What Is The Best Material For Outdoor Awnings?

Outdoor awnings can be constructed from several different types of materials. Material selection is often based upon both aesthetics and practicality. For example, some awning materials may not be suitable for locations that regularly deal with forest fires or intense weather.

Here, the various materials that outdoor awnings are commonly constructed from will be discussed. This includes the pros and cons of these options.

Wood Awnings

Wood awnings are completely natural. They can look good in areas that are surrounded by plants and trees. They are fairly low maintenance too.

Wood awnings, however, do not tend to do well in areas that suffer from regular forests or high heat. In fact, in some areas, wood awnings may be completely banned unless they have been treated to be fireproof.

Canvas Awnings

Canvas awnings are another natural option. Canvas will often need to be treated before it is used as an awning material, particularly in areas with a risk of a forest fire.

The main issue with canvas is that the material often doesn’t last long. It can wear down after a few years, and most people will find that the canvas awning will have to be replaced within 5-years or so.

Canvas awnings do have the benefit of being cheap, however.

Metal Awnings

Metal awnings can be quite bulky and tough to store. However, metal awnings are exceedingly tough. They are difficult to damage. While they will need to be treated for rust every so often, metal awnings can often last many years.

Metal awnings constructed from aluminum may not be as rigid as steel metal awnings. They can be easy to damage. However, aluminum metal awnings tend to be a bit lighter and often easier to store.

Fiberglass Awnings

Fiberglass awnings are an option for those people that want their awnings to be available in different colors. These fiberglass options will never need to be repainted. They can be obtained in a whole host of different colors too.

The problem is that fiberglass awnings tend not to do too well on the lifespan front. Fiberglass awnings tend to break down when exposed to UV rays. This means that after a few years, the owner may start to notice cracks developing in their fiberglass awning.

Fiberglass awnings do have the added benefit of being lightweight, though. This can make them easy to move around a garden.

Acrylic Awnings

Acrylic awnings will often be constructed from a combination of natural canvas and acrylic. However, there are 100% acrylic awning options available too.

Acrylic awnings are often the most long-lived of awning options (excluding metal options). They are able to stand up to water well, and they will resist UV rays. However, they can often be among the more expensive of options.

Vinyl Awnings

In recent years, vinyl awning options have started to become more popular.

Most vinyl awnings will be a natural material covered with vinyl. Vinyl awnings work especially well when paired with polyester.

Vinyl awnings are long-lived, although they are not a great choice if the owner lives in an area with high humidity.

As vinyl options are not as popular as some of the other awning options, it can be a bit tougher to find an option that will suit the building. This means a limited number of colors and styles.

Conclusion

Choosing an awning is not just about choosing the most stylish option, it is about selecting an option that is built for the area the awning will be used in. For example, vinyl awnings will often be avoided in high humidity locations. Wood awnings will be avoided in locations prone to forest fires. If a person makes the right choice when it comes to their awning, they will end up with something that will provide them with happiness for many, many years.

What is the Best Type of Fabric for Awnings?

Due to its ability to withstand time and still look amazing, acrylic fabric is the best type of fabric available for awnings.

The rest of this article will show businesses and homeowners different types of materials for their awnings and why they are the best fabric for their canvas awning.

Why Awnings are Important?

Awnings are added to an exterior wall of a building.  They can be used to shield the sun from shining through the window directly, while also allowing natural light to pass through the window. Awnings also allow customers or homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space because it provides shelter from heat or rain.  Awnings provide protection from the elements for your patio furniture as well.

What Different Types of Fabrics are Available?

The three readily available fabrics for awnings are acrylic, canvas, and vinyl.  Each comes with its own pros and cons.

Acrylic Awnings

This synthetic material is a quality, luxury fabric.  To the touch, the acrylic fabric feels like wool. It is moisture-wicking and water-repellant.  It is the best choice if you don’t want the dyed color to fade.  Acrylic awnings are excellent choices for those who want the same appearance years after it was installed or who will keep it extended indefinitely.

Out of the three, acrylic awnings are known as a luxury fabric because they can cost up to ten times the cost of canvas awnings.

Canvas Awnings

Canvas is made from cotton, hemp, or linen, becoming woven linen.  The preferred method of classifying canvas is by ounces per square yard.  The heavier the fabric, the more material is used which increased the cost.  The heavier canvas is sturdier, allowing it to weather wind, snow, and hail.

Unfortunately, canvas awnings need clear varnish reapplied regularly or it will result in mold, mildew, or even rot.  Further, canvas awnings will fade over time due to sun exposure.

