What Does an Awning Really Cost?

An awning is a popular form of outdoor sun protection for patios and facades. The price depends on width, extension, type of fabric, operation and construction.

1. Standard manually operated folding arm screen

2. Electric folding arm awning (without fully automatic control)

3. Fully automatic or luxury cassette folding arm awning

4. Customization (special colors, extra large format)

Customization applies to widths from 600 cm or specific RAL colors.

• Price indication: from €2,000 to €3,500, depending on specifications
• Extension possible up to 350 cm for premium models

Extra Options (Additional costs, incl. VAT)

Installation costs (indicative)

Please note

• The price depends on the type of facade, surface and any additional facilities such as wall plate or console.
• Connection of electric screens requires a power point within 1 meter of the mounting position.

The final price of an awning is determined by a combination of technical choices, dimensions, finish and installation conditions. Below are the most important price-determining factors clearly elaborated.

1. Dimensions (width × projection)

• The larger the screen, the higher the price due to more material, heavier arms and more complex assembly.
• A projection of 300 cm or more often requires reinforced construction.

Influence on price: large
Guideline: Every extra meter of width increases the price by an average of €150 – €300

2. Type cassette

A fully closed cassette provides more protection and additional costs (additional cost €250 – €400).

3. Operating method

• Manual: included as standard, no extra charge
• Electric with switch: extra cost approx. €250 – €350
• Remote control or home automation: extra cost approx. €80 – €150 extra
• Fully automatic (with sun/wind sensors): €150 – €350 extra

4. Fabric Material and Finish

Special designs, coatings or finishes (such as dirt-repellent or fire-retardant) increase the price.

5. Color of frame and cassette

• Standard colors are included
• Special RAL colors (for example, matched to window frames or facades) involve an additional cost of approximately €150 – €300

6. Mounting conditions

• Placement on a standard brick facade (low-rise building) is included in the basic price
• Elevated mounting (above the 1st floor), mounting on timber frame construction or use of additional fastening systems leads to additional costs

Guideline additional cost:
– Elevated mounting: €75 – €250
– Extra anchoring or steel construction: €100 – €400
– Crane rental (if necessary): from €250

7. Number of screens per location

• Placing multiple screens at the same location lowers the assembly costs per piece

Savings for serial placement: approx. €50 – €150 per extra screen

8. Extra options (additional costs)

In summary – Overview of Price-Determining Factors

A retractable awning is available in various versions, differing in design, functionality, degree of protection, and price level. The version significantly determines the appearance, durability, and installation method.

1. Open version (without cassette)

Description
The simplest form of a retractable awning. The roller tube and the fabric are visible when the awning is retracted.

Features

• No housing
• Fabric is exposed to the elements
• Low purchase price
• Usually equipped with simple manual operation

Application
When placed under an overhang or balcony where the screen is protected from rain and dirt

Price indication
From €650 – €1,200 (excl. assembly)

2. Semi-cassette version (partially closed)

Description
When retracted, the fabric is partially protected by a top or side cover. The folding arms remain visible.

Features

• Protection of fabric against UV, dirt, and rain
• Compact design
• Suitable for medium-sized screens
• Often combined with electric operation

Application
For outdoor mounting on freestanding facades without a canopy

Price indication
Between €1,200 – €1,800

3. Fully enclosed cassette (cassette awning)

Description
Fully enclosed aluminum housing around fabric, roller tube and arms. Protects against all weather influences.

Features

• Maximum protection
• Beautiful, sleek finish
• Low maintenance
• Suitable for intensive use and large widths

Application
Luxury homes, restaurant terraces, modern facades without additional protection

Price indication
From €1,800 – €2,500 or more

4. Extra wide version (2 linked arms)

Description
Screens with a width from approx. 600 cm are often built from two linked units with a central motor or double motor.

