If you’re considering installing an awning at home or a commercial site, the first question that crosses your mind could be, “How much are retractable awnings?”. It’s good that you ask. You’re making a reasonable purchasing choice, and the price has a lot of factors that determine it.
A retractable awning can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 to cover a deck or patio. Still, a retractable awning cupboard above a door or window can cost between $350 and $900. Most homeowners’ installation prices range from $12.50 to $27.50 per square foot.
It protects the outdoor area from glaring sunlight or even rain. Some factors affecting the price are size, material, installation, and any custom features. We’ll explain the factors responsible for setting the cost of retractable awnings. Let’s get to the point so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Retractable Awnings?
Retractable awnings can be rolled up and unfurled according to your needs. They can be used on the exterior of a building over its balconies, patios, decks, windows, and doors. Rolling-out awnings allow homeowners greater control over the light entering their homes. They are built of sturdy materials such as acrylic fabrics and can be operated manually or mechanically.
As an appeal, retractable awnings can be aesthetically appealing while being functional, too. They can block light and douse heat inside, making the home more comfortable and easier on the pockets by reducing energy costs.
Sunlight usage can provide an improved mood, look, and temperature without being overwhelming. Because of their simplicity of style and wide variety of shapes and colors. Love being under the sun or the stars? This is no longer a concern with these awnings retracting and expanding to your needs.
What Affects the Cost of Retractable Awnings?
Many variables affect the price of retractable awnings, such as the type of awning, the quality of the awning, and its ‘style.’ When determining the cost of a retractable awning, the parameters considered are size, material, and style ligated in that order. These will be addressed deeply below:
Quantity and Area coverage
Foremost, awning size is a deciding factor when estimating the cost of a retractable awning. An awning expected to cover an entire patio or deck will be more expensive than an awning meant to cover a window or a balcony. Canopy prices increase per square foot, so the larger the area, the more it costs.
Conversely, a small 8-foot-long awning will cost between $300 and $600. A larger 16-foot-long awning will cost around $800-$2000 or more, depending on the brand and features of the awning.
Installation System
Other homeowners may save money and install it themselves, but hiring a professional is better in alignment, structure, and warranty coverage.
We do not recommend installing shade units yourself. For safety reasons, you should allow the experts to install the awning.
This will surely increase the retractable awning’s overall cost, but you can be assured that it was correctly constructed.
The Fabric and Material
Our research shows that the material used to manufacture the retractable awning affects its price. The cost of some materials resistant to mildew, water, and ultraviolet light tends to be higher because of their high quality. Commonly, retractable awnings are made of:
- Acrylic fabric: A more expensive option, acrylic fabrics offer superior protection because they are fade-resistant and durable.
- Polyester: While less expensive than acrylic, polyester fabric offers adequate UV protection but may be short-lived.
- Canvas: Although treatments with a UV protectant make canvas awnings more expensive, they are long-lasting and waterproof.
The type of material used to construct the frame also affects the cost. While a steel frame is more durable, it can be costly. Aluminum framed bikes are typically less expensive and lighter but less durable.
Motorized vs. Manual
The power mechanism is another factor determining the cost of retractable awnings.
Manual retractable awnings can be cracked at a reasonable adjustment cost. For smaller patios, folding, closing, and opening the awning is a crank, simplifying the entire process.
Power retractable awnings are great because, although expensive, they are relatively easy to operate. Pressing a button on the remote extends or retracts the awning.
Motorized systems are appropriate for bigger spaces as they can be expensive and include advanced features. Such as weather detectors and remote control, which are powerful systems.
Quality of the Awning
There are classic awnings, some awnings, and a combination of pommel or bonnet awnings.
Material quality is critical in determining how much an awning will cost if it is retractable. Quality materials include the awning frame and the retracting mechanism awning.
The quality of the components in retractable awnings is a selling factor and will affect their price.
We always advise our clients who think they are getting an off-cut awning that it’s high time they start looking and feeling more strategically.
A cheaper awning can be a great long-term investment, but if you change your awning regularly because of malfunctions, it may be costly.
Application Process
Different variants of retractable awnings can have different price ranges, depending on their intended purpose: a balcony, patio, deck, or window.
The finished price may also cover the costs incurred for additional materials and work supplied to your orders and installation by professionals.
Otherwise, to decide which is more sensible, you need to consider the price of the retractable awning and the purpose of the purchase.
A great component would also shift the final fee calculation to whether the awning is intended for business or residential purposes. Commercial use requires tougher and stronger materials and more alterations, raising costs.
So, you must research carefully to choose the best commercial awning for your business.
