How to Measure for a Custom Awning (Down to 1/16 of an Inch)
Most awning sellers ask you to pick from a short list of fixed sizes and hope one is "close enough." We don't work that way. Because we manufacture in-house, we build every awning to your exact opening — accurate to 1/16 of an inch. To do that, we need good measurements. Here's how to take them.
What you'll need
A steel tape measure (not cloth), a pencil and paper, and ideally a second person for anything wider than a few feet. A level helps if your wall or opening isn't perfectly square.
The three measurements that matter
1. Width. Measure the full width of the area you want covered — the window, door, or storefront opening plus any overhang you want on each side. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom, and write down the smallest number if they differ.
2. Projection. This is how far the awning extends out from the wall. More projection means more shade and more rain protection, but check for obstructions like walkways, signage, or parking.
3. Height / drop. Measure from the mounting point down to the bottom edge of the awning, and confirm you'll have proper clearance underneath for doors, foot traffic, or vehicles.
Tips that prevent costly mistakes
- Measure the opening, not an existing awning. Old units may have shrunk, sagged, or been installed wrong.
- Account for overhang. Decide how far past the opening you want coverage on each side before you finalize width.
- Check what's above the mount. Trim, gutters, brick ledges, and electrical can all affect where the awning attaches.
- Write down fractions. Since we build to 1/16", precise fractions matter — round numbers leave coverage on the table.
Not sure? We'll confirm it before we build
Send us your measurements and we'll produce CAD drawings of your specific awning so you can verify the exact dimensions and design before anything goes into production. That's the advantage of buying from the manufacturer instead of a fixed-size catalog: the awning is built around your building, not the other way around.
Frequently asked questions
What if my opening isn't square?
Very common, especially on older buildings. Give us measurements at multiple points and we'll account for it in the build.
How accurate do my measurements need to be?
As accurate as you can get them — to the 1/16" if possible. We build to that tolerance, so precise numbers mean a precise fit.
Can you help if I'm not confident measuring?
Yes. Send what you have and we'll guide you, then confirm the final dimensions with CAD drawings before production.
Ready to order an awning built to your exact opening? Browse our products or contact us to start a custom build.
Written by Corey Courtright
Second-Generation Awning Manufacturer & Industry Expert
Corey Courtright is a second-generation awning manufacturer and a recognized innovator in aluminum TIG-welded structures within the awning industry. With over 38 years of hands-on experience, he has worked across every facet of the business—from fabrication and sewing to welding, installation, sales, and service—giving him a rare, comprehensive understanding of the craft. Starting his career as a pipe threader, Corey went on to build and lead multiple successful awning companies. Now based in Florida since 2016, he brings deep technical expertise, proven leadership, and a legacy of innovation to every project and insight he shares.