Looking for more information about our shade products? Here are some of the most common questions we hear from our clients. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to speak to a shade professional directly.
Shade sail materials are available in two main types: waterproof fabrics that keep out light-to-moderate rain and breathable fabrics that help keep the air underneath the shade cooler.
The cost of a shade sail depends mainly on its size and fabric type, with different materials costing different amounts per square foot. However, larger sails can be more expensive by area than smaller ones, as they'll generally need sturdier and more costly fittings to support the extra weight.
If you love to spend time in your yard but find the summer sun too harsh, a shade sail is an effective way to stay cooler. A shade sail is worth the relatively small investment if it means getting more enjoyment from your property during the summer.
Commercial-grade shade sails can be left up all year but should be taken down if there's a risk of particularly severe wind or a hurricane warning.
Most shade sails are either triangular, square, or rectangular in shape. Triangle sails provide less shade than the other two types but are easier to fit into smaller or unusually shaped spaces. Our design team can work with you to choose the size and shape of the sail that gives you the shade you need for your situation.
Your choice of color depends on personal preference and how it will fit into the rest of your home or store's design. However, consider that darker colors absorb more UV rays, which can improve a sail's cooling performance compared to lighter-colored fabrics.
Shade sails are available in various woven fabrics using natural and synthetic materials. If you want rain protection, choose a water-repellent sail fabric. Alternatively, selecting a breathable canvas will help stop hot air from building up under the sail, although it will offer less protection against rain.
Depending on the playground size, you can add a shade to cover the whole area, smaller zones of related equipment, or individual pieces such as swings, slides, and climbers. When designing your playground cover, we can work with you to find the most effective and affordable combination.
Most playground shade covers are made with a waterproof or breathable fabric roof, supported by metal posts for sturdiness. However, in some circumstances, a solid metal canopy can provide a greater level of protection, although at a higher cost.
In a climate like South Florida's, playground shade covers are essential for four important reasons:
Shade covers are great for cooling down playgrounds during the summer months. There are various options that will provide varying levels of protection from the sun so that you can balance the perfect amount of shade and sun for your space.
Typically canopies can be put into one of 3 categories - patio canopies, car canopies, or commercial canopies. But within these categories, you can also find variations, including portable tent canopies, fixed overhead canopies, retractable canopies, and more. Because canopies can be built with a combination of metal and fabrics, they are one of the most easily customizable shade solutions we offer.
While canopies and gazebos both offer shade and shelter in your yard, that’s where their similarities stop. A gazebo is a self-contained structure complete with posts, a roof, often one or more sides, and usually a deck or other type of flooring. Gazebos are typically built to provide a shaded outdoor relaxation space similar to a deck or patio. By contrast, a canopy is an overhead cover that's usually attached to the wall of a building or supported by an open framework of posts rather than having a building-like structure. While canopies can provide cover to a deck or patio, they are typically used to cover existing spaces, not create new ones.
Canopies are available in a variety of materials, and depending on your choice, they can be made entirely rainproof. Old-fashioned canvas canopies offer little protection from rain and can soak up moisture with a risk of mold or staining. However, more modern options are made from canvas coated with acrylic or vinyl for total waterproofing. Canopies made from fiberglass, metal, or another solid material are entirely weatherproof, providing full shelter in sunny and rainy weather.
Straight-leg canopies are generally sturdier than slant-leg designs and are better able to withstand wind and other heavy weather. However, they also use more material in the cover and stronger, bulkier materials in the legs. This makes them a little more expensive on average than slant leg canopies, but their longer lifespan makes up for the higher initial cost.
Generally, a canopy is a freestanding structure with a cover supported by posts or poles, while an awning is attached to a facade or other wall along one of its sides. An awning is often retractable to free up space when it isn't needed for shade or shelter. However, the terms canopy and awning are often used interchangeably.
