SKYSHADE 4000FC - Compact Full Cassette Awning

SKYSHADE

The SkyShade 4000 FC is our premium compact awning, designed to provide a sleek, unobtrusive sun shade solution for smaller patios and terraces. Featuring a slimline full cassette housing, it neatly encloses the fabric and arms when retracted, protecting the system from the elements year-round.

Available in Made to Measure widths up to 4000mm, this versatile awning offers projections up to 2600mm. Whether you choose manual or electric operation, the fully adjustable canopy pitch allows you to tailor the shade to your exact needs, blocking low sun or light rain with ease.

Select your perfect size, fabric, and specification below to build your ideal awning.

Estimated lead time to dispatch: 2-3 weeks
 
 
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Our smallest compact full cassette retractable awning offering shading for small to medium areas. The Somfy electric motor offers total reliability and the Dickson awning fabrics are a proven award winning fabric choice and have been for many, many years.. since 1836 in fact.  over 180 years of textile manufacturing experience..

 

Skyshade 4000FC Full Cassette Electric Awning

The Skyshade 4000FC is a premium lightweight full cassette retractable awning, expertly engineered to bring style, shade, and versatility to smaller outdoor spaces where every millimetre counts. As one of the most slimline cassette awnings in our Skyshade range, the 4000FC combines sophisticated European design with exceptional British build quality, offering a made-to-measure solution perfectly suited to UK homes, apartments, balconies, and compact commercial installations.

Slim, Sleek, and Space-Efficient

With a cassette profile measuring just 159mm in height and 227mm in depth, the Skyshade 4000FC is one of the most discreet full cassette awnings available on the UK market. This ultra-compact design makes it the perfect "baby brother" to our larger 5500FC model, ideal for:

  • Apartments and flats with limited wall height above doors and windows
  • Balconies and terraces where space is at a premium
  • Shop fronts and cafés requiring elegant, unobtrusive sun protection
  • Modern homes with minimal architectural aesthetics
  • Listed properties where visual impact must be carefully considered

Despite its compact dimensions, the Skyshade 4000FC doesn't compromise on protection or performance. When retracted, the full cassette housing completely encloses the fabric and folding arm mechanisms, shielding them from rain, wind, dirt, and UV degradation—significantly extending the lifespan of your awning.

Made in the UK – Fast Turnaround

Unlike many imported awnings with unpredictable lead times, the Skyshade 4000FC is manufactured right here in the United Kingdom to your exact custom specifications. This local production brings significant advantages:

  • Fast delivery: Typical lead time of just 2-3 weeks from order confirmation to delivery
  • Precision manufacturing: Built to exact millimetre dimensions for a perfect fit
  • Quality assurance: Rigorous UK manufacturing standards
  • Expert support: Direct access to our UK-based technical team for advice and troubleshooting

Made-to-Measure Dimensions

Every Skyshade 4000FC awning is custom-built to your precise requirements, ensuring maximum coverage and a perfect visual fit for your property.

Width Specifications:

  • Minimum Width: 1910mm (suitable for single French doors or small windows)
  • Maximum Width: 4000mm (ideal for standard double patio doors or bi-fold door sets)
  • Custom Made: Specify your exact width requirement in millimetres for a perfect fit

Projection Options:
Choose from three fixed projection depths to suit your outdoor furniture and shading requirements:

  • 1.6m Projection – Perfect for small café tables or window shading (requires minimum 1910mm width)
  • 2.1m Projection – Suitable for standard 4-person dining sets (requires minimum 2410mm width)
  • 2.6m Projection – Ideal for larger 6-person dining tables or deeper terraces (requires minimum 2910mm width)

Minimum Width Requirements by Projection:

Projection (CM) Width (CM) - 2 Brackets
160 191
210 241
260 291

Important Note: The fabric canopy width will always be approximately 170-220mm narrower than the overall cassette width due to the mechanism design and end caps. This is standard across all folding arm awnings and ensures proper operation.

Premium Dickson Constant Fabrics

We partner with Dickson, one of Europe's most respected manufacturers of technical outdoor fabrics, to offer an extensive range of high-performance awning covers. All Dickson fabrics supplied with the Skyshade 4000FC are 100% solution-dyed acrylic, meaning the colour is integrated into the fibre before weaving—ensuring exceptional fade resistance, longevity, and colour vibrancy season after season.