Vinyl Awnings

This type of acrylic weighs in at 18 ounces per square yard, similar to heavier canvas weights.  This synthetic material is pliable and flexible, while also being flame retardant, water-resistant, and mildew resistant.

As vinyl awnings have several layers, their main drawback is cost with it being roughly three times the price of the same-sized canvas awning.  They also have limited ability to allow air to pass through or to dry properly.  This can make these awnings feel a bit stuffy and not as cool as other materials available.

Metal Awnings

Metal awnings were very popular during the 1950s and the 1970s.  Metal awnings can be painted to match buildings.  This awning stays stationary and would best for those that wish it to remain indefinitely in position.

Metal awnings fell out of favor because in order to prevent rust, they need regular repainting.  Further, metal awnings can dent easily and have a more in-depth, necessary cleaning ritual.

Fiberglass awnings

Fiberglass is a lighter alternative to steel awnings.  Unlike steel, the color is molded to the material, therefore, not requiring repainting.  They can come in opaque or translucent coloring, thereby allowing light through.

Fiberglass is not without its negatives.  While it does not need to be repainted, this also means its owner cannot easily change its look.  Further, with time, this type of awning can become brittle and crack, necessitating a replacement.

Which is the Best Fabric for an Awning?

The best fabric for an awning comes down to personal preference.  Canvas provides a cost-effective solution that is hardy.  Acrylic may be the best for business owners who want to maintain a professional appearance.  Metal and fiberglass have positives, but also is prone to needing to be replaced sooner rather than later.  Vinyl falls somewhere in between these, being somewhat budget-friendly and fairly effective.

Acrylic awnings are the best fabric if cost is not a major concern and will keep homes or businesses looking new with little upkeep.

 

Awning Cleaning Services

Awnings are left outside for the vast majority of their lives. Because of this, if they are not regularly cleaned they can end up looking rather tatty. The lifespan of the awning will be severely reduced too. This is why it is ever so important that those who own awnings regularly utilize awning cleaning services.

The Importance Of An Awning Cleaning Service

For many, preserving the aesthetics of their awning is important.

When an awning is outside, it is going to be constantly exposed to the elements. With rain, wind, and in some locations snow hitting the awning, it won’t be long until the beautiful look is covered in dust and grime. Even the brightest of colors can end up looking rather drab. An awning cleaning service will be able to restore life into the awning.

Awning cleaning services will also be able to assist with increasing the longevity of the awning. The dirt and grime build-up will gradually wear away at the awning. By removing it, the lifespan is increased.

Finally, awning cleaning services may be able to help restore certain protective elements to the awning e.g. waterproofing. This can also help to increase the lifespan of the awning.

Differences Between How Awning Materials Are Cleaned

No awning material is the same. Each of them needs to be cleaned in its own unique way.

For example, those with fireproofing and waterproofing often need to have protective layers re-added. It is also important that they do not come into contact with certain cleaning chemicals that could wear down the protective layer.

Some awning materials can be cleaned while they are kept in place, while other materials will need to be removed for a much deeper clean.

How the awning is being used can also have an impact on the cleaning, although this is more down to aesthetics than anything else. It is recommended that homes with an awning have them cleaned at least once per year, and businesses have them cleaned every 1-2 months, depending on the condition that the awning seems to be in.

How Awning Cleaning Services Work

An awning cleaning service will be a service carried out by a professional cleaning crew. They will specialize purely in the cleaning of awnings.

Their first job will be to ascertain the type of awning material that they are dealing with. They may also need to ascertain how accessible the material is.

Based upon this information, they will be able to start preparing a cleaning solution (often nothing more than soaps and water) to help to clean the awning.

Before any cleaning solution can be applied to the awning, however, the bulk of the loose debris will need to be removed. This will often require the use of either a vacuum cleaner or a soft bristle brush. It will be dependent on how much debris is up there and how fragile the awning material is.

Once the loose debris has been cleaned off, the cleaning solution can be applied to the awning. In some cases, the cleaning solution will be left to soak into the material (particularly Sunbrella awnings) and in other cases, it will need to be rinsed away immediately.

After this, an awning cleaning service may be able to apply any protective chemicals on the awning e.g. fireproofing, or perhaps repaint them if the paint has worn down.

Hire a Professional For Awning Cleaning

While awning cleaning can seem like a rather simple process, it can be tricky to do properly. This is why many people that have an awning will often utilize professional awning cleaning services.