A suspended canopy is supported by cables or poles anchored to a facade rather than by posts sunk into the ground. This gives a suspended canopy an impressive appearance while also increasing the amount of usable space below. What separates a suspended canopy from an awning is that this kind of canopy is usually flat and made from a solid material such as metal, while an awning is most often slanted and made from fabric.
Metal canopy systems are on the more expensive end of the price spectrum when it comes to shade products, but their durability and high level of protection make them a solid investment for homes and businesses.
Metal canopies offer the best weather protection level while being sturdy and durable enough to last for many years. While they are pricer to buy and install, they are an investment that provides long-term shade and shelter.
Simple fabric canopies can be installed for a few hundred dollars, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Larger installations can cost at least several thousand dollars, especially if made from treated fabric, fiberglass, or metal.
The main difference between an awning and a canopy is that an awning is a structure only attached to a facade above a doorway or window. A canopy can be a freestanding or attached covering supported by posts or poles. However, the terms are often used interchangeably to mean any cover or shade around a storefront or other facade.
For commercial use, a canopy must be made of durable and long-lasting fabric to protect your customers and premises for years to come. Rugged canvas is a good starting point, but the material can be made even harder to wear by coating it in vinyl or acrylic, increasing its waterproof qualities while boosting the shade level it provides.
A freestanding canopy needs to be weighted down for safety and stability. A typical recommended weight is 24 pounds per leg, although the exact figure depends on the canopy's size and design.
Metal canopies are fully rainproof, while canvas canopies can use treated fabric for complete rainproofing. Breathable fabric is an option for canopy coverings that offer extra cooling while still being rainproof.
Canopies placed over windows are called awnings and are available in fixed or retractable designs in many styles. Awnings benefit a business by reducing the amount of heat entering the building on sunny days, therefore reducing cooling costs and improving the customer experience.
A canopy is a shade structure that rests on columns that aren’t attached to the house. They have the flexibility to be broken up and stored away when not in use. On the other hand, a pergola is a permanent structure that is not designed to shade an area fully. Don’t get us wrong; a pergola does provide shade, it’s just not full coverage. That’s why investing in a pergola with a canopy offers the best of both worlds, allowing you to set the amount of shade you want.
While canopies and gazebos both offer shade and shelter in your yard, that’s where their similarities stop. A gazebo is a self-contained structure complete with posts, a roof, often one or more sides, and usually a deck or other type of flooring. Gazebos are typically built to provide a shaded outdoor relaxation space similar to a deck or patio. By contrast, a canopy is an overhead cover that's usually attached to the wall of a building or supported by an open framework of posts rather than having a building-like structure. While canopies can provide cover to a deck or patio, they are typically used to cover existing spaces, not create new ones.
Yes! A hardtop gazebo provides shade and shelter from the elements while making your yard more inviting. Its durability allows you to enjoy the beauty of your outdoor space for years to come.
It will depend on the size and material of your hardtop gazebo, but prices typically start around $2,000 and work their way up from there. Expect the cost to rise with more complex shapes like an octagon or oval or if more intricate details are added.
Most hardtop gazebos can be assembled in a day when you have a work crew. The installation time will depend on the size and complexity of your project. It is best to hire a professional if you want the job done quickly and safely.
Yes. Our hardtop gazebos are permanent structures intended for year-round use and enjoyment. A stiff breeze will not topple an anchored hardtop gazebo, leaving you free to enjoy your backyard, even in inclement weather.
A steel hardtop gazebo is durable, weather resistant, and can be expected to last decades. They require very little maintenance to remain functional and will keep you comfortably shaded all year round.
The best hardtop gazebos are ones that fit your space, lifestyle, and budget. Look for an aluminum top that will require little maintenance while providing lasting shelter from the elements.
Yes! Our hardtop gazebos are permanent structures made from durable, high-quality aluminum and are anchored to withstand the worst weather. We want you to enjoy your hardtop gazebo during the hottest days and through relaxing rainstorms- but please don’t sit outside under your gazebo during a tropical storm or hurricane!