Fabric Collections Available:

1. Solids Collection
Contemporary plain colours perfect for modern and minimalist design schemes:

  • Classic neutrals (whites, creams, greys, taupes)
  • Rich earth tones (terracotta, olive, sand, charcoal)
  • Vibrant accent shades (blues, greens, reds)
  • Deep architectural tones (anthracite, graphite, navy)

2. Stripes Collection
Traditional and contemporary striped designs to add visual interest:

  • Narrow pencil stripes for subtle sophistication
  • Classic medium-width stripes for timeless appeal
  • Bold block stripes for striking architectural statements
  • Multi-tonal stripe combinations for depth and character

3. Patterns and Textures Collection
Sophisticated woven designs with multi-tonal effects:

  • Subtle textures for tactile visual interest
  • Heathered and melange finishes
  • Contemporary geometric patterns
  • Designer exclusives for unique style

Can't find what you're looking for? Email or call us if you require a specific Dickson fabric that you don't see as an option in our online shop. We have access to the full Dickson range and can source special fabrics where required.

Technical Performance – Dickson Constant Acrylic:

  • Composition: 100% solution-dyed acrylic
  • Weight: 300 g/m² (heavyweight specification)
  • UV Protection: Excellent fade resistance—guaranteed colour fastness
  • Water Repellency: Integrated water-repellent treatment
  • Mould & Stain Resistance: Built-in protection against organic growth
  • Fire Safety: Fire retardant tested to European standards
  • Easy Care: Compatible with mild soap and water cleaning

Care and Maintenance:
Dickson fabrics are engineered for outdoor performance with minimal maintenance. Regular care is simple:

  • Remove loose dirt with a soft brush and clean water
  • Wash seasonally with mild soapy water (avoid harsh detergents)
  • For mould or mildew, use a diluted white vinegar solution followed by thorough rinsing
  • Allow fabric to dry completely before retracting
  • Avoid pressure washers and abrasive cleaners

Somfy IO Motor – Smart Home Ready

The Skyshade 4000FC is supplied exclusively as an electric model, powered by a high-specification Somfy IO tubular motor. Somfy is the world leader in awning automation, and their IO (input/output) technology provides secure, reliable, and future-proof smart home integration.

Standard Control Options:

  • Wireless Wall Switch: Sleek, battery-powered wall-mounted control (no wiring required)
  • Handheld Remote Control: Convenient pocket-sized remote for operation from anywhere in view
  • Both Options: You can have both wall switch and remote for maximum flexibility

Smart Home Upgrade Path:
The IO motor specification means your awning is ready for smart home integration whenever you choose to upgrade. Simply add:

  • Somfy TaHoma Switch: Connect your awning to your home Wi-Fi network and control via smartphone app (iOS/Android) from anywhere in the world
  • Voice Control: "Alexa, extend the awning" or "Hey Google, retract the awning"—full integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Automated Sensors: Add sun and wind sensors for fully automated operation—your awning extends when the sun gets strong and retracts automatically when wind speeds increase
  • Scheduling: Programme your awning to extend and retract at set times, or trigger based on sunrise/sunset
  • Integration: Link with other Somfy products—blinds, shutters, screens—for whole-home shading automation

Motor Warranty:
Somfy motors are covered by a comprehensive 5-year manufacturer's warranty covering all mechanical and electrical components. These are maintenance-free sealed units designed for many years of reliable operation.

Note: The motor includes thermal protection—after approximately 4 minutes of continuous operation, the motor will automatically pause to cool. After 20-30 minutes, normal operation resumes. This is a safety feature, not a fault.

Simple End-Fix Installation

The Skyshade 4000FC features a robust 2-bracket end-fix design, making it one of the simplest retractable awnings to install. Unlike centre-bracket systems that require multiple complex fixing points, the end-fix arrangement means:

  • Only 2 fixing points – brackets located at the outer extremities of the cassette
  • Straightforward measuring – clear, unambiguous installation positions
  • Load distribution – weight spread evenly to the outer edges
  • DIY-friendly – suitable for confident DIY installers with appropriate tools and wall fixings
  • Quick professional installation – experienced fitters can typically complete installation in 2-3 hours

Installation Options:

Face Fix (Standard):
The most common installation method for domestic properties. Heavy-duty end brackets fix directly to a flat vertical wall surface (brick, blockwork, or masonry) above your patio doors or windows.

Top Fix (Ceiling Mount):
For properties with limited wall height or single-storey extensions, ceiling-mounted brackets allow the awning to be suspended from soffits, overhangs, or flat ceilings. Ideal for conservatory installations.

