Companies

NOTE:The average score, based on client reviews for all companies below, is as of February 14, 2022, and subject automatically to change as additional reviews are added to the website.

1. RetractableAwnings.com

RetractableAwnings.com®is a family-owned business based in Miami Gardens, Florida. It offers residential and commercial retractable products for UV ray damage, heat, light and/or heavy rain, hail, and snow protection.

Their products limit glare and enhance natural lighting while adding aesthetic value to your property. It is the only one on the company list specializing exclusively in retractable awnings, retractable roof pergolas, retractable screens, retractable sail shades, retractable side arm awnings, all of which are manufactured and sold directly to the public.

This retractable awning company started as a “brick and mortar” business over 36 years ago. Subsequently, the family decided to expand to the online market in 1998 by reserving the domain name https://www.retractableawnings.com.

They provide an end to end customer experience for retractable sun, rain, wind, bug, and snow protection systems, including:

• Buying
• Distributing
• Assembling
• Installing
• Customer service

RetractableAwnings.com® offers a wide range of high-quality, TÜV Product Approved, CE certified, state of the art, stylish residential and commercial retractable products. 

Including:

• Retractable folding lateral arm awnings
• Retractable patio and deck pergola cover systems
• Retractable vertical drop arm awnings
• Retractable screens
• Retractable canopy awnings
• Retractable telescopic awnings
• Retractable side arm awnings
• Retractable freestanding awnings
• Retractable louver roof systems
• Retractable shade sail systems
• Rotating louver roof systems
• Electric & motorized awnings

The company uses only high-quality awning and pergola fabrics from suppliers like Para Tempotest®, Dickson®, Sunbrella®, Ferrari®, Mehler® and Phifer®. Customers can choose from over 400 colors, patterns, stripes, textures and solids to coordinate with any design.

They offer water-resistant and waterproof fabrics that protect you from light or heavy rain, UV, sun, glare and heat. In addition, they are resistant to fading, mold and mildew. All of the fabric suppliers mentioned above have certifications such as TÜV, Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, ISO 9001 and others and offer a 5-10 year warranty (varies by manufacturer).

The company’s motto is “All retractable awnings, retractable patio and deck pergola cover systems and other sun, rain, wind, bug and snow protection systems are not created equal.” 

The family relies on superior European components for producing high-quality and durable systems. Their retractable awnings and all other retractable products they offer are custom-tailored for individual customer needs.

RetractableAwnings.com® has the highest A+ rating at the Better Business Bureau and A rating on Angi.com (f/k/a Angieslist.com). Their website provides 3D product visualization and a handy proprietary awning advisor, thus facilitating your decision.

The above are some of the main reasons international architects, landscape architects, exterior designers, interior designers, residential and commercial building developers and contractors prefer this company. RetractableAwnings.com® distributes and installs retractable awnings worldwide, including the USA, Canada, Asia, Europe, Australia, Central, and South America.

Average score, based on client reviews: 4.9 out of 5.

2. Corradi Outdoor Living Space

Corradi Outdoor Living Space is an Italian manufacturing company specializing in shading systems and custom outdoor solutions. It is based in Europe, with a manufacturing branch fabricating some models in the United States.

Corradi was founded in 1978 in Bologna, Italy, as a production workshop for sun awnings. In 1998 they patented their Pergotenda® sliding covering system. A new age of internalization began when they acquired new companies in 2009 and started producing sail awnings and outdoor furnishings. 

Corradi later became a part of the Belgian group Renson – part of the outdoor shading market famous for its ventilation systems, sun protection, and bioclimatic pergolas.

The company designs, sells, and customizes systems like the Pergotenda (patented sliding cover system), Bioclimatics (pergolas with adjustable shades), sun sails (sun sails of nautical derivation), and closures and accessories (closures, lights, decks).

Some of their more popular products include:

• Corradi Pergotenda – A motorized retractable roof system for patios and outdoor gardens that can either be made of aluminum or wood.
• Corradi’s louvered roof pergola – This is an aluminum shading structure with rotating roof blades. Using a remote control, you can open the blades to let the sunlight in or close them to protect you from UV rays or rain.
• SunIQ Shading – This is the brand name for Corradi retractable awnings. They come in different configurations, such as the cassette-type awning, the lateral arm model, and the Corradi sail awnings.
• SunIQ Screens – A vertical screen shading solution similar to motorized curtains. Corradi uses a zippered system and fabric for these models to repel wind, rain, insects, and small objects like an errant golf ball (varies by fabric).

Corradi’s vision originates from a quote by Albert Hadley: “Decorating is not about making stage sets, it’s not about making pretty pictures for the magazines, it’s really about creating a quality of life, a beauty that nourishes the soul.” 

They rely on Italian craftsmanship and design, technical innovation, and emotional connections. Their products are functional and aesthetic, suitable for residential and commercial properties.

The company took part in numerous exhibitions and competitions throughout the world. A peak point in their development and worldwide recognition was their participation at the XXIII Compasso D’oro International Award. Their Pergotenda® Move was a finalist for industrial design. Another crucial moment was the “best-represented brand” award at the design+trade fair in Guangzhou, China.

Corradi established a manufacturing office in Dallas, Texas, to reach North American and Canadian customers. Most of their customers are in European countries like Italy, Malta, Belgium, Spain, and France.

Average score, based on client reviews: 3.7 out of 5.

3. ShadeTree Cool Living

ShadeTree® Cool Living retractable awnings is a privately held company located in Columbus, Ohio. Depending on the property’s size and customer preference, they offer tailored awnings, canopies, pergolas, and shades. Their canopy systems are suitable for sun and UV protection. ShadeTree’s fabrics are not waterproof and don’t offer rain protection, except for their “All-Weather” canopies.

ShadeTree® Retractable Canopy Systems offer custom-made designs and adaptation to each structure. They design retractable shades for irregular shapes and areas up to 24 feet without a pitch requirement. Three types of support structures are available – wood, aluminum, and vinyl, and over 40 decorative non-waterproof fabrics.