Extra Features
Consider the basic price of retractable awnings before purchasing relevant accessories. They include, but are not limited to:
- Sensors that sense the wind: These can draw the awning in whenever the wind reaches a speed that would make it too strong for the awning frame to weather.
- Sensors that indicate the intensity of sunlight: These sensors help keep the place cool by automatically dragging the awning whenever the sunlight reaches a certain level.
- Built-in LED lights: Gone are the days when lights had to be installed on the awning. Some awnings come with these lights installed already, which might be ideal for nighttime use.
- Automated systems for control: A high-end awning can be operated through a smartphone or a home automation system.
The awning cost can be considerably increased once these features are added to a motorized system.
Are Retractable Awnings Worth The Cost?
Yes. Purchasing retractable patio awnings is wise, particularly when compared with constructing a permanent roof over your deck. There is room for a return on investment (ROI).
Another intangible benefit is that with the awning, you will likely spend more time with people you love on warm summer days by the pool. These are four essential reasons why retractable awnings can help your household and businesses.
Energy Savings and Climate Control
Awnings that can be retracted offer shaded areas sufficient to reduce air conditioning costs. Our research says they can drop indoor temperatures by an impressive 15 degrees Fahrenheit and reduce energy consumption.
With the sun blocked, less artificial cooling is required, so households and businesses can broadly cut their electricity costs and carbon emissions.
Regulation of the intake of Sunlight
A permanent balcony can provide shade to enhance restaurants, shops, or residential structures with windows. It can also benefit outdoor and domestic furniture, like retractable window patio awnings, whenever necessary.
Also, outdoor and interior furniture and possessions are reported to benefit considerably from the so-called deployable awnings.
Helps Maintain Your Privacy
It would be nice if time spent on your deck or patio were private, especially when you have a retractable awning and your residence is in the right climate.
Having nosy neighbors is something no one wants. Saturation is nigh universal, and no one can wish to be swamped with such people.
If the situation goes against your decorum, retreat to the comfort of your garden (or backyard) under the awning.
The Awnings Increase the Value of Your Home
Quality is interrelated with appealing aesthetics, let alone the abundant practicality of these awnings. They make comfort absolute and outgrow an unwavering need for more summers in every home worldwide.
Give your outdoor living region a beautiful, exquisite, classy look. Over 100 fabric choices are available, featuring stunning solids, patterns, rich textures, and tweeds.
Awnings are equally lovely and can steal the eye or even complement the entire look of your terrace decorations.
Cost of Different Types of Awnings
| Type of Retractable Awning | Price Range |
| Manual Retractable Awnings | $1,200 – $4,500 |
| Motorized Retractable Awnings | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Awnings With Folding Lateral Arms | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Unlimited Roofs | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Stand-Alone Shades | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Solar Shades (Drop-Down Shades) | $500 – $2,000 |
| Retractable Pergola Awnings | $2,500 – $8,000 |
| Covers for Half-Cassette Awnings | $1,200 – $4,000 |
The only price comparison you should make is for similar products from different sellers. Check the retractable awning manufacturer, the kind of arms (steel cable, stainless steel chains, or strap), warranty specifications (proration included), and reviews. This is a great idea of how much people usually spend purchasing retractable awnings. The cost of different types of awnings is determined as follows:
1. Manual Awnings
Prices for manual awnings range from $1200 to around $4500. These awnings attach to the horizontal roof in a certain mansion, and to adjust them, you rotate a hand crank. They cost much less and provide greater shade protection than the third type of motorized awning, but they might be ideal for people willing to put in a little honest effort.
2. Motorized Retractable Awnings
When we exclude the installation, purchasing a motorized retractable awning can be as low as $1,500 and as high as $8,000. How these awnings are designed and built makes extending and retracting them easy by pressing a button. They are an excellent choice for technologically inclined homeowners since many can be operated via a smartphone app.
3. Awnings With Folding Lateral Arms
These retractable awning systems or other folding systems can work on any surface with the required structural support. Depending on the size and materials, the cost can range from $1,500 to $4,000. They use a simple but effective idea to shade a space that allows the awning to retract and remain small and unobtrusive when not in use.
4. Unlimited Roofs
A retractable awning with no limits on the required coverage space would cost $3,000 to $10,000 to cover the most area possible. It can be mounted on patios, pool areas, or any outdoor space and guarantees full sun exposure. The price is the installation’s complexity level and the area that needs coverage.
5. Stand-Alone Shades Awning
Is portability your great concern? Then, standalone shades can be the best option.
On a rough estimate, prices for movable awnings range from $1,000 to $5,000.
They are hardly inconvenient if you want to shade your plants without installing a permanent structure. Depending on your requirements for the year, you can relocate them.
