How much does it cost to repair an awning?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Awnings make great additions to homes and RVs. Most awnings are designed to last 10, 15, or 20 years with regular maintenance. But they sometimes need repairs to look and operate at their best. There are many types of awnings and different areas that may require repairing, which leads to a wide range of associated costs.

When most homeowners need to have repairs made to their awning, they will pay between $250 and $1,100, with most homeowners paying an average of $670 to replace the motor and arm on a retractable awning. Costs start at $200 to install new brackets and reattach the frame to your home. They range as high as $1,600 when homeowners need to replace the fabric on a patio-sized awning.

Awning Repair Prices

Awning Repair Prices by Type of Awning

While you are likely to pay different prices based on the type of awning repair, you will also pay different prices based on the type of awning being repaired. Different types of awnings work in different ways, meaning they can have different problems. Some awnings will be motorized, while some are designed to remain in the same place. Below you can see the average cost for repairs based on the type of awning you need to be fixed, including labor.

Fixed Awning Repair

Repairing a fixed awning runs anywhere from $100 to $400 and is the most inexpensive type of awning to fix. Fixed awnings are supported by poles and supports or frames and will remain in place until they are manually taken down. While these awnings don’t have any mechanical problems, you may have to replace brackets or poles or have the fabric repaired.

Non-Retractable Awning Repair

You can expect to pay anywhere between $200 and $600 to repair your non-retractable awning. Non-retractable awnings affix to your home and can be manually pulled out to provide an outdoor covering. These awnings have a few more parts than fixed awnings, such as arms, brackets, and lift handles. These additional parts can become damaged and need repair. These awnings are more likely to have damaged frames since they are handled more often than fixed awnings.

Retractable Awning Repair

Retractable awnings are the most expensive to repair and can cost anywhere between $250 and $1,100. Retractable awnings involve motors and many moving parts, making them more susceptible to breakdown and resulting in more costly repairs. Some of the most common repairs needed with a retractable awning are remote replacement, fabric repair, and motor repair.

Awning Repair Costs by Type of Repair

The cost for repairs on your awning runs between $20 and $500, depending on the problem you are experiencing and the repair that is needed. The cost of most repairs depends on the amount of labor needed, though some repairs may require the purchase of parts and supplies. Below are some of the most common repairs that you may find and what you can expect to pay, including the cost of labor. Some repairs, such as motor and arm repair, occur only with retractable awnings. Other repairs, such as lubrication and fabric repair, may be needed with any awning.

Retractable Awning Lubrication

It can cost between $20 and $50 to have your retractable awning lubricated. Lubrication keeps the mechanical parts running smoothly, reducing the risk of damaging the arms and other parts. Lubrication involves using a silicone spray. Your repair technician will lubricate your awning during the repair process.

Awning Lift Handle Repair

If you damage your lift handle, you can expect to pay between $40 and $90 to have it fixed. Handles can be damaged from contact with objects and even just rough handling. The lift handle can become damaged simply because of its age. Repairing a lift handle takes less than an hour, making it one of the least expensive repairs. It is important to have your lift handle in working order if you need to move the awning back without using the motor.

Awning Fabric Repair

Repairing awning fabric is one of the most common repairs and costs between $100 and $400. Even a well-maintained awning can suffer fabric damage due to winds and repeated exposure to the environment. When the awning fabric becomes torn or damaged, leaks can occur, which can be inconvenient and cause other damage. The total cost you pay for fabric repair depends on the awning material.

Cotton canvas is one of the most cost-effective types of fabric and easy to repair. Tears typically have minimum fraying, which can make repairs go more quickly. Acrylic Coated polyester is more durable than cotton and is designed to repel water. It takes a little longer to repair due to the density of the material.

Another popular option is polyester. Polyester is durable, waterproof, and fire retardant, providing protection from the elements.

Vinyl fabric provides the greatest protection, resists mildew, and blocks out most ultraviolet light. They are not always chosen, though, because the material makes the awning heavy and expensive to repair.

Below are some of the most common materials and what you can expect to pay on average to repair each.

Awning Motor Repair

Repairing an awning motor can set you back anywhere from $125 to $500. You will first notice a problem with your motor if your awning does not retract as it normally would or fails to retract at all. Sometimes the problem can be simply that it is overheated. In other cases, a technician may need to take it apart and repair it. Your motor is the primary component that keeps your awning functioning, making it a top priority when it comes to repairing.

Reattach Frame to House or Window

A more expensive repair for an awning is reattaching it to the house or the window. This runs between $130 and $350. How much you pay for this type of repair will be directly related to the size of the frame. Smaller frames, such as those around windows, will be on the lower end. Large porch awning frames will cost more. Frames can become loose due to weight and tugging on the awning from winds or accidents. It is important to have your frame secured to prevent your awning from collapsing.