The company was founded in 1997 to provide backyard shading solutions. They specialize in purchasing and designing functional and customizable retractable canopy systems. Nowadays, their departments include CAD, production, and customer service teams. The company works with independent installers who help customers set up their outdoor shading.

ShadeTree® does not exclusively offer retractable awnings. Their product list includes patio furniture, outdoor kitchens, and backyard blinds.

Retractable awnings and canopy products they offer are:

• Residential canopy systems by ShadeTree are designed for existing wood support structure installation or wall-mounted installation for home and office outdoor spaces. Models include canopies, overhead tracks, and mounting hardware. And also Canopy kits Forester, Aluminum Capri, Deluxe Bungalow, Vinyl Greenbriar and Vinyl Pergolas.
• Commercial canopy systems include the following models: Corradi All-Weather Canopies and Equinox custom louvered roof systems.
• Corradi USA manufactures ShadeTree retractable fabric awnings. These awnings are a shading solution offering various fabrics and mechanisms – open roll, semi-cassette, manual, or motorized.
• Bungalows (freestanding unit or attached)
• Aluminum pergolas’ production materials include heavy, rust-free aluminum. The kits are pre-cut and pre-drilled support posts, slide wires, and recessed or flat panels. Pergolas are available as freestanding units but can be attached to the building.
• Sol-Lux (smart window awning system)
• Trex pergolas by ShadeTree are sturdy. They are a solution for outdoor living space comfort.

ShadeTree® Canopies have a patented built-in wind release system that allows the canopy to move freely in the tracks during strong winds. They offer free design consultation, including a computer-aided service. Most of their products come with a 10-year warranty on posts, tracks, and fabrics and a 3-year warranty on system hardware.

With over 20 years of experience, ShadeTree® Cool Living provides outdoor shading solutions for the USA through the company’s official website. Customers can request a catalog and fabric samples. They offer pre-cut and pre-drilled components for an effortless installation and fast delivery in North America.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.8 out of 5.

4. Aristocrat Awnings, Shades, and Canopies

Aristocrat Awnings, Shades, and Canopies line is part of the Craft-Bilt Manufacturing company, located in the US. The line offers retractable awnings and other outdoor solutions to provide sun protection, save energy, and complement outdoor living spaces like patios and decks.

Founder Bud Stone started his company Craft-Bilt in 1946 in a schoolhouse basement in Philadelphia. His first manufacturing projects were Venetian blinds, as the European style and energy-saving thinking inspired him.

His son, Andy Stone, joined the business in 1975 and a few years later, in 1986, took the reins, and the era of the Aristocrat Awnings line began. He introduced retractable fabric awnings for patios and decks, window awnings, drop shades, and canopies.

In 1994, the company’s headquarters moved to Souderton, Pennsylvania, to a new 214,000 square foot facility. The latest products now include maintenance-free railing systems and waterproof aluminum decks.

The Aristocrat Awnings line offers a wide range of awnings, canopies, pergolas, solar shades, and railings.

Their shading systems include:

• Retractable awnings
• Window awnings
• Tension Shade Systems
• Awning Accessories
• Canopies
• Pergola Canopies
• Under Pergola Canopy Systems
• Canopy Accessories
• Exterior Solar Shades
• Retractable Screens
• Horizontal Shades
• Solar Shade Accessories

Aristocrat Retractable Awnings are available in six models with three mounting options: wall, roof, or soffit. They have manual and motorized options, and the largest size can extend up to 16’5″.

The line’s Tension Shade Systems are motorized systems mounted above or below an existing glass roof or pergola or to a wall and supported by posts (legs/columns). Their pergolas can be freestanding or attached to a wall. Aristocrat® can install canopies under existing pergolas or connect on top with side curtains a/k/a retractable screens to provide shade and privacy to your outdoor area.

The fabrics Aristocrat uses are solution-dyed breathable acrylics that provide sunshade. The company uses a water-repellent Teflon® coating that does not withstand heavy rain. The materials come in over 100 different colors and stripe patterns and are exclusively sewn with a thread that is chemically resistant to rot and mildew. The awnings are resistant to fading and discoloration.

Aristocrat works with professional companies across the US that sell and install their shading products. They send them a team of experts who provide training for product installation, service, and support to new dealers.

Craft-Bilt® offers a lifetime warranty on frames, a 12-year warranty on fabrics, and a 5-year warranty on motors and controls. Their trademarks are Aristocrat Awnings, Shades, and Canopies in the US and Betterliving in Canada.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.7 out of 5.

5. Eclipse Shading Systems

Eclipse Shading Systems provides custom-made, motorized retractable solar protection shading solutions. Their residential and commercial products include retractable awnings, retractable patio and deck roof pergolas, retractable screens, and interior retractable roller shades.

The company assembles its products in Middletown, New York, USA.

They partner with a range of different vendors, such as:

• Sunbrella – solution-dyed acrylic fabrics
• Somfy – motors and control systems for retractable products
• Llaza – frame components
• Phifer – exterior sun control fabrics
• Dickson – awning fabrics
• Gore Tenara – sewing thread

The Sunbrella fabrics have water-repellent and fade-resistant qualities that offer good protection from heat and UV rays. The materials come in various patterns, textures, and over 150 colors. Since they are resistant to mildew and rotting, Eclipse offers their customers a 10-year prorated warranty period and replaces faulty Sunbrella fabric free of charge.

Their exterior shading systems mainly comprise retractable awnings and retractable exterior screens for residential or commercial decks, patios, terraces, and windows.

The models are listed below:

• Eclipse Premier
• Total Eclipse
• Prestige Cassette
• Eclipse
• Eclipse Drop Arm Awning
• Eclipse E-Zip Side Retention Solar Screen
• Exterior Cassette Retractable Solar Screen

Their official website offers a model comparison chart to facilitate customers’ choices. In addition, there’s an active link redirecting the customer to Sunbrella’s shade studio. Sunbrella’s shade studio is a studio awning visualizer where you can select different frames and fabrics to create your perfect customized awning.

