Awnings are a versatile and stylish addition to any home or business. They can provide shade and protection from the elements, while also enhancing the overall aesthetic of your property. But with so many different awning businesses out there, how can you choose the right one for your needs?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know, including:

• What awning businesses can do for you
• The most common awning issues
• The cost of hiring an awning installer
• How to hire a reputable local awning business
• The benefits of awnings
• Getting quotes from awning businesses

What does an awning business do?

Awning businesses are experts in all things awnings, from designing and installing them to repairing them when needed.

These businesses can:

• Design and manufacture custom awnings
• Install and repair all types of awnings
• Advise you on the best awning for your needs and budget
• Service and maintain awnings
• Offer a warranty on their work.

Read more: Types of awnings

Most common awning issues

Awnings are generally very durable and require little maintenance. However, there are a few common awning issues that can occur, such as:

• Fading and tearing of the fabric
• Damage to the frame
• Rust and corrosion
• Leaks

If you notice any problems with your awning, it's important to contact a qualified installer or repair business as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

How much does it cost to hire an awning installer?

You should factor in the following when estimating the cost of an awning and its installation:

• Size: Larger awnings are typically more expensive than smaller ones.
• Materials: Higher-quality materials, such as durable mould-resistant fabrics and adjustable designs, will also cost more.
• Features: Additional features, such as motorised operation and sensors, will also add to the cost.

The cost of an awning can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size, materials, and features. Standard-sized off-the-shelf awnings may cost less than $500, while custom-made awnings can cost considerably more. You’ll typically be charged between $1,000 and $5,000 for an awning installation.

Read more: How much does an awning cost?

How to hire a reputable local awning business

When hiring an awning business, it's important to do your research and choose a reputable company. You can do this by asking some key questions in the preliminary stages, including:

• What types of awnings do you offer?
• Do you offer custom awnings?
• What are the different types of awning fabrics and frames?
• How do you determine the best type of awning for my needs?
• What is your warranty on awnings and installation?
• What is your typical turnaround time for a new awning installation?

When choosing an awning, it's also helpful to ask specific questions about the type of awning you're interested in. For example, if you're interested in a retractable awning, ask about the different types available, the features they offer, and whether they're a good fit for your needs and location.

Benefits of awnings

Australia's harsh summer sun can be relentless, but awnings can provide much-needed shade and protection. To fully reap this benefit, consult reputable businesses to select a UV-resistant, fade-proof fabric.

In the winter, awnings can help to keep your home warm by trapping heat. To take advantage of this feature, choose an awning that is made from a durable material that can withstand strong winds and hail.

In addition, awnings offer a variety of other benefits, including:

• Reduced energy costs
• Increased home value
• Enhanced curb appeal.

Getting quotes from awning businesses

When getting quotes from awning businesses, be sure to compare the price of the awning, cost of installation and customer reviews of the business. Remember to be as specific as possible about what you want when speaking with the professionals. Some details to include are: 

• What type of awning you’re interested in 
• What size awning you need
• What colour awning fabric you want 

Before you sign on with your selected installer, read the quote carefully to make sure that you understand what is included in the price.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.