Because of the convenience they offer, retractable awnings are extremely popular, and because of their popularity, there are so many different options available. While having choice is certainly a good thing, with so many options to choose from, trying to decide which retractable awning would work the best for you can seem like a daunting task.
So, how do you know which retractable awning to choose? We’ve taken the liberty of doing the legwork for you. After spending countless hours conducting testing and extensive research and comparing the descriptions of dozens of models, as well as reading through endless customer reviews, we have narrowed through the options and have determined what we believe to be the best retractable awnings currently available on the market.
In this guide, we provide reviews of our top picks for the best retractable awnings, including the features that each model offers and why we believe that they’re the best. We also offer a buyer’s guide that highlights the key factors that you should take into consideration when you are shopping for a retractable awning.
We wrap up this review by providing answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that consumers have about retractable awnings.
Our Top Picks
We realize that a lot of readers don’t have the time to go through all of the information presented in this guide, but still want to be able to find the best retractable awnings on the market.
In this section, we’ve put together a brief overview of our top three picks for the best overall, the best premium, and the best budget retractable awnings. Here, you will find a short description of the features that each option offers.
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- The Best Pick: Diensweek Patio Awning Retractable
Our top pick for the best overall retractable awning is the 280G Polyester Window Door Sunshade – Deck Canopy Balcony P100 Series by Diensweek. It combines the highest quality materials with the most state-of-the-art construction to create a durable, effective, easy to use, and attractive retractable awning that will last for years to come. The frame and arm is made of corrosion resistant T5 grade aluminum, and the fabric is made of 280g/m-squared PU polyester-coated fabric that is waterproof, wind-resistant, and fade-resistant and offers 80 UV solar protection. - The Premium Pick: Advaning Motorized Patio Retractable Awning
If you’re looking for a high-end, premium-grade retractable awning, the Advaning Motorized Patio Retractable Awning is the model that we recommend. This retractable awning is motorized, which means that it creates instant shade with just the push of a button. Made of the most durable materials and construction, including double stainless steel cables, double springs, and rust-proof marine grade metal components, as well as 100 percent solution dyed, water-resistant, wind-resistant, and fade resistant fabric, it will be sure to last a long time, no matter the climate. - The Budget Pick: AECOJOY Patio Awning Retractable
If you’re looking for a top-quality retractable awning but you don’t want to spend a fortune, the AECOJOY 10’x8’ Patio Awning Retractable Awning Retractable Sun Shade Awning is an excellent option. Measuring 10 feet by 8 feet, it’s perfect for shading windows, balconies, patios, decks, courtyards, and any other location where you need on-demand shade. The frame is made of rust-resistant, powder-coated aluminum material, so it’s lightweight, yet highly durable and can easily resist under level 5 wind scales. The fabric is made of water-resistant and ultraviolet-resistant 280g polyester PU coated fabric, so it can resist moisture and fading, while also providing 50+ UV solar protection.
Retractable Awnings Reviews
Now that we have provided you with a brief overview of our top three picks for the best overall, best premium, and best budget retractable awnings, let’s explore a little more. In this part of our guide, we offer a more detailed look at the top three models mentioned above, as well as some additional top-quality retractable awnings.
The reviews in this section highlight more of the features of our picks for the top retractable awnings, including lists of pros and cons for each model, so you can determine which model will best suit your specific needs.
Diensweek Patio Awning Retractable
Our pick for the best retractable awning overall is the Diensweek Patio Awning is durably constructed, easy to install, easy to operate, and aesthetically pleasing. This certified CE, GS, and RoHS is constructed and tested for its ease of use and durability.
With a T5 grade aluminum frame and arm, this awning is lightweight, can withstand scale 4 winds, and is safe and easy to operate and adjust. The 280g/m squared PU-coated polyester is waterproof, and fade-resistant, while offering 80 UV solar protection.
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It comes with everything you need, including a crank handle, a mounting bracket, mounting hardware, and an detailed instruction manual for easy installation. The navy blue color is aesthetically pleasing, too; and, it’s backed by a 100 percent money back guarantee.
Given the extreme durability, easy installation and easy operation, combined with the 12 food by 8 foot size, the Diensweek Patio Awning Retractable Manual Commercial Grade will add the perfect amount of visually appealing shade to your yard.