That depends on the structure of the existing gazebo. If you are replacing a previous hardtop roof, then yes, but if the gazebo previously had a fabric roof, it won’t be strong enough to support a hardtop. In that case, we recommend starting from scratch and building a hardtop gazebo.
Yes. Metal gazebos are permanent installations intended for year-round use. They can provide shade from the sun and shelter from the rain in any season. Luckily in South Florida, we don’t have to worry about snow or sudden temperature drops, but if we did, your metal gazebo could stay up and withstand freezing temperatures.
Metal gazebos are an investment in your outdoor space. A metal gazebo installed in your yard can be expected to look great for at least ten years with minimal upkeep.
A metal gazebo will likely cost between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on the material. The size, style, and add-ons will affect the final price of your gazebo.
A metal gazebo can typically be built in a day. The actual time required will depend on the structure’s complexity and any external factors that could impact the time needed to build the gazebo, such as weather.
Both are excellent choices that will look good for years. When it boils down to it, the best material is the material that best suits your style and budget. With either choice, you can be confident that your metal gazebo will last long.
Good might be an understatement when it comes to our metal gazebos. They are beautiful, durable, and sturdy structures that are a great way to make your garden more comfortable and inviting. With a metal gazebo, you can enjoy your backyard longer when you have the appropriate coverage from the extreme Miami heat.
They are built to be enjoyed year-round and are very sturdy. No lightweight when it comes to durability, metal gazebos can be expected to stay in place for many years and through many different weather conditions.
This depends a bit on your experience with building. Building a gazebo isn’t a one-person job; you need more than one person to build a gazebo. Hiring professionals ensures your gazebo is built to code correctly to avoid future issues or injuries.
Short answer, not usually. While the up-front costs may be a little lower than hiring a professional gazebo builder, if you’re not an experienced craftsman, you’ll likely spend more than you expect. A professional installation is usually the best solution.
A homeowner can expect to pay anywhere between $5,000 and $10,000 for a vinyl or metal gazebo, but it’s important to remember that this price could fluctuate based on the materials used and the design.
Assembling a gazebo can be done in a day, depending on the skill of the building crew. A team of experienced carpenters or gazebo installers can typically build a gazebo in 8 hours or less. However, this depends on the size and design of the gazebo.
You can expect vinyl and aluminum gazebos to maintain their good looks for over a decade with very little maintenance due to their rust-resistant characteristics. Vinyl gazebos require slightly less maintenance than aluminum gazebos, but both are excellent choices for your outdoor space. Wood gazebos will have the shortest lifespan, especially in South Florida, which is why we do not build wooden gazebos.
n most cases, yes. In South Florida, homeowners are required to obtain a permit before beginning a gazebo construction project. There are specific requirements if you plan to run electricity to your gazebo, so it’s essential to have a permit before starting your gazebo installation project so you don’t run into any issues with city ordinances.
It can be, but you should also consider the costs of time for installation and the value of expertise. It might be cheaper, but not better if you are inexperienced or do not have a team to assist you.
Yes. A gazebo has sides that are partially open and a solid roof. The roof offers protection from the sun and rain. A pergola has slats that allow sunshine and rain in.
No, although they are similar and often confused. While both have a roof and open sides, a pavilion is often placed over an existing patio, whereas a gazebo usually has its own floor.
The cost will vary depending on your gazebo size, materials, and complexity. You can expect to pay $5,000 to $10,000 before adding extras or features. The cost will be higher if you add more customizations like running electricity or adding a gas line to your gazebo.
The cost of DIY a gazebo depends on the materials used and the builder's skill. Building a gazebo is a complex project and should only be attempted if you have construction experience. Hiring a professional is the safest option if adding custom gazebo features and extras.