6. Solar Shades (Drop-Down Shades)
On the spending spectrum, this option is slightly in the budget range but is also eco-friendly, ranging from $500 to $2000.
But, you might have to adjust them manually, get a motor, or use the manual option, which is fine if you do not adjust them; the motor controls them.
Are you looking at shades to protect your patio or window while maintaining the view outside? These shades would do the trick, blocking UV rays and allowing natural light to shine.
7. Retractable Pergola Awnings
Are you looking for combined practicality and elegance? Then, consider a retractable pergola awning to shield your outdoor area. They usually cost between $2000 and $8000. This type of awning is great for backyard cubicles and can properly cover an outdoor table with any shed, meaning it’s great for outdoor structures.
8. Half-Cassette Awning Covers
Half-cassette covers are acquired between $1200 and $4000. A half-cassette style awning cover is ideal as it folds into a protective casing and can be considered when living in extreme weather. Such covers could be excellent investments, owing to their resilience and protection against harsh weather conditions.
Each type of awning has a distinct combination of features, which determine its cost depending on its size, material, and customization options available. If you are considering a cover, get a custom awning installation quote for the best deal possible.
Average Cost of Retractable Awning Installation
| Typical Size | Purpose | Total Cost (Product + Installation) |
| 31 in x 24 in | Door/Window | $200 – $500 |
| 44 in x 36 in | Door/Window | $240 – $500 |
| 10 ft x 10 ft | Patio/Deck | $300 – $2,500 |
| 10 ft x 12 ft | Patio/Deck | $500 – $3,000 |
| 8 ft x 10 ft | Patio/Deck | $250 – $1,500 |
| 12 ft x 12 ft | Patio/Deck | $600 – $3,500 |
| 12 ft x 14 ft | Patio/Deck | $700 – $4,000 |
| 16 ft x 16 ft | Large Patio/Deck | $900 – $5,000 |
| 20 ft x 20 ft | Large Patio/Deck | $1,200 – $6,500 |
Installation expenses and location are key components that could affect the ultimate cost. An awning installation cost ranges from $200 to $500. Surcharges may apply if the awning is oversized or motorized.
High-tech awnings that depend on sensors or remote controls may require professional electricians to install special wiring, increasing costs. A simple window awning fixed to your wall will be cheaper than a 16-by-30-foot pergola with concrete footings.
It has been granted permission and has an electricity supply. You will most likely spend anywhere from $100 to just over $1,000 to install a retractable awning.
How Expensive Are Retractable Awnings?
The cost of a retractable awning can differ substantially based on its type, material, motorization, brand, and other factors. These factors will help you better decide which awning to buy.
Awnings of Various Kinds
For those interested, the awning type is also a big contributor to the cost of a retractable awning. For instance, if a heavy-duty motorized patio or deck awning is in question, it is likely much more expensive than a basic one that fits a window. A breakdown of the usual expenses is as follows:
| Type of Awning | Average Cost |
| Window awning | $300 – $500 |
| Door awning | $300 – $700 |
| Patio/Deck awning | Up to $3,500 |
Awning Material Cost
Expecting price variations depending on the awning’s material isn’t new information. Metal awnings like aluminum ones are expensive, but they are also more durable and aesthetically pleasing.
| Material Type | Average Cost Range | Notes |
| All Weather Fabric | $300 – $2,000 | Great for smaller spaces like windows/doors |
| Motorized Components | $1,000 – $3,000 | Adds convenience but with higher upfront costs. |
| Aluminum | $300 – $2,500 | Durable, often used for both manual and motorized options. |
Brand and Choices
Some of the most prominent manufacturers offer a wide range of retractable awnings, and the comparable cost varies depending on the model and brand. Some of the most appreciated ones are these:
| Brand | Average Cost Range | Warranty length |
| Awntech | $250 – $4,000 | 5-year limited |
| Beauty-Mark | $300 – $2,500 | 5-year limited |
| ALEKO | $150 – $700 | 1-year limited |
| Sunair | $2,000 – $5,000 | 5-to-15-year limited, depending on the model |
| SunSetter | $800 – $7,000 | 5-year limited on SunSetter Series. |
| Sunesta | $700 – $4,000 | 10-year limited |
| Americana Building Products | $200 – $4,000 | 10-year limited lifetime |
Permits and Charges
In certain places, additional structures like retractable awnings may need a permit. Though optional in most cases, an awning permit may be needed in some areas, including a fee of $25 to $100.
If any electrical work is involved in your installation, you may also be required to obtain a certification. Permits are low-cost, but checking what applies in the area would be ideal to avoid inconveniences or penalties.
