FAQs

At Cotswolds, we want to ensure that every customer gets the best possible experience when ordering a project. Here's a step-by-step guide to our ordering process:

1. Get in touch: Whatever stage you're at, get in contact with us as we can help clear up any questions you may have. Leave us a message using the Make an Enquiry form on our website, call us, email us or speak to us directly through our live chat Monday - Friday 9-5.
2. Discuss your project: We'll discuss your project with you and make sure we're on the same page. We'll ask you about your requirements and preferences, and answer any questions you may have.
3. Provide a no-obligation estimate: We'll then provide you with a no-obligation estimate quote for the job. This will give you an idea of the costs involved, and you can decide whether to proceed with the project.
4. Conduct a survey: If you're happy with the estimate, our expert surveyor will come out to your property to survey the job. The surveyor will clarify any details and ensure the project is feasible and practical.
5. Provide a full quotation: After the survey, the surveyor will report back to us where we will put together a full quotation for the job. We'll take into account all the details discussed and provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs involved. We'll send the quotation to you via email.
6. Accept the quote: Once you've received the quotation, take some time to review it and make sure you're happy with everything. If you have any questions or concerns, let us know and we'll be happy to help. If you're happy with the quote, let us know and we'll move on to the next step.
7. Pay a deposit: Providing you're happy with the quote, we'll take a deposit to secure the order. This will enable us to order the required products and materials and begin planning the project.
8. Begin the project: With everything in place, we'll begin working on your project. We'll keep you updated throughout the process and ensure that everything is completed to your satisfaction.

We hope this helps to explain our process for ordering a project. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your order, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

A louvred roof consists of a series of adjustable louvres, or blades, that can be tilted or retracted to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation in your outdoor space. Our louvres are made from high-quality materials such as aluminum, and can be customized to match the aesthetic of your home or outdoor space.

The louvres in our motorized louvred roofs can be controlled using a remote control or smartphone app. When fully closed, the louvres provide complete protection from the sun and rain, creating a sheltered and comfortable outdoor environment. When partially open, the louvres allow for natural ventilation and the perfect balance of sunlight and shade.

Our motorized louvred roofs are typically installed as standalone structures or attached to an existing building, such as a patio or deck. They can also be customized with a range of accessories, such as Glass sliding doors, Zip screens, LED lighting, heating, and rain sensors, to further enhance your outdoor experience.

Overall, our motorized louvred roofs are a versatile and stylish option for anyone looking to create a comfortable and functional outdoor space. Our team of professionals can work with you to design and install a louvred roof that meets your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy your outdoor space in comfort and style.

A louvred roof pergola is a versatile and stylish outdoor structure that provides a range of benefits for homeowners. Here are some of the key benefits of a louvred roof pergola:

1. Customizable shade: Louvred roof pergolas allow you to customize the amount of shade in your outdoor space, giving you control over the amount of sunlight that enters your space. You can easily adjust the angle of the louvres to block out the sun when needed, while still allowing natural light to filter through.
2. Protection from the elements: Louvred roof pergolas offer protection from the sun, rain, and other weather conditions, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space year-round. This can be especially useful for homeowners who live in areas with unpredictable weather patterns.
3. Enhanced outdoor living space: A louvred roof pergola effectively extends your living space into the outdoors, providing a comfortable and functional area for entertaining, relaxing, or spending time with family and friends.
4. Increased home value: Adding a louvred roof pergola to your home can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers, making it a smart investment for homeowners who are looking to improve their property.
5. Energy efficiency: Louvred roof pergolas can help to reduce energy costs by providing shade and ventilation, which can help to keep your home cooler in the summer months. This can be especially beneficial for those living in hot climates.
6. Stylish design: Louvred roof pergolas are available in a range of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose a design that complements the aesthetic of your home and outdoor space. They can also be customized with a range of accessories, such as LED lighting, heating, and rain sensors, to further enhance your outdoor experience.

Overall, a louvred roof pergola can be an excellent addition to any home or outdoor space, offering a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among homeowners. Our team of professionals can work with you to design and install a customized louvred roof pergola that meets your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy your outdoor space in comfort and style.

