Get matched with top awning pros in Washington, LA

Awnings offer a number of benefits, including:

• Reduced summer home cooling costs with lower solar heat gains

• Protection from sun, rain, and snow damage

• Increased curb appeal for your home

Keep in mind that awnings also have drawbacks, including the potential to reduce your view, block natural light, and create new occasional home maintenance needs.

It’s best to keep your awning retracted if winds are 25 miles per hour or more to make sure your awning doesn’t sustain irreparable damage due to wind. Some awnings can take winds up to 30 miles per hour without any damage, but it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s guidance. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too windy for you to comfortably stand outside, it’s time to bring the awning in.

An awning can last anywhere from five to 15 years and even longer sometimes. The life span of an awning depends on several factors, from its construction materials to the design and who installed it. Regular maintenance is also important here. Weather conditions also impact the life span of an awning. Choose high-quality materials and stay on top of maintenance tasks to extend longevity.

To make sure the installation process goes smoothly, try asking your pro the following questions: 

• Do you have insurance and a professional license to do the job? Installing a metal or canvas awning into a home’s exterior can be tricky, so ask your pro if they have the correct licensing and insurance to do the work. 

• What was the price of similar jobs in the past? Awning installation costs will vary depending on size, design, location, and other factors. Ask this question to get a feel for the average price range for jobs similar to yours.

• How long will this project take to complete? Installing an awning is typically not too time-consuming, but hurdles can always present themselves. Gathering an estimated timeline could give you some peace of mind. 

• Will I need to get a building permit? Your local contractor will be well-versed in rules and regulations regarding building permits and other requirements to bring a project up to code. A seasoned pro will be able to furnish this information when discussing the quote.

• Do you have any references from previous clients? A competent pro should readily hand out contact information for previous clients. Email or call these clients to hear about their overall experience.