5 Advantages of Adding An Awning To Your Home

An awning is a structure that extends from the roof of the house to provide shade and cover in an outdoor space. Awnings are a simple and affordable way to get more use out of your yard as they make the space more comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and usable.

This article will discuss five benefits of installing an awning.

1. An Awning Provides Shade

Perhaps the number one reason why people install an awning is to provide shade to an area of the yard. An awning can turn an uncomfortably hot space into a backyard oasis, which enhances your ability to entertain.

Many awning materials block harmful UV sun rays. The temperature on a shaded patio is 10 to 15 degrees cooler. An awning’s shade can protect your family and improve the use of your backyard.

2. An Awning Provides Cover

Besides providing comfort from the hot sun, an awning can protect an outdoor space from rain and snow. With an awning cover, you can continue to entertain despite a little rain.

An awning can also protect the trim around the window from rain damage and divert water runoff away from the foundation.

3. An Awning Protects Outdoor Furniture

Another benefit of keeping harsh weather elements from an outdoor space is extending the life of the outdoor furniture. When exposed to sun, rain, or snow, furniture can rust, rot, and fade. A side awning can even protect furniture and decor from tipping or blowing away in harsh winds. An awning can reduce the need to stow away patio furniture before a storm.

4. An Awning Reduces Energy Costs

The shade an awning provides is not only beneficial to an outdoor space. Reducing the amount of solar heat that enters through windows and patio doors can have a significant impact on your energy bill.

According to the department of energy, window awnings can reduce heat by up to 77 percent. A study from the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association reveals that awnings can reduce home cooling costs by more than 50 percent. Not only does this save you money on your monthly energy bill, but it also decreases the wear on the AC unit. Annual savings can amount to between $80 and $200.

In the winter, a retractable awning allows you to use the solar heat to your advantage by enabling the sun to come in through the window.

5. An Awning Is Versatile

Awnings come in a variety of styles and materials, and this versatility makes it possible to find a form that fits your needs and budget. The structures can be fixed, freestanding, or retractable. Materials can be metal, cloth, wood, or synthetic. In addition, you can choose from a variety of designs to match your home.

A cloth patio awning is an affordable way to cover a large area. Often, these sun sails will provide shade for a few hours a day, and they are usually water repellent but not waterproof. These can be a great option to beautify the design of a backyard.

A fixed awning is more permanent and offers more shelter from the elements. Different materials will have pros and cons to consider. Metal requires less maintenance but it may trap heat; wood is sturdy but it provides less shelter.

Retractable awnings can stow away when not in use. This type of awning is popular because it saves space and can be retracted to avoid damage from inclement weather.

 

11 Porch Awning Benefits for Your Home

A porch awning extends from the roof of the house to provide shade and cover. If you want to get the most use out of your porch, an awning is the best solution because it is practical, cost-effective, and beautiful. 

Let’s discuss the advantages of adding a porch awning to your home.

1. Turn your backyard space into a second living area.

Adding an awning to your porch can make the space feel like an extension of your home. Turn an empty patio into a large dining space for family gatherings or a comfortable place to relax, knowing that the awning will offer cover and protection.

2. Protect your family from hot temperatures and UV sun rays.

The temperature underneath an awning’s shade is 10 to 15 degrees cooler. The awning will also block harmful UV sun rays. What was once an unbearably hot space is now cool and comfortable for your family and pets.

3. Protect your outdoor furniture from the harsh weather elements.

An awning will not only protect your family and pets, but it will protect outdoor furniture as well. Metal furniture will rust, rugs and fabrics will fade, and wooden benches will rot when exposed to the harsh sun, rain, and snow. An awning limits the damage from this exposure to the weather and extends the life of your outdoor furniture.

4. Limit damage from rain and snow.

Just like outdoor furniture, the home itself can suffer damage caused by harsh weather. A porch awning will protect doors and windows from rain damage. The awning also helps divert water runoff away from the foundation, which can prevent cracks and leaks.

5. Reduce energy costs of heating and cooling your home.

An awning limits the amount of solar heat that enters through windows and doors. The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association states that awnings can reduce home cooling costs by more than 50 percent. Annual savings can amount to as much as $200. This saves money, benefits the environment, and decreases the wear on an AC unit.

In the winter, a retractable awning uses the solar heat to your advantage by allowing the sun to come in through the window.

6. Enhance your ability to entertain no matter the weather.

The cover and protection an awning provides allow you to host your company with peace of mind. You will no longer need to worry about harsh sun or rain ruining your plans or cutting the party short.