Eclipse Shading Systems are a member of two associations – Industrial Fabrics Association International and The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association. In addition, they are a financial contributor to various local and national charities, such as the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and others.

With over 14 years of experience, Eclipse Awnings sells its products through a nationwide network of independently owned and operated dealers. The dealers provide additional information about pricing and ordering and are responsible for installing the purchased product.

Eclipse products must be installed by a dealer and cannot be self-installed. Eclipse dealers charge an extra fee if the homeowner wants a lifetime coverage warranty.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.4 out of 5.

6. KE Durasol / KE Outdoor Awnings

KE Outdoor Design is a worldwide manufacturer of retractable awnings, exterior screens, designer pergolas, shade sail systems, canopies, glass screens, and screen shades. Their products aim at enhancing and beautifying outdoor living spaces. 

KE Outdoor Design was previously known as KE Durasol. Initially founded in Italy in 1987, their current manufacturing and corporate headquarters for the US is in Chester, New York. Overall, they own three production facilities based in the US and another six worldwide.

The company offers a complete project solution – from Italian design to USA assembled products and worldwide installation via a network of dealers. They take an individual approach by creating custom-sized products that complement interior and exterior design.

KE Outdoor Awnings are found in residential and commercial buildings such as garden spaces, apartments, bars, hotels, and others.

They offer products like:

• Retractable Awnings
• Retractable Roof Pergolas
• Louvered Roof Pergolas
• Waterproof Retractable Roof Systems
• Stationary Awnings and Canopies
• Interior and Exterior Solar Shades
• Privacy Shades
• Tension Systems
• Cabanas and Freestanding Awnings

KE Gennius® Pergolas come in eight models that can be freestanding or wall-mounted. Multiple units can be combined to cover a larger outdoor area. The pergolas protect from weather elements such as wind (up to Class 9), rain (0.6”/hr), heat, and sun.

Kedry is a louvered roof pergola from the Gennius® series and comes in two variations – Kedry Prime and Kedry Plus. It is equipped with motorized adjustable louver blades to modify the amount of light.

Controlled by a Somfy motor that connects to a home system, Kedry can function automatically and remotely. Customers can request optional LED lights, motorized screens, windows, and retractable curtains.

Designer awnings by KE are water-repellent, provide sun and wind protection, and have personalized looks and functions. Cassette options include semi cassette and full cassette that customers can combine with a drop valance in different styles (classic, straight, wave, European, Greek Key).

The awning fabrics produced by Sunbrella, Sattler, Dickson (Orchestra collection) and Para (Tempotest collection) have a 10-year warranty period. The fabrics are solution-dyed acrylic, water-repellent, and resistant to mildew, sewn with Gore Tenara thread.

With over 500 color choices, you can upgrade KE retractable awning products with additional:

• Somfy wire-free motion sensor
• Pre-assembled LED Arms
• Ondeis® WireFree RTS Rain and Sun Sensor
• Pre-assembled LED Strips
• Somfy’s LED Controller

KE Outdoor Designholds over 36 design patents in the awning industry and quality certifications such as CE EN 13561, EN 10901, ISO 9001, ISO 18001, and ISO 14001. The company has a US network of over 500 affiliates in all 50 states and clients in over 76 countries worldwide.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.3 out of 5.

7. Eastern Awnings

Eastern Awnings is an awning system manufacturer based in Watertown, Connecticut. Their products can be motorized or manual and adapt to residential or commercial purposes. The company’s awnings protect people and outdoor furniture from sun glare, UV rays, wind, and light rain.

The company is previously known as Eastern Aluminum. Simon Lukos founded it in 1961 with the original idea of wholesale distribution and retail sales of aluminum awnings. Currently, the company is owned by his son, Stephen Lukos. He expanded the company to an online presence and a 37,000 square foot manufacturing facility in 1996.

On their website, customers can find the following retractable roof and awning products:

• Retractable patio awnings
• Retractable deck awnings
• Retractable window awnings
• Patio screens
• Roof mount awning
• Restaurant enclosures
• Window shades, blinds & privacy systems
• Window roller shade solutions

Eastern Awnings’ original products include Sunflexx, SunScape, and Mini and Maxi. The rest of the products are available through their sister company, Worldscreen®.

Sunflexx Retractable Patio Awnings and Retractable Deck Awnings extend deck and patio usability. The shade awning is a roll-up made of fabric. You can operate it using an electrical push button (remote transmitter) or a hand crank. The company offers a 15-year warranty for the product.

SunScape Retractable Patio and Deck Awning comprises stainless steel fasteners, cable arms, and heavy-duty coated components. Customers can choose from hundreds of fabrics and valance styles. The product comes with a 10-year warranty.

Mini and Maxi Retractable Window Awnings are aluminum screens operated by a gear drive for interior control. The compact style Mini roof and window awning hood are available up to a 10 feet width. Meanwhile, the Maxi awning is great for oversized windows spanning up to 30 feet in width. The company offers a 5-year warranty for the product.

Eastern Awnings earned patents both internationally and in the US. One of them is the urethane compression shoulder joint on the Sunflexx awning that allows the awning arm to flex as pressure increases from either direction.

The company works with authorized dealers across the US who are also responsible for the product installation.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.3 out of 5.

8. Alutex Awning Systems

ALUTEX® Awning Systems is a North American manufacturer, wholesaler, and distributor of retractable awning systems, patios, and pergolas. They produce aluminum components and use lightweight aluminum and acrylic fabric to design elegant shading solutions.

The company originated in 1990 and now has over 30 years of experience. It is located in Ringwood, New Jersey, only 30 miles north of New York City. They have a 25,000 square feet facility to tailor frames, fabrics, and operating control for their products.

