Determine Fit & Style

Determine Fit and Style for Your Awning or Shades

For a general estimate by phone, email or fax, you can follow these step-by-step instruction below. If you choose to purchase an awning or window shade, a formal appointment can be arranged with our sales representative where he will provide you with a written quote.

Awnings

1. What is your style?

Whether you are in the market for a commercial or residential awning we have a large variety of awning styles for you to choose from. Please visit our awning page to determine which look is right for you.

2. Determine the size of the area

Regardless of your choice of awning style you need to determine the 1) width, 2) projection and 3) drop of the area you want to protect. For casement windows, you also need to measure the windows at their full extension. Please see the adjacent diagrams for further explanation.

Tips:

- Awnings in north-south positions should be wider than the window casing.

- Awnings in east-west positions need a greater projection.

- Awnings wider than 10 feet usually require a center support.

- For some awnings 24 feet and over, we may recommend splitting

the overall width and installing two separate awnings.

3. Fixed or retractable?

Depending on your needs a fixed or retractable awning may be right for you. Often, for commercial spaces, fixed awnings work best and for residential spaces retractable or removable awnings are a better fit. However, we have installed both styles on either venue. Furthermore, if you decide on a retractable awning, you should also consider whether you will prefer a motorized or a manual system.

4. Select fabric type and color

Please visit our fabric overview page to help you make an initial choice of fabric type, color and pattern. Once we move to the consulting phase, we can provide you with fabric swatches to make the final choice.

5. Choosing a valance.

A valance is an accessory that provides extra protection from the elements and added flare. If you would like to add a valance to your custom awning typically we use the wave and straight valance styles. For Durasol retractable awnings you can select any style on the left of the page.

Window and Porch Shades

1. What is your style and needed function?

Window and porch shades can be used in your porch or on interior windows for sun control are available in different styles from different manufacturers. Please visit out window and porch shades page to help you determine the style and needed function of the shades you would like installed.

2. Determine the size of the area

Measure the Height and Length of the window or screen area you would like to cover. See adjacent diagram.

3. Select fabric type and color