On 1st March, meteorological spring officially begins in the UK.

Unlike astronomical spring (which falls later in March), meteorological spring is based on temperature cycles and weather patterns. In simple terms, it marks the point where daylight hours increase, temperatures begin to rise, and homeowners start thinking about making the most of outdoor space again.

For Shadem Solutions, it signals something important:

The awning season has begun.

Why March Is the Smartest Time to Plan

Every year, we see the same pattern.

• First warm weekend • Sudden spike in enquiries • Installation slots fill quickly • Customers wish they’d booked earlier

By the time April sunshine properly arrives, lead times naturally extend. March is the calm before the rush — the ideal window to plan your external shading project properly.

If you’ve got:

South or west-facing glazing

Bi-fold or sliding patio doors

A terrace that becomes too hot in summer

Outdoor seating that’s unusable at peak sun

Now is the moment to act.

Stop Heat Before It Enters

One of the biggest misconceptions is that shading is about comfort alone.

In reality, external awnings prevent solar gain before it passes through glass. Once heat enters your home, it becomes far harder (and more expensive) to remove.

By blocking direct sunlight externally, awnings help:

✔ Reduce overheating ✔ Cut glare on screens ✔ Protect interiors from UV fade ✔ Improve summer comfort naturally ✔ Reduce reliance on air conditioning

It’s prevention — not cure.

Designed for British Weather

Modern full-cassette awnings aren’t temporary summer accessories. Today’s systems are:

• Fully enclosed when retracted • Motorised for effortless control • Wind-rated and engineered for UK conditions • Available with integrated lighting and heating

With optional sensors and automation, your awning can even respond automatically to weather conditions.

This is outdoor living, properly engineered.

Spring Is About Preparation

Meteorological spring isn’t just a date change — it’s the beginning of longer evenings, brighter mornings and more time spent outside.

And while it might still feel chilly some days, planning now ensures your patio is ready when the first real heatwave hits.

Because it always does.

If you’re considering an external awning for your home or commercial space, March is the most strategic time to arrange a survey and secure installation before peak demand.

Shadem Solutions – precision-made external shading for modern living.