7. Provide shade and cover without compromising your view.

An awning provides overhead cover while allowing you to enjoy looking out at the rest of the yard and the view beyond.

8. Provide protection without compromising design.

Porch awnings are available in a variety of forms. This means you can choose the type of structure that best fits the space.

9. Increase the resale value of your home by adding usable space.

The extra space an awning creates for living and entertaining is attractive to potential buyers, which can increase the value of your home.

10. Customizable options allow you to choose the material that best fits your needs.

Not only can you choose from a variety of structures, but you can customize the materials and design to match the current aesthetic of your home and yard. You can carefully consider the pros and cons of each material, such as maintenance and durability, to make the best choice for your needs.

11. Create a backyard oasis.

A porch awning will help you get the most use out of your outdoor living space. With the cover, protection, and design, you will want to spend more time enjoying your backyard.

How Much Do Patio Covers Cost?

A patio is a great asset to any large family home. It allows you and your loved ones to spend time outside without the risk of getting too dirty, or dealing with other issues related to being outside for extended periods of time without shelter. But there may be times when your patio isn’t quite up to the job of keeping you safe and happy outside on its own. That is why it’s important to take a look at patio covers to make your patio more aesthetically pleasing and functional in all scenarios.

Just like finding or building a unique patio that suits your tastes and needs, it’s important to take great care in getting the perfect patio cover. One big aspect of this, no matter how much we don’t like to admit it, is cost. There is nothing more frustrating than finding an amazing patio cover and discovering it is out of your price range. To avoid this, it’s important to have an idea of what a patio cover would cost, so you can plan and save accordingly. To help you, I’ve created a nice manual breaking down the cost of different types of patio covers. Peruse the information below to help you put together a budget.

Types of Patio Covers

The cost of a patio cover will differ dramatically based on a few key factors. One of these factors is the size of the patio cover and the material it is made out of. You may want a patio cover that only covers about half of the actual patio, or you may want one that even goes a few inches farther than the patio itself to provide extra shade and aesthetic appeal. Bigger may be better for some people, but bigger almost always means more expensive as well.

Not only do you need to have an idea of the size of your patio cover, you need to plan for the style of cover you want. Is it a plain, open, rectangular shape? Is it a triangle shape with a lattice covering? Is it some crazy unique shape that includes a solid covering? These things will also increase or decrease the cost of your patio cover.

Material Makes the Man

Now that you’ve decided on the size and style of your patio cover, consider what it will be made out of. Making a patio cover out of wood would cost less than one made out of a metal like aluminum. You could even make your patio cover out of more than one material, though that will cost more than a regular, single-material patio cover. When choosing material, it’s important to factor in things like style, and the weather conditions in your area. Wood, glass, aluminum and plastic can all vary greatly in price.

Something else to consider with your material choices is that the market for these materials fluctuates. The cost of wood today may be two dollars per foot, but next week it might be three and a half dollars per foot. This can affect your material choices and your patio cover budget.

How It’s Done

Lastly, you have to consider how the patio cover is going to be installed. If you hire a professional to do the installation, it will obviously cost more than if you try to do it yourself. However, doing it yourself may not be an option because you simply don’t have the tools or knowledge to install the patio cover you want. The labor used to install your patio cover is the most expensive part of patio cover costs, so consider your options carefully. 

The Basic Costs

Here I will list the basic cost ranges for patio covers of different materials, styles, and labor. These, of course, are only estimates and averages, so keep this in mind when shopping on your own. Unless stated otherwise, assume all costs include professional installation of your patio cover.

Wooden Patio Covers

  • Keep in mind that wooden patio covers do not last as long as other materials, and there are many types of wood that can be used to make them, making these patio covers the most expensive of the bunch.
  • A solid 10 x 10 patio cover made out of standard wood can cost between $7,000 and $14,000.
  • A wooden lattice patio cover can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $7,000, which is less costly initially but is more likely to require repairs over time.
  • Any wooden patio cover will need to be repaired or replaced after being exposed to the elements for a length of time, so the cost of maintaining a wooden patio cover can be very high.

Aluminum Patio Covers

  • Aluminum is much cheaper, more versatile, and easier to work with and maintain than wood, making it a far more preferable material for patio covers.
  • A 10 x 10 non-insulated cover would cost between $2,000 and $4,000.
  • A 10 x 10 lattice cover is a bit cheaper at $1,800 to $2,000.
  • Lastly, a 10 x 10 patio cover with 3 inch thick insulation would be the most expensive, ranging from $3,500 to $5,500.
  • An aluminum patio cover will require less repair and maintenance than wood, meaning that once it’s installed you’re done dealing with it outside of major disasters.
  • Do make sure there aren’t any community ordinances against aluminum patio covers before installation.

