Retractable awnings are an excellent way to provide shade on patios, decks, and outdoor seating areas. But are they really worth the investment? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the pros and cons of retractable awnings to help you decide if installing one is the right choice for your home.
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What Are Retractable Awnings?
Retractable awnings are folding shade structures mounted above doors, windows, patios, or decks. They can extend out to provide cover and retract against a wall or under an overhang when not in use. Retractable awnings are operated manually or by motorized automation and offer versatility in controlling sun exposure and outdoor views.
Types of Retractable Awnings
There are several types of retractable awnings to choose from:
- Cassette awnings – Have a cover that folds compactly into a metal hood or “cassette” when retracted.
- Drop arm awnings – Have arms that extend outward and fold down when opened.
- Patio awnings – Designed for shade over a patio or deck and available in lean-to and dome styles.
- Horizontal awnings – Provide shade for windows and roll up horizontally.
- Vertical awnings – Designed for shading doorways and roll up vertically.
Benefits of Retractable Awnings
Some of the advantages of retractable awnings include:
- Provide shade and cooling. Awnings can lower temperatures under them by up to 20°F.
- Flexible sun control. You can adjust amount of sun and shade as needed.
- Protection from weather. Awnings shelter outdoor spaces from sun, wind, light rain and snow.
- Energy savings. Shading windows can reduce air conditioning costs inside.
- Increased use of outdoor areas. Extend time spent comfortably outside.
- Added privacy. Horizontal awnings at windows create a visual screen.
- Enhanced aesthetics. Awnings add visual appeal and architectural interest.
- Increased property value. Outdoor shade amenities add value for potential home buyers.
Costs of Retractable Awnings
While awnings provide many benefits, they are a significant investment to purchase and install. The average costs include:
- Purchase price – $1,000 to $4,000 depending on size, type and options.
- Installation – $500 to $1,500 for professional installation.
- Electric connection – $100 to $250 for hardwired motorized units.
- Permits – $50 to $150 for required building permits.
Additional expenses can include:
- Removal of old awnings
- Frame repair or reinforcement
- Custom fabrication for non-standard sizes
For a 10′ x 12′ patio awning, total costs often range from $2,000 to $4,500.
Factors Affecting Retractable Awning Costs
Several factors impact the total expense of installing a retractable awning:
- Type – Cassette and motorized awnings cost more than manual units.
- Size – Larger awnings that provide more coverage are more expensive.
- Features – Options like sensors, automation, and remote controls add cost.
- Frame – Metal frames are pricier than plastic or aluminum.
- Fabric – Premium acrylic fabrics run higher than vinyl.
- Installation – Complex installations on multi-story homes cost more.
Getting quotes from several companies is advised to find the best price on the type, size and features you want.
Return on Investment
Given the upfront expense, you may wonder how long it takes to recoup the investment in a retractable awning. Let’s look at the return on investment.
Energy Savings
One of the biggest factors in the payback period of an awning is the energy savings from shading your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, awnings can reduce heat gain through windows by up to 77%. This can lower air conditioning costs substantially during hot summer months.
Studies by the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association found the potential cooling savings from awnings in various cities (assuming 8 hours of use per day):
| City | Cooling Savings |
|---|---|
| Phoenix | $200 annually |
| Kansas City | $125 annually |
| Baltimore | $100 annually |
Based on your local climate and utility rates, an awning over a sun-exposed window could conservatively save $50 to $150 per year on air conditioning – longer in hotter climates.
Increased Property Value
Adding an attractive, functional awning can also boost your home’s resale value. One national survey found 65% of buyers are willing to pay at least 3% more for a home with outdoor living features like awnings. On a $300,000 home, that equals $9,000 additional value.
Real estate agents recommend awnings as an inexpensive way to quickly update a home’s curb appeal. Patios and decks also show better without glaring sun exposure.
Total Return on Investment
Exact payback periods for a retractable awning will depend on your specific energy savings and the added value for your home. However, with conservative savings estimates, a typical return on investment is around 6 to 8 years.
So while the initial purchase may seem high, an awning should pay for itself before having to be replaced (awnings last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance).
Conclusion
Overall, retractable awnings provide outstanding benefits for outdoor shade and comfort. While not cheap, they offer many advantages that can justify the significant upfront investment over time. Key points to consider are:
- Awnings reduce temperatures dramatically in outdoor living areas.
- They provide strong returns through lower air conditioning costs.
- Property values typically increase by several thousand dollars.
- Payback periods are reasonable at 6 to 8 years.
- Awnings last 10 to 15 years when well-maintained.
If you regularly spend time outdoors at home in warm weather, retractable awnings can pay for themselves with energy savings and added home value. Carefully compare types, features and installation costs to find the best long-term value. With the right awning, you can make the most of outdoor living at your home.