ALUTEX® offers a range of retractable products and outdoor solutions. Lateral arm awnings come in many variations. Their website states that they have a solar-resistant coating to increase endurance, something I have never heard of or seen in my 40+ years in the industry, so I would suggest requesting details on this if interested in Alutex.

Window awnings can be motorized or manual to complement any window. The company’s patio systems and pergolas can be wall-mounted, freestanding, and retractable.

Listed below, you can find product types with the corresponding models :

• Lateral arm awnings – Madera, Madera Commercial, Madera Giant, Cape Cod, Antigua, Eclipse, Trio, Nova
• Window awnings – Riviera, Capri, Amalfi
• Rolling shutters
• Wall connected pergolas – Malaga, Flute
• Freestanding – Pegobeach
• Wall connected or freestanding – Pergopatio, Pergolouver
• Retractable horizontal shades – Solaria, Pegoshade
• Retractable vertical shades – Vista, Zip-Roll

ALUTEX® uses fabrics from Para, Sattler and Sunbrella that can withstand sun, UV-rays, light rain, and wind. According to their website, they use electronic sensors in their tailoring equipment to make the fabric stronger and more durable during the cutting and sewing process.

The company offers over 300 patterns and colors of solution-dyed woven acrylic fabrics that are water-resistant (water repellent). Since the material is not waterproof, the awning needs to be closed during heavy rain.

Retractable awning models come in different sizes. Most of the motorized models come with a remote control option. Customers have the opportunity to customize hoods and end caps, valance styles, fabrics, electrical items, weather sensors, lighting, heaters, and more.

ALUTEX® works with authorized dealers. Their services include consultation, availability research, recovers, adding motors, and more. Their dealer network works mainly in the USA. 

Alutex product warranty is as follows:

• Awning systems – 10 years
• Patios & Pergolas structural parts – 5 years
• Patios & Pergolas moving parts – 1 year

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.3 out of 5.

9. Sunesta Awnings & Outdoor Comfort

Sunesta Awnings & Outdoor Comfort is a Jacksonville, Florida-based company that provides shading solutions for outdoor living spaces.

The company was initially named “Sunesta Shade systems,” a custom awning fabrication business founded in 1976 by Rick and Georgia Bedard. They officially registered Sunesta Awnings & Outdoor Comfort in 1981.

They started offering a national line of ready-to-install, customizable, pre-manufactured retractable awnings. A key point of their development as a manufacturer was integrating CAM software in 1998, a larger production facility of 65,000 square feet, and a customer service department.

Sunesta Awnings & Outdoor Comfort product line includes retractable awnings and screens, window and door awnings, patio canopies, and accessories for their retractable products. Their most popular models are the Sunesta, the Sunstyle, the Sunlight, the Sunbrero, the Sundrop, and the Sunplus.

Customers can purchase retractable awnings and customize fabrics and frames according to their preferences. Sunesta offers four frame colors and over 130 fabric solid colors and striped patterns. Sizes are also custom-made, and the largest one available covers 40′ in width and has a projection up to 14’8″.

As for retractable screens, customers can choose from 25 fabric options and five frame colors. The largest screen size can cover up to 26′ in width with a 12′ foot drop. Custom features like power motors and drop-down valances are available for screens and awnings. Other options include an aluminum hood, aluminum SmartCase, weather sensors, and pitch controls.

Sunesta uses a collection of solution-dyed acrylic fabrics with over 130 patterns, 22 binding options, and 10 SmartDrop valance options. They are durable and go with a 10-year warranty period. In addition, the company provides a 15-year warranty on their frames and a 5-warranty on motors.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.2 out of 5.

10. Taylor Made Products

Nelson A. Taylor, founder of Taylor Made Awnings Custom Products Residential, Commercial and Retractable Awning established his business in 1908. They offer patio, door, and window awnings in a wide variety of Sunbrella fabrics. They also have various colors, models, and sizes. Customers can design their canopies the way they want and imagine them to be.

Some of their featured products include the following:

• Taylor Made Retractable Awnings can be installed on a roof or deck without permanently altering the structure or building obstructive support poles. They are shades and screens that protect from harmful solar rays.
• Taylor Made Commercial Awnings add finishing touches to business ads and graphic designs. They can also be customized as an RV awning on a roll-up.
• Taylor Made Residential awnings are functional and energy-efficient. They aim to improve the exterior of any home by blocking direct sunlight from coming into homes without trapping the air beneath.

Buyers can customize their awning as manual or electric-powered/motorized in terms of operation. The product can also be freestanding or attached to a wall. Other customization and specifications are also available.

The company used to be available online through its official website. As of February 14, 2022, the Taylor Made Awnings website no longer exists, and I have no additional information on Taylor Made Awnings. Customers used to be able to browse their products for comparison and further information about their awnings needs.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.2 out of 5.

11. Toff Industries Awnings & Shades

Toff Industries Awnings & Shades is a retractable awning manufacturer and seller based in Southington, Connecticut. They aim at creating innovative designs with attention to quality and detail. 

The company was established in 1980 and now has over 40 years of experience in the industry. They manufacture all their awning and canopy products in the US.

A summary of their products and specialized features is listed below :

• SolarShield is the showcase awning from Toff Industries. An outdoor shade equipped with a mechanical spring-loaded awning arm base or “shoulder” for better stability. All SolarShield products come with a lifetime warranty because they use non-corrosive frames and durable acrylic fabric. They can be manual or motorized.
• Showcase awnings by Toff are designed for retail stores and business establishments looking to display their brand.
• Solution Screen is a motorized vertical shade solution similar to a window curtain. The fabric is generally thick enough to protect from the sun, wind, and small objects like rocks and golf balls.
• They offer patio awnings and covers that can be temporary or permanent structures.

Toff Industries works with fabric suppliers like Dickson, Sattler, Para, Sunbrella and Recasens. Most of their product fabrics are 100% solution-dyed woven acrylic that diffuses light and protects from the sun and UV rays.

They are water-repellent and have good resistance against fading, washing out, stains, mildew, and rot. Depending on the brand, fabrics come with a 5 to 10-year warranty.