- T5 grade aluminum frame
- 280g/m squared PU-coated polyester fabric
- Highly durable, wind-proof, water-resistant, fade-resistant
- Offers 80UV sun protection
- Easy to install
- Easy to operate
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Money back guarantee
- 1 year warranty
- CE, GS, RoHS-certified
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ADVANING 10’x8’ Motorized Patio Retractable Awning
For shoppers who are looking for a state-of-the-art, high-end retractable awning, the ADVANING 10’x8’ Motorized Retractable Awning is definitely the option we recommend.
The frame is made of top-quality, lightweight, rust-proof, powder-coated materials for extreme durability and features a state-of-the-art mechanism for motorized operation that will allow you to access the shade you need with just the push of a button.
- 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗥 & 𝗦𝗜𝗭𝗘: Luxury Series Features a White Frame, Fabric Color: Garden Green with Sand Beige Stripes, Size: 10' Wide x 8' Projection Full Extension. Advaning Awnings are 100% Fully Pre-Assembled and Ready for Installation.
- 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗨𝗠 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 Advaning's Product Selection Features Top-Tier Design, Functionality, and Complete Hardware Kit. Our Retractable Awnings are Shipped Fully Assembled and Ready for Installation. Luxury Series Collection featues a 100% Solution Dyed European Fabric with UV80+ Sun Protection. Contstruction Grade Hardware and Top Tier Components. Advaning Retractable Awnings are the Perfect Choice for Your Home or Business Outdoor Space.
- 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗠 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗗𝗘 - 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗬 𝗣𝗜𝗧𝗖𝗛 𝗦𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗠 Using the Two Easy Pitch Loop System, the Awning's Pitch/Tilt Angle can be Easily and Safely Adjusted to Block the Sun at Different Times of the Day for a fully Customizable Shade Experience. Electric/Manual Awnings will also Include a 3rd Loop to Crank the Awning Open or Close if Desired or in Case of a Power Outage.
- 𝗗𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 Built with an Premium Standard 40x40 mm Powder Coat Steel Frame Torsion Bar & 70mm Diameter Aluminum Roller Tube for a Strong and Safe Structure. All Construction Grade Stainless Steel Hardware with Excellent Corrosion Resistance, Longevity, and Strength.
- 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗬 & 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗘 Luxury Series Awnings include a 5-Year Limited Warranty and Lifetime Tech Support by Email, Chat, or Phone - All provided & available by Advaning's Dedicated CALIFORNIA Based Service Team.
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Advaning’s registered trademark Easy Pitch system allows for the super-simple pitch adjustment, the angle of which can be adjusted from 5 to 45 degrees.
The Luxury Series Recasens/Recaril sourced fabrics are 100 percent solution dyed, heat-releasing, water repellent, and fade resistant. The front valance can be removed, too to allow for a modern or contemporary look.
This 10 foot by 8 foot motorized retractable awning is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including two neutral solid colors and four colorful striped designs.
- Extremely durable frame
- Easy Pitch system allows the pitch to be easily adjusted from 5 to 45 degrees
- Advanced motorized mechanism allows for simple operation
- Comes 100 percent assembled and ready to install
- Lux, 100 percent solution dyed fabrics are heat releasing, water repellent, and fade resistant
- Available in several colors and patterns
- Removable front valance for a modern or contemporary look
- Backed by a 5 year warranty
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View on AmazonAECOJOY 10’x8’ Patio Awning Retractable Sun Shade Awning
For shoppers who are looking for a well-made, reliable, and easy to operate retractable awning that won’t break the budget, this option from AECOJOY is a great choice.
The frame is made of powder-coated, rust-resistant, aluminum frame that is exceptionally durable, incredibly lightweight, and can withstand winds up to 5-scale with ease. The 280g PU coated polyester fabric is water resistant, fade resistant, and offers 50 UV+ solar protection, so it will provide reliable protection to intense sun and even light rain.
- High-quality Fabric-Made of 280g/m³ polyester fabric, which is anti-UV ( 50 UV+ solar protection), windproof 30mph, rain protection and fade resistant. But we also recommended to put it away in stormy weather to extend its service life.
- Stable Material-Made with aluminium alloy and steel frame, makes it more stable and better in strength.
- Adjustable Crank-With 59" long crank, easily retractable to meet your sun or shade need.
- Multiple Purpose-Ideal for shading above windows or doors, indoor or outside.
- Buy with Confidence-Pls let us know if you have any questions about assembly or product quality.
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It comes with all of the hardware you’ll need to install it, and it can be installed in wood, brick, and concrete. With the 10 foot by 8 foot size, it provides the perfect amount of on-demand shade for patios, decks, balconies, and more.
