partner in your neighbourhood. And that's what our specialist dealers do.

With the help of our markilux specialist dealer search, you can quickly and easily find a specialist dealer near you.

markilux awnings are customised products that are manufactured according to your personal requirements. Your markilux specialist company will advise you on delivery times and order the optimum solution for you from markilux. You agree the delivery date of your new awning with your specialist dealer, who will also take care of the professional fixture.

If your markilux specialist dealer is no longer available, you can find alternative dealers in your area in our specialist dealer search who will be happy to help you.

Specialist dealer or DIY store? If you are still wondering where to buy your new awning, our clear recommendation is: don't save money at the wrong end, go to a specialist dealer. As a renowned awning manufacturer, we are convinced that you will benefit most from professional products and an all-round service for the following reasons:

  • The markilux specialist dealers trained by markilux specialise in our awnings. They have many years of experience in individual consultation, planning and fixture and can realise your wishes - regardless of whether you need a folding-arm awning, a pergola awning or a vertical roller blind. This comprehensive know-how clearly sets specialist awning dealers apart from DIY stores, which often lack not only the expertise but also the time for detailed advice.

  • In addition to awnings, many of our awning dealers also have other products such as windows, lightning conductors, blinds, curtains and garage doors in their range or are specialists in gardening and landscaping. For a comprehensive renovation or new build, you can get everything from a single source and have a personal and central contact for all your needs.

Further questions?
Contact us directly!

Do you still have questions or haven't found what you're looking for? No problem! We are always here for you and look forward to helping you. Don't hesitate to contact us - together we will find the perfect solution for your awning needs. You can find our contact form here.

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