In all likelihood, no. Gazebo kits are a great starting point if you want to build your own gazebo. This less-costly option includes all the basics, but what you typically will have to put the money you’re saving into tools, labor, and other unexpected costs. Building a gazebo is also not a one-day job, and you’re looking at an investment of several days, if not weeks, to build a custom gazebo if you’re not experienced. If you don’t have the time or experience in construction, it’s better to hire professionals to get the job done right.
Yes! Our team can design a fully custom gazebo with as many (or as few) bells and whistles as you'd like. We can include the basics like benches, tables, or mosquito screens, or we can take things to the next level with speakers, televisions, and more.
A vinyl gazebo is exceptionally durable and can last at least 10-12 years. As long as they’re cleaned regularly, vinyl is a low-maintenance material with a great lifespan.
The ability to add logos and branding to awnings is one of the reasons they are so attractive to restaurants and other storefronts. The technique used to apply your logo depends on the size and placement of your logo and the awning material. Silk-screening offers an extensive range of color customization but can’t capture detailed artwork well. Thermal-adhesive film works only well for small logos due to the lack of available materials and production capabilities. Hand painting is one technique most people don’t think of when it comes to restaurant awnings. With a wide range of materials and no sizing limitations, having your logo hand-painted onto your awning gives it a one-of-a-kind look. However, this method can be time-consuming and unsuitable for mass production. The best method for getting your logo on your restaurant’s awning is digital printing. It is affordable, allows for detailed customization, and lets you reproduce your logo limitlessly.
The cost of restaurant awnings will vary based on a few factors. Awnings are a relatively affordable shade product, so if you’re just adding or replacing awnings over one or two windows, the job probably won’t be very costly. But as the size and scope of your project grow, custom awnings for restaurants can become more expensive. Complex custom jobs on the high end can run upwards of $15,000.
Of course, costs will vary, but on average, homeowners can expect to pay $1,500 - $ 10,000 for an aluminum awning. However, aluminum awnings can be one of the most inexpensive options on the market.
Aluminum awnings are excellent for providing shade and privacy and are durable, which means they will last for years. Aluminum awnings have several advantages over other types because they are strong, aesthetically pleasing, and will easily withstand the South Florida elements for many years.
Costs vary based on project specifications, but the average cost will typically start at about $2,000 per awning for some of our traditional options. Compared to other shade products, professionally installed awnings are inexpensive, and you can rest assured that they are done right.
Aluminum awnings typically last 25 years or more, depending on how they are maintained, their installation location, the materials used, and other factors. An aluminum awning can easily last for decades with proper upkeep.
Aluminum awnings are best cleaned with water and soap. Scrub with a soft bristle scrub brush at least once per year. If you're interested in professional awning cleaning services, contact us for more information.
The basic design and function are the same, but the materials used will vary. Aluminum is a lightweight metal among the most popular materials used to construct window awnings. While aluminum will not offer the same strength as steel, it is much lighter and less expensive.
While many low-cost, DIY awning solutions are available online, it’s always a good idea to invest in a custom awning designed specifically for your property if you can. Not only can you tailor the design to match your home and your tastes, but you can also make sure it’s functional for your needs.
Permanent awnings are also known as fixed awnings. These structures do not open or close like retractable awnings. They are often constructed from aluminum or steel for added durability. While we can install fixed awnings over patios and decks, they’re most common over windows and doors.
Price can vary, but retractable awnings usually cost between $2,000 and $7,000. Many factors will determine the final price, including size, location, and the style/design of your awning. Motorized retractable awnings will, of course, cost more than manual ones.
While retractable awnings aren’t the perfect solution for every situation, they are an excellent way for homeowners to add shade to their property without the same costs as other shade products. Retractable awnings also give more flexibility than fixed-shade products, so it’s essential to consider the area and how you plan to use it.
Our retractable awnings are very durable and typically last over 10 years. Several factors will ultimately determine how long your retractable awning lasts, but we use the best materials, and our professional installation ensures the job is done right the first time.
Costs can vary due to several factors, but prices for a basic awning usually start at around $ 2,000 to $7,000 and go up from there. Several factors will determine an awning's final cost, including size, material, location, and complexity.
