You’re sitting on your patio in the afternoon. All of a sudden, the sun becomes just a little too hot. Right about now, a shady awning fabricating over your head sounds really nice. But how much would that shade cost?
Retractable awnings are a popular addition to many homes, providing outdoor shade or coverage on demand. According to HomeAdvisor, the average home spends $3,100 on a retractable awning. However, these additions can cost anywhere from $500 to $25,000 depending on the design and installation.
To estimate your own price, keep reading our guide to master the question: how much do retractable awnings cost?
What Influences the Cost of a Retractable Awning?
Different types of awnings range in price. Depending on your goals, a retractable awning could be a thrifty or luxurious addition. Like most home enhancements, there are many factors layered into its price. Before scheduling an installation, get to know the top factors that might influence your cost:
- Awning size – The more awning to install, the more it will cost. A retractable awning that covers a large outdoor space or your entire backyard will carry a hefty price tag compared to one that covers only half. Depending on other factors, you can expect to pay $6 to $9 per square foot.
- Retractable mechanism – Retractable awning cost may also depend on the awning type and mechanism. Retractable awnings come in two varieties: motorized and manual. Motorized awnings retract via a button or remote under the command of an electronic system. Manual awnings are controlled by a pulley system operated by your hands. Due to their high-tech nature, motorized retractable awnings will typically cost more than manual retractable awnings.
- Awning material – Aluminum? Cotton? Fiberglass? Awnings come in an incredible variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons—and prices. Fabric awnings are typically much cheaper than any other materials, but the awning fabric often fades or wears down more quickly. On the flip side, metal or fiberglass awnings may be durable, but they can cost a pretty penny.
- Frame material – To hang a shady cover, you need a frame—aka, the material that supports your awning. The awning frame material can sway the overall price of your awning by hundreds of dollars. Wood frames are much more affordable (but require more upkeep), while metal frames tend to be more expensive.
- Awning brand – A brand name is like a stamp of trust. By paying a higher cost for certain awning brands, you ensure receiving a higher quality product. However, there are lower-budget brands that still create quality awnings. Research a brand’s overall price range to gauge if it fits your budget.
- Installed location – The location of your retractable awning will shape the scope of your project. A drop-bar awning for an entire patio may cost more, but a freestanding awning over a hot tub may be quite cheap. Also, your geographic location can influence the price. For San Francisco and Manhattan, the average costs of awning installation are respectively $824 and $2,233. The more urban and chilly, the more expensive.
- Installing conditions – Unless you’re a bonafide DIY home expert, you’ll need some professional help installing a retractable awning. Labor costs anywhere from $175 to $400, although that can range higher for more difficult projects. While rare, your home awning may also require a building permit, which can cost up to $100.
- Add-ons – When installing a permanent addition to your home, you might invest more in its function and look. Accessory treatments like mildew prevention (up to $100), heaters ($300 or more), or mosquito netting (up to $250) all raise the price. Also, any customizations you request on a standard design can lead to a higher cost.
How Much Do Non-Retractable Awnings Cost?
If the prices of retractable awnings seem a bit out of reach, then you might consider an alternative option. How much is an awning that’s non-retractable?
Non-retractable awnings come in two designs: fixed or freestanding. A fixed or stationary awning attaches to your home permanently, while a freestanding awning is a solo unit that’s either portable or installed. Typically, these awnings cost anywhere from $100 to $1000 or more. However, their lack of retractability usually makes them a less convenient option.
At the end of the day, whether you’re on the search for a patio awning or a window awning, the size of your outdoor space or area will factor into the overall awning price.
How Should I Budget for a Retractable Awning?
Even when retractable, an awning cover is a permanent addition to your home. That means you have to make a calculated decision—and one that doesn’t drain your home budget.
When starting your retractable awning shopping, ask yourself these questions to determine a price range:
- What’s the main function of the awning? Shade? Coverage? Decor?
- How large is my coverage area?
- What materials are practical and aesthetically pleasing for my awning?
- Do I prefer motorized or manual retraction?
- How much maintenance am I willing to do?
- What outdoor elements will the awning face? Inclement weather, high wind, and strong UV rays are just a few examples.
Since these covers can be high in cost, learning how to clean awnings properly can help prolong their lifetime and further increase their value.
Find a Retractable Awning in Your Budget at ALEKO
A retractable awning can be a significant investment in your home—but it’s an investment that gives back. By determining a budget for your retractable awning, you can find the best design possible to enhance your home’s shade, coverage, and beauty.
At ALEKO, we provide quality outdoor awnings suitable for all budgets. From motorized RV covers to LED-lit porch awnings, our collection allows you to enjoy a comfortable view, even on the sunniest or rainiest days. Contact our team today, and we’ll give you a detailed installation estimate to make your shading reverie a reality.
Sources:
Ask Angi. Awning Costs: Material Prices by Type & Installation. https://www.angi.com/articles/awning-cost.htm
Bob Vila. How Much Does a Retractable Awning Cost? (2023). https://www.bobvila.com/articles/retractable-awning-cost/
HomeAdvisor. How Much Does It Cost To Install An Awning? https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/outdoor-living/install-an-awning/