The crank system is easy to operate, too, and the neutral beige color will tie into any outdoor space; plus, it’s also very economically priced.
- Made of powder-coated, rust-resistant, wind-resistant frame
- 280g PU coated polyester fabric is water, wind, and fade resistant, and offers 50 UV+ protection
- Easy to install
- Easy to operate
- Neutral beige color
- Affordably priced
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MCombo 10×8 Feet Manual Retractable Canopy
The MCombo 10×8 Feet Manual Retractable Patio Door Window Awning Sunshade Shelter Outdoor Canopy is a well-constructed, reliable, durable, and versatile retractable awning.
The frame is made of T5 grade aluminum frame and spurted plastic steel hand crank is lightweight, durable, easy, and safe to operate. The 280g/m squared PU coated polyester fabric resists water, wind, and fading, while providing 50UV solar protection.
- [Solid Structure] - Build with an entire corrosion resistant T5 grade aluminum frame, and spurted plastic steel hand crank- It keeps this manual mechanism safe, easy to adjust, lightweight design and solid structure can resist a certain scale winds - resident Beauport scale 4. Elegant design, solid structure, washable, corrosion resistant, lightweight.
- [Fabric Materials] - 280g/m² Polyester +PU coating fabric is water resistant, anti ultraviolet, resistant to sun fading, has 50UV+ solar protection and also tested for a wind resistance Beauport scale 4.
- [Retractable Arms] - Aluminium & Steel Frame and Double-Rope in Retractable Torsion Bars to keep safe.
- [Installation Instructions] - Awning, crank handle, bracket, 2 Retractable mounting brackets, instruction manual and additional mounting hardware - open/close by hand crank. Note:Please prepare the following tools before installation(notincluded withthe product):Power drill with drilling bit, Tape, Wrench.
- [Recommended Installation] - Assembly is required. Recommended Installation Height: 8'--12'. The tilt of the retractable bracket can be adjusted according to actual needs.(0--35 degree). Concrete wall, hard wooden walls or massive brickwork wall recommended. Please ask a professional for different type of wall such as (insulation, double brick, brick, wood and vinyl facing etc).
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Both the frame and the fabric can withstand scale 4 winds with ease. The tilt of this retractable awning can be adjusted from 0 to 35 degrees and it can be installed into concrete, wood, or brick. It’s available in an assortment of solid colors and striped patterns, so you’ll be able to choose a look that speaks to your style, and the 10 foot by 8 foot dimensions will provide plenty of protection from the sun and even light rain.
For your peace of mind, it’s backed by a 3 month warranty and a money back guarantee.
- T5 grade aluminum frame
- 280g/m squared PU coated polyester fabric
- Corrosion, fade, wind, and moisture-resistant
- Lightweight, yet durable
- Easy to install
- 0 to 35 degree adjustable pitch
- Easy hand crank operation
- Available in 10 colors and patterns
- Affordably priced
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Rolling Shade Motorized Awning 16’x10
This retractable awning from Rolling Shade is another high-end option. The advanced motorized option allows you to access the shade you need when you need it with just the push of a button.
The frame is made of a combination of high-grade, rust-proof stainless steel and powder-coated material and features vinyl-coated steel cables for exceptional, yet lightweight durability and smooth, easy operation. The pitch can be easily adjusted so you can achieve the perfect protection from the sun.
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The Recasens fabric used on this awning is made of 100 percent solution dyed acrylic fibers and has a specialized infinity finish that makes it anti-stain, rot-proof, water-resistant, tear-resistant, and UV-resistant, while delivering UV 80+ sun protection. It’s also lead free, highly breathable, and lightweight, yet exceptionally durable.
The 16 foot by 10.2 foot size with three arms for reliable support provides amble amounts of shade, making it the perfect choice for large spaces that need on-demand shading. Rounding out the features is a removable waning and your choice of 12 solid colors or stripped patterns.
- 16 foot by 10.2 foot size provides plenty of shade for large spaces
- 120v 60Hz 1.92A motor
- Durable, yet lightweight frame
- High-end fabric is rot, water, wind, fade, and UV resistant
- Available in a selection of 12 solid colors and stripped patterns
- Backed by a two year warranty
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Best Choice Products 98×80 inch Retractable Awning
The Best Choice Products is another budget-friendly, yet high-quality and reliable retractable awning. The powder-coated aluminum frame is rust-resistant, lightweight, and highly durable.
The fabric is made of UV- and water-resistant polyester that successfully blocks out the harsh and hot rays of the sun. A built-in reel and crank handle makes design of this retractable awning makes for easy operation.