The cost of a louvred roof pergola can vary depending on several factors, including the size, materials, and features of the system, as well as the complexity of the installation process.

As a rough estimate, a basic louvred roof pergola can cost from £9,000 or more, depending on your specific needs and preferences. The size of the pergola is the most important factor to consider when determining your budget, as larger pergolas will naturally cost more than smaller ones.

In addition to size, other factors that can affect the cost of a louvred roof pergola include the type of materials used (e.g. wood vs metal), the level of customization (e.g. zip screens, glass sides, lighting, heaters), and the complexity of the installation process.

To get a better idea of the cost of a louvred roof pergola for your specific needs, we recommend discussing your requirements with us directly. Our team of professionals can work with you to help you choose the right system for your home or outdoor space, and provide a personalized quote that includes all installation and accessory costs.

Ultimately, the cost of a louvred roof pergola is an investment in your home and outdoor space, providing a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among homeowners. With our help, you can create a customized louvred roof pergola that meets your specific needs and budget, while also enhancing the comfort, style, and functionality of your outdoor space.

Yes, our prices for all of our outdoor living solutions include installation by our team of experienced professionals. We believe that professional installation is essential for ensuring that your outdoor living solution is properly installed, functions as intended, and provides long-lasting performance and durability.

Our installation process is thorough and efficient, with our team working closely with you to ensure that your outdoor living solution is installed to your exact specifications and requirements. We use high-quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your installation is completed quickly and to the highest possible standards.

In addition to installation, our prices also include any necessary accessories or components, such as motors, remotes, lighting, and heating systems. This ensures that you have everything you need to start enjoying your outdoor space as soon as possible, without any additional costs or surprises.

If you have any specific questions about our pricing or installation process, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of professionals is always available to provide expert advice and guidance, and to help you choose the right outdoor living solution for your specific needs and budget.

We understand that purchasing a retractable awning can be a significant investment, and it's important to have all the information you need before making a decision. The amount of space required for a retractable awning can vary depending on several factors, but we want to reassure you that our team of professionals will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your installation is customized to your specific needs.

As a general guideline, the projection of the awning should be at least equal to the height of the mounting point on the wall. Additionally, for a wall-mounted awning, the minimum amount of space required is generally equal to the width of the awning plus a few inches on either side to allow for the mounting brackets.

However, we want to emphasize that these are general guidelines and our team will take into account all the specifics of your installation to ensure that you have enough space and that the awning will be properly installed for optimal performance and longevity. Our team of professionals has years of experience in the industry and will work closely with you to ensure that your retractable awning is the perfect fit for your outdoor space.

If you have any further questions or concerns about the amount of space required for a retractable awning, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We're here to help and will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

At our Cotswolds, we believe it's important to understand the difference between shade and shelter when choosing a canopy for your outdoor space.

Shade refers to protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage and heat exhaustion. A canopy that provides shade will block out a significant amount of the sun's rays, providing a comfortable and cool area to relax in. Shade canopies are typically made from materials that are designed to block UV rays, such as canvas or polyester.

Shelter, on the other hand, refers to protection from the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow. A canopy that provides shelter will protect you from these elements, ensuring that you can enjoy your outdoor space even when the weather isn't cooperating. Shelter canopies are typically made from materials that are waterproof and wind-resistant, such as PVC or acrylic.

When choosing a canopy, it's important to consider whether you need shade, shelter, or both. If you live in an area with lots of sun exposure, a shade canopy may be the best choice. If you live in an area with variable weather conditions, a shelter canopy may be more suitable.

We offer a range of canopies that provide both shade and shelter, so you can choose the option that best meets your needs. Our team of professionals can help you select the right canopy for your outdoor space, based on your preferences and the specific requirements of your location.