Features

• Suitable for wide facades or commercial applications
• Extra heavy-duty folding arms
• Often with wind-resistant design and fully automatic operation

Application
Restaurant terraces, large homes, retail properties

Price indication
From €2,500 – €4,500 (depending on width and options)

5. Compact version for smaller facades

Description
Small-sized retractable awnings, suitable for balconies or narrow facades.

Features

• Fabric width from approx. 250 cm
• Manual or electric operation
• Limited projection (up to approx. 200 cm)

Application
Apartments, balconies, narrow garden doors

Price indication
From €600 – €1,000

Summary – Comparison of Versions

The choice of fabric material largely determines the quality, durability, colorfastness, and weather resistance of the folding arm awning. In the current market, mainly three types are used: acrylic, polyester, and PVC-coated fabric.

1. Acrylic fabric (spun acrylic)

Characteristics
High-quality fabric type, very colorfast and resistant to UV radiation. The fibers are dyed through.

Advantages

• Very good UV resistance
• Colorfast, even after years of use
• Protects against sun, light rain and wind
• Available in a wide selection of colors and patterns

Limitations

• Not fully waterproof
• Higher price than polyester

Application
Standard and premium awnings for residential and hospitality applications

Lifespan
Average 10–15 years with normal use

Price indication (fabric component)
€80 – €150 per m²

2. Polyester fabric (coated)

Features
Lighter than acrylic, more economical and suitable for standard applications. Often provided with a UV-resistant coating.

Advantages

• Budget-friendly
• Sufficient sun protection and colorfastness with normal use
• Lightweight
• Available in basic colors and simple designs

Limitations

• Faster discoloration than acrylic
• Less tear-resistant
• Shorter lifespan

Application
Price-conscious applications, temporary use, smaller screens

Lifespan
Average 5–8 years

Price indication (fabric component)
€50 – €90 per m²

3. PVC-coated fabric (water-repellent or waterproof)

Features
Heavy, coated fabric with high tear resistance and waterproofness. Suitable for intensive or commercial use.

Advantages

• Fully waterproof
• High tensile strength
• Suitable for prolonged load and rain
• Resistant to mold formation

Limitations

• Less breathable
• Limited color choice
• Higher price

Application
Restaurant terraces, facades with permanent shading, high-load applications

Lifespan
Average 10–15 years

Price indication (fabric component)
€100 – €180 per m²

Summary – Comparison of Fabric Materials

The cassette is the housing of the awning in which the fabric and folding arms are rolled up. The type of cassette determines the degree of protection, the finish, the ease of maintenance and the price. There are three main types:

1. Open cassette (without housing)

Description
The fabric and the winding shaft are fully visible when the awning is retracted. The arms remain exposed to the elements.

Advantages

• Simple and affordable
• Low purchase price
• Quick assembly

Limitations

• Susceptible to dirt, rain and discoloration
• Shorter lifespan when mounted outdoors without a canopy

Application
Suitable for placement under a roof overhang, balcony or other sheltered situations

Price indication
Basic model from approx. €650 – €1,200 (excl. assembly)

2. Semi-cassette (partially closed)

Description
The winding shaft and the cloth are protected by an upper cover; the folding arms remain visible. Also known as a “half cassette”.

Advantages

• Protection of the cloth against dirt and rain
• More resistant to weather influences than open cassette
• Compact design

Limitations

• Arms remain exposed to the elements
• Less tight than fully closed version

Application
Commonly used in residential applications without full roofing

Price indication
Between approx. €1,200 – €1,800 depending on width and operation

3. Fully closed cassette (cassette awning)

Description
Fabric, roller and folding arms are completely enclosed in an aluminum cassette when the screen is folded.

Advantages

• Optimal protection against rain, dirt and UV
• Longer lifespan of fabric and mechanics
• Luxurious appearance and low maintenance

Limitations

• Higher purchase price
• Slightly heavier and more complex to assemble

Application
Ideal for facades without canopies, luxury homes, commercial applications

Price indication
Between approx. €1,800 – €2,500, depending on size and options

In summary – Cassette comparison

The operation of a retractable awning significantly determines the comfort, price, and technical execution of the installation. In 2025, three main forms of operation will be available: manual, electric, and fully automatic.

