The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Retractable Awning in Los Angeles

Retractable awnings are an increasingly popular addition to both residential and commercial spaces. These versatile outdoor structures have significant advantages, from protecting your furniture and reducing energy costs to enhancing the overall functionality and beauty of your space. This guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of retractable awnings, their benefits, types, materials, and associated costs. Whether you’re looking to create a shaded haven for your patio or a more comfortable work environment, this detailed overview will help you choose the right retractable awning for your needs.

What Are Retractable Awnings?

A retractable awning is a structure that can be extended or retracted depending on the user’s needs, typically offering shade, privacy, and protection from the elements. These awnings can be manually operated or motorized, allowing for convenience and flexibility in outdoor spaces. Mounted permanently to the exterior of a building—be it a home, business, or apartment—the awning is installed using sturdy brackets that allow it to fold away neatly when not in use. Retractable awnings are often used to cover patios, decks, windows, doors, and even balconies, adding functionality and style to any space.

The primary advantage of retractable awnings over fixed options is their versatility. They offer the ability to adjust the amount of sunlight and shade based on the time of day or weather conditions, making them ideal for creating a comfortable and customizable outdoor living area. At Superior Awnings, we offer high-quality retractable awnings that are perfect for any space, whether residential or commercial.

Why People Love Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings are cherished for their numerous benefits, which enhance both the usability and comfort of outdoor spaces. Here are the key advantages that make retractable awnings an excellent investment:

1. Control Over Sun Exposure

With a retractable awning, you can decide when to enjoy the sun and when to retreat to the shade. This flexibility allows you to optimize your outdoor space, extending its use well into the warmer months of the year. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, relaxing with family, or simply reading outside, an awning ensures that you’re shielded from harsh sun rays at the push of a button or a turn of a crank.

2. Expanded Outdoor Living Space

A retractable awning creates additional usable space for activities such as dining, entertaining, or working outdoors. It transforms an area that might otherwise be too hot or exposed to direct sunlight into a comfortable, shaded retreat. With the option to retract the awning, you can enjoy the outdoors during both sunny and cooler days, without the need for a permanent roof structure.

3. Enhanced Curb Appeal

An awning doesn’t just serve a functional purpose; it also elevates the visual appeal of your home or business. By selecting the right style, fabric, and color, a retractable awning can complement your building’s architecture and contribute to a more attractive exterior. In fact, a well-designed retractable awning can increase the market value of your home by enhancing its curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

4. Sun Protection for Your Belongings

The sun’s UV rays can cause significant damage to both outdoor and indoor furniture, carpets, and wood surfaces. A retractable awning offers UV protection, helping to preserve the longevity of your furniture and other possessions by blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays. This can reduce fading and deterioration, extending the life of your decor and outdoor investments.

5. Durability and Longevity

Unlike traditional fixed awnings, retractable models can be retracted during inclement weather, reducing their exposure to wind, rain, and snow. This not only protects the fabric and structure from damage but also extends the lifespan of the awning, making it a more durable option in the long run. With proper care and maintenance, a retractable awning can last for many years, providing ongoing protection and comfort.

6. Improved Comfort

By providing shade, retractable awnings can lower the temperature of your outdoor space by up to 20°F, making it significantly more comfortable on hot days. The shade they provide can also reduce indoor temperatures, potentially lowering cooling costs by reducing the need for air conditioning.

7. Cost Savings on Energy Bills

Retractable awnings contribute to energy savings by reducing the amount of solar heat entering your home. By blocking direct sunlight from hitting windows and doors, they can lower indoor temperatures by up to 15 degrees, thereby decreasing the need for air conditioning. Over time, this can lead to lower energy bills, making retractable awnings a cost-effective investment for homeowners.

Choosing the Right Retractable Awning for Your Home

Selecting the perfect retractable awning for your property involves considering several factors, including the type of space you want to shade, the style of your home, and your personal preferences. Here’s what to consider when making your choice:

1. Types of Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings come in several designs, each suited to different applications. The type you choose will depend on the space you wish to cover and the level of shade you need. Here are the most common types:

• Lateral Arm Awnings: These are the most common type of retractable awning, extending horizontally and providing a large shaded area. They are ideal for patios, decks, and other outdoor spaces.
• Drop Arm Awnings: These awnings extend both horizontally and vertically, making them suitable for shading windows or balconies where both sun and privacy are the main concerns.
• Solar Shade Awnings: These are designed to protect against the sun while allowing light to filter through. They are typically used to protect windows, reducing glare while maintaining visibility.
• Pergola Shade Awnings: Installed on pergolas, these awnings provide shade over dining or lounging areas, enhancing outdoor comfort while maintaining an open-air ambiance.
• Limitless Canopies: A versatile option, these canopies provide extensive coverage for large outdoor areas such as patios, gardens, or poolside spaces.

