Get matched with top awning pros in Indiana, PA

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.

If you're handy, it might be worth trying to install retractable awnings yourself. Just keep in mind that motorized retractable awnings require much more know-how, and the risk of something costly going wrong (such as damaging your new awnings) is higher.

Mechanical awnings should be easy to install for the average person with some handyman skills.

You can indeed open your awning in winter. It’s a misconception that you can only open retractable awnings in the warmer months. In fact, modern awnings are strong enough to offer a little respite from the snow if you’re someone who enjoys sipping hot cocoa outside on a beautiful winter day. But if a big storm is coming, such as a hurricane or a blizzard, it’s best to close your awning until the weather calms down.

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.