If you have any further questions or need assistance in choosing the right canopy for your outdoor space, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We're here to help and will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

We believe that a remote control awning can provide a range of benefits for your outdoor space. Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider a remote control awning:

1. Convenience: With a remote control, you can easily open and close your awning with the touch of a button. This means you don't have to manually adjust the awning every time you want to change the amount of shade or shelter in your outdoor space. With a remote control, you can quickly and easily adjust your awning to meet your needs.
2. Accessibility: For people with limited mobility, a remote control awning can be an excellent option. With a remote control, you can adjust your awning from a seated position, without the need to physically move the awning or use a crank handle.
3. Safety: A remote control awning can provide an added level of safety for your outdoor space. With a remote control, you can quickly close your awning in the event of sudden changes in weather, such as high winds or heavy rain. This can help prevent damage to your awning and protect your outdoor furniture and other belongings.
4. Style: A remote control awning can be a stylish addition to your outdoor space. With sleek, modern designs and a range of color options, a remote control awning can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home and create a more welcoming and comfortable outdoor environment.

Overall, a remote control awning can provide a range of benefits for your outdoor space, including convenience, accessibility, safety, and style. If you're interested in a remote control awning, our team of professionals can help you select the right model for your needs and provide expert installation services to ensure your awning is set up for optimal performance and longevity.

We believe that the height and pitch of a retractable awning should be customized to the specific needs of each installation. There are several factors to consider when determining the height and pitch of a retractable awning, including the size and location of the installation, as well as the specific requirements and preferences of the customer.

Here are a few general guidelines to consider when setting the height and pitch of a retractable awning:

1. Height: The height of a retractable awning should be determined based on the location of the installation and any potential obstructions, such as trees, eaves, or doors. A general guideline is to mount the awning at a height that provides adequate clearance for people to walk underneath, while also ensuring that the awning is high enough to provide sufficient shade or shelter.
2. Pitch: The pitch of a retractable awning refers to the angle of the awning when it is fully extended. The pitch should be set based on the specific requirements of the installation, such as the amount of sun exposure and the need for water runoff in rainy conditions. A general guideline is to set the pitch at a minimum of 14 degrees to ensure adequate water runoff and prevent pooling on the awning.

Ultimately, the height and pitch of a retractable awning will depend on the specific details of the installation, as well as the preferences of the customer. Our team of professionals can work with you to determine the ideal height and pitch for your retractable awning, based on your specific needs and requirements.

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your retractable awning installation, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We're here to help and will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

A valance is a vertical section of fabric that hangs from the front bar of the awning, providing additional shade, privacy, and protection.

Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider adding a valance to your retractable awning or canopy:

1. Shade: A valance can provide additional shade, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky. The vertical section of fabric blocks out the sun's rays from the side, creating a more comfortable and cool environment underneath the awning.
2. Privacy: A valance can also provide additional privacy for your outdoor space. By blocking the view from the side, a valance can create a more secluded and intimate environment for you and your guests.
3. Style: A valance can be a stylish addition to your retractable awning or canopy. With a range of color options and fabrics to choose from, a valance can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space and create a more cohesive and welcoming environment.
4. Protection: In addition to providing shade and privacy, a valance can also offer additional protection from the elements. In rainy conditions, a valance can help prevent water from entering underneath the awning, keeping you and your belongings dry and comfortable.

Overall, a valance can be a valuable addition to your retractable awning or canopy, providing additional shade, privacy, style, and protection. If you're interested in adding a valance to your awning, our team of professionals can help you select the right style and fabric to meet your needs and provide expert installation services to ensure that your awning is set up for optimal performance and longevity.

A rain sensor is an optional accessory that can be added to an awning or louvred roof system. The sensor is designed to detect rainfall and automatically retract the awning or close the louvres, providing protection from the rain and preventing damage to the system.

Here are some of the benefits of having a rain sensor on your awning or louvred roof:

1. Protection from the rain: A rain sensor can provide peace of mind by automatically retracting your awning or closing the louvres at the first sign of rain. This can help to protect your outdoor furniture and prevent water damage to the system.
2. Convenience: A rain sensor is a convenient and hassle-free way to ensure that your awning or louvred roof is always protected from the rain. You won't have to worry about manually retracting the system when it starts to rain.
3. Longer lifespan: By protecting your awning or louvred roof from the rain, a rain sensor can help to extend the lifespan of the system, reducing the need for repairs or replacement.
4. Energy savings: In addition to providing protection from the rain, a rain sensor can also help to reduce energy costs by preventing unnecessary use of the system during rainy weather.