Toff Awnings believe that every consumer helps them maintain and improve product quality and integrity. They are a member of two associations – the Northeast Canvas Products Association and the Industrial Fabrics Association International. They manufacture and sell retractable awnings in North America by working with US dealers who, in turn, install their products.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.2 out of 5.

12. Sunair Awnings & Solar Screens

Sunair® Awnings & Solar Screens is a US-based company that offers retractable awnings and shade systems for residential and commercial purposes. They aim to provide high-quality, custom-made, and innovative products that protect from weather elements like sun and rain.

Sunair® went through different phases in its development. It originally started in 1880 as an umbrella factory in Sweden called “N.P Martensson’s Paraply Fabrik” or “Paraplymarten.”

The Martennsons transformed the company into a retractable awning and canopy manufacturer in the 1960s. After that, they moved to the US and founded Sunair® in 1978, expanding their market from Scandinavia to North America.

The company offers a product line of residential and commercial weather protection solutions. They manufacture them in two production facilities – one located in Baltimore, Maryland to supply the East Coast and the Midwest, and one in Phoenix, Arizona, to deliver to the West Coast.

Their products include:

• Pergola retractable fabric roofs
• Pergola adjustable motorized louvered structures
• Retractable Deck and Patio awnings
• Canopies and fixed frame awnings
• Retractable glass walls systems
• Conservatory and sunroom awnings
• Exterior rolling solar screens
• Zipper screens
• Interior rolling solar screens
• Retractable window awnings

Sunair uses different fabrics to produce its shading solutions, including acrylic (Sattler, Sunbrella, Para), vinyl, and mesh. Breathable solution-dyed acrylics are resistant to fading and mildew. They are mainly used in retractable awnings and stationary fabric canopies to protect from UV rays and the sun.

Tempotest from Para is treated with Teflon® coating to become water-repellent. Sunair also uses mesh fabrics from Phifer, Mermet, Serge Ferrari, and others to provide solar and bug protection and transparency. Their vinyl fabrics are PVC coated, and some are waterproof, thus allowing customers to use their pergola awnings and zipper screens even in heavy rain.

Customers can choose from a variety of colors and styles. Additional features are available to upgrade pergolas and awnings, such as the European Simu and Somfy motors, infrared heaters, roll-down screens, and LED lighting.

Sunair® works with independent dealers in the US, the Caribbean, and Mexico.

They distribute retractable awnings, solar screens, and pergolas throughout:

• USA
• Puerto Rico
• Bahamas
• Canada
• Mexico
• District of Columbia
• St.Thomas.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.1 out of 5.

13. Awntech Awnings

Awntech Awnings is an e-commerce company founded in 2003 with its manufacturing base in Euless, Texas. Awntech offers metal, fabric, fixed, and retractable patio awnings, as well as accessories. Awntech states it aims to produce high-quality modular structures to serve as a sun protection solution for residential and commercial buildings and stationary vehicles.

Awntech product line’s primary focus is on fixed metal and fabric awnings. Still, they also offer motorized and manual retractable awnings and privacy screens.

The awnings’ corresponding models are listed below:

• Retractable awnings – California, Destin, Hampton, Maui, Mesa
• Fixed fabric awnings – Bostonian, Charleston, Chicago, Dallas Retro, Nantucket, New Orleans, New Yorker, San Francisco, Santa Fe, Savannah
• Fixed metal awnings – Bahama, Houstonian.

Awntech developed its own fabric brand called BEAUTY-MARK®. The fabrics are 100% durable acrylics that come in neutral or vibrant solids and stripes.

Customers can further customize their purchase by selecting their preferred size and by choosing from over 25 designs, colors, and patterns. Additional accessories include vibration and wind sensors, winter covers, brackets, handles, remote controls, and other accessories.

The company provides its customers with an installation step-by-step instruction manual. Awtech’s purpose is to offer energy-saving and elegant awnings that are quick and easy to install. Some of their products protect from snow and rain in addition to sun and UV rays.

Awntech offers a 5-year limited warranty period on all of its product purchases. They test their engineered outdoor fixed frame awnings for wind and snow load resistance. The company owns modular structure assemblies utility and pending patents.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.1 out of 5.

14. DIY Retractable Awnings

DIY Retractable Awnings is a supplier and manufacturer of custom-made retractable awnings based in New York. It was created for homeowners looking to enjoy their outdoor living space, and protect their furnishings. Customers can choose size, frame and fabric color, drive, and mounting options.

The company works in a well-defined four-step process. The customer selects the awning model they are interested in, customizes it according to their preferences, and purchases the custom-made product.

After that, DIY Retractable Awnings assembles the ready-to-install product and ships it directly to the customer or to the customer’s installer/contractor. Customers can install the awnings by themselves (if skilled) or through a local contractor, carpenter or handyman, on a wall, soffit, or a roof.

Two main models of retractable awnings are available on the website – the SunCover 4000 Plus and the SunCover 5000. The main difference between the two is the size and customization options available. In addition to these models, DIY Retractable Awnings offer premade awning specials retractable parts, replacement fabrics, and accessories.

Here are some important characteristics : 

• SunCover 4000 Plus – The SunCover 4000 awning comes with a non-customizable Wave-cut valance and a “best-match” braid color, according to the chosen fabric. The frame color options are white and camel.
• SunCover 5000 – The SunCover 5000 awning is made with a UV-stable thread. Customers who choose this model can select between: five different valence cuts (wave, straight, scallop, pyramid, and notched), three frame colors (white, camel, and bronze), 18 braid colors and 147 fabrics.
• The website’s retractable parts and accessories include weather sensors, lights, motors, infrared heaters, drop shades, cleaning and protection kits, SunCover components, arms, and switches. Customers need to consider that not all parts are universal, and all are specific to the awning brand, so replacement parts could be an issue.

