If you shop around online for an awning, there is a good chance you’ll notice a pretty big range of prices. Let’s take a look at the factors that will greatly affect the final cost of having an awning installed:

The Materials Used

Traditionally, awnings are manufactured in a variety of materials including fabric (usually canvas), galvanized metal, aluminum or copper. Generally speaking, awnings that are fabricated out of canvas will tend to reduce the amount of cost during installation, making it a highly affordable option. At first, it offers a durable solution for providing shade, and is available in a variety of patterns, colors, sizes and shapes. However, it does not handle extreme weather conditions well. Canvas awnings can be greatly affected by snow and rain, and can fade and deteriorate in harsh direct sunlight.

Alternatively, metals hold up better than canvas. Galvanized metal and aluminum awnings are slightly more expensive than installing canvas awnings. However, both kinds of metals need to be covered with some type of coating to offer protection from the environment. Over time, both metals can corrode, rust and disintegrate because of humidity, water, salt and other environmental factors.

Copper awnings are more expensive than aluminum awnings, but are designed to last for generations with virtually no maintenance required at all so the higher upfront investment is offset by longer life span. In fact, copper naturally develops its own patina, which works to safeguard the metal below. Because of that, copper awnings can last 80 years or longer, and will never rust, corrode or deteriorate.

Choosing Features and Accessories

Canvas awnings can be purchased with a retractable feature, meaning that it can be folded or rolled up. This can happen either automatically or manually. Many are crafted with sensors that will automatically determine if inclement weather requires that it be rolled up due to heavy winds.

Additionally, metal awnings can be fabricated in a variety of styles and shapes, with added embellishments including finials, brackets, and others. They can even be fully customized to match any architectural design feature or style of the commercial building, or residential home.

Size and Shape

Another key factor in determining the differences of prices in awnings is the size and shape that is required. There is a huge assortment of available awnings, in numerous materials, of nearly any size. Every factor including its size, shape, material and its design, along with whether it is a retractable or stationary awning, will greatly affect the total price of the unit.

Overall, the final cost of ordering and installing an awning for the home or office is ultimately determined by every component and material used. However, installed awnings are energy-efficient because they decrease indoor energy costs, when they can shade window and door openings from the damaging rays of the sun and other outdoor elements.