Vinyl Patio Covers

  • The expense for vinyl patio covers is higher because of the need for supporting materials, whereas wood and aluminum can work on their own.
  • It is the least popular material for this reason.
  • A 10 x 10 fully-covered patio cover made of vinyl costs between $4,000 and upwards of $6,000.
  • A vinyl lattice cover costs between $2,000 and $4,500.
  • If you installed a vinyl patio cover yourself, a solid patio would cost $1,800 to $4,000, and a lattice patio cover would cost from just under $1,000 to over $3,000.

The Ultimate Patio Cover Buying Guide

Once you’ve found your dream house, it may seem like the journey is over and you can just sit back and start enjoying the good things in life. But sometimes it isn’t that simple. If you want to spend time outside with your family or host outdoor events like neighborhood barbeques as part of your dream life in your new home, then it’s time to think about what to do about the outside of your house.

The most obvious choice to make your dreams a reality is to build a patio! It makes a nice spot for cooking and just sitting and talking with neighbors, but the weather can sometimes but a damper on your outside adventures. That’s where patio covers come in. But just like buying the perfect house and building the perfect patio, buying and installing a patio cover takes some time and research to ensure you get just what you want.

All that work just sounds like a drag when you’re so close to having everything perfect, doesn’t it? That’s why I’m here to give you the ultimate patio cover buying guide. By the time you finish reading this, you’ll be a master at buying patio covers and will know just what to look for when you go out to get your own!

Choosing Your Material

The first thing to consider when buying a patio cover (aside from what size you want it to be, of course) is what material you want your patio cover to be made out of. This will determine things down the road like budget, the complexity of the style you want, and whether you hire a professional to install it or do it yourself.

The three main types of materials for patio covers are wood, vinyl, and aluminum. In addition, there is Alumawood, which is a specially manufactured material that takes aspects of all three materials and combines them. I’ll list below a few pros and cons of each.

Wood

  • Wood has a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes, making it ideal for those who want a unique look for their patio cover.
  • Wood has a traditional, natural appearance that can be made to match almost any home.
  • Wood is durable in the face of nature’s whims, making it a long-lasting, sturdy choice.
  • On the other hand, wood patio covers are extremely expensive.
  • They also require more maintenance and will eventually wear out – rotting, being eaten by bugs, and other natural issues can damage your wooden patio cover greatly.

Vinyl

  • Vinyl is a much more cost-effective choice for a patio cover.
  • It requires little maintenance once set up.
  • However, vinyl isn’t as tough as wood – it can be damaged more easily in places where tree limbs fall often.
  • Vinyl also has less variety to choose from, and some communities restrict its usage.

Aluminum

  • Even more so than vinyl, aluminum can withstand climate and nature issues to provide a durable patio cover requiring little to no maintenance.
  • Aluminum is the least costly of the materials for patio covers.
  • Like vinyl, there are some restrictions on the use of aluminum in certain communities, so be sure to research your local ordinances before installation.

Alumawood has the strength of aluminum, the variety and authentic look of wood, and the low maintenance of vinyl, making it the all-round best choice of the materials that patio covers can be made with.

Types of Shading

Most would recommend choosing the type of shading you want for your patio cover first, but I think it’s important to first decide what material you want to work with. This will allow you to better judge costs and decide what type of shading would work best for you. Below I’ll describe the types of shading your patio cover could use.

The Awning

Awnings are a lot like curtains, except they extend outward instead of down. You can choose from traditional awnings to high-tech ones at your leisure. Their main benefit is providing shade that cools you down.

Umbrellas

I think everyone already knows what umbrellas are! But I will say that their benefit is that they can be easily moved as the direction of the sun changes to provide shade 24/7!

Lattice

These are a thinner, more simple form of shading, that leave space for sun, making them more aesthetically pleasing to most. You also have the option of putting fabric over it to increase your shade. Lattices are most often made out of wood.

Solid Covers

A solid patio cover is just that – a solid piece of material that creates protection from sun and weather. It can be considered an extension of your home and can add value to your property if you plan on selling in the future.

DIY or DIP

For the sake of cost effectiveness, it is possible to buy a patio cover kit and simply set it up yourself. If you have the tools, knowledge, and the time, I say go for it! If you don’t, however, it might be time to call in some professionals. 