DIY Retractable Awnings use Sunbrella solution-dyed acrylic fabrics that the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends. They use computerized cutting technology to create straight cuts and edges. The awnings’ framework is made of aluminum manufactured in the United States and Europe. The 18-8 stainless steel hardware is resistant to corrosion but not corrosion-proof.

DIY Retractable Awnings ship their products to 48 US states. Although all of their awnings are custom-made, they have a return policy.

In addition, they offer different full-term warranty periods for their products, depending on the part and the model:

• Five years on motors
• Five years on electronics
• Eight years on SC5000 fabrics
• Five years on SC4000 fabrics
• Eight years on SC5000 framework
• Five years on SC4000 framework

Average score, based on client reviews: 2.1 out of 5.

15. NuImage Awnings

NuImage® is a retail arm of Futureguard Building Products Inc., located in Auburn, Maine. They own a 163,000 square foot facility to manufacture retractable and fixed residential aluminum and fabric awnings.

Futureguard is a third-generation family-owned business that has operated for over 25 years. They aim to produce simple, reliable and affordable awnings. Their NuImage Awnings has a small product list of aluminum and fabric awnings.

NuImage® creates aluminum-covered awnings to protect outdoor areas from rain and snow. They come in several design models that can be stationary or roll-up. They have support arms or side wings, built-in rain gutters and 13 different solid or striped pattern options.

The available models are listed below :

• Series 1100 – aluminum door awning/canopy – includes white support arms with adjustable mounting brackets.
• Series 1500 – aluminum door awning/canopy that has fully enclosing vented side wings
• Series 3100 – aluminum window awning with white support arms
• Series 3500 – aluminum window awning with vented side wings
• Series 4100 – aluminum casement window awning with white support arms
• Series 4500 – aluminum casement window awning with vented side wings
• Series 5500 – aluminum roll-up window awning

NuImage uses Sunbrella fabrics for its fabric awnings. They are not designed for commercial applications or to handle snow loads. Customers can choose from 100 striped, solid, tweed and textured fabric patterns.

The awnings’ framework is treated with a bronze finish, and there are a few different models available:

• Series 2700 – fabric door awning/canopy
• Series 3300 – fabric window awning
• Series 3700 – fabric window awning
• Series 4300 – fabric casement window awning
• Series 4700 – fabric casement window awning
• Series 5700 – fabric roll-up window awning

NuImage products are available online on their official website. Customers can compare, select a color, see measuring, installation instructions and price sheets. Once a purchase is made, the customer receives the awning partially assembled, together with the necessary installation hardware. NuImage has a US-based assembly facility and uses Chinese and US-manufactured components.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2 out of 5.

16. Advaning Advanced Awnings & Shades

Advaning Advanced Awnings & Shades is an awning vendor based in Garden Grove, California. Advaning offers a price-driven selection of fixed and retractable awnings for residential and commercial buildings, focusing on functionality and affordability.

The company’s website offers manual and motorized semi-cassette awnings, wall-mounted and freestanding awnings, fabric samples, awning covers and parts.

Advaning’s product line with the corresponding models is listed below :

• Retractable awnings – Classic (C) Series – manual or motorized options / Luxury (L) Series Retractable Awning – manual or motorized options / Slim (S) Series Manual Retractable Awning – manual option / Slim Gray (SG) Series Retractable Awning – manual option
• Door Polycarbonate Awnings (fixed) – PA Series Solid Polycarbonate Awning / PN Series Solid Polycarbonate Awning
• Freestanding FS Series Awning – manual option
• Awning parts – remote controls, bolts, hand cranks, screws, brackets, touch-up paint, and more.

The vendor’s awning design is uncomplicated and user-friendly. They use solution-dyed acrylic canvas to produce their fabric awnings. This type of fabric is breathable, non-waterproof, and protects from UV rays. The awning products they offer are made of steel frames and hardware, and aluminum roller tubes. These models come with components made in China and only a 2-year warranty period.

One of the features that Advaning is proud of is their Easy Pitch™ system that allows easy adjustment of the pitch angle, thus maximizing or minimizing shade coverage.

US customers can purchase products directly from Advaning’s online shop for installation by a local contractor. The vendor offers a 30-day return policy with a 25% restocking fee.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2 out of 5.

17. Alpha Productions Inc.

Alpha Productions Inc. is a North Americanretractable awning vendor located in Los Angeles, California. They design, manufacture and produce all parts for their retractable awnings to provide timely shade control.

The company has been in the awning industry for several decades. Vatche Azirian, the president of Alpha Productions Inc., says that it is a family business that started in 1978 in Europe.

After a while, they moved their manufacturing facility to the United States. Now they have a 30,000 square foot manufacturing facility in southern California to produce their SunTamer® awnings and hardware.

The SunTamer® product line ranges from retractable to freestanding and roll-up awnings :

• The Continental Retractable Patio Awning comes in custom-made widths. It can be motorized or manual with a hand crank. The shade has powder-coated finishes available in white, beige, bronze, and silver. The product’s aluminum extrusion framework has aluminum die-cast components and stainless steel fasteners. Customers can choose from over 100 acrylic fabrics.
• Skylight Retractable Lattice or Solarium Awning has an adjustable spring tension system that runs along tracks. It allows the user to stop the awning at any point by using a switch or remote control. This model can cover up to 400 square feet, projects horizontally, vertically, or follows the curve with its manual or motorized operation.
• The Cadette Retractable Window awning has spring-tensioned pivoting arms that rotate almost flat against the wall. This aluminum hood model can be manual or motorized. Customers can choose projections between 1’6″ and 4’0″ and widths up to 15′.
• The CabriaTrak Vertical Awning is retractable track-guided with a vertical drop to 13′. The model can be manual or motorized, and its track system is designed to be mounted directly to the wall. Customers can choose the operation type, width and fabrics (acrylic, see-through mesh or blackout fabrics)
• The CabriaRoll Vertical Awning is cable-guided with a vertical drop to 20′. It has a weight bar, stainless steel eye ends and universal aluminum or steel brackets. The model can be motorized or operated manually with a hand crank attached to a wall or a ceiling.
• The Awnbrella Freestanding Awning is designed for residential and commercial outdoor living areas. Manual or motorized production materials include lightweight aluminum and solution-dyed acrylic fabric. Customers can assemble this model by hand or have a local contractor assemble and install it.