1. Manual Operation

Features
Operation with crank rod or rotation mechanism, without electrical components.

Application
Small-scale applications, lower price range, locations without power supply.

Advantages

• Simple and trouble-free
• No electricity required
• Most affordable option

Limitations

• Less suitable for large screens
• More physical exertion
• No integration with sensors possible

Surcharge compared to standard
None (basic version)

2. Electric operation with switch or remote control

Features
Equipped with a tubular motor in the roller tube, operated via a wall switch or remote control.

Application
Medium to large terrace screens, situations where daily convenience is desired.

Advantages

• Comfortable operation
• Suitable for larger dimensions
• Less wear and tear due to even operation

Limitations

• Connection point to electricity required
• Additional charge for motor and installation work

Indicative price for motorization (additional charge)
€250 – €450 per screen
Remote control: €80 – €150 extra

3. Fully automatic operation with sensors

Features
Automatic control based on weather conditions. Equipped with sun and wind sensors that automatically retract or extend the screen.

Application
Premium sun protection systems, hospitality, facades without visibility or supervision

Advantages

• Fully autonomous operation
• Protection against damage in strong winds
• Increased ease of use and lifespan

Limitations

• Highest investment costs
• Dependent on correct adjustment and maintenance

Indicative price additional cost fully automatic system
€350 – €600 (incl. sensors and programming)

Summary Overview – Operation Options

The installation costs depend on the width, accessibility, surface, and type of awning (open, semi-cassette, or closed cassette). The choice of manual or electric operation also affects the final amount.

1. Standard installation on a brick facade (low-rise building)

Including
– Mounting to brick or concrete facade
– Measuring, aligning, adjusting
– Testing of operation
– Connection to existing power point (max. 1 meter distance)

2. Additional cost for hard-to-reach installation locations

3. Connection electrical components (if not prepared)

4. Installation multiple screens (serial)

5. Other costs (optional or location-dependent)

• Reinforcement plates or spacer profiles: €30 – €100 each
• Mounting on steel or aluminum facade constructions: on request
• Preliminary inspection (if necessary): €75 – €125

In summary – Total indication for standard placement

In addition to the standard configuration, various extensions are possible to increase the comfort, durability, or aesthetics of a retractable awning. Most options are available for both manual and electric models.

1. Fully enclosed cassette (cassette awning)

Description
The entire fabric roll and folding arms are protected in an aluminum casing when the awning is retracted.

Advantage
Extends the lifespan of fabric and components, aesthetically pleasing finish.

Additional charge
€250 – €400

2. Sun and Wind Sensors

Description
Automatic rolling up or down of the screen in changing weather conditions.

Benefit
Protects against wind damage and increases ease of use. Especially relevant when away or on a business terrace.

Additional charge
€150 – €350 (depending on type and integration)

3. Remote control instead of wall switch

Description
Wireless control of an electric retractable awning with a handheld transmitter.

Advantage
Flexible placement, no wiring to the control element required.

Additional charge
€80 – €150

4. LED lighting integrated into cassette or arms

Description
Built-in lighting in the articulated arms or underside of the cassette.

Advantage
Creates functional or atmospheric lighting on the terrace, independent of the awning position.

Additional charge
€300 – €500

5. Heating (infrared patio heater)

Description
Heating unit mounted under the cassette or separately on the facade.

Advantage
Extension of the usage period in spring and autumn.

Additional charge
€350 – €650 per unit

6. Special RAL Color (Construction)

Description
Powder coating in a different color (not standard white, gray, or anthracite).

Advantage
Color coordination with the frame, facade, or company branding.

