Awning installation cost guide

Awnings give you a comfortable, sheltered place to entertain friends and family. They help you to enjoy the outdoor areas of your home all year round. During hot weather, they provide much-needed shade over patios and decks. Plus, they help lower indoor temperatures too, as they stop strong sunlight shining directly into the house.

As well as being used at home, you can also buy a different type of awning for your motorhome, RV or caravan. This extends the sheltered living and dining space available for your family outside of the motorhome. It’s ideal for providing protection from the elements while you enjoy an outdoor meal.

In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost of awning installation, both for your home and a motorhome or caravan.

How much does a patio awning cost?

So, exactly how much does a patio awning cost and what options are available? Read on to find out.

Retractable awning installation cost

Patio awnings come in many different shapes and sizes, from budget awnings you can find at DIY shops through to large and bespoke designs. Most are retractable, so you can stow them flat against the wall when not in use.

The average retractable awning installation cost depends on the size and type of awning. Manual opening awnings tend to be cheaper, and you’ll pay more for electric operation with a remote control.

You can expect to pay between £550 and £10,000 for your retractable patio awning installation. This price includes supply and fit by a competent, skilled professional.

‘Off the shelf’ patio awnings

If you’re looking for a quick and easy awning to install, you’re probably best to buy a ready made ‘off the shelf’ awning. These premade awnings are manufactured to specific sizes, usually in half metre intervals.

The benefit of buying an ‘off the shelf’ awning is the low price, which can range from as little as £100 to £500 (for a 2m x 2.5m awning). The downside is that you can’t customise them and the style and colour options tend to be fairly limited.

There are some additional costs for ready made awnings:

• Electric operation – add £250
• Electric operation with remote control – add £300
• Installation – £350 to £600
• Delivery – up to £50

Bespoke patio awnings

Choosing a bespoke awning gives you complete control over the end result, though the cost will be considerably higher than an off the shelf version. Though the price will be reflected in the quality and durability of the awning.

The cost of bespoke awnings generally starts from around £1,000 up to £10,000, with designs made to order. The big benefit of a bespoke awning is you can tailor the size, style and finishes to your exact needs.

To order a bespoke awning, you’ll most often start with a consultation for the awning supplier to view your property and discuss the options available.

Some other costs to consider are:

• Electric operation – add £400
• Electric operation with remote control – add £550
• Installation – £700 to £800
• Delivery – up to £50

RV awning installation cost

There are two main types of awnings for motorhomes, RVs and caravans. These are roll-out and wind-out awnings.

The typical RV awning installation cost ranges from £300 for a budget roll-out model, all the way up to £1,800 for a large, high-end wind-out awning.

FAQs

Can I install a patio awning myself?

It’s not recommended to install a patio awning yourself. Patio awnings are surprisingly heavy and bulky, which can be dangerous if you’re trying to fit it yourself. And if the awning is poorly installed, there’s also the risk that it could fall and injure someone.

For a good, secure and safe fit, it’s recommended to use a professional to fit your patio awnings.

Can I install an RV awning myself?

You can usually fit a motorhome or caravan awning yourself if you know what you’re doing. However, you’ll need a second pair of hands to help you. If you’re not confident, a professional should make a reasonably quick job of installing your RV awning to the top of the vehicle.

Do retractable awnings need any maintenance?

Yes, retractable awnings will require a little TLC throughout the year. You’ll need to clean stains and bird droppings off the fabric and lubricate joints and other moving parts. This should be done every six months or so. You may also want to consider removing the awning in winter and storing it under cover.