Alpha Productions Inc. offers the design, production and installation of their retractable awnings for Los Angeles, Orange County and Southern California. They work with a network of dealers for customers located outside these areas. They also have a customer service department.

Average score, based on client reviews: 2 out of 5.

18. ALEKO Awnings

Aleko is a driveway gate brand based in Kent, Washington. The company was founded in 2005 as a small family business. Aleko offers many products, including retractable awnings.

Their online shop offers:

• Driveway gates
• Inflatable boats
• Chicken coops
• Tools
• Pedestrian Gates
• Swing and Sliding Gate Openers
• Solar Panels
• Retractable Awnings
• Drywall Sanders

Customers can choose from a few awning models and solid or striped colors. Their products also vary in size and price range.

Their product list includes:

• Door awnings
• Window awnings
• Patio awnings
• Motorized awnings
• RV awnings
• Fabrics, parts and accessories

Since they are manufactured in China, Aleko does not provide much information about the components used. However, most awnings are made with powder-coated steel and aluminum frames and polyester fabrics. According to their official website, they offer a 1-year warranty period on their retractable awnings. The company sells its products mainly in the United States and Canada.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.8 out of 5.

19. Outsunny

Outsunny is a sub-brand of Aosom located in Wilsonville, Oregon. Aosom originated in 2009 and offers products for outdoor living spaces, biking, fitness, home goods and more. They sell stock-size, ready-made Chinese retractable awning products at low prices.

Aosom outdoor product line’s categories include tents, gazebos, canopies, greenhouses, BBQ, outdoor furniture, patio umbrellas, hammocks and swings. Their patio awnings and canopies come in different structures, models, standard sizes and colors.

Some of Outsunny’s shading solutions are:

• Gazebos
• Canopy Tents
• Pop-Up Tents
• Carports
• Pergolas
• Awnings
• Shade Sails
• Patio Umbrellas
• Outdoor Shades

Outsunny and Aosom’s websites do not offer information about legitimate product material manufacturers. In most of their retractable awnings’ description field, customers can see that production materials are often made from polyester fabric and steel frames.

Aosom offers customer service, shipping and a 30-day return policy for its sub-brand products. They deliver to 7 countries in the world.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.8 out of 5.

20. ShadeFX Awnings

ShadeFX Awnings offers sun, rain and privacy solutions for residential and commercial applications. The company is based in Milton, Canada. They aim to transform residential outdoor living and commercial spaces into functional, comfortable and stylish engaging zones.

Peter Westgarth and Steve Ostrowski, the owners of ShadeFX, founded the company in 2007. Their debut was in 2008 at the Toronto Home Show. After that, they grew to be an international operation, and they continue to design and manufacture outdoor shading solutions.

ShadeFX offers custom-designed retractable canopies, roofs and freestanding canopies. Assembly is done at their factory, with the finished product shipped as ready to install.

Product specifications are listed below :

• Retractable canopies by ShadeFX have custom projections up to 24′ to protect customers and furniture from weather elements. The awnings come in standard or irregular shapes without slope requirements that adapt to structures like pergolas, trellises and arbors. According to the company website, they are easy to install and have good wind resistance.
• ShadeFX Retractable roofs are mounted above the rafters of existing structures to cover outdoor spaces. They do not obstruct the views, and debris sheds to the sides. Tops are customizable and can be fully extended or retracted.
• Freestanding canopies are ShadeFX’s newest collection that doesn’t need walls to attach to. They have multiple mounting options for all surfaces and can be partially closed or tilted forward or backward. The commercial-grade aluminum frames combined with a canopy can cover up to 160 square feet with the option of connecting multiple units to cover larger areas.

The company uses custom-made aluminum frames, Somfy motors and offers:

• 15 solid colored water-repellent fabrics from Harbor Time (7-year warranty)
• Hundreds of solid and striped color options of water-resistant fabrics from Sunbrella (10-year warranty)
• 40 solid colored waterproof materials from Ferrari (10-year warranty)
• Motor control options such as wall switches, home automation systems and hand-operated remotes
• Motorized (electric), rope or manual with detachable hand crank options.

ShadeFX offers customers a phone consultation with a product specialist to assess their needs, form a conceptual design, define budget and requirements, and provide a proposal. After the concept is ready, next is the design process. Customization includes selecting dimensions, colors, operation systems and more. Once the design is chosen, and an order is placed, it’s time for the factory build and site prep.

The “Single Track Design” is a patent by ShadeFX that allows the canopy to suspend from a single track and produce a peak that redirects rainwater to the other side.

ShadeFX works with a range of partners and resellers to make its products available worldwide. They offer a 12-year limited warranty on their retractable products.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.7 out of 5.

21. DiensWeek Awnings

DiensWeek is a Chinese manufacturer of retractable awnings that doesn’t have an official website, company history, location, or product list with descriptions. Different e-commerce websites and platforms distribute their retractable awnings.

The retractable awnings by DiensWeek are standard size and manually operated. They offer patio awnings,semi-cassette awnings, acrylic awnings and polyester awnings.

Their known series are as follows:

• M100 Series Acrylic Awning
• C200 Series Semi-Cassette Acrylic Awning
• P100 Series Polyester Awning.

The description of some of their products states that they use corrosion-resistant (not corrosion-proof) T5 grade aluminum frames, 315-grade stainless steel cables, spun-polyester or acrylic fabrics. Customers can purchase their awnings online. They come with a 2-year warranty period and arrive with an installation manual.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.7 out of 5.

22. Sunsetter

SunSetter Products is a company that manufactures manual and motorized retractable deck and patio awnings in the US. Their focus is on providing high-quality products and budget-friendly solutions.