The expense of wages
While manual retractable awnings can cost as little as $100 to $400, motorized ones require additional installers and longer mounting times. They can cost as much as $1000. Depending on the installer, you might receive fixed pricing, hourly rates, or a price per square footage.
Cleaning the Awning
Dirt, pollution, tree saps, pollens, and bird droppings may cause an awning to be stained or unsightly. Reclaiming your retractable awnings will cost around $0.35-$1.75 per square foot. Waterproof coatings and UV sealants should be reapplied in every such case.
Note: A few hundred may buy you smaller manual options, but systems of retractable awnings can cost thousands. Now that you know this, it will be easier to decide on what type of awning to purchase—a small one provides shade for a window or a larger one that covers the patio, depending on your needs and budget.
How to Save on Retractable Awnings Costs
Installing retractable awnings eliminates the need to install a structure yearly because of its versatility and durability. But they certainly could be on the more expensive side of things. However, depending on your preference, there are different means of purchasing and installing retractable awnings to maintain their quality and practicality. To help you save some bucks while purchasing a retractable awning, here are five tips:
Opt for Manual Over Motorized Awnings
Even without stringent rules and regulations, motorized awnings are still more expensive than manual awnings.
Because of the complex motor reliance, removing the awning motor is much easier than manually doing it.
However, if storms or changes aren’t standard, crank-operated manual awnings are the most cost-effective and time-consuming.
Choose a Standard Size and Shape
A rule of thumb is that if the dimensions are around the standard size and the shape isn’t too obscure. You should be okay.
Regular awnings are the most cost-effective and easiest to install. Common shapes, such as rectangles or squares, will always be cost-efficient.
Even then, you could play around with the awning through color or fabric.
Doing It Yourself
You may not install it yourself, as professional installation would account for much of the total expense.
Most retractable awnings are designed to be DIY-friendly for individuals with some spare time and basic tool skills.
Before you make a purchase, ensure the awning you’re considering purchasing has easy-to-read instructions and all the necessary hardware.
Look Out For Offers And Discounts
It will be easier to find retired awnings at much lower prices if they are purchased, for example, on sale or during the offseason.
During the cold and fall months, several suppliers have many sales because of low demand.
Sign up for newsletters and follow businesses on social platforms to catch up on the offers and discounts.
Use Better Quality Fabric over Branded Fabric
The cost of a tapered awning depends mainly on the fabric used. To reduce cost without sacrificing sun resistance and durability, choose a quality that is not expensive but serves the purpose. Many reputable companies offer affordable and equally durable fabric solutions.
Using these tips, you may enjoy the benefits of a retractable awning without spending money. With a little planning and smart shopping, you can find a suitable, high-quality option within your budget.
Final Thoughts
So, how much are retractable awnings? Even the most basic units start at around $200, while higher-grade models cost over $4000. When purchasing a retractable awning, the size, functionality, materials used for construction, installation, and additional costs are key components.
Take potential repairs and long-term maintenance into account, too. Retractable awnings are an excellent investment, as their prolonged lifespan protects the user. The best way to choose an awning for your external area is to understand the costs involved. If you need an awning installation, awning repair, or awning cleaning service, contact us at Awnings San Diego.
FAQs
What is the lifespan of a retractable awning?
If serviced regularly, a retractable awning lasts at least a decade, 10 to 15 years. You can extend its lifespan by keeping it clean, treating the engine properly, and maintaining the fabric quality. However, degrading or lousy weather conditions can decrease its longevity.
Can retractable awnings be used in heavy winds?
Retractable awnings can withstand high winds. However, retracting them in severe winds (over 25 mph) could be better, as this could cause damage. Specialized automatic equipment has been installed in several models, which will safely draw back the awning in high winds.
Do retractable awnings require maintenance?
Owning a retractable awning requires service from time to time. Checking if the fabric, engines, and all mechanics are scuffed up and cleaned is crucial for maintenance. Retracting awnings with little or no rain or sun will help make them durable.
Are retractable awnings waterproof?
Many retractable awnings cannot provide a fully waterproof cover for the average person. They should be fine for droplet rain, but anything excessive, like heavy rain or stagnant water, can cause damage. If you live in a place prone to heavy downpours, using an awning made with water-resistant material would be wise.
Can retractable awnings be installed on any type of surface?
If you install the surface of a retractable awning with concrete, stucco, wood, or bricks, you’re good to go. However, the surface must be sturdy enough to support the awning’s weight, and you must consult an expert to mount it properly.
How far can retractable awnings extend?
Like any other awning, retractable awnings depend on their make and type. They can range anywhere between 5 and 15 feet in length. Large patios and decks can be up to two feet or more long. Of course, differences in frame size may affect the extension and areas covered.
