Get matched with top awning pros in Charlottesville, VA

When contacting an awning installer, there are a few questions to ask to make sure the process runs smoothly. To have the awning of your dreams installed to shade you from the sun, ask your installer some of these questions to get you started:

• How long will this project take to complete?

• Do you have insurance coverage?

• Will I need a building permit for this project? Who is responsible for obtaining this?

• Do you have references from previous clients? 

• Do you have photos of previously completed projects?

The cost of an awning is $1,400 to $4,400 on average. However, this cost could be as low as $100 or as high as $7,500, depending on a few factors. The type of awning you choose, the size you need, and your location all affect your overall cost. 

For example, portable awnings you can put up and take down yourself range from $100 to $400, whereas motorized awnings are more luxurious and cost between $2,000 and $3,500.

Awnings can take anywhere from two hours to two days to install once made. Retractable awnings are generally more lightweight and simpler to install than metal ones, which take longer. Even if you’ve chosen a retractable awning, it’s best to plan for a two-day installation timeframe to give your installer plenty of time to ensure proper installation and operation.

Awnings are either fixed or retractable and can be paired with a variety of cover materials. Fixed awnings are a permanent outdoor feature of a building. These are highly durable and require ongoing maintenance. Once installed, the position of this awning cannot be changed.

Retractable awnings are more popular than fixed awnings since the cover can open and close. This allows homeowners to open and close the awning, depending on the weather. When not in use, it can be closed to allow for extra space.

Besides the type of awning, you’ll need to choose the type of cover. Your awning installation professional will review your options with you, including availability and costs. The types of covers you can choose from include:

• Wood, which is durable but can be damaged easily by rainwater and fire

• Cotton offers flexibility, weatherproofing, and easy cleaning

• Canvas is highly durable and is a good choice for retractable awnings 

• Metal is sturdy but is prone to rust

• Polyester is easy to clean and is a more breathable option

• Polycarbonate is highly resistant to UV rays and is difficult to damage