Adjustable Pitch:
Once mounted, the awning's pitch angle can be precisely adjusted using a simple screw-in system at each end bracket. This allows you to fine-tune the slope for optimal water drainage and shading angle (typically 10-15° from horizontal).

Frame Colours & Powder Coated Finishes

The Skyshade 4000FC aluminium cassette and folding arms are supplied as standard in Pure White (RAL 9010) with a durable, weather-resistant powder-coated finish.

Standard Colour:

  • Pure White (RAL 9010) – Brilliant white finish suitable for traditional and modern properties (Standard – No Additional Charge)

Upgrade Options:
If you require a different colour to match your window frames, doors, or architectural style, we can supply the awning in any RAL colour from the standard RAL Classic colour chart:

  • RAL 9001 Cream – Soft ivory tone for period and cottage-style homes
  • RAL 7035 Light Grey – Neutral contemporary grey
  • RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey – Popular dark grey for modern bi-fold door installations
  • RAL 9005 Black – Deep matt black for bold architectural contrast
  • Any other RAL Classic colour – Available on request

Please Note: Non-standard RAL colours are available at an additional surcharge. Contact us for pricing on specific RAL colour options.

All powder coating is applied to a high standard with excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance, suitable for coastal and urban environments.

Compact Cassette Dimensions

The Skyshade 4000FC's ultra-slim profile is one of its standout features:

  • Cassette Height: 159mm
  • Cassette Depth: 227mm (projection from wall when face-fixed)

These compact dimensions make it one of the smallest full cassette awnings available, perfect for installations where space above doors and windows is limited.

Versatile Application – Residential & Commercial

The Skyshade 4000FC's lightweight, discreet design makes it suitable for a wide range of applications:

Residential:

  • Apartment balconies and terraces
  • Small gardens and courtyard patios
  • French doors and standard patio doors
  • Kitchen and dining room windows
  • Conservatory shade and temperature control

Commercial:

  • Shop windows and display protection
  • Café and restaurant outdoor
  • Office windows and glazed façades
  • Hotel balconies and guest terraces
  • Retail unit frontages

Primarily for Sun Shade Protection

This folding arm fabric awning is perfect for anyone wanting an awning up to 4000mm wide and for mainly sun shade protection. While the full cassette design provides excellent weather protection when retracted, the primary function is to create comfortable, shaded outdoor space during sunny weather.

Maximum projection is 2600mm, with 2 other smaller projections offered. The width is purpose-made to suit—you simply state what width you require overall from end to end of the cassette.

Warranty & Build Quality

We stand behind the quality of the Skyshade 4000FC with comprehensive warranty coverage:

Component Warranty Period
Aluminium Framework & Cassette 5 Years
Somfy IO Electric Motor 5 Years (Manufacturer's Warranty)
Dickson Constant Fabric 5 Years (against fading/rot under normal use)
Folding Arms & Mechanisms 5 Years
Powder Coated Finish 5 Years (against peeling/flaking)

Key Features Summary

  • Ultra-compact cassette – Just 159mm high × 227mm deep for discreet installation
  • Made in the UK – Fast 2-3 week delivery on all custom sizes
  • End-fix design – Simple 2-bracket installation system
  • Full cassette protection – Complete enclosure for fabric and mechanisms when closed
  • Somfy IO motor – Smart home-ready technology for future upgrades
  • Dickson Constant fabrics – Extensive choice of premium solution-dyed acrylic fabrics
  • Standard white finish – RAL 9010 Pure White as standard, with any RAL colour available at surcharge
  • Adjustable pitch – Fine-tune the angle after installation
  • Multiple installations – Face fix or top fix (ceiling mount) options
  • Comprehensive 5-year warranty on all components
  • Maximum width 4000mm – Perfect for standard patio doors and balconies
  • Maximum projection 2.6m – Ideal coverage for outdoor dining and seating

Perfect For:

  • Balconies & Small Patios – Compact design ideal for space-conscious installations
  • Modern Apartments – Sleek, minimal aesthetic
  • Shop Windows – Protect merchandise from sun glare and UV fading
  • Listed Properties – Discreet profile with minimal visual impact
  • Compact Outdoor Dining – Perfect coverage for 2-6 person dining sets
  • Secondary Entrances – French doors, side doors, kitchen doors
  • Limited Wall Height – Smallest cassette dimensions in the Skyshade range

Need Help Choosing?

Our team is here to help you select the perfect size, fabric, and configuration for your property. Contact us for expert advice, technical specifications, RAL colour pricing, or a no-obligation quote.

