## Frequently Asked Questions
### How much does an awning cost?
It depends on size, motorization, fabric, and install conditions. Most residential retractable awnings in St. Augustine run $2,500 to $7,500 installed. Fixed fabric window awnings start around $400 each. Motorized louvered pergolas typically run $15,000 to $45,000. We quote every project individually after an on-site visit.
### How long does installation take?
Most residential retractable awnings install in one day. Pergolas and large custom projects take 2 to 4 days. Fabric recovery on existing frames usually takes a few hours.
### How long before my awning gets installed?
Lead times vary by product. Standard retractable awnings ship 4 to 6 weeks after order. Custom colors or sizes run 8 weeks. Louvered pergolas run 8 to 12 weeks. Custom-fabricated awnings run 10 to 14 weeks. HOA review can add 2 to 6 weeks on top.
### Do I need a permit?
Most awning installations in St. Johns County and Flagler County require a building permit. We pull every permit and handle inspections — no paperwork for you.
### Are awnings hurricane-safe?
Standard awnings are not rated for hurricane winds. Hurricane-rated retractable awnings are engineered to auto-retract before storm winds arrive, then ride out the storm in their retracted position. For oceanfront homes, we recommend hurricane-rated systems as the default.
### What about HOAs?
Most master-planned communities require architectural review for awning installations. We prepare drawings, fabric samples, and specifications for the ARB. Most projects approve on first submission within 2 to 4 weeks.
### What warranty do I get?
Frames carry 10 to 15 year finish warranties depending on product. Motors carry 5 to 7 year manufacturer warranties. Fabric carries 10 year fade warranties from Sunbrella and Dickson. Our installation workmanship is warranted for one year.
### Can you recover my old awning?
Usually yes. If the frame is straight, hardware works, and the size is right, fabric recovery saves 50 to 70 percent versus a new awning. We inspect the frame on first visit and tell you honestly whether recovery or replacement makes more sense.
### What fabric should I choose?
Solution-dyed acrylic is the standard. Sunbrella and Dickson are both excellent — color range, fade resistance, and mildew resistance are all strong. For commercial projects requiring flame retardancy, we spec Sunbrella Firesist. For oceanfront installs, we often go to heavier 12-ounce fabric.
### Do I need a wind sensor?
For retractable awnings, yes — especially in coastal areas. A $200 to $300 wind sensor can save a $4,000 awning from a single afternoon thunderstorm.
### Do you install in the historic district?
Yes. Most awning projects in the St. Augustine historic district require HARB approval before install. We've handled dozens of these reviews and know what the board wants to see.
### How do I get started?
Call **(904) 615-9462** or send us a message. We'll schedule a free on-site visit, measure, and return with a written quote the same day. No obligation.
Every contractor in our network is licensed and insured.