Here are a few ways to find reliable professionals in your price range to install your chosen patio cover.

First and foremost, get some local recommendations. Not only are you assured of people’s honesty in their recommendations, but local workers are more likely to give deals and work harder for the sake of their reputations than a major corporation. You can also check the Yellow Pages or websites that advertise local workers.

First, look at the reviews and credentials of each business, and consider maybe not going with a business or individual that has no review or feedback, as you can’t tell anything about the work they’ve done. 

If you decide you like their reviews, contact them to say you are looking into having a patio cover installed and would like to know about their availability and prices. Let their reply speak for them – how long does it take them to respond, is the price they suggest within your range, do they ask questions about your patio cover, can they guarantee to work with your schedule? Once you’ve found a professional that fits, your job is done, and you can sit back and watch your ideal patio cover become part of your dream home!

Positive and Negative Aspects of Retractable Deck Awnings

Deck awnings are considered to be a huge investment, but it will add overall value and comfort to the house or property’s exterior. Before purchasing any retractable awning, it is very important to look into several features provided.

Pros

  • A retractable awning is bought by homeowners to provide some extra shade over the deck. It can help an individual spend more time outdoors as well. Although installation costs can be both low and high, awnings will help save the added cost in the future. Since they are providing shade to your house, you won’t have to spend more on air conditioners, helping reduce the electricity bill. If you want to make some significant savings, then this is the right purchase for you.
  • Retractable awnings are famous for saving both indoor and outdoor furniture. It will provide shade needed, so you will be able to save furniture that can easily be ruined by bleaching effects if they are exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
  • In comparison to non-retractable awnings, retractable awnings will not get damaged during any bad weather. You can easily retract it and keep it stable during a windstorm.
  • After fitting the retractable awning, you will be able to operate it in a simple manner. You can either pick the electric or manual awning depending on your budget. If you’re opting for the electrical ones, then just with one button, you will be able to extend the awning or retract it automatically whenever needed.

Cons

  • Most people are refraining from retractable awnings, even after knowing its benefits, due to costs. You can easily find some cheap quality, retractable awnings but they won’t offer you the same durability higher quality awnings can provide. If an expensive retractable awning is difficult for you to purchase, then you can always approach dealers who can help you purchase retractable awnings at an affordable price.
  • Whether you are opting for non-retractable or retractable awnings, you will have to be very consistent with the maintenance and cleaning on a seasonal basis. Awnings are more susceptible to the collection of dirt, dust, and other things that can damage its quality. You can also encounter some mold growth if water is getting stored in the fabric awnings. Maintenance will be something to occasionally spend on.

The benefits of a retractable awning easily surpass its cons. Mostly, the budget can be the matter of concern, but you will have to look into future savings that can be made. Apart from buying, you will also have to concentrate on the installation process as well.

Guide to Choose the Best Retractable Awning

Retractable awnings can provide numerous benefits. Having a retractable awning installed outside your house means you can gain better shelter from the sun, enjoy extra living space, and also receive protection from the rain. However, you need to choose the best retractable awning so that you can make the most of it. The last thing you would want is an awning that stops working when you need it most. You can also check out Spettmann, in case you are looking for high-quality retractable awnings.

Factors to Consider While Choosing a Retractable Awning

There are many factors that need to be considered when it comes to owning a retractable awning. Below are the main factors that you should learn more about.

1.       Durability

There are different grades of retractable awnings available, as you can discover both expensive and low-priced products in the market. If you intend to purchase retractable awning that can last decades, then you should consider awnings made with European and US components and materials. Retractable awning made with materials from China only last a few years.

2.       Warranty

You should also check the warranties that are provided with the retractable awning. If you are spending high on a product, then you need to make sure that the product is something worthwhile. A reputed company will always provide you with a warranty period.

3.       Sizing

Choosing the right retractable awning size for your house can be a difficult task. There are two factors that decide the size of a retractable awning that need to be understood. This includes the space that needs to be shaded and the direction it will face. Based on these two factors, you can decide on the size of the retractable awning. In order to make things easier, you should measure the size of the area that you wish to cover. This will give you an idea about the accurate size you need.

4.       Colour

Retractable awnings are installed outside of your house, which is an accessory that will be easily noticed. Therefore, you need to choose a color that will complement the color of your walls in addition to the whole exterior of your house.

5.       Features

A good retractable awning manufacturer will provide you with a variety of features and add-ons. Before you choose your awning, you should also look at the options. When purchasing an awning, you should make sure it is of high-quality.