- UV- AND WATER-RESISTANT: This elegant outdoor patio awning is made of strong, UV- and water-resistant polyester and a rust-resistant, powder-coated aluminum frame
- AMPLE SHADE FOR OUTDOOR SPACES: Ideal for use in a courtyard, patio, over windows, and on balconies, providing protection from UV rays
- EASY CRANK HANDLE: Retractable design uses a built-in reel and crank handle to easily extend and retract the cover
- HARDWARE INCLUDED: Install it on the side of the house against a concrete wall or solid surface
- OPENED DIMENSIONS: 98.5”(L) x 80”(W) x 6.5”(H)
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It comes complete with all of the hardware that’s needed for installation, and it can be installed in concrete walls and solid surfaces with ease. The 98.5 inch by 80 inch by 6.5 inch size provides plenty of shade for outdoor spaces and it’s available in four attractive colors: navy, gray, burgundy, and beige.
All of these benefits, and the Best Choice Products retractable awning is very affordably priced.
- Powder-coasted, rust-resistant frame
- UV- and water-resistant polyester fabric
- Durable, yet lightweight design
- Built-in reel and crank handle allows for easy operation
- All hardware is included and can be easily installed in all types of solid surfaces
- 5 inch by 80 inch by 6.5 inch size offers plenty of shade
- Available in four solid colors
- Affordably priced
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ALECKO 20 x 10 Feet Retractable Motorized Patio Awning
Rounding out our list of the best retractable awnings is the ALEKO AWCM20X10 20 x 10 Feet Half Cassette Retractable Motorized Patio Awning. This remote operated motor allows the awning to be opened and closed within just one minute with, and it also comes with a hand crank for manual operation, too.
The semi cassette frame offers extra coverage in the front for partial fabric protection when the awning fabric is retracted. A powder-coated steel and aluminum frame and a weather-resistant fabric make this retractable awning highly durable, yet lightweight and easy to use.
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The frame measures 19.7 by 10 feet and the fabric measures 19.3 by 9.5 feet, so you’ll have plenty of shade for your outdoor areas. The fabric is available in 15 different solid colors and striped patterns that will add decorative appeal to your home.
It comes complete with standard vertical wall brackets, but it can also be mounted under the overhang of a roof or to the bottom of a horizontal surface with an additional ceiling bracket.
- Remote operated for fast and smooth operation
- Comes with a hand crank for manual operation, too
- Semi Cassette design provides extra coverage in the front for shade when the awning is closed
- Powder-coated and aluminum frame
- Water-resistant polyester fabric
- Large size offers plenty of shade for large outdoor spaces
- Available in a variety of solid colors and patterns
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Retractable Awnings Buyer’s Guide
Do you have a deck, patio, or balcony that you would love to use on a regular basis, but the blazing sun prevents you from using it as often as you would like to? If so, then a retractable awning might be the solution you are looking for.
A retractable awning, as the name suggests, is an awning that is designed to be attached to the side of a structure, such as a house or garage, and can be used as-needed to create a roof that filters out the sun and to create temporary shade. With the push of a button or the twist of a crank, a retractable awning can be extended and retracted.
While the sunshine is certainly welcomed, sometimes it can be overbearing; it can turn an outdoor space that you would really love to make use of into a space that you probably don’t get to use as much as you would like to.
A retractable awning is a great alternative to a standard awning, as it isn’t a permanent structure; rather, you can open it up when you need some shade, and retract it when you don’t.
Now that you’ve had an in-depth look at our top picks for the best retractable awnings currently available on the market, you’re probably wondering which option is the right one for you.
While each model is well-made and offers reliable shade, each one offers different benefits, and in order to determine which one will best meet your needs requires careful consideration. To help you make the right choice, here’s a look at the key features that you should consider before you purchase a retractable awning.
The Mechanism
The first thing that you’re going to want to consider is the mechanism, as this is the element that determines how the awning will retract. Retractable awnings can feature one of two mechanisms:
Manual
As the name suggests, a manual mechanism requires cranking in order to open and close a retractable awnings. Manual awnings feature a vertically or horizontally oriented cranking mechanism. The come with a long harm that features a hook on one end that connects to the awning and a twist handle on the other end that allows the user to open and close the awning.
The benefit of manual retractable awnings is that they’re usually economically priced and they’re reliable, as they don’t require electricity. However, on the downside, is that the manual operation can be a bit inconvenient, as cranking the handle can be tiring and it can take a while to fully open and close the awning.
