Here are some of the frequently asked questions and respective answers.

About Luxury Living Direct

Who are Luxury Living Direct?
How can I contact Luxury Living Direct?
What makes Luxury Living Direct different?

Our Awning Products

Is each Awning really custom built?
What makes your products different?
Can I use my Awning in the rain/wind?
What is the difference between your various Sun Awning Models?
Why are your products more expensive than some I see on the market?
What guarantees do you offer?
Are the Awnings simple to install?
What motors do you use?
What fabric do you use?
Do you offer a solution for when there is not an adequate wall space to fit the Awning?

Ordering & Delivery

How do I correctly measure for an Awning?
I want to order a size in between the sizes you offer on your product page - is this possible?
How do I order a Sun Awning?
How long does it take for my Sun Awning to be made?
What payments methods do you accept?
Can I order over the phone?
What happens if I change my mind?
What delivery options do I have?

Installation

Do you offer an installation service?
How simple is it to install my Sun Awning?
Are the Awnings simple to adjust?
What else do I need to do other than fitting to the wall?
What happens if I do not have a suitable wall to fix to?
What happens if there is a problem with the product when it is delivered?
What do I do if I need assistance with setting up to the Awning?

Aftersales

What guarantees do you offer?
What happens if there is something wrong with my product?
Who should I contact for advice?
Can I buy additional accessories after the Awning has been delivered?

About Luxury Living Direct

Who are Luxury Living Direct?

Luxury Living Direct previously traded as both Sun Awnings Direct and Roller Shutters Direct and is a trading style of Nationwide Home Innovations (company registration number 06778672).

Luxury Living Direct was formed specifically to allow people to buy bespoke high quality home improvements products directly, avoiding visits from salespeople, surveyors and installers - saving significant money.

Our main focus is on quality but by avoiding significant marketing costs and avoiding the massive costs of keeping sales representatives, surveyors and installers on the road, we can bring you quality products and a vastly reduced price.

Top

How can I contact Luxury Living Direct?

We have several ways that you can contact us if you need any assistance.

Firstly we offer a live chat facility that you can click on to chat directly with one of our customer service team. To access this simply look to the top right hand side of any page to launch the chat.

If you would prefer to email us then you can you either use the Contact Us form here or alternatively you can email us at sales at luxurylivingdirect.co.uk (swap word at for @).

If you prefer to speak to someone on the phone then we offer a freephone number that is available Monday to Friday between 9am to 5pm. The number is 0800 030 5204.

Top

What makes Luxury Living Direct different?

Luxury Living Direct takes pride in the products that we offer. At the moment if you wish to buy a Sun Awning you really have two main options. One is to use a home improvement company who will offer you the complete service from sale to installation. This is great but can be expensive - especially if you are capable of carrying out most aspects of their service yourself.

The second option is to buy low quality Sun Awnings that are available online of from certain stores. These are generally cheap, low quality imports that are designed based on price and not quality.

Luxury Living Direct offers an option in between. Buy quality from us, just lose the unnecessary bells and whistles that adds so much to the cost.

Luxury Living Direct also does not spend money on expensive press or TV advertising which again, helps us keep the cost down with no compromise on quality.

Top

Our Awning Products

Is each Awning really custom built?

Yes each Awning is really custom built. We can tailor your Sun Awning to the exact centimetre to fit with your requirement. Of course we have to keep our pricing simple so just round up to the next nearest price and add in the notes your required size.

As well as the size you have many other different options such as fabric, operation, whether you require a valance etc. Just like the top home improvement companies, we make your Sun Awning to your specific order.

Top

What makes your products different?

We pride ourselves on quality. We keep prices low by avoiding employing sales representatives, surveyors and installers that are extremely costly to keep on the road. As well as this we do not use expensive advertising in the press. The end product is still the same; quality, though without the bells and whistles.

All of our products are of the highest quality. Unlike some Awnings that you may find in shops or online, our Awnings are made from aluminium framework, stainless steel fixings and a high quality UV protective, rot resistant fabric. We do not import from China, all components are sourced within Europe to ensure strict quality control procedures are adhered to. There really are no shortcuts taken.

As well as the quality, our service is unique in the fact that all of our Awning products are custom built to your requirement. We hold no "Stock Products".

Top

Can I use my Awning in the rain/wind?

Our awnings are primarily designed to be used for sun protection however, they can be used in light rain as long as you ensure that the angle of the Awning is sufficient to stop water pooling on the fabric which will lead to damage to the arms.

The Awning is not designed to be used in strong winds. The Awning is tested to withstand up to Beaufort 5 winds. Any stronger then the Awning should be retracted.