Who Provides the Best Retractable Awnings In Southern California?

We are the largest manufacturer of awnings and canopies in Southern California. We specialize in custom canopies and awnings for commercial, residential, and industrial properties. Our main aim is to provide the best quality products to our customers. We offer our products at highly competitive prices along with after dedicated service. Additionally, we carry a wide range of products to offer – all designed to meet the needs and preferences of our customers. In order to prove the quality and superiority of our products, we have put up a comparison chart below.

 

Sunsetter Awning vs Superior Awning

Where are the companies based?

Superior: The company is based in Southern California, and is one of the largest manufacturers of customized canopies and awnings out there. The company offers a variety of other products as well.

Sunsetter: With the company mainly based in the US, the product can only be assembled in the US. The company operates from Massachusetts, and provides both their direct and dealer system to the buyers over the phone and online.

Who makes the components parts?

Superior: Our awnings are mainly manufactured in Germany. However, the products are customized in Los Angeles, California.

Sunsetter: Most of the components are sourced or manufactured in Asia, with China being their main hub. Because of these components, the company is able to offer lower priced products, with a long-term warranty on all their products.

Who installs the awning?

Superior: We promise to provide you with free installation of your awnings, so you can relax and leave the rest to us once you are done with your purchase. Our workers are also bonded and insured.

Sunsetter: When you make a purchase with Sunsetter, it is usually through a registered dealer of the company. The dealer then hires another company or even a local handyman in order to install the awning.

What are the available sizes?

Superior: You can choose different sizes of awnings with us. You can even order awnings based on your needs. For example, you can order awning widths up to 40 feet. We aim to provide only the best to our customers.

Sunsetter: Awnings between the range of 10 feet and 20 feet are mainly manufactured by the company. However, the made-to-order option is also available.

What are the color and fabric choices available?

Superior: We provide a wide variety of color choices for our buyers. You can choose any color or pattern based on your need. We have something in store for every home or business.

Sunsetter: For the metal frame, you can only have one option. However, there are 16 fabric pattern options available.

What is the maximum projection offered?

Superior: We always tend to prioritize the need of our customers. The maximum projection we offer is 14 feet. We also offer awnings as little as 6 feet as well.

Sunsetter: Sunsetter awnings are available in 9,10, and 11 foot projections.

Warranty Type

Superior: We offer 10 years of warranty on each of our products. This gives our buyers confidence in purchasing our products.

Sunsetter: The company offers a 5-year pro-rated warranty on its fabric, frame, and electronic components.

We have provided an honest and fair comparison. Being the largest awning manufacturer in California, we take pride in serving our buyers with the best.

How Much Do Awnings Cost to Install?

There are several advantages when it comes to awning installation, such as shelter and protection from sun rays. With its many benefits, awnings are usually installed over a door, a window, or even a patio. Ultimately, the location of the awning depends on the individual and the area they wish to cover. Considered to be a great decision for most homeowners, installing an awning can overall provide a nice outdoor space to relax in.

Installing an awning is not a difficult task, especially when working with a reputable company. With the help of a renowned professional, you can get the work done more easily and quickly. Additionally, while they can also suggest the best options for your house, hiring a professional service to install the awning can increase the overall cost by $100 to $400.

The average cost of installing an awning will sum up to $2,459. Most homeowners spend around $1,261 to $3,691 after the awning installation. The canopy alone will range between $250 and $3,500. A closer, detailed look at the costs are highlighted below.

Cost of Awning by Type

There are different types of awnings listed on the market including canvas, non-rollup, manual retractable, and others. Each type comes with different features, causing price points to vary. This means that even the cost of installation will vary depending on the type of awning you choose. The awning itself will range between $250 to $3,500, and need to be chosen based on preferences and needs.

1.       Canvas Fabric

The cost of canvas awnings range between $300 and $700. As the material is durable and long-lasting, canvas awnings are usually deemed worthy. Additionally, these awnings can also add extra décor to your house. One of the main advantages of wanting canvas fabrics is that you can have a lot of customization options. For example, you can receive many options based on sizes, colors, shapes, and patterns. If you reside in an area with harsh weather conditions, canvas fabrics may not be a good option. This type of awning is best suitable for smaller patios and above windows.

2.       Manual Retractable

Manual retractable awnings will range between $500 to $1,500. These awnings can be folded based on preferences, and depending on weather conditions. Overall, these types of awnings are best suited for patios.