Motorized retractable patio awnings are controlled by either a remote or through implemented sensors. The sensors are designed to detect unsavory weather conditions and automatically retract your awning to keep it safe from high wind speeds and open when the sky clears up.
The cost of your patio awning will vary according to your project’s specifications; however, you can typically expect to pay between [PRICE RANGE]. The materials used, the size of the structure and any add-ons you include will affect the final price. Our dedicated team is ready to work with you to find the best product that fits your budget.
Technically the difference between a patio awning and a porch awning is its location. Porches are located at the front of the house, while patios are typically in the backyard. That being said, since there is no hard or fast rule about what’s a porch versus a patio, the terms are often used interchangeably.
Typically a permit is required, but the specific type of permit can vary between municipalities. Our team can assist you with pulling any permits required for your project.
With good weather, a patio awning can typically be installed in one day. However, the size and complexity of your awning will dictate the exact timeframe needed to install your patio awning.
A patio awning is a great way to create a comfortable outdoor living space that you can enjoy year-round. They offer the same shaded protection from the sun but can be less expensive than larger, permanent structures. As a bonus, a covered patio is a great feature to advertise if you decide to sell your home one day. With the amount of time you’ll spend relaxing outdoors or hosting parties under your patio awning, you can be sure you’ll get your money’s worth out of your investment.
Costs vary according to the specifics of your project, but motorized awnings (also known as electric awnings) typically average between $1,000 and $4,000 per window. For larger motorized awnings such as patio awnings, the price will be higher depending on the total size of the awning. Our experts are happy to work within your budget to find the perfect awning for your needs.
Motorized awnings are much more convenient than manual ones because they can be extended or retracted with a button or automatically by a remote sensor. While manually operated awnings offer cost savings over motorized units, the convenience of a remote control or wind sensors adds considerable value.
Our motorized awnings are built with the best materials using the industry's strictest standards. As a result, our motorized awnings typically last 20 years or more. Several factors will influence the lifespan of your motorized awnings, but with regular cleaning and care, you can expect your awnings to last.
A carport is a permanent fixed part of the home, while a canopy is a free-standing shade structure. While both can serve a similar function, the difference comes down to design and cost.
A carport awning is a good investment because it helps protect your car from the elements and even provides extra outdoor space for things like gardening, outdoor dining, and other hobbies.
Yes, aluminum is an excellent material for carports because it is lightweight yet durable and will last many years. Many of our aluminum carport awnings last 25 or more years, so you can rest assured that they will give you several years of use.
Yes, metal carports are an excellent investment because they provide “fashion” and “function,” giving you better use of your home and adding value to it. In addition, they help protect the investment you’ve made in your vehicles.
The cost of a carport awning will depend on a number of factors. Some of the more important variables when determining a price are the materials used, the size of the carport being covered, and the installation location. For example, a residential carport that covers one or two cars will be a lot less expensive than a commercial carport awning built for a car dealership to cover dozens of cars. The best way to get an accurate price is to speak with one of our shade pros about your requirements.
The cost of a commercial awning will vary depending on the size and design and any special features the awnings may include, such as motorized retractable arms or smart technology integrations. Costs will vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project. For example, simple storefront awnings may be installed for around $2,500, while complex custom projects may be as much as $100,000.
Our commercial awnings are built with the best materials and are made to last. You can expect your commercial awnings to last 25 years or more.
A permanent awning is sometimes called a fixed awning because it's not retractable. Retractable awnings can be opened or closed by remote control, sensor, or manually, while a fixed awning cannot.
This varies based on project specifics. The most popular frame materials are aluminum and vinyl, while the most popular fabric materials are cotton or polyester, which are then coated in acrylic. Our experts will work with you to ensure the best materials are used for your project.