Overall, a rain sensor is a useful accessory to have on your awning or louvred roof system, providing convenient and reliable protection from the rain while helping to extend the lifespan of the system. Our team of professionals can work with you to design and install a customized system that includes a rain sensor and other features that meet your specific needs and preferences.

We would typically recommend budgeting from £3,000 upwards for an awning, depending on your specific needs and preferences. The size of the awning is the most important factor to consider when determining your budget, as larger awnings will naturally cost more than smaller ones.

In addition to size, other factors that can affect the cost of an awning include the type of mechanism (manual vs motorized) and level of customization. For example, if you choose to add remote controls, lighting, or infrared heaters to your awning, this will increase the overall cost.

Ultimately, it's important to choose an awning that meets your specific needs and budget, while also prioritizing quality and durability to ensure that your investment lasts for many years to come. Our team of professionals can work with you to help you choose the right awning for your home or outdoor space, providing expert advice and guidance every step of the way.

Yes, we offer integrated LED lighting as an optional accessory for our awnings and pergolas. Integrated LED lighting is a great way to enhance the functionality and ambiance of your outdoor living space, allowing you to enjoy your space long into the night.

Our LED lighting systems are designed to be seamlessly integrated into your awning or pergola, providing reliable and long-lasting performance. They are available in a range of styles and configurations, from simple spotlights to full lighting systems that can be controlled remotely.

In addition to providing functional lighting, our LED systems can also be used to create a variety of different moods and atmospheres, depending on your preferences. You can choose from a range of different color temperatures and brightness levels, allowing you to customize your lighting to suit your specific needs and preferences.

If you're interested in adding integrated LED lighting to your awning or pergola, please contact us to discuss your options. Our team of professionals can help you choose the right lighting system for your specific needs and budget, and provide a detailed quote that includes all installation and accessory costs.

Most modern awnings are designed to be water-resistant, meaning that they are able to repel water and protect you from light rain showers. However, it's important to note that awnings are not completely waterproof, and may not be able to withstand heavy rain or prolonged exposure to moisture.

The level of water resistance of an awning will depend on several factors, including the type of material used, the quality of the construction, and the angle and pitch of the awning. Generally speaking, vinyl and acrylic materials tend to be more water-resistant than other materials like canvas or polyester.

To ensure that your awning provides adequate protection from the rain, it's important to choose a high-quality, water-resistant material and to ensure that the awning is installed properly with the correct angle and pitch. Additionally, you may want to consider adding accessories like rain sensors or side screens to provide additional protection from the elements.

If you have any specific questions about the water resistance of our awnings, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of professionals can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right awning for your needs, and help you ensure that your outdoor space is protected from the rain and other weather conditions.

If you're looking for a freestanding outdoor structure for your home or business, we offer a range of options to choose from. Some of the most popular freestanding structures we offer include:

1. Louvred roof pergolas: Louvred roof pergolas provide a versatile and functional outdoor space that can be customized with adjustable louvres, integrated lighting, and heating systems. They offer a great combination of style and functionality, providing shade and shelter while also allowing you to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.
2. Glass roof verandas: Glass roof verandas are a stylish and modern option for creating a freestanding outdoor space that provides both shelter and natural light. They can be customized with a range of features like integrated lighting, heating systems, and sliding glass doors for added privacy and security.
3. Pergola awnings: Pergola awnings are a great way to create a shaded outdoor space that is both stylish and functional. They can be designed in a range of sizes and styles, and can be customized with features like adjustable louvres, integrated lighting, and heating systems.
4. Awnings: Awnings are a versatile and affordable option for creating a freestanding outdoor space that provides shade and shelter. They can be designed in a range of sizes and styles, and can be customized with features like motorized controls, integrated lighting, and heating systems.