Motorized
A retractable awning with a motorized mechanism is more convenient, as it can be opened and closed with just the push of a button, and usually opens and closes a lot faster, too. A motorized awning can be features a motor that is powered by either a battery or a power cord.
Some models feature storm sensors, which can determine wind strength and saturation of the canopy and when certain levels of either are reached, the canopy will automatically retract. While motorized retractable awnings are certainly easier to operate, it’s important to note that they tend to be pricier than manual models.
Additionally, because the motor features moving parts, there’s an increased risk of mechanical failure, as the components can break down and may require costly repairs, which further increases the price.
The Fabric
It’s also important to consider what type of fabric or material the retractable awning is made of. The fabric is the component of a retractable awning that provides protection from the elements, so it’s very important to consider what is made out of.
You want to be sure that the fabric is highly durable and can easily withstand all types of elements, including the harsh UV rays of the sun, moisture, wind, corrosion, and tearing. It should also be lightweight, as the heavier the material is, the more weight it’s going to put on the frame, which can impact the function of the awning.
Three of the fabrics that are most commonly used include:
Canvas
This fabric is considered the “classic” material for retractable awnings. It’s a natural material and is easy to acquire, which makes it affordable. While canvas is highly durable, as it features a high tensile strength, it does tend to be prone to damage from environmental exposure.
Additionally, it tends to be more expensive than other materials, as it’s organic. If you decide on canvas, look for something that is coated with a specialized protective materials to improve its ability to withstand exposure to the elements and extend its life-expectancy.
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a synthetic fabric that’s comprised of plastic. It’s lightweight, flexible, and is naturally waterproof and unlike other fabrics, does not retain moisture and doesn’t need to be treated with a protectant to make it waterproof.
It’s also naturally mold and mildew resistant and affordably priced. The downside is that PVC has a low tensile strength, so it isn’t as durable as other materials.
Polyester
Lastly, there’s polyester. Another synthetic material, it’s considered to provide the best of both worlds, as its durability is similar to canvas, while its weather-resistance is similar to PVC.
Additionally, of the three fabrics that are used for retractable awnings, polyester is the least expensive. It should be noted, however, that PVC isn’t naturally water-resistant, so it does need to be treated with a specialized coating in order to prevent saturation.
The Frame
It’s also important to consider the materials that the frame is constructed of. It should be durable enough to withstand constant exposure to the elements; however, it should also be lightweight so that it won’t add strain to the wall that it is attached to, which could increase the risk of damaging the wall; plus, it could potentially cause the awning to fall out of the wall.
There are two main materials that retractable awnings are constructed out of aluminum, which is very lightweight and durable, stainless steel, which is also lightweight and durable, and acrylic. While the latter two are durable and lightweight, they do tend to rust and corroded, so they need to be treated with powder coating. The latter option, acrylic, is naturally corrosion and rust resistant, but it isn’t as durable and lightweight.
The Size
It’s also vital to consider the size of the retractable awning. You want to be sure that it will effectively cover the space that it is intended for; if it doesn’t, it won’t be very effective.
Measure the ground area of the space you need to shade to determine what size awning you will need. It’s a good idea to choose an awning that’s slightly larger than the space you need to shield to ensure full coverage.
Installation
You’ll also want to consider the installation process. Make sure you determine what type of material you will be installing the awning, as not all frames can be installed in all materials; for example, some won’t work with brick or stucco, while others won’t work with vinyl or PVC siding.
Retractable Awning FAQs
Can a retractable awning be placed over windows to provide shade?
Yes, as long as it is properly installed, a retractable awning can be installed over a window, which can help to prevent sun from pouring into your windows and can actually help to lower the temperature in your home, which will help you save money on your cooling costs.
Which is better: A motorized or manual retractable awning?
It really depends on your specific needs. If ease of use is what you’re looking for and you don’t mind spending more, motorized would likely work better for your needs. However, if you don’t want to spend as much and you don’t want to rely on electricity, a manual retractable awning would be a better choice.
It is hard to install a retractable awning?
It depends on your ability levels. Typically, retractable awnings come with installation manuals that offer step-by-step instructions; however, do note that you will likely need an extra set of hands or two in order to install it. If you aren’t comfortable with doing the job yourself, hiring someone to install it for you may be a better choice.
Conclusion
A retractable awning is a great way to provide as-needed shade for outdoor spaces. With the information presented in this guide, you should be able to select the highest quality retractable awning to meet your specific needs.