3.       Metal Awnings

Metal awnings are available within the price range of $250 and $800. Although this type of awning is stronger than other types, metal awnings do come with a drawback – less visibility. Metal awnings are generally made of aluminum. However, there are other types of metal awnings available too. You can make good use of metal awnings in a larger space, such as patios and doors.

4.       Non-rollup Awnings

The cost of installing non-rollup awnings will range between $250 to $500. This type of awning can be made with either metal or canvas; you can decide based on your need. The main advantage of installing non-rollup awnings is that they are very much affordable. However, the downside is that they are less flexible. You cannot adjust the awning once you install it, which may be a problem during bad weather.

5.       Mechanical Retractable

Mechanical retractable awnings are awnings that can retract automatically. This may cost you between $2,000 to $3,500. As the most expensive awnings you can get, you can find both metal and canvas awnings in this category. If you live in an area with uncertain weather conditions, you can make good use of this type of awning. Although more expensive than others, a mechanical retractable awning is worth the price.

6.       Portable

Portable awnings are perhaps the most convenient option, as they can range between $100 to $400. Advantages of this type of awning doesn’t require any installation, and can be erected anywhere you want. They are also suitable for temporary use on decks and patios.

Sunesta Prices

Sunesta awnings will cost between $700 to $3,000. However, you can receive more variety from the company. Additionally, they also offer a 5-year warranty on their products which can extend up to 10 years in high-end product cases.

Sunsetter Prices

Sunsetter products range between $800 to $2,500. The company will mainly offer retractable products made of canvas. A 5-year warranty on their products will also be offered. However, the company does not provide installation services.

Average Awning Installation Costs

Now that you understand the various costs associated with different types of awnings, let’s take a look at the installation costs.

Other than the cost of the product, installation costs usually range between $175 to $450, with each square foot ranging between $6 to $9. This includes hiring an electrician for the motor, as well as a professional. It takes about one hour to install an awning, but can extend up to 5 hours or more for a complex retractable awning.

Patio vs Window vs Deck

The cost for door and window awnings is much less, as they only range between $100 to $400 at maximum. This is mainly because these are not retractable products. The upside is that they provide permanent privacy and shade. However, awnings for decks, porches and patios will cost more. Awnings in these locations will range around $600 to $3,500. Awnings for patios, windows, and decks are attached to your house, but in some cases, they can be free standing as well.

Size

As already mentioned above, each square foot of the awning will be installed between $6 to $9. However, the price may vary based on the condition of your house, the total area to be covered, and the material that you select.

Awning Accessories

Some homeowners also choose to install accessories, such as side curtains, with their awnings. This may incur an additional cost between $100 to $200. You can also save the extra cost if you install accessories at the same time as the awning installation. Other than curtains, you can also add other accessories, like mosquito nets which ranges between $100 and $250.

You can also choose to enclose the entire patio space at a cost between $8,500 to $23,000. This option may be more expensive, but it is also permanent.

Permit

In case you need a permit, you may have to spend more than $25 to $100. Commercial buildings need to attain a permit in order to install an awning. In some cases, even residential areas may have to attain a permit. However, this is not true in most cases. You can also consult with your contractor in order to find out if a permit is required or not. For more detailed information, you can even have a word with the municipal corporation of your area.

Pros and Cons of Installing an Awning

Installing an awning carries both pros and cons. Before you think of investing in such a project, you may want to take a look at both the pros and cons, detailed below.

Pros

  1. It may help you cut down on your energy bills, as window awnings can reduce the solar heat up to 77%.
  2. It also protects your furniture, curtains, and carpets from UV rays.
  3. You can also protect your exterior walls from damage caused by the sun, snow, and rain.
  4. It also provides you shelter from the weather elements (i.e. sun, rain, snow).
  5. It enhances the beauty of your house.

Cons

  1. It requires continuous maintenance cost. For example, you may have to spend on cleaning and repairing from time to time.
  2. Awnings do not last forever. This is especially true in the case of low-quality products.
  3. It prevents the penetration of natural light in your house.
  4. It blocks the view from your patio or windows.

DIY vs Hiring a Professional

When it comes to the installation or a repairing of an awning, you need to first determine whether you need a professional. In case of simple products, you may eliminate the need for hiring a professional service. With little knowledge, you can implement the project on your own. This will help you to save between $100 to $400. However, in the case of motorized installation, you may have to request professional help.

Now that you understand the essential details of awning installations and its costs, you will be able to decide better whether you are up for such a project.