The SunScape® is Eastern Awning Systems' American-made retractable awning for homeowners who want solid construction without paying for the top model. 1800Awnings.com is Eastern's National Master Dealer. Order it built to your size and we ship it free to all 48 contiguous states, typically...
Shademaker Helios™ Motorized Retractable Awning with Adjustable Front Bar The Shademaker Helios™ is a motorized retractable patio awning whose front bar pitch can be adjusted after the awning extends, so you can block low afternoon sun and guide light rain off the sides. It...
The Sunflexx® is Eastern Awning Systems' top retractable awning, and 1800Awnings.com is Eastern's National Master Dealer. Order it built to your exact width, choose manual or motorized, and we ship it free to any of the 48 contiguous states, typically in 2–3 weeks. Why...
Quick answer: In Florida, retractable awnings are usually wall-mounted into concrete block (anchors must pass through stucco into the block), need power at the wall for a motor, and often need a permit and HOA approval. You can install it yourself, use your own contractor, or have an authorized dealer install it. Awnings are built to order in about 2–3 weeks and ship free.
A retractable awning is only as good as the wall it hangs on. In Florida that usually means concrete block or stucco over block, wind loads that matter, afternoon storms, and in many towns a permit and an HOA. Here is how a retractable awning installation works in Florida, and your three options for getting it done.
Authorized dealer: a local pro measures, handles permits where needed, installs and wires the motor, and sets up sensors. Find an authorized dealer.
Your own contractor: buy online and have your contractor mount it. We supply mounting instructions and phone support.
Do it yourself: a standard wall-mounted awning is manageable for two handy people with a hammer drill. Large, high or motorized commercial units are not a DIY job.
How the installation works
Measure and choose a mounting location. Measure the width you want covered and the projection you need, then check the wall height above the door. See how to measure.
Confirm the mounting surface. Most Florida homes are concrete block (CBS); stucco over block needs anchors that reach into the block. Wood-frame walls need blocking or a header behind the brackets. If there is no usable wall height, roof, fascia or soffit brackets are options on many models.
Plan power for motorized awnings. The motor needs power at the wall near one end of the awning. If there is no outlet or junction box there, plan for a licensed electrician.
Check permits and HOA rules. Requirements vary by city, county and community. Ask your building department and HOA before ordering.
Order and wait for the build. Every awning is built to your width, typically 2–3 weeks, then shipped free.
Mount the brackets, hang the awning, adjust the pitch. Level brackets and correct pitch let rain run off instead of pooling.
Program the motor and sensors. Set the open and closed limits, pair the remote, and install the wind sensor.
Florida-specific tips
Always add a wind sensor. Afternoon storms build fast; a sensor such as the Somfy Eolis 3D retracts the awning when you are not home.
Use stainless hardware near the coast. Eastern awnings use stainless fasteners and arm cables; full cassettes like the Shademaker Zeus protect the fabric from salt spray.
Mind the pool cage. Under a screen enclosure, check clearance between the awning at full projection and the cage frame. See pool and lanai awnings.
Retract before any named storm. Retractable awnings are designed to be stowed, not left extended, in tropical-storm or hurricane winds.
Installation cost
Installation is quoted per job because it depends on the wall, mounting height, electrical work and permits. For awning prices by model, see the retractable awning cost guide.
Frequently asked questions — retractable awning installation in Florida
Can I install a retractable awning myself?
Many homeowners install a standard wall-mounted awning with a helper and a hammer drill. Large commercial units, high mounting locations and anything needing new electrical work are better left to a professional or an authorized dealer.
Can a retractable awning be mounted on stucco?
Yes, as long as the anchors pass through the stucco into the concrete block or framing behind it. The stucco alone cannot carry the load.
Do motorized awnings need an electrician?
The motor needs power at the wall. If there is no outlet or junction box near the mounting location, a licensed electrician should add one.
Do I need a permit to install an awning in Florida?
It depends on your city or county and your HOA. Many jurisdictions require one for structures attached to the house, so check with your local building department before you order.
The SunScape® is Eastern Awning Systems' American-made retractable awning for homeowners who want solid construction without paying for the top model. 1800Awnings.com is Eastern's National Master Dealer. Order it built to your size and we ship it free to all 48 contiguous states, typically...
Shademaker Helios™ Motorized Retractable Awning with Adjustable Front Bar The Shademaker Helios™ is a motorized retractable patio awning whose front bar pitch can be adjusted after the awning extends, so you can block low afternoon sun and guide light rain off the sides. It...
The Sunflexx® is Eastern Awning Systems' top retractable awning, and 1800Awnings.com is Eastern's National Master Dealer. Order it built to your exact width, choose manual or motorized, and we ship it free to any of the 48 contiguous states, typically in 2–3 weeks. Why...