The company is based in Malden, Massachusetts, using pre-made standard size frames from China. After attaching the fabric to the frame, SunSetter sends and delivers their products from their headquarters to the customer’s residence. Customers can install their purchases by using the do-it-yourself method or receive a free consultation from a local dealer.

SunSetter offers retractable awnings, solar window shades and backyard products such as outdoor mats and flagpoles.

Their main awning series and models are listed below :

• The SunSetter Series is the first model offered by SunSetter made of solution-dyed SunSetter Woven Acrylic fabrics and waterproof Laminated Fabrics. Their models include the Plus, Plus XL, Plus PRO, Plus PRO XL, Motorized, Motorized XL, PRO XL, PRO and Manual. They come with a 5-year proratedlimited warranty.
• The Platinum Series is a semi-cassette awning made of SunSetter Performance Acrylic or Sunbrella® fabrics. Their main models are the Plus, Plus XL, Plus PRO, Plus PRO XL, Motorized, Motorized XL, PRO XL, PRO and Manual. The products come with a 10-year prorated limited warranty.

As seen above, the company offers different types of fabric materials :

• The SunSetter Performance Acrylic is a water-repellent fabric with a top and bottom protective coating, woven fabric central layer and is 100% solution-dyed. It comes in 19 different colors, weaves and textures. They come with a 10-year warranty period.
• The SunSetter Woven Acrylic is water-repellent, has 32 solid colors and stripes and has a 5-year warranty. It is made with protective top and bottom coatings, Dacron scrim and two-color pigmentation layers.
• SunSetter also uses Laminated waterproof fabric for their awnings. The material has five layers – an inner scrim layer, two color-pigmented layers and two protective coating outer layers. There are 14 color variations available and a 5-year warranty period.
• They also use Sunbrella® water-repellent 100% solution-dyed fabrics with a protective top and bottom coating and a central woven fabric layer. Customers can choose between 17 available colors and receive a 10-year warranty.

SunSetter iscommitted to global warming causes and energy efficiency. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends their trademark fabrics as protection from UV rays. The company has many complaints at the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and mostly negative online reviews.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.6 out of 5.

23. CastleCreek Awnings

CastleCreek is a brand that offers a variety of products that it distributes via e-commerce platforms. It does not have an official website with its product list, production materials, company information or history.

However, we know that CastleCreek imports all its products from China. Their products include furniture, garden beds, gazebos, cabinets, tables, retractable awnings and more. The awnings are manual (with a hand crank), aluminum and their maximum projection is up to 10 feet. 

CastleCreek shading products are listed below :

• Retractable awnings – the company uses polyester fabric for UV rays and supposedly rain protection for their production. They have front bars, sidearms and roller tubes. They equip the awnings with back torsion bars and internal arm-tensioning systems. The description states that the frames are aluminum, and the screens are weather-resistant.
• Sunscreen roll-up window shades are made of woven polyethylene. Castlecreek claims they block up to 90% of UV rays. They are manually operated by pulling a cord to raise or lower the shade. The roll-up window screen includes a headrail and mounting hardware.
• CastleCreek makes window and door awnings from aluminum, polycarbonate and UV-treated polyester fabric. The awnings come with the necessary hardware and anchors for ‘do-it-yourself’ installation on wood, vinyl, aluminum, concrete or brick.
• Castlecreek Awnings also offers canopies, patio umbrellas and custom-made RV awnings according to the customers’ preferences.

The company allows customers to choose the awning’s color, model, and size for customization purposes. Customers can also select the operating system – motorized or manual.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.5 out of 5.

24. Sunjoy Group

Sunjoy Group started in 2001 as an indoor and outdoor furniture manufacturing company. It is such until today, with its official registration in Redlands, California. In 2020 they launched their e-commerce website.

Facilities under the Sunjoy Group name produce metal, stone and wood products. Although their design team is based in the US, the manufacturing and assembly process all occurs in China.

Sunjoy’s product list includes outdoor furniture, indoor furniture and replacement parts.

Some of their offerings sold online are listed below :

• Outdoor furniture – gazebos, pergolas, fire pits, fireplaces, patio furniture, carports, decor, accessories and others
• Indoor furniture – office furniture, bathroom vanities, kitchen and living room furniture, gaming, chairs and wall decor
• Replacement parts – canopies, curtains, mosquito nets and sunshades.

The company has a return policy of 30 days after the delivery date. Warranty periods vary depending on the purchased product but are not very long as the products are all made in China.

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.3 out of 5.

25. Best Choice Products

Best Choice Products or BCP is an e-Commerce company based in California that works with manufacturers around the globe. It resells items primarily shipped from China, removing additional costs associated with agents and mediators. It allows them to sell directly to customers at lower rates than other importers.

Also known as Sky Billiards, the company was started in 2002 by two friends over a game of billiards, hence the name Sky Billiards.

Best Choice Products offers a wide range of products in the following categories:

• Patio and garden
• Home
• Toys and games
• Musical instruments
• Fitness
• Pet supplies
• Seasonal decor

Customers can find patio awnings, umbrellas, pergolas and gazebos in between products from these categories :

• Best Choice Products’ retractable awnings use steel frames and polyester canopy fabric resistant to UV rays. They are equipped with manual hand cranks to retract or extend the awning projection.
• Canopy tent – A gazebo-like tent that can be used temporarily for shade during parties or gatherings.
• The brand’s patio umbrellas measure up to 10 feet across. Some models have solar-powered LED lights attached to the frames for nighttime activities.

BCP is an e-commerce supplier that offers marketing, customer support, distribution, packaging, content creation and product development. However, they do not provide installation services. Therefore, their shading products have a DIY type of installation, and customers need to do it themselves or hire a local contractor. Currently, there aren’t any motorized models available.

Best Choice Products have a 60-day return policy. 

Average score, based on client reviews: 1.3 out of 5.

FAQ

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