Lateral Arm Awning Repair

Lateral arm repair costs an average of $140 to $300. Keeping your lateral arm functioning properly is integral to the function of your awning. If you notice any damage to it or problems with its function, you should contact someone for repairs immediately. Since the lateral arm is constantly exposed to the elements, it can easily become damaged by debris and high winds.

Awning Frame Repair

Repairing your awning frame is one of the most costly repairs. This repair can cost between $300 and $500. A damaged frame leads to major malfunctions with your awning. It is important to have it looked at if you suspect a problem. Frames can be damaged from physical collisions, wind, and even prolonged exposure to intense heat.

Awning Repair Cost by Type of Replacement

In some cases, replacing parts is necessary. This can be because repairs are not possible or simply because replacement may be less costly. Though in most situations, it is less costly to replace specific parts than the entire awning. Below you will see some of the most common parts that require replacement and the average cost, including labor to replace them.

Awning Strap Replacement

Awning straps are inexpensive to replace. Replacement runs an average of $20 to $50. This low cost makes it more prudent to replace a strap than to try some form of repair. Awning straps may be cheap but are important because they are the main way to maneuver your awning if your motor fails.

Awning Cord Replacement

Awning cord replacement costs $25 to $75. Awning cords become worn very quickly if you are in areas that see extreme weather or the awning gets a significant amount of sunlight. You should check your cords each year to see if replacement is necessary. Otherwise, you may find retracting your awning more difficult.

Awning Remote Control Replacement

Replacing the remote control for your awning is not too expensive, with an average cost of $35 to $80. Before replacing your remote, always try new batteries first. If this doesn’t fix the problem, the remote might have failed due to age or become damaged. In some cases, repairing or replacing your remote may cost about the same. Some awnings can be retracted manually if your remote gets damaged. It is a good idea to replace it to prevent wear and tear from the manual movement.

Awning Post Replacement

If you have to replace one of your awning posts, it could run anywhere between $50 and $200, depending on the size and material. Making sure that your awning post is in proper shape is important as it is responsible for supporting your awning. Replacing your post will be more cost-effective than fixing it if it becomes damaged.

Awning Arm Replacement

Typically, you will attempt to fix an awning arm before replacing it. Yet, if replacement is your best option, you can expect to pay between $80 and $300, depending on the awning size. If your arm is old and becomes damaged, replacement may be the most sound option. Weigh the repair cost with the age of the arm to see if replacement is the better option. Your arm must function well as it provides support for the awning.

Awning Mounting Plate Replacement

Awning mounting plate replacement will run between $100 and $200. Mounting plates are required when adding an awning to your vehicle, such as an RV. Having a sound mount is important as it keeps your awning solidly planted to the roof rack. If it becomes damaged, your awning will likely become unstable.

Awning Worm Gear Replacement

Worm gear costs $100 to $300 to replace. Worm gear is important to the function of a manual canopy and is the mechanism used to help retract it. If the unit is broken, you will not be able to move your awning. In most cases, replacing the gear costs significantly less than repairing it. If your worm gear is not functioning, you may be unable to open and close your manual canopy.

Awning Brackets and Strings Replacement

If you have to replace the brackets and strings in your awning, then you can expect to pay between $150 and $300. These components may be small and less expensive, but they are responsible for the function of your awning. When brackets become bent or damaged and the strings are frayed, the best solution is to replace them to maintain the integrity of your awning and ensure it functions properly.

Awning Fabric Replacement

Replacing the fabric on your awning is often one of the more expensive fixes that costs $350 to $1,400. Awning fabric replacement costs vary tremendously based on two things, the fabric and the size of the awning. Awnings can be made from many materials, including cotton canvas, polyester, and acrylic-coated cotton or polyester. Each of these comes in assorted colors and patterns. Some awning fabrics are available in more than 200 colors. For this reason, there is usually a range in pricing for the fabric from $6.50 a square foot for more basic fabrics and solid colors to $10 a square foot for heavier fabrics and intricate patterns.

Keeping your awning fabric free from rips and tears is not only important for aesthetics but also to prevent water damage.

Awning Motor Replacement

Another potential costly awning replacement is replacing the motor, which costs $375 to $650. The size and power of the motor will determine the cost of replacement, with more powerful motors required to push out and retract larger awnings. Most motors may begin malfunctioning before they need to be replaced, often requiring a cool-down period before restarting. If you find your motor has stopped or is not functioning as well as it used to, it may be time to consider a replacement. Without a functioning motor, your retractable awning may be unable to operate.

Awning Frame Replacement

An awning frame is by far the most costly component to replace. Costs range from $575 to $750 depending on the size of the frame and where it is located. If a frame has become significantly damaged due to high winds, collision with an object, overheating, or exposure to the elements, it might be worth replacing. The frame helps support the structure of your awning. While sometimes repair is possible, significant damage will more likely result in the need for replacement. Otherwise, the awning may become unsafe.

