How much does it cost to install a metal awning?

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

Metal awnings are both functional and stylish additions to the home. These awnings can be installed to block the sun and other elements. They are also often added as a final design touch to create an accent to the otherwise-flat exterior of the home. Several different styles, types, and sizes of metal awnings are available. Having a professional install metal awnings can add curb appeal and other benefits to your home.

The national average cost to install metal awnings ranges between $400 and $1,200 per awning. The average homeowner spends about $808 on a custom-colored aluminum awning with ventilation panels. At the low end, you could spend as little as $283 on the professional installation of a 48’’ x 30’’ weather-resistant aluminum awning. At the high end of the spectrum, some homeowners spend as much as $2,403 on installing two 72’’ x 72’’ custom-colored aluminum awnings with ventilation panels.

Metal Awning Prices

Metal Awning Prices by Material

You can expect to spend between $5 and $120 per sq.ft. on metal awnings, depending on the exact material that you use. Aluminum, which is the most common, is also the most affordable choice. Some people choose steel awnings for durability or the design aesthetic. Copper awnings are popular for those looking to create a unique look in their space. In the table and subsections below, you will see a breakdown of each type of material, its costs, and other factors.

Aluminum Awning

Aluminum costs $5 to $15 a sq.ft. Aluminum awnings are among the most common that you will find today. They are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to work with and install. They come in a wide range of styles and sizes from contemporary to traditional. Aluminum dents and rusts more easily than other materials, and it is not quite as long-lasting. But when treated correctly, it can last for decades.

Steel Awning

Steel costs about $10 to $35 a square foot on average. Steel can be either galvanized or stainless. Of the two, galvanized steel costs more but lasts longer without rusting. Steel is much heavier than aluminum, so it takes longer and costs more to install, but it will last longer and will not dent as easily. Steel is much less common than aluminum or copper. You will not find as many styles, but it is mainly for function in areas that need better protection.

Copper Awning

This material costs between $90 and $120 a square foot on average. Copper is the most expensive, but also the longest-lasting metal for awnings. Copper has a timeless appearance that complements many architectural styles, and it can either weather naturally or be preserved with its original finish and luster. It can last hundreds of years without any maintenance. Because of its cost, it is usually reserved for small window and door awnings rather than larger patio awnings.

Metal Awning Costs by Style

The cost of metal awnings varies based on their style, ranging from $200 to $1,200 with installation. Awnings come in many styles, from flat patio covers to elaborate window and door awnings. Standard awnings come off the home at a 45-degree angle, offering basic design. Canopy awnings offer a slight curve, while concave awnings offer a bowl-type shape. Convex awnings curve outward and are on the higher end of standard models. You will also find premium styles like dome and gable awnings, which require more material and workmanship than others, which increases their costs. The table below lists the most common awning styles and their average costs.​

Labor Costs to Install a Metal Awning

The average cost to install an awning is around $130 in labor, out of the $808 total. Installers price the labor for metal awning installations in a few different ways, depending on factors like awning size, location, material, and whether it is a kit or custom awning. Some charge by the installation, with mid to large awnings costing around $200 to $300 to install. Others charge by the hour, with average hourly costs of between $40 and $60 an hour, with an estimated 3 hours to install each awning.

Cost to Install a Metal Awning by Location

The cost of metal awning installation varies depending on the location of the awning, ranging from $400 to $3,000. Doors and windows are smaller and have cheaper costs. Larger spaces like patios, double doors, or even bay windows may need a more extensive awning. This could drive up the costs significantly. The table below shows a breakdown of the average cost to install metal awnings by location to give an idea of your project’s cost.

Fabric vs Metal Awning Cost

The average cost of a fabric window awning is around $250 to $500 installed, with most people paying about $300 for a standard fabric awning, compared to the $400 to $800 for a metal awning of the same size and shape. Metal is not the only material that can be used to create an awning. Fabric is also a commonly used material that is lightweight and less expensive. Fabric awnings are usually made of both a metal frame and fabric. They weigh and cost less but do not last as long as metal awnings. They cannot handle the weight of rain or snow, and the fabric often fades quickly in the sun, so they need to be replaced more frequently.

Maintenance

Most of the maintenance required for awnings can be done yourself. However, you can pay a handyman to do the work. This costs about $50 to $100 per hour, depending on their rates and the maintenance that needs to be done. Maintenance includes cleaning the awnings, checking and replacing hardware, painting, and other tasks that improve the look and lifespan of the awning. Some awnings come with warranties and maintenance contracts to cover these costs, so be sure to inquire about yours. If your awning needs repair, you will spend between $250 and $1,100 on awning repairs, depending on what needs to be fixed. However, with proper care and maintenance, repairs will be minimal over the years, and maintenance costs are not expensive.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Motorized Metal Awning

Motorized metal awnings cost about $800 for the awning itself and about $2,000 for the awning, motor, and installation. While not as common as motorized and retractable fabric awnings, motorized metal awnings exist. They expand when needed and pull tight against the house when not in use. They work slower than fabric models and typically take more sturdy materials because metal is heavier than fabric. However, they offer premium protection from the elements. The motorized feature is great for patios and decks where you do not always want the awning up but do not want to move it manually every time.

Steel Posts

For large or heavy metal awnings, you may need to purchase support posts to hold the weight, adding another $100 to $300 to the cost of installing a metal awning. These posts are usually made from high-quality steel to provide durability and deliver the support that the awning needs. The exact cost of these posts varies depending on the quality that you choose, their size, and how many you need.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Bends. Metal awnings come with a range of bends or seams in the panels. The more bends, the stronger the awning, but the more expensive it will be. For example, flat awnings are less costly than W-style pans.
• Wind/weight requirements. Some locations have weight or wind requirements for awnings to withstand things like snowfall and high winds. Check with your installer to see what requirements may be necessary for your area.
• Customization. Most awnings come in a wide range of colors and finishes. This allows you to customize the appearance of your awning and have it match your home’s exterior.
• Seasonal use. Awnings block sunlight from entering your house. Therefore, if you want more daylight in the winter months, remove the awning and remount it in the spring. This does not damage the awning, but it can be a hassle to take care of yearly.