
Awnings & shading
Balcony Awnings with Support Arms in Ierapetra, Crete
The classic, solid awning for balconies and terraces — it stays put even in strong wind.
Balcony Awnings with Support Arms
Awnings with support arms are the classic shading solution for Cretan balconies. The fabric rolls onto a bar fixed to the wall and, once extended, rests on support arms — aluminium or galvanised steel struts that brace against the railing, the handrail or the balcony wall.
Because the awning is anchored at fixed points instead of hanging from the wall alone, it stays taut and steady even in strong wind. That makes it the right choice for exposed balconies, top-floor flats and high storeys, as well as for irregular or corner balconies. It works with a hand crank or with a SOMFY motor and remote control. If your balcony has a glass railing, or you want a clear front with nothing in the way, look at cassette and folding-arm awnings instead.
Ideal for
Photos: Balcony Awnings
A selection of balcony awnings with support arms we have installed in Ierapetra and the surrounding area. Click a photo to enlarge it.
Braced awnings fixed to the balcony railings of an apartment block
Large braced awning over a courtyard with a play area
Braced awning and vertical awning on a terrace with a sea view
Braced awning on an apartment balcony
Braced awning in textured beige fabric
Braced awning with a valance on a terrace overlooking the seaFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between a braced awning and a folding-arm awning?
On a braced awning the front edge rests on metal arms that push against the railing or wall. On a folding-arm (or cassette) awning the fabric opens on articulated arms and is held by the wall alone, with nothing supporting the front. Braced arms give more stability in wind; folding arms leave the front completely open.
Can they be fitted to a balcony with a glass railing?
Usually not, because the arms need a solid point to brace against. In that case we recommend a cassette or folding-arm awning, or wall fixing where the structure allows it. We will assess this together during the free site survey.
Can a braced awning be motorised?
Yes. We fit a SOMFY tubular motor inside the roller bar, operated by remote control or a wall switch.
Do you replace the fabric on an old braced awning?
Yes. If the mechanism and the arms are still sound, we sew a new cover to the exact dimensions, fit it and re-adjust the mechanism.
Other shading systems
Every space calls for its own solution. Take a look at the other systems we install.

Cassette & Folding-Arm Awnings
A closed aluminium case or open folding arms. Hand-operated or with a SOMFY motor.Find out more
Tensioned Shade Sails
Tensioned sails and fabric panels sliding on tracks or cables, for wide openings.Find out more
Pergola Shade Fabrics
Woven and wave-form fabrics for wooden or metal pergolas and courtyards.Find out more
Retractable Pergola Awnings
Aluminium frame with waterproof, motorised sliding fabric. For sun and for rain.Find out more
Dome Awnings (Shopfront Canopies)
Curved canopies on a fixed frame, for shop windows, entrances and windows.Find out more
Commercial Parasols
Square and octagonal parasols for hotels, cafés and beach bars.Find out moreBook a free survey and quote
We come to you, show you fabric samples and give you an exact quote — with no obligation at all.