Home Awning Repair Cost by Location

The location of your awning affects the cost of repair. This is mainly due to the size of awnings associated with these areas and the types of awnings most commonly used. Some locations, such as windows and doors, are more likely to have fixed awnings. Porches and patios are more likely to have retractable ones. Below you will see the average price you can expect to pay, including the cost for labor, for awning repairs depending on where your awning is located.

Window Awning Repair

Window awning repair runs an average of $200 to $400. This is one location where the costs are lower as they are normally easily accessible and smaller. Most often, window awnings are fixed and part of the exterior of the home. The repair most often associated with window awnings is repairing damaged fabric because it is regularly exposed to the elements.

Door Awning Repair

Repairs made to a door awning run the same as a window awning, costing between $200 and $400. Door awnings tend to be fixed awnings, just like windows. When it comes to door awning repairs, fabric repairs and replacements are the most common. Door awnings get heavy exposure to sunlight, rain, wind, and even water coming from the roof of the house. Repair costs tend to be menial as the smaller awnings typically require less time to repair.

Porch Awning Repair

Porch awnings can cost between $300 and $800 to repair, with the actual cost depending on the size of the awning and needed repairs. Porch awnings are popular options for homes with a significant amount of sun in the front and don’t have a roof covering their porch area. Most porch awnings are retractable awnings, making fabric repairs, motor issues, and problems with lateral arms all common with porch awnings.

Patio Awning Repair

Common repairs for patio awnings are the same as porch awnings and run from $300 to $800. Most patio awnings are retractable, which allows you to provide more protection for the fabric during storms. Yet, retractable awnings experience more mechanical problems. Common repairs you will need with patio awnings are arm repair, fabric repair, lubrication, and motor repairs.

Conservatory Awning Repair

Conservatory awning repairs are the most expensive, running between $500 and $1,100. The primary reasons that the costs are so much higher with a conservatory awning are that they tend to be larger and remain exposed to the elements all year long. This makes them more susceptible to high winds, which can damage the fabric and frame. Most commonly, conservatory awnings will be fixed canopy-type awnings to provide constant protection throughout the year. The most common repairs with conservatory awnings are fabric repairs because exposure to wind and weather is likely to cause rips.

Labor Cost to Repair Awnings

On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $90 per hour for labor for awning repair. Most repair projects take one to three hours, though projects that involve complete reattachment of the awning to the frame can take five to six hours.

Most of the repair cost is labor since many of the repairs require minimal parts. You should always leave your awning repair to a professional. Professionals have the expertise to ensure that repairs are made without damaging other parts. They check to make sure that your awning is safe and stable after the repairs have been made. On top of that, you will be left with a more aesthetically pleasing result.

Awning Fabric Replacement Cost by Brand

Not only will the type of fabric affect the cost of replacement, but the brand will play a role as well. While some brands may be higher priced because of quality, others may be more expensive simply due to their availability or colors and patterns. Below you will see some of the most popular brands of awning fabric and the average cost per linear foot each will run.

Aleko Awning Fabric Replacement

Aleko awning fabrics are an inexpensive option that costs $10 to $13 per linear foot. The fabric is compatible with most awning brands and comes in a wide range of colors to allow you to customize the look of your awning. It is soft, breathable, and resistant to UV, water, and mildew. It stretches well, making it easy to replace. Aleko awning fabric only comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Faulkner Awning Replacement Fabric

Another economical awning fabric option is Faulkner, which runs from $10 to $14 per linear foot. The four-ply fabric is heavy enough to provide ample protection from the elements but breathable enough to allow air flow. The fabric comes with a five-year warranty against cracking and excessive fading.

Sunchaser Awning Fabric Replacement

When you move more into the middle price range fabrics, you will find Sunchaser awning fabric which runs $12 to $15 per linear foot. The fabric is extremely durable and comes in various colors to match any exterior. The fabric also comes in many widths, which makes it ideal for almost any size awning. The fabric is backed by a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in workmanship.

Domestic Awning Replacement Fabric

Another mid-range fabric option is the Domestic brand, which runs $14 to $20 per linear foot. The fabric is designed to fit most electric awnings that don’t have a weather shield. You can choose from six colors and eight sizes which allows it to fit many common awning sizes. Their fabric is unique as you can buy a one-piece version which includes the main fabric and the vallance. All Domestic fabrics come with a one-year limited warranty.

Sunesta Awning Replacement Fabric

You can expect to pay between $16 and $25 per linear foot for Sunesta awning fabric. Sunesta fabric comes with a ten-year warranty and is available in numerous colors and patterns. You can purchase it in widths up to 40 feet, allowing you to replace almost any size awning. It is resistant to UV rays and moisture damage which allows it to weather the elements.