In the event of snow or hail the Awning should not be used.

for more information regarding this please see our user guides.

Top

What is the difference between your various Sun Awning models?

Firstly we have our top end Sun Awning model. It is a full cassette Awning. This means that when retracted the arms and fabric are fully enclosed. Everything about this Awning is about quality and style. There is no one else in the UK that supplies this product. It is totally unique to Luxury Living Direct.

Our mid range product has a semi cassette. This means that the top of the Awning is fully enclosed though you can still see the arms and part of the fabric from the underside of the Awning.

Our standard Awning is still made from top materials however it is not a full cassette. This means that both the fabric and arms will be visible when it the Awning is fully retracted. It does still retract back into a protective cover. This Awning has been around for many years across Europe and really is an ideal model for those looking for a practical Awning solution.

All of our Awnings offers the choice of both electric or a manual gearing.

Top

Why are your products more expensive than some I see on the market?

This is down to one thing - quality.

Our Awnings are made from aluminium framework, stainless steel fixings and a high quality fabric. All components are sourced within Europe to keep a tight control on quality.

Our pricing is extremely competitive and we would be astonished if you could find a product made with the same quality for a comparable price.

Top

What guarantees do you offer?

We are so confident in the quality of our products that all of our Sun Awnings come with a 5 year, return to base guarantee. In the unlikely event that a part does fail within the 5 year period, simply contact us and we will advise you how to isolate and remove the part in question, send it back to us and we will forward a replacement.

Top

Are the Awnings simple to install?

Yes our products are extremely simple to install. All of our models are end fixed. This required just two to three fixings either end of the Sun Awning.

If you do not feel confident in installing yourself then any local builder or handyman would find the task simple. In addition we are always at the end of the phone to offer advice if needed.

Each Sun Awning is set up in our factory with a pitch that most people will find perfectly satisfactory. If you opt for remote control or automatic sun and wind operation, this will also be programmed in our factory meaning you will simply need to plug the Awning in and it will be ready to go!

Top

What motors do you use?

We do not use Chinese motors.

We choose to use products sourced in Europe due to tighter quality control. We choose to use only market leaders in tubular motors - Somfy. Somfy is a worldwide trusted brand that have been used in Awnings across Europe and the UK for many years. They have offices all over the world and are one of the most trusted and respected brands

All of our range of Sun Awning Automation are also manufactured by Somfy which eliminates any compatibility issues.

Top

What fabric do you use?

We use acrylic fabrics manufactured by leading brands such as Dickson and Swela.

Our ever changing fabric collection offers a huge range of colours and styles. Our fabrics provide maximum UV protection as well as being resistant to rot and mildew.

Top

Do you offer a solution for when there is not an adequate wall space to fit the Awning?

Often with UK properties there simply isn't a clear flat wall to enable the installation of a Sun Awning. Drain pipes and soil pipes often come down the wall right where you wanted to place your awning.

Bungalows with overhanging soffits can also pose a problem as your Awning would have to be so low down.

We offer a range of brackets to overcome these obstacles. Pipe brackets allow the Awning so stand off from the wall, avoiding any obstacle. Our gutter brackets can fix to a wall and bring your Awning out and in front of guttering or tiled brickwork.

If you do have any queries about these methods of fixture then please get in touch with us and we will gladly advise you.

Top

Ordering & Delivery

How do I correctly measure for an Awning?

The Awning width is measured from one extreme of the cassette to the other. This means that a 4m wide awning will be 4m overall. This does not mean that the fabric itself will measure 4m as it will always be some degree smaller than the cassette size. You need to take this into account when ordering your Awning.

The projection is measured from the back of the cassette to the front of the front bar. This means that on a 3m projection the Awning will not come out to 3m unless it is coming out absolutely flat which is not possible.

Top

I want to order a size in between the sizes you offer on your product page - is this possible?

Yes this is possible.

We have tried to keep our pricing simple but this does not mean you have to be limited to these specific sizes. We manufacture each Sun Awning specifically to your requirements right down to the millimetre so you can choose the exact size you like.

For example if you would like a Carino at 2.80m x 2m this is fine. Simply round up to the 3m x 2m price and include your requested size in the notes with your order.

Top

How do I order a Sun Awning?

Ordering your Sun Awning is a simple process. First you will select the size of your Awning. Being our Awnings are custom made you are not restricted to the sizes offers. Simply round up to the next nearest price.

Next you will choose the operation of your Sun Awning.

The next step is to choose your fabric colour. You can then customise your awning with a selection of optional extras.

Once you complete your order you can follow through the checkout process. You can pay by card, bank transfer or cheque. We will call you to run through your order before we commence manufacture so please ensure you leave the best phone number!