Costs can vary widely depending on project specifics but range from $1,500 to $5,000 for smaller projects and can be as much as $25,000 or more for large or complex projects. Our team can help design a custom storefront awning that meets your needs and expectations within your budget.
Cleaning directions will vary depending on the materials. Many awnings are cleaned using a soft-bristle brush with soap and water. Our team will review the cleaning and maintenance specifics based on your chosen material during the design process.
While regular and architectural awnings may achieve the same goal of blocking sun and rain, their similarities end there. An architectural awning is one that was specifically designed and engineered to improve the aesthetic of your building. These awnings are typically larger or more elaborate than a regular storefront awning.
A window awning's projection should be half the size of the window. This is where it helps to have awnings professionally installed. Our dedicated installation team will handle all measurements and suggest awning designs that work for your home’s windows.
Costs vary depending on materials and other factors but window awnings will typically start around $250 per window. Several factors will influence the final price, including design, materials, and location. Our team has experience designing and installing custom awnings within nearly any budget.
The best materials are the ones that look good, are easy to maintain, and protect your patio from the elements. Aluminum and vinyl patio covers are both effective options to shade your space. The best one will be the one that suits your style, budget, design, and outdoor space.
Your costs will vary depending on the area you want to cover and the materials used. Typically, a patio cover that attaches to your home will cost somewhere between $2,000 and $10,000 to complete, although some materials come with a higher price point. A free-standing patio cover, pavilion, or pergola will be more expensive. Aluminum and vinyl can have similar price tags, depending on the style of shelter you want to build.
You can use a patio cover, pergola, shade sail, or patio roof. Our patio covers are made of aluminum or vinyl, which are both maintenance-free options to create a roof over your patio space. Patio covers attach to your home and extend outwards to cover your patio and protect it from the rain and sun so that you can enjoy your outdoor space in comfort.
Depending on the complexity of your patio cover design, the length of time for installation will vary. However, it should only take a day or two to complete installation so you can get back to enjoying the outdoors. An experienced team can get your cover installed quickly and safely.
A patio roof is very durable! You can expect your patio cover to have a useful life of at least 20 to 30 years, even with very little maintenance. Once it's fully installed, it will be a part of your home for decades to come.
An aluminum patio cover is a permanent addition to your home. It is sturdy once installed, and the installation process will only take a day or two at the most. This timeline can be affected by the complexity of your project and how much preparation work is required on-site.
The most inexpensive way would be to use an umbrella or a shade cloth. For a better and longer-term solution, an aluminum cover is very affordable. Prices for vinyl patio roofs are similar to aluminum, so you have options. Choose the material that best reflects your style. Both aluminum and vinyl covers will provide sun and rain protection to your outdoor space.
Both vinyl and aluminum patio covers are effective options to shade your outdoor space. Protection from the sun and rain makes it easier to enjoy the outdoors. Regarding which material is better, it will depend on your style and what design you are looking for. Give us a call to speak with an expert about which patio roof option will work best for you.
Vinyl is an excellent material due to its strength, ability to withstand the elements, and how low-maintenance it is. Vinyl can also be easily customized to meet your specific needs. It is typically an install-it-and-forget-it material, and the only maintenance needed is cleaning. But cleaning is as simple as spraying it with your garden hose once in a while.
Vinyl is a relatively affordable material in comparison to some other options. The final cost for the project will vary based on size and other specs. Costs for a professionally installed vinyl pergola typically start around $2,000 and range up from there, depending on the project specifics.
The average lifespan of a vinyl pergola is 15-20 years, but with proper care and a little luck, it can be much longer.
Yes, it is safe to drill into a vinyl pergola as long as you take proper safety precautions. Vinyl is strong, durable, lightweight, and inexpensive, making it the perfect material for a pergola. String lights, hang planters, whatever you’re looking to do, your vinyl pergola can handle it.
