Awnings and Canopies FAQs in Pittsburgh, PA

Residential awnings can add value mainly through curb appeal and more usable outdoor space, though the effect on resale price is often modest. Mt Lebanon Awning designs custom awnings that match a home's exterior, so the look feels built in. A well-kept awning can also make a deck or porch easier to enjoy in summer.

It is generally best not to leave a fabric awning open under snow and ice. Heavy snow can strain the frame and damage the fabric. Mt Lebanon Awning removes and stores awnings, canopies, and curtains during the cold months and reinstalls them in spring. Ask which care plan fits your awning style.

Awnings can lower cooling needs by blocking direct sun before it reaches the glass. The effect depends on the window, its direction, and the awning style. Window awnings over south-facing and west-facing windows often help most, and Mt Lebanon Awning can suggest placement during an on-site visit.

An awning can reduce some view and daylight, but the amount depends on its size, depth, and style. A retractable awning can be pulled in on gray days to bring light back. During a consultation, Mt Lebanon Awning can help choose a depth that shades the sun without making rooms feel dark.

Retractable awnings are meant for shade and light rain, and they should be pulled in during strong wind or storms. Heavy rain can also pool on fabric. Closing the awning protects the arms and fabric from stress. If a storm does cause damage, Mt Lebanon Awning can inspect and repair it.

Yes, many homeowners upgrade a porch from valances to drop curtains for more privacy and wind protection. Mt Lebanon Awning offers drop curtains for porches and patios, and one customer review describes making this exact change. A site visit helps confirm the best fit for the porch.

The timeline varies with the size, style, fabric, and season, so a written estimate should include an expected schedule. Mt Lebanon Awning starts with an on-site consultation to measure the space, then makes and installs the awning. Weather can delay work, so ask about current timing when you request an estimate.

A manual retractable awning opens with a hand crank, while a motorized one opens at the touch of a button. Manual models have fewer parts, and motorized models add convenience for larger awnings. Mt Lebanon Awning offers both options and can explain which suits a deck or patio in Pittsburgh.