Top

How long does it take for my Sun Awning to be made?

This does depend on several factors however we work to a maximum timescale of 4 - 6 weeks from order to delivery. In reality the time is usually 3 - 4 weeks.

We maintain a stock of some of the more popular fabric choices which does allow a quick turnaround time. If you are interested in a quick delivery then please let us know.

Top

What payments methods do you accept?

We can take payment in several ways.

Credit or debit cards can be used either online or taken over the phone. If you would prefer to send a cheque this is also fine though we will not commence your order until the payment has cleared. Bank transfer is also totally acceptable - our bank details can be provided on request.

We are a VAT registered company and a VAT invoice will be provided to you at the time you receive your completed product. All of our prices quoted are inclusive of VAT.

Top

Can I order over the phone?

Yes you can order over the phone or online - whichever you find easiest.

Top

What happens if I change my mind?

After your order has been placed you have 24 hours to cancel or change the order. From then it will depend how far the order has progressed as to what can be changed.

Top

What delivery options do I have?

Currently we offer only one type of delivery service, however if you choose a fabric that we hold in stock we can reduce the manufacturing time considerably.

Once you order has been manufactured we will contact you to arrange a convenient delivery day. This is usually within a maximum of a week.

Top

Installation

Do you offer an installation service?

Currently we do not offer an installation service however we are able to provide a limited service depending on your location in the country. However our Awnings are extremely easy to install, come with full instructions and already come preset in our factory.

If you really do not feel confident in installing yourself then a local handyman or builder would find the task simple. Of course we could offer advice and support over the phone if they were unclear on any aspect.

Top

How simple is it to install my Sun Awning?

We believe our Awnings are very easy to install. Full instructions are provided with each product.

Usually the Awnings are fixed only at either end using two wall fixings each side. Once the Awning is in place, being it has already been set up in the factory, it is ready to be used. Either simply plug in or use the manual crank to open your Awning.

Top

Are the Awnings simple to adjust?

If you do decide to adjust your Awning then you will find it very simple. It is usually just the case of turning an allen key screw to raise or lower the angle on each arm.

If you do not wish your Awning to extend as far you can simply press the stop button or stop winding the crank handle. It really is this simple.

Top

What else do I need to do other than fitting to the wall?

If you have a remote controlled awning you will simply need to plug in the product to a standard three pin plug socket. Some people like to have an external socket for this purpose, others like to feed the cable through the wall to an internal socket. Either is perfectly acceptable.

Hard wired motors will require the awning to be wired to the provided switch then wired from the switch to the plug socket.

If you opt for the manual operation then your Awning is ready to go as soon as it is up on the wall.

Top

What happens if I do not have a suitable wall to fix to?

It is common to not have an adequate wall to install to. We can manufacture brackets that overcome down pipes, soil pipes or other common obstructions. If you have a bungalow and need to bring the Awning out from under a soffit or even if you have a tile-hung wall we can manufacture brackets to bring your Awning up and out.

If you have any queries regarding these brackets then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Top

What happens if there is a problem with the product when it is delivered?

All of our Sun Awnings go through vigorous quality control procedures. However, in the unlikely event that you do encounter a problem on the delivery of your product simply email, or phone and we will be happy to assist you.

Top

What do I do if I need assistance with setting up to the Awning?

We are always happy to help. We have a team of Awning experts who have experience in installing, manufacturing and servicing Awnings.

Our phone, email and live chat support is all free of charge and we will keep working with you until you have set up your new Sun Awning to your requirements.

Top

Aftersales

What guarantees do you offer?

Because we are so confident with our products we offer a 5 year return to base warranty on all of our Awning products. This includes the frame, the fabric, and any electronics.

In the unlikely event that a component does fail within the 5 year period, contact us and we will advise you how to isolate and remove the faulty component safely. You can then return the part to us and we will forward you a replacement.

Top

What happens if there is something wrong with my product?

All of our Awnings go through a stringent quality control process before they are despatched to you.

In the event that your Awning does arrive with a fault then we will be responsible for any postage charges that you may suffer a result of sending back faulty components.

Top

Who should I contact for advice?

Our offices are open from 9 - 5pm Monday through to Friday where you can phone. Emails are generally answered outside of these hours and over the weekends and often our live chat facility is also available outside of these times.

We are always happy to provide advice and support if it is needed.

Top

Can I buy additional accessories after the Awning has been delivered?

Yes you can.

Almost all components are able to be retro fitted at a later date. Some of the electronics will need to be programmed to your system which, if bought at the point of sale of your Awning would be pre-programmed in our factory. However this is not an overly difficult procedure as long as the provided instructions are adhered to.

Top