2. Material and Fabric Options

The material of the awning is critical in determining its durability, performance, and aesthetic. Retractable awnings are typically made from weather-resistant fabrics or durable metals. Here are some of the most popular materials:

• Acrylic Fabric: Known for its UV resistance, color retention, and water resistance, acrylic is a top choice for awnings. It also resists mold and mildew, making it ideal for humid climates.
• Polyester: More affordable than acrylic, polyester is a strong, lightweight fabric often used for budget-friendly awnings. However, it may not offer the same level of UV protection and longevity.
• Vinyl: A vinyl-coated fabric is resistant to water and UV rays, making it an excellent option for areas prone to rain or intense sunlight.
• Aluminum: For a sturdier, long-lasting option, aluminum awnings are often used for motorized systems. They are resistant to rust and can provide greater protection than fabric-only options.

3. Color and Aesthetic Choices

The color of your awning should complement the design and color of your home or business. Lighter colors, such as beige, white, or light gray, reflect more sunlight and help keep the shaded area cooler. Darker colors, like navy, black, or forest green, absorb heat, providing better UV protection but potentially increasing the temperature beneath the awning. Consider your local climate, the aesthetic of your home, and how the awning will integrate with your outdoor space when selecting a color. Superior Awnings offers a wide range of fabric colors and patterns, allowing you to match the awning with your home’s exterior. 

4. Manual vs. Motorized Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings come in both manual and motorized options. Manual awnings require you to crank the awning open and closed by hand, while motorized models offer the convenience of remote control operation. Motorized awnings are often equipped with sensors that allow them to retract automatically in high winds or rain, providing added protection and convenience. 

Motorized systems are more expensive upfront but offer superior ease of use and convenience, especially if you frequently adjust your awning. However, manual awnings are more budget-friendly and may be a good option for smaller spaces or those who don’t mind a little extra effort. Superior Awnings offers both options, so you can choose based on your budget and convenience needs.

5. Sizing and Installation Considerations

When choosing a retractable awning, it’s essential to ensure it fits your space perfectly. Measure the width and projection (the distance the awning will extend from the wall) carefully to ensure the awning will cover the desired area without obstructing windows or doors. If you’re installing an awning over a large deck or patio, consider opting for a wider model to maximize coverage.

Professional installation is highly recommended, especially for motorized systems, as incorrect installation can lead to malfunctions or safety concerns. A professional will ensure that the awning is securely mounted and properly aligned, preventing issues down the line.

Awning Costs

The cost of installing an awning depends on several factors, including size, type, material, and whether the awning is manual or motorized. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the costs to help you budget for your awning project.

Cost by Type

• Manual Awnings: Typically more affordable, ranging from $200 to $3,000 installed. These are hand-cranked, providing cost savings upfront, but require manual effort to operate.
• Motorized Awnings: Motorized retractable awnings, which can be controlled via remote or app, cost between $1,000 and $6,000 installed. They offer convenience and ease of use, but come at a higher initial cost.

Cost by Size

The size of your awning significantly impacts the price. Below are the average costs based on the width of the awning:

Size	Manual Awning Cost	Motorized Awning Cost
4′ or less	$200 – $460	$400 – $660
6′	$300 – $650	$550 – $950
8′	$320 – $1,000	$1,300 – $2,200
10′	$370 – $1,200	$1,700 – $2,700
12′	$400 – $1,300	$1,900 – $3,300
14′	$1,000 – $1,800	$2,000 – $3,500
16′	$1,300 – $2,000	$2,300 – $3,800
18′	$1,800 – $2,600	$2,700 – $4,600
20′ or more	$1,900 – $2,900+	$3,100 – $6,000

Cost by Material

• Canvas/Fabric Awnings: Cost $200 to $3,500 installed. These awnings are available in a range of colors and patterns, offering an affordable option but may deteriorate over time.
• Metal Awnings: Typically made from stainless steel, aluminum, or copper, metal awnings cost $250 to $1,800. They are more durable and long-lasting compared to fabric options.

Additional Costs

• Installation: Professional installation can cost $100 to $1,000 depending on the size and complexity of the awning.
• Permits: Some locations may require a permit for larger or commercial awnings, costing between $25 and $100.
• Accessories: Accessories such as heaters, lighting, side curtains, or wireless controls can add extra costs:
  • Heaters: $150 to $2,000
  • Lighting: $25 to $225
  • Side Curtains: $100 to $300

Labor Costs

• Labor: Labor costs typically range from $6 to $9 per square foot or $13 to $25 per hour, depending on the awning’s complexity and the region.

Maintenance

Maintaining your awning requires occasional cleaning and care. Expect to spend $100 to $300 annually on upkeep, including cleaning, fabric replacement, and lubrication.

Conclusion

Retractable awnings are a valuable investment for enhancing the comfort, aesthetic appeal, and functionality of your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end motorized model, Superior Awnings offers a range of options to suit various needs and preferences. By considering the type, material, and features that best match your space, you can choose an awning that provides both practical benefits and lasting value.

With professional installation, quality materials, and excellent customer service, Superior Awnings can help you create a comfortable, energy-efficient outdoor living space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.