How to Choose the Right Awning for You

BY COLLIN CHAMPAGNE Aug 21, 2025

Installing an awning is an important investment of your time and money, because an awning will become a part of the appearance and function of your home. Here are a few things that you should consider before you make a purchase.

Questions to Ask

Where are you planning to install your new awning?

  • Over a door or window? A fixed awning might be the best choice for you.
  • Over a patio or deck? A retractable awning might be your best option.
  • In front of a business? The type of awning you'll need will depend on space and function.

How big is your space?

  • If you're planning to use your awning over your patio or deck, you'll want to make sure that it extends to the very end of the structure, or even a little further. You'll, also, want to be sure that your awning can fully extend without anything getting in the way.

Can an awning be mounted to the space you have?

  • In order to install an awning, you need to have enough wall space that's completely clear of obstruction. You will not be able to properly mount an awning if anything gets in the way of its hardware. This includes windows, pipes, chimneys and light fixtures.
  • Window and door awnings usually need to be installed 6 to 12 inches above the frame. Deck awnings will need to be around 7 to 8 feet above the ground. Make sure that there is ample space above your structure.

How to Measure for Your Awning

Always check with the product manual for any special requirements and specific instructions on installing your particular awning.

Door or Window Awning:


Door Awning Measurements


  • Measure the wall where your window is located.
  • Measure the entire length of the window or door.
  • Measure the entire width of the window or door.

Please be aware that, as a rule, the fabric of most awnings is 6 inches less than the total width of the awning to accommodate for framework.

Deck or Patio Awning


  • Measure the height of the wall that you want to install your awning.
  • Measure the width of the structure you want to cover - this will tell you how wide of an awning you want. Note: The fabric of your awning will be around 6 inches less than the total awning width.
  • Measure the distance from the wall to the end of your structure or further, depending on how far you want your awning to extend.
  • Measure the space between the roof and any windows or doors, making sure that there is enough space to mount your awning.
  • Check and make sure that there is adequate room for the slope of your awning. Most will have a slope of about 15 degrees to let rain run off. Say that you mount an awning with a 12 foot projecting 8 feet off the ground. It will need 7 feet clearance at its outer edge when fully extended.


Collin Champagne

About the Author

Collin Champagne

With over 13 years in the industry, Collin is a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certified technician and managed content for the eFireplacestore and eCanopy brands. He has achieved the highest NFI certification possible as a Master Hearth Professional and is certified in all three hearth appliance fields: wood, gas, and pellet. With experience with sales and in-field installations, his expertise shines through his technical knowledge and way with words.

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Customer Q&A with Product Specialists

Anna from Phoeniz Az. asked:
How high above a window should an awning be installed?
How high above a window should an awning be installed?
There is no single required distance for mounting a fixed awning above a window. The ideal placement depends on several factors: the availability of solid wall framing for anchoring, sufficient clearance for the window to open and close normally, and the amount of clear wall space between the top of the window and the eave or roofline. Manufacturers generally recommend positioning the awning where desired, marking the wall at that spot, and anchoring into solid framing, rather than adhering to a fixed measurement. To determine the correct size and mounting height for your specific window, consider the width and height of the window opening (including trim), the clear wall space from the top of the window to the eave or roofline, and whether the window opens outward. Some awnings also have minimum height requirements for proper installation, and local homeowners' association rules might apply to exterior additions like awnings.
Answered by: Melanie C. on Sep 02, 2026

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Camilo V. from el monte ca asked:
How high above a window should an awning be installed?
How high above a window should an awning be installed?
There is no single fixed number for how far above a window an awning has to sit. The mounting height is determined by three factors: the awning must bolt into solid framing, it must clear the window so the sash can still operate, and it must fit the available wall space between the top of the window and the eave or roofline.For the fixed window and entry awnings we carry, the frame is built 4.5 inches wider than a standard window or door opening. This ensures the mounting hardware lands on the studs to each side of the opening, rather than solely on the header. The installation instructions involve holding the awning in the desired position above the opening, marking the wall where the frame meets it, and then setting the brackets on that line. This allows the exact height above the window to be chosen on the wall and anchored into the existing framing. You can find more details in the Awntech fixed awning installation manual.Two important considerations are the minimum vertical drop of the awning (our shallowest fixed window awnings have a 16-inch drop, meaning the awning will hang at least that far below its top mounting line) and ensuring the awning is high enough that the window sash does not hit it, especially if the window swings or cranks outward. Our Complete Guide to Anchoring Your Awning provides comprehensive information on bracket placement and anchoring for various wall types.To help us determine the best awning size for your needs, please provide the width and height of the window (including trim), the amount of clear wall space between the top of the trim and the eave, and whether the window opens outward. Including your shipping zip code will allow us to provide a free quote that locks in the current price for 30 days.
Answered by: Tyler M. on Jul 27, 2026

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