📧 Email: enquiries@awningsonline.co.uk
📞 Phone: 01933 449000
🕒 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

Technical Specification

  • Awning Type: Compact full cassette, retractable folding arm awning.
  • Construction: High-quality extruded aluminium framework and cassette housing.
  • Cassette Profile: Slimline fully enclosed design for maximum fabric protection.

Dimensions & Sizing

  • Ordering Size: Purpose-made to your exact required cassette width.
  • Maximum Width: 4000mm.
  • Maximum Projection: 2600mm.
  • Pitch Adjustment: Adjustable from 0° (flat) to approx. 75° via an innovative pass-through screw system.

Minimum Cassette Widths

Due to the folding arm geometry, the awning must have a minimum width to accommodate the arms for each projection size:

Projection Minimum Cassette Width
1600mm 1910mm

Installation & Fixing

  • Fixing Method: 2-bracket "end-fix" system (brackets located at the far ends of the cassette).
  • Standard Brackets: Face fixing brackets supplied as standard for external wall mounting.
  • Optional Brackets: Ceiling fixing brackets and special non-standard brackets available on request (POA).
  • Power Cable: Standard 3m black cable exits from the rear of the cassette (Left or Right hand side, viewed from outside).

Operation & Motorisation

  • Electric Operation: Somfy IO motor supplied as standard.
  • Manual Operation: Gearbox operation via a 1400mm steel winding handle. (Choose Left or Right hand eye outlet).
  • Emergency Override: Optional manual override motor available (allows manual winding in case of power failure).
  • Sensors: Compatible with Somfy Wind, Sun, and Motion sensors (Motion sensor recommended for safety).

Finishes & Fabrics

  • Standard Cassette Colours:
    • White (RAL 9010)
    • Other RAL colours available on request (Approx £320 + VAT Surcharge).
  • Fabric Canopy: Extensive range of Dickson Orchestra acrylic fabrics.
  • Special Fabrics: Dickson Jacquard, Solar Protection Max, Spark FR, and self-cleaning fabrics available on request.

Manufacturing & Origin

  • Origin: Manufactured in the UK for Awnings Online by Base Awnings Ltd.
  • Components: Utilises premium components from world-leading brands: BAT (Italy) for hardware, Somfy (France) for motors, and Dickson (France) for fabrics.
  • Warranty: UK-backed warranty, including a 5-Year Somfy Motor Guarantee and a 10-Year Dickson Fabric Warranty (against rot and fade).

The SkyShade 4000 FC is designed to be one of the easiest awnings to install on the market. Supplied fully assembled and featuring a simple "2-bracket" end-fix system, it is an ideal project for a competent DIY enthusiast or a general builder.

Installation Level: Easy / Intermediate DIY
Recommended Team: 2 People (due to lifting weight)

1. Assess Your Wall

  • Sound Structure: Ensure the brickwork or masonry where you intend to fix the brackets is solid and free from cracks. The load is concentrated at the two ends, so these points must be strong.
  • Clearance: Check that the installation area is free from obstructions (downpipes, lights, vents) and that you have enough height for the awning to pitch downwards without hitting your doors.
  • Alternative Fixings: If you are fixing to soft blockwork or an uneven surface, consider ordering our larger spreader plates to distribute the load more effectively.

2. Install the Brackets

  • Measure the exact width of your awning cassette.
  • Mark the position for the two wall brackets at the corresponding width.
  • Drill and secure the brackets using high-quality masonry fixings.
  • Pro Tip: We highly recommend using chemical resin anchors (chem-fix) instead of standard expanding bolts. This ensures a stress-free, waterproof bond that is much stronger and safer for awning installations.

3. Lift & Secure

  • With one person at each end, lift the awning cassette onto the installed wall brackets.
  • Slide the cassette into position and secure it firmly using the supplied locking bolts or grub screws.
  • Check the unit is perfectly level with a spirit level before final tightening.

4. Setup & Adjustment

  • Pitch Angle: Extend the awning and adjust the arm angle bolts to set your desired slope. Ensure the front profile is level.
  • Motor Limits (Electric Models): If you have chosen the electric option, the Somfy motor limits are usually pre-set at the factory. However, fine-tuning may be required to ensure the cassette closes tightly. Refer to the specific Somfy guide provided.

Tools Checklist

  • Hammer Drill & Masonry Bits
  • Spirit Level
  • Stepladder
  • Metric Spanner / Socket Set
  • Allen Keys (typically included)
  • Chemical Resin Kit & Studs (Recommended)

Safety First: While this is a compact awning, it is still heavy. If you are unsure about the structural integrity of your wall or the fixing process, please consult a professional installer. Full step-by-step instructions are included with the product and are also available for download in the "Relevant Downloads" tab.

