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| | | Awnings are structures that create a thin roof or shade over an outdoor space, usually a window, door or patio. Awnings can be made out of lightweight metal or heavy treated fabric, and can be stationary or retractable. Retractable awnings can be extended and retracted manually or automatically using a switch or a remote control. Most awnings shade and protect the doors and windows of homes and businesses; others shade the windows of RVs. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Metal awnings cost $100 -$600 for premade, and about $9.50 -$10 per square foot for custom awnings. For more information about metal awnings, see How Much Does a Metal Awning Cost. Metal awnings are a good, inexpensive choice to create a protective space for a car, RV, or boat.
- Premade fabric awnings cost $150 -$650, and custom fabric awnings can cost up to $11,500. For more information about fabric awnings, see How Much Does a Fabric Awning Cost. Fabric offers the most versatile shapes and sizes of awnings, from frame-stretched awnings shading business doors to patio awnings that create outdoor rooms on homes.
- Manual retractable awnings cost $250 -$1,000. Motorized retractable awnings cost $1,000 -$4,000. For more information about retractable awnings, see How Much Does a Retractable Awning Cost. Manual retraction works well for smaller awnings such as window shade awnings, and for awnings that will not be extended or retracted often. Motorized retraction is a good choice for larger awnings and for awnings that may need to be retracted quickly or automatically in severe storm zones.
- RV awnings cost $120 -$2,500. For more information about RV awnings, see How Much Does an RV Awning Cost.
What should be included: | - Stationary metal or fabric awnings are usually sold complete with the awning cover, support poles or ropes, and mounting points.
- Retractable awnings include the awning cover, support structure, manual retraction mechanism, and motorized retraction system (if it's a motorized awning).
Additional costs: | - Side curtains that can be drawn to block more sun from the awning area cost $100 -$200 and are sold as awning accessories at home improvement stores like Lowes.
- All types of awnings must be cleaned regularly to maintain their looks and to keep the metal or fabric from degrading quickly. For information about the cost of cleaning awnings, see How Much Does a Cleaning an Awning Cost.
- Larger and more complex awnings can be installed by a handyman or general contractor. For more information about finding a handyman, see How Much Does a Handyman Cost.
Discounts: | - Most awnings are relatively simple to install. To save on installation costs, install the awning as a DIY project according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Shopping for an awning: | - Before shopping for an awning, measure the window, door, or patio space to be shaded. All awnings require some clearance space both lengthwise and widthwise.
- Consider the climate before selecting an awning. Awnings can be damaged by high winds and heavy snows. Colored fabric awnings can fade when exposed to intense sunlight.
- To learn about the basic styles of awnings, and which style works best over different sizes and styles of doors, windows and patios, see the Question and Answer section of the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA) web site.
- Awnings can be used to shade home or business windows, deflecting sunlight and saving on energy (air conditioning) costs. The federal Department of Energy provides information to help determine the best awning for energy-saving value.
- Awnings are sold at major home improvement stores, including Home Depot, Lowes, and Sears.
- Check with local, reputable contractors and handyman service providers to find an experienced awning technician.
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Article updated February 2010 |
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