Sunsetter Awning Replacement Fabric

Sunsetter fabric ranges between $17 and $28 per linear foot. It is a woven acrylic fabric that goes through an ultrasonic sealing process to make it highly durable. It is fade-resistant and 100% water-repellent. The strand-by-strand weaving process provides a beautiful textured look and feel that is designed to withstand the elements.

Solera Awning Fabric Replacement

Solera awning fabric is a more expensive option and costs between $18 and $26 per linear foot. It has heat-welded seams that make it more heavy duty and is backed by a five-year warranty. The material also features an integrated light track. This allows you to add LED lighting to the awning easily. The fabric is 13.5 ounces in weight which is thicker than most competitors. Sunsetter backs their fabric with a ten-year limited warranty against defects in workmanship.

Awntech Replacement Fabric

One of the most expensive fabrics is Awntech, which runs between $19 and $29 per linear foot. They use a state-of-the-art construction that allows the fabric to withstand moisture, mildew, and soil. It also has built-in UV blockers that reduce fading and minimize rot. You can choose from a wide range of color options to completely customize the look. You will be assured your Awntech fabric is designed to last because it comes with a five-year warranty against defects and major fading.

RV Awning Repair Cost

You can expect to pay between $250 and $800 to repair an RV awning, though prices can go as high as $1,000 if you have a large mechanical patio awning. Awnings can be simple attachments to an RV that you manually put up; however, most are mechanical or electrical and move out of the RV to protect you from the elements and the sun. When properly handled, the mechanical portions of the RV typically need little to no repair during their lifespan. You simply need to follow your awning instructions. The most common repair needed with RV awnings is fabric repair because they are often taken in wooded areas and more likely to be out during storms or long periods of sun.

Awning Maintenance

Maintaining your awning is important to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Awnings are exposed to the harsh outdoor elements, which can cause them to break down more quickly and become damaged.

It is crucial to have your awning cleaned at least once a year or anytime you put it into storage. This will remove dirt and debris that can damage and weaken the fabric. If you use your awning often or are in an area with high winds and a lot of dirt and sand, you may want to clean it more frequently.

In addition to cleaning your awning, you will want to make sure that all parts are kept lubricated. This keeps the mechanics moving smoothly, reducing wear and lowering the risk of breakage.

Cost to Repair vs Replace Awnings

RV awning replacement costs run between $300 and $4,000. Awning repairs run from $250 to $1,100. Whether you choose to repair your awning or replace it depends on several factors. Many things break or require repair or replacement on an awning. Some may not make sense to repair. For example, most remote controls cost less to replace than to repair.

The same is true for many full awnings. If repairing the affected awning will cost as much as or more than a new awning, consider investing in a new awning to get the new warranty on the fabric and frame. This makes the most sense for older and stationary awnings because the added costs for a retractable awning tend to make them more expensive to replace, meaning repairs may be the most cost-effective option.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Removing Old Pieces

Sometimes in the repair process, you need to have part or all of the awning removed. If the removal is to facilitate a repair, it will be rehung. On the other hand, removal is necessary for a replacement. Depending on the type of awning and which part needs to be removed, it can cost between $20 and $50 in labor.

Add Screening

Adding a screen to your awning can cost between $500 and $1,000, depending on the size of the enclosure. It is a great option to help keep out insects and provide additional protection against the sun’s rays while still enjoying the fresh air. You can choose different degrees of screen thickness which helps you create the ideal enclosure to suit your needs.

Add Sun or Wind Sensor

You can expect to pay anywhere between $40 and $100 for a sun or wind sensor to be added to your awning. A sun sensor works by triggering your awning to extend when it detects sunlight. The wind sensor triggers the motor to retract the awning if it detects strong winds to protect it from damage. These sensors allow your awning to operate as needed without any direct intervention from you.

Add Protective Hood

Adding a protective hood to your awning can cost around $425. Protective hoods are a good investment if your awning will be exposed to extreme weather or large amounts of sunlight throughout the day. The hood is designed to protect both the awning and the motor from moisture and debris. If you have installed your awning underneath the eaves of your home or a roof soffit, then a hood would not be necessary.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. It can be tempting to try to repair your awning yourself with a repair kit. This may keep your awning more functional in the short term, but if you plan on selling your home in the future, you may want to consider a professional repair job to maintain the aesthetics of the awning.
• Inspection. You should inspect your awning at least once a year for damage or when you put it up for the season. Look for fabric tears, worn parts, and damage. If you find any, call a professional for repair. Catching small things early prevents larger problems.
• HOA. If you live in a neighborhood that is part of a Homeowners Association, you will need to check before your repair or replace your awning to make sure everything falls within the parameters of your HOA contract. Some contracts are designed to maintain a certain aesthetic appearance, which may require you to choose from certain colors and fabrics.