The SkyShade 4000 FC is a high-quality compact awning, backed by a robust warranty to give you peace of mind. Awnings Online guarantees that the product is free from material and assembly defects upon delivery, provided it is correctly installed and used in accordance with our guidelines. Our liability is limited to the repair or supply of replacement parts for any defective components.

Warranty Periods

  • 5-Year Warranty: Covers the Aluminium Framework, Arms, and Mechanical Components.
  • 5-Year Warranty: Covers the Somfy Electric Motor (if electric option selected).
  • 10-Year Warranty: Covers the Dickson Fabric Canopy against rot, mildew, and abnormal colour fading.

Scope of Warranty Cover

The warranty operates on a sliding scale based on the age of the product. Please note that as a "Supply Only" product, the warranty does not cover installation labour, removal costs, or any consequential losses.

Cover Provided Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
Replacement Parts Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Factory Labour (Repair) Yes No No No No
Carriage to Factory Yes No No No No
Fabric Cover Yes Yes Yes *Pro-rata *Pro-rata

*Fabric warranty extends up to 10 years on a diminishing value basis.

Key Exclusions

The following are not covered under this guarantee:

  • Weather Damage: The SkyShade 4000 FC is a lightweight sunshade. Damage caused by wind, storms, snow, or water pooling is not covered. Ideally, retract the awning when not in use.
  • Installation Issues: Faults arising from incorrect fixing, poor wall condition, or failure to set the correct pitch/limits.
  • Automation Failures: Damage caused because automatic sensors (sun/wind) failed to retract the awning during a storm. Sensors are aids, not fail-safe devices.
  • Consumables: Remote control batteries, fuses, or bulbs.
  • Modifications: Any alterations to the frame or mechanism not authorised by the manufacturer.

Fabric Characteristics

Please note that acrylic fabrics may show certain visual characteristics which are inherent to the manufacturing process and are not defects:

  • Veining: White lines or "cobweb" marks visible against the light, caused by handling during manufacture.
  • Waffling: Slight rippling near seams or hems due to the fabric thickness doubling up on the roller.
  • Folding Marks: Creases that may be visible along the centre of the cloth.

These are industry standards and do not affect the waterproofing or lifespan of the cover.

How to Measure for Your SkyShade 4000 FC

The SkyShade 4000 FC is our compact full-cassette awning, designed for smaller patios and lighter applications. Its "end-fix" system makes measuring incredibly straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free installation even for DIY beginners.

1. Measuring the Width

The "Width" is the total end-to-end measurement of the aluminium cassette.

  • Simple End-Fixing: Just like our larger models, the 4000 FC uses only 2 wall brackets located at the far ends of the unit.
  • Select Your Zone: Measure the wall area you want to shade. Ensure that at both ends of this width, you have at least 150mm of clear, solid brickwork vertically to fix the brackets securely.
  • Compact Profile: Because the cassette is smaller and lighter, it fits neatly into tighter spaces, such as above patio doors where headroom might be limited.

2. Measuring the Projection

The "Projection" is how far the awning extends out from your wall.

  • Available Sizes: Typically available in projections up to 2500mm (check specific product options).
  • Height vs. Slope: Even with a smaller awning, you must allow for the slope (pitch). We recommend mounting the awning as high as possible—ideally around 2.6m to 2.8m from the ground—to ensure plenty of headroom at the front when it is fully extended.
  • Door Clearance: If installing over outward-opening bifold or French doors, check that the awning (when pitched down) won't obstruct the doors opening.

3. Handling Obstacles

Most standard installations use the supplied face-fix brackets, but we have solutions for tricky walls:

  • Downpipes: If a rainwater pipe blocks the position of an end bracket, use our Pipe/Stand-off Brackets to mount the awning slightly away from the wall.
  • Bungalows & Low Eaves: If you don't have enough height above your doors, special Roof Truss Brackets or Spreader Plates can help you gain height or spread the load on weaker walls.
  • Gutters: Ensure the cassette is mounted low enough to clear the soffit/gutter above, or use ceiling brackets to fix it directly to a structural overhang.

Expert Tip: Always measure twice! The SkyShade 4000 FC is made to your exact specifications. If you are unsure about obstructions or bracket types, simply email us a photo of your wall for expert advice before ordering.

 
In need of technical advice?

Give us a call now on
01933 449 000

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