Best Awnings Companies
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Household Needs Buyers Guide
How to Choose an Awning
- Materials
- Machine Washable: Easy cleanup saves time and effort.
- Sun/UV Blockage: Ideal for sunny climates, protects furniture and reduces cooling costs.
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Water Resistance: Keeps areas dry and resists mildew.
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Adjustability
- Retractable: Offers customizable coverage.
- Motorized: Adjust with the push of a button.
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Remote-Controlled: Easy control via handheld remotes.
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Treatments for Longevity
- Vinyl/Laminate Coatings: Flame and water-resistant but prone to fading.
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Acrylic Coating: Longer-lasting colors, not flame or water-resistant.
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Installation Options
- DIY Installation: Attach to walls or columns with simple tools.
- Professional Help: Needed for motorized awnings requiring electrical work.
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Protective Housing: Extends fabric and motor lifespan.
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Ease of Use
- Sensors: Automatically retract awnings based on sun, wind, or rain.
- Durability: High-quality materials reduce maintenance but may increase costs.
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Motorization: Convenient but may require occasional repairs.
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Warranty Options
- Time-Based Warranty: Protects against defects (e.g., 1, 5, or 10 years).
- All-Weather Warranty: Additional coverage for storm damage.
Types of Awnings
- Aluminum Awnings
- Sturdy, low-maintenance, and provide excellent shade.
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Practical but less stylish than fabric options.
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Fixed Awnings
- Permanently attached, offering full weather protection.
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Long-lasting but vulnerable to wear since they can't be stored.
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Retractable Lateral Arm Awnings
- Largest type, ideal for patios and decks.
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Flexible, seasonal use; available in hand-crank or motorized versions.
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Retractable Side/Drop Arm Awnings
- Traditional design for maximum sun protection.
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Motorized or manual versions, easy storage when not in use.
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Window Awnings
- Smaller, aesthetic options that reduce indoor sunlight.
- Adjustable cords allow fine-tuning of shade.
Key Features for Awnings
- Durability: High-quality materials like aluminum or UV-blocking fabric extend awning life.
- Adjustability: Motorized and retractable designs add flexibility.
- Ease of Maintenance: Machine washable covers or protective coatings simplify care.
- Weather Adaptability: Water resistance and wind sensors enhance usability.
Choose an awning that suits your home's climate, design needs, and budget to maximize comfort and energy savings.
Top Awning Companies
1. SunSetter Awnings
- Specializes In: Retractable deck, patio, window awnings, freestanding awnings, and solar shades.
- Highlights:
- Free in-home consultation with expert advice.
- Offers 29 colors and a wide selection of fabrics.
- Largest awning manufacturer in the U.S.
- Customer Service: Quality varies by location.
- Rating: 3,174 Reviews.
2. Rollup Awnings
- Specializes In: Retractable and fixed awnings, shutters, and fabric repair.
- Highlights:
- 90 fabric options; showrooms in New York for firsthand viewing.
- Superior customer service and excellent warranties.
- Services include motor replacement and awning moving.
- Downside: Costs are higher than competitors.
- Rating: 473 Reviews.
3. Sunesta Retractable Awnings
- Specializes In: Ready-to-install retractable awnings for windows, doors, and decks.
- Highlights: Partners with global engineers to improve product quality.
- Established in 1981.
4. RetractableAwnings.com
- Specializes In: Online sales of awnings for homes and offices.
- Highlights:
- Based in Miami, FL, with on-call experts for quality assurance.
- Family-owned with a focus on customer satisfaction.
5. Awntech
- Specializes In: Affordable door, window, and replacement awnings.
- Highlights: Offers budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
- Texas-based with a focus on cost savings for consumers.
6. KE USA Inc. (Durasol)
- Specializes In: Durable, motorized, and manually retractable fabric awnings.
- Highlights: Known as a \"Total Shading Solution\" since 1984.
7. Solarus USA
- Specializes In: Custom retractable awning systems for homes and businesses.
- Highlights:
- Uses premium Marine-grade Sunbrella fabric and hard carbon metals.
- Designed to withstand Florida's extreme weather.
- Downside: Limited service area within Florida.
8. Sunair Awnings & Solar Screens
- Specializes In: Retractable awnings, solar screens, and pergola covers.
- Highlights:
- Hundreds of fabric options; faster-than-average delivery time.
- 10-year warranty (doesn't cover wind or rain damage).
- Founded in 1978.
9. Thompson Awning Company
- Specializes In: Commercial and residential awnings, canopies, and shutters.
- Highlights:
- Operating since 1920 with a strong reputation for quality.
- Also offers graphics and signage services.
- Downside: Limited service area in North Florida.
Comparison Highlights
- Best Variety: SunSetter (29 colors) & Sunair (hundreds of fabric options).
- Longest History: Thompson Awning Company (established in 1920).
- Best for Budget: Awntech (affordable pricing).
- Best Customer Service: Rollup Awnings (small business with personalized service).
- Best for Extreme Weather: Solarus USA (built for Florida conditions).
Choose the company that fits your needs for design, durability, and service area to enhance your home's outdoor spaces.