No matter what type of freestanding outdoor structure you're looking for, our team of professionals can help you find the right solution for your needs and budget. We can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right structure for your space, and help you customize it with the features and accessories you need to make it truly your own.

Yes, it is possible to install an awning over the top of a wooden pergola, and it can be a great way to enhance the functionality and style of your outdoor living space. An awning can provide additional shade and shelter, and can help protect your outdoor furniture and other belongings from the elements.

To install an awning over a wooden pergola, it's important to ensure that the pergola is structurally sound and able to support the weight of the awning. The awning will need to be attached securely to the pergola using the appropriate hardware and techniques, to ensure that it is safe and stable.

It's also important to choose the right type of awning for your pergola, taking into account factors like the size and shape of the pergola, the material it's made from, and your specific needs and preferences. A retractable awning can be a great option, as it allows you to control the amount of shade and sunlight that enters your outdoor space.

If you're interested in installing an awning over your wooden pergola, we recommend consulting with us so we can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right awning for your needs and budget, and ensuring that it is installed safely and securely.

Yes, with the right accessories and design features, it is possible to use your pergola, awning or glass roof all year round, regardless of the weather conditions.

For example, a pergola can be designed with adjustable louvres or retractable covers, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight and shade that enters your outdoor space. You can also add features like side screens or glass walls to provide additional protection from the wind and rain, while still allowing you to enjoy the view and natural light.

Similarly, an awning can be designed with motorized controls and wind and rain sensors, allowing it to adjust automatically to changing weather conditions. You can also add features like lighting and heating systems to make your outdoor space more comfortable and inviting, even in colder or darker conditions.

Finally, a glass roof veranda can be designed with features like sliding glass doors or retractable covers, allowing you to control the amount of light and ventilation in your outdoor space. You can also add features like integrated lighting and heating systems to make your space more comfortable and functional year-round.

With the right design and features, you can enjoy your outdoor space no matter what the weather brings.

A manual awning is operated by turning a crank handle to retract the awning. This requires some physical effort, but can be a good option for those on a tight budget, or for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to their outdoor living space. Manual awnings can be more affordable and may require less maintenance than electric awnings, since they have fewer moving parts.

An electric awning, on the other hand, is operated by an electric motor, which allows you to extend and retract the awning with the push of a button or remote control. This makes it a convenient and easy-to-use option, especially for larger or heavier awnings. Electric awnings can also be equipped with additional features like wind sensors, rain sensors, and timers, which can enhance their functionality and performance.

In general, electric awnings tend to be more expensive than manual awnings, due to the cost of the motor and installation. However, they offer greater convenience and ease of use, and can be a good option for those who want to make the most of their outdoor living space with minimal effort.

Ultimately, the choice between an electric and manual awning will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget. We can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right type of awning for your needs, and help you customize it with the features and accessories you need to make it truly your own.

If you're interested in adding an awning to your outdoor living space, but you're not quite sure what you're looking for yet, there's no need to worry. Our team of outdoor living specialists can help guide you through the process of choosing the right awning for your needs and budget, and provide expert advice and guidance along the way.

To get started, we recommend thinking about your specific needs and preferences for your outdoor space. Some factors to consider might include:

• The size and shape of your outdoor space
• The amount of sun exposure your space receives
• Your budget for the project
• The style and design features you prefer
• Any specific functionality or features you're looking for, like motorized controls or wind sensors

Once you have a better idea of your needs and preferences, we can help you choose the right type of awning for your space, and provide advice on customizing it with the features and accessories you need to make it truly your own.

We offer a range of awnings to choose from, including manual and electric awnings, full cassette and semi-cassette awnings, and a variety of styles, colors, and materials to choose from. We can also help you customize your awning with features like integrated lighting, heating systems, and wind sensors, to enhance its functionality and performance.

If you're interested in adding an awning to your outdoor living space but you're not sure where to start, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. We can help you explore your options and find the right solution for your needs and budget, and provide expert installation and maintenance services to ensure your new awning provides years of enjoyment and comfort.