Canvas Awning Company FAQs
Our Woodsman's Awnings are designed to be straightforward and quick to set-up.
A standard size Canvas Awning takes just two people and can be erected in as little as 30 minutes.
Of course, it's likely to take longer the first time you have a go, but gets faster once you know what you're doing. Check out our Awning set-up page to learn more.
Our canvas awnings are 100% waterproof.
We manufacture our canopies using professional-grade Regentex, a heavy-duty fabric specifically engineered to provide complete protection against heavy rain rather than just repelling light moisture.
To properly pitch our compact 5m x 3m canvas awning, you need a minimum clear pitch area of 7m x 5m (Length x Width).
This footprint includes the necessary space required to securely extend and tension all guy ropes and pegs.
To properly pitch our standard 6m x 4m canvas awning, you will need a minimum clear pitch area of 8m x 8m (Length x Width).
This footprint provides the necessary space to securely extend and tension all guy ropes and pegs.
Pitch Layout & Dimensions
Below is a layout guide for our 6m x 4m model:
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Canvas Dimensions: The canopy itself measures approximately 6m x 4m.
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Stake Positions: Refer to the diagram below for the specific placement of ground stakes and pegs (indicated in red) to ensure maximum stability.
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Total Pitch Area: Allowing for 8m x 8m ensures you have ample clearance for structural tensioning.
If you have any specific questions about fitting an awning into your space, please don't hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!
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Phone: 07590 205733 (Bryony)
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The Large 8m x 6m Canvas Awning has a pitch size of 10m x 10m.
The pitch size includes space for the guy ropes.
We made our first Canvas Awning in 2011 and it's still going strong.
We worked it hard from day one - we were running our marquee hire company back then and our Canvas Awnings were out on hire at festivals and weddings every season . In-between hires we used it ourselves for camping trips and garden parties throughout the year. Now, we no longer run a marquee hire business, but our original Canvas Awnings aren't retired, they still get plenty of use and they're still going strong!
Read our blog article for detailed instructions on how to maintain your Canvas Awning for at least a decade.
Our canvas awnings are engineered for extreme durability and typically last 10 years or more with proper care. We use heavy-duty Regentex poly-cotton canvas, which combines the classic look of cotton with the long-term strength of polyester.
The Ultimate Durability Test
We still use our very first canvas awning, manufactured in 2011. Before becoming our 'favourite bit of kit' for personal camping trips and garden parties, it endured years of heavy use in our former marquee hire business—withstanding constant setup and takedown at weddings and festivals every season.Simple Tips for Longevity
To ensure your awning stays in peak condition for a decade or more, follow these essential maintenance steps:-
Store Dry: Always ensure the canvas is bone-dry before packing it away to prevent mildew and rot.
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Frame Care: Wipe down poles to remove dirt and apply linseed oil once a year to nourish and protect the wood.
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Refresh the Coating: After 5–10 years of heavy use, consider applying a universal protector like Fabsil Gold to refresh the waterproof barrier.
For a detailed, step-by-step guide to maintaining your Canvas, read our Blog Article
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Yes, we sell every single component of our canvas awnings individually, ensuring you're covered if you lose a guy rope, misplace a peg, or simply want some spare parts for peace of mind.
How to Order Replacement Parts
You have two easy ways to get the parts you need:
Online Shop: Browse our full selection of components and order directly from our online shop: Click Here to explore
Get in Touch: If you prefer personal assistance or have specific questions, you can contact us directly to order the exact parts you need.
Our 6m x 4m Canvas Awnings go up in 30 minutes with just 2 people.
It's easy to learn how using our video guide. The only tool you'll need is a sledge hammer to knock the ground stakes in.
Our Canvas Awnings are designed to be erected on grass or soft ground that's fairly level.
If you want to set one up on hard ground - such as a patio - this may be possible. Awnings can be secured into a patio by drilling a hole through the grout and then driving a steel peg (supplied with the Awning) through the hole and into the sub-base. If your patio has a concrete sub-base then you can use a heavy-duty chain plate staple.
Do give us a ring or get in touch by email for more instructions and details. We'll be happy to advise.
Our freestanding canopies are certified to withstand winds up to Force 7 (a high wind or moderate gale). This makes our artisanal canvas awnings highly reliable for outdoor events, unlike typical gazebos or retractable awnings.
Detailed Wind Resistance
The 6m x 4m and 8m x 6m canvas awnings are engineered for stability. Each canopy includes double guy ropes on every corner, plus additional 'storm guys' to provide extra stability in adverse weather conditions. In more moderate conditions (up to Force 5), the storm guys are not required.
Our 5m x 3m compact freestanding canopies are certified to withstand winds up to Force 6 (a strong breeze). Engineered for a balance of portability and performance, this model provides a reliable, stylish cover for events in moderate to fresh weather conditions.
Technical Wind Resistance & Stability
While designed for portablilty, ease of storage and speed of set-up, the 5m x 3m model maintains professional-grade stability through several key features:
Certified Durability: Tested to remain secure in wind speeds up to Force 6.
Streamlined Setup: Features a single guy-rope system specifically designed for quick installation without sacrificing tension.
Lightweight Engineering: Combines an extremely durable, artisanal canvas canopy with a simplified structure, making it a portable alternative to our larger awnings.
Optimised for Portability: Ideal for events requiring a fast, professional setup that can still handle unpredictable coastal or countryside breezes.
Freestanding canvas awnings are high-performance, artisanal structures. Traditional gazebos often use lightweight materials. In contrast, our freestanding canvas awnings use heavy-duty British canvas and locally sourced round-wood poles.
Key Differences
Aesthetic: traditional gazebos often use industrial metal frames and shiny plastic PVC covers. Our freestanding Canvas Awnings use round wood frames and beautiful canvas canopies in a range of natural colours.
Weather Performance: Many gazebos are designed for fair weather. Canvas Awnings are certified for the event industry and engineered to withstand winds up to Force 7 for standard and large models, or Force 6 for compact models.
Sustainability & Longevity: Standard gazebos are often considered semi-disposable. Canvas Awnings are designed to last a decade or more.
Setup Speed: Canvas Awnings can be erected by two people in about 30 minutes.
Professional Certification: Canvas Awnings come with the necessary wind-loading and fire retardancy documentation required for commercial festivals and professional events. This also makes them easier to insure if you're using them for your business.
Still got a question?
Contact us