Additional Charge
€150 – €300

7. Fabric with UV-blocking coating or water-repellent treatment

Description
Extra protection of the fabric against discoloration or rain.

Benefit
Higher color fastness and longer lifespan with intensive use.

Surcharge
€50 – €120

Summary – Extra Options

By making well-considered choices in dimensions, execution, and installation, significant cost savings can be achieved, without compromising on quality or functionality.

1. Choose a standard size or model where possible

Customization is more expensive due to production, transport, and assembly. Suppliers often offer more favorable prices for popular width-drop combinations (e.g., 300 × 200 cm or 400 × 250 cm).

Potential savings: €200 – €500 compared to custom

2. Limit the number of extra options to what is functionally necessary

Options such as LED lighting, luxury fabric types, and fully automatic controls are optional. Choose only what matches actual use.

Potential savings: €400 – €1,000 per screen

3. Choose manual operation if daily use is limited

For occasional use or small terraces, manual operation is sufficient. This avoids additional costs for motorization, remote control, and electrical connection.

Potential savings: €300 – €600

4. Combine delivery and installation for multiple screens or homes

Placing multiple screens in one project reduces installation and travel costs per unit. This is particularly interesting for serial construction, homeowners' associations (VvE's), or hospitality businesses.

Savings per screen: €100 – €200

5. Check if a subsidy or VAT reduction applies

Sometimes a reduced VAT rate applies to installation on existing homes, or a subsidy is available for sun protection as an energy-saving measure (for example, in combination with heat control or smart automation).

Potential savings: up to 9% on labour or €100 – €300 via subsidy scheme

6. Compare fabric types and colors within the standard range

Special fabrics (with patterns, coatings, or fire-retardant properties) are generally more expensive. By staying within the standard range, the screen becomes considerably more affordable.

Savings on fabric choice: €100 – €250

7. Plan installation during the off-season (autumn or winter)

Installation companies are often less busy in spring and autumn. This can lead to lower installation prices or temporary offers.

Possible discount: 5–10% on installation costs

Summary Overview – Savings Opportunities

Regular and correct maintenance extends the lifespan of a retractable awning, prevents defects, and guarantees safe operation. Below are the most important maintenance guidelines per component.

1. Cleaning the fabric

• Frequency: at least 1–2 times per year (spring and autumn)
• Cleaning: use lukewarm water and a soft brush or cloth; avoid high-pressure washers or aggressive cleaning agents
• Important note: always let the fabric dry completely before retracting it to prevent mold and odor formation

2. Inspecting the Mechanism (Arms and Roller)

• Visually check for damage, bends, or corrosion
• Lightly lubricate pivot points and hinges with silicone spray or a dry lubricant
• Check that the folding arms move smoothly and synchronously

Frequency: at least annually

3. Maintenance of electric operation (if applicable)

• Test the motor operation a few times a year, both for opening and closing
• In case of malfunctions or faults, only have the motor or sensors checked by an authorised installer
• Avoid connecting external extension cords or temporary power supplies

4. Check sun and wind sensors

• Clean the sensors with a dry cloth and check their attachment
• Test the automatic function (e.g., with a hairdryer for sunlight simulation or a hand fan)
• If there are malfunctions, have the settings or software checked by a specialist

5. Removing leaves, sand and dirt

• Regularly check for any accumulation of leaves, bird droppings, or sand in the cassette or on the fabric
• Manually remove dirt with a soft brush or cloth to prevent snagging or damage to the fabric

6. Securing and checking mounting points

• Check that wall plates, bolts, and mounting systems are still securely fastened
• Watch out for hairline cracks in the facade or subsidence in older buildings
• If in doubt, have a specialist check or re-anchor

7. Winter Advice

• Keep the screen folded during winter months
• Do not leave snow, ice, or wet leaves on the screen
• Set the automatic system to manual or off mode if the weather conditions are erratic

Summary – Annual Maintenance Check