As the BBC Weather team reports, the UK is expecting strong winds and heavy rain later this week, with gusts of up to 65 mph forecast across parts of southern and eastern England.
While the Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings rather than naming this as an official storm, the conditions may still be severe enough to affect homes, gardens and outdoor structures.

At Shade-Space, the wellbeing of our customers and the longevity of their installations are our top priorities. We’re reaching out to share important precautionary advice for anyone with a retractable awning, pergola, louvred roof or canopy to help you stay safe and protect your investment.

Action Required Before the Storm

1. Retract All Awnings, Pergolas, and Roof Systems

Please make sure all systems are fully retracted and secured.
Strong winds, heavy rain or hail can cause damage if structures remain extended. Retracting them reduces wind resistance and prevents unnecessary strain on the frame or fabric.

2. Secure Loose Outdoor Items

Remove or firmly secure furniture, planters, heaters and signage.
Loose objects can become airborne in high winds, risking damage to your shading system or surrounding property.

3. Isolate Electrical Controls (If Safe to Do So)

For motorised systems, turn off or unplug the power supply where possible. This prevents electrical surges and ensures the motor remains protected.

4. Check Drainage and Gutters

Clear leaves or debris from gutters, channels and drainage outlets. Proper water flow prevents pooling and overflow that could impact nearby structures or foundations.

5. For Commercial Sites

If you operate a restaurant, café or retail space, ensure your team:

• Is aware of your storm procedures

• Does not attempt to operate systems during strong winds or lightning

• Secures the terrace area to prevent accidents or property damage

After the Storm

Once conditions have calmed:

• Inspect your system for any visible signs of damage, such as fabric tears, frame misalignment or malfunctioning controls.

• Avoid operating the system until it has been checked.

• Contact our Shade-Space service team if you notice anything unusual, we can arrange a professional inspection or emergency repair.

We’re Here to Help

Our dedicated support and maintenance team is available to advise, assess and assist once the storm has passed. Whether you need help checking your awning or booking a post-storm inspection, we’re only a call away.

Staying proactive helps protect your investment and ensures your outdoor space remains safe and functional all year round.

Stay safe, stay prepared and thank you for choosing Shade-Space.