Malta's warm weather means that your garden, patio, terrace or balcony can be enjoyed to the full all year round, however, elements such as the sun's harmful rays, the heat, as well as the strong winds that often batter the Maltese islands may make the experience at times unbearable. So whether you're looking for awnings and pergolas, a wind resistant umbrella to keep the sun's rays away, a gazebo to embellish your garden or a marquee to hold your outdoor party, these suppliers located across Malta & Gozo can help you make the most of your outdoor space.

Awnings, canopies and marquees - what's the difference?

A sheet of either canvas or another material stretched on a frame and used to either keep the sun or the rain off a doorway or window, awnings are a covering usually attached to the exterior wall of a building. Yet, what sets them apart from other forms is the wide variety of materials you can choose from, as well as the configuration of the structure. Although they are commonly composed of canvas, there are other materials you might want to consider such as cotton, polyester or vinyl laminated. Irrespective of your choice, you need to make sure that the material is water-resistant, can offer sun and UV protection, can avoid the build-up of mould and mildew, while it can easily be maintained. For instance, cotton can easily stain making it harder for you to clean, while its ability to wear out quickly means that it will need to be replaced more often than other fabrics.

The material in awnings is stretched tightly over a light structure of either aluminium, iron or steel and it's up to you to select the type of awning you prefer. Generally speaking, today's products come in two basic types - the manually operated, which as its name implies must be opened by hand or the motorised models which operate with electricity. Both retractable alternatives offer many benefits such as low-cost affordability and easy adaptability to virtually any outdoor space. What's more, for an instant boost in your branding, you might want to consider having your business' logo or contact details like address, telephone number and email address printed on it.

Similar to awnings, canopies are essentially the same product but with columns that help it to extend further from a building. These are commonly found in restaurants where a large outdoor area must be covered, however, they may also be employed for commercial and residential use. For a cost-effective and temporary solution if you'd like to enjoy some shade during the summer months only, try using a portable pop-up canopy. Versatile and available in various designs and colours, the frame usually incorporates a trust that helps it fold up nicely and compactly.

Having an event or party outdoors at your home or office and need to provide cover to your guests? If that's the case then a marquee is your best solution. Predominantly large in size, these are ideal for social and commercial functions. Consisting of a roof canopy supported by tall central poles known as king poles, the canopy is stretched using side lines connected to ground stakes and smaller supporting poles known as side poles.

What are the general services offered by awnings, canopies and marquees suppliers?

Providers across Malta & Gozo offer a vast range of products in all sorts of multiple sizes, styles and colours to suit all tastes, while any item can be custom-made and made-to-measure to fit your premises' needs. Although for sale, certain solutions may also be offered for rent, so make sure to get in touch with various companies to enquire whether this service is possible. What's more, before you commit to a provider, it would be wise to check whether the product comes with a guarantee.

Customarily the process of acquiring an awning, canopy or marquee involves an initial consultation by the supplier of your choice, although do look around and visit more than one provider to determine the level of service offered, as well as the quality of the products and whether these will be suitable to your budget. This initial consultation is typically free of charge, whereby a representative will visit your premises to take the appropriate measurements and offer you a free quote.

Unless you're a professional installer or a highly skilled DIYer, ideally you should have your awning, canopy or marquee professionally installed. The majority of suppliers offer an installation service, usually at an additional cost who will ensure that the product is positioned in the right place and that no damages to the product you have just purchased or your property take place.

Opt for the appropriate supplier if you'd like to bulk order or if you require an express service with delivery at a specific time and date. In addition, ensure that after sales service is provided, so you'll be able to contact them should you experience any problems. Having said that, although excellent customer service is important, selecting a business that offers quality products is even more crucial seeing that this will ensure that they will stand the test of time and the harsh weather conditions that they might have to withstand.

What other products are available by local providers?

Distributors and providers of awnings, canopies and marquees offer more than just these products. Other items that tend to be highly popular include pergolas, louvers, gazebos and umbrellas that come in all sorts of shapes, colours and sizes. Another product that is increasingly becoming popular includes glass and maxi crystal, durable and wind blocking materials employed to cover the sides of the pergola you have just erected. Available in both opaque and transparent options, the good thing about these is that they can be rolled up with your canopy or pergola or alternatively, they can be completely removed and folded away, affording you with total flexibility.

If you're looking to change the flooring of your outdoor areas, decking is a modern and durable alternative, whereas if you'd like to keep on making use of your outdoor areas during the cold winter months, infrared heaters can help you do just that without needing to order, store and change gas cylinders or using any electricity.