As we like to say, time is money, and experience matters. While purchasing a kit may be a little less expensive than hiring a professional pergola builder, you’re likely to spend more on your build once you factor in the costs for your time, replacement materials, tool rental costs, and additional laborers. When it comes to building pergolas, there’s no replacement for experience. If you’re looking for a fun DIY project to try at home, you might consider building a pergola on your own. But if you want to make the process quick and easy so you can start enjoying your backyard, it’s best to hire the pros.
While cost will vary based on several factors, you can expect a smart pergola to cost approximately $60-65 per square foot. Size, design, and location are just some of the factors that will determine the final price.
An electric pergola is a shade structure designed with electronically adjustable louvers that can be operated by remote control. Electric pergolas allow the owner to conveniently adjust the amount of sunlight that gets through with a simple press of a button.
A motorized pergola is built to allow the roof to open, close, and move when necessary. Many modern motorized pergolas can be fitted with sensors that can adjust the roof based on weather conditions, etc.
The cost will vary based on several factors, but on average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $60 to $100 per square foot. The size, design, and location of your pergola will influence the final cost.
Typically, we can install a motorized pergola in one day. However, the exact time it will take to install your pergola will depend on several factors, such as weather conditions. Rest assured, our installation team can handle any job, no matter how complex.
A canopy is a shade structure that rests on columns that aren’t attached to the house. They have the flexibility to be broken up and stored away when not in use. On the other hand, a pergola is a permanent structure that is not designed to shade an area fully. Don’t get us wrong; a pergola does provide shade, it’s just not full coverage. That’s why investing in a pergola with a canopy offers the best of both worlds, allowing you to set the amount of shade you want.
The cost varies, but depending on several factors, you can expect to pay between $30-100 per square foot on average. The final cost will be affected by the size, design, and location of your pergola. Our team has four decades of experience building shade structures and can help you transform your backyard space with a covered pergola that fits within your budget.
A pergola and an awning have different purposes. An awning is typically attached to the house and is geared towards covering windows and entryways, while a pergola is a free-standing structure. That being said, pergolas tend to be more expensive than awnings but will last longer and require less maintenance. While both structures can provide style and functionality to your outdoor space, it really depends on preference. Our design team can help you determine which shade product best suits your needs and taste.
Cost can vary with several factors, but you can expect to pay around $60 per square foot on average. The design, materials, and size will influence the final costs. Our team has decades of experience designing and building pergolas and will work with you and your budget.
Yes, a retractable awning can add shade to an existing pergola. Retractable awnings are a popular way to add increased shade and rain protection for your pergola, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space even more.
Yes, these structures are designed with a pitch that allows rainwater to run off. Light rain should not cause any problems, but heavy rain might cause water to pool on the canopy and cause sagging. Depending on the size and design of your awning, you may need to retract it during heavy downpours. Our dedicated team will ensure you understand how to operate your retractable awning to avoid damage or other issues.
Yes, retractable pergolas are an excellent investment for homeowners in South Florida. They provide shade and protection from the sun’s harsh rays while also adding value to your property. They can be used year-round, making them a great choice for any climate or season.
The cost of retractable pergolas varies depending on size, materials used, and other factors such as labor costs. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $4,000-$10,000+ for a custom-built retractable pergola system installed at your home in South Florida.
In most cases, yes - if you plan on installing a permanent structure, such as a retractable pergola, at your residence, then it is likely that you will need some type of permit from your local municipality before beginning construction work. This is especially true if the project involves any kind of structural changes such as digging holes into concrete surfaces or erecting posts/poles higher than 8 feet tall etc. It is always best practice to check with your city/county officials prior to starting any major projects so that all necessary permits have been obtained beforehand in order to avoid potential fines down the line.
Both of these materials are great, so the better option will be the one that’s best for your needs. An aluminum patio cover is durable, strong, and virtually maintenance-free, just like a vinyl cover. Both can withstand the elements and last for at least a decade. They are comparable in price, so the best choice is one that will suit your style and design needs.
In the long run, yes. The initial cost for an aluminum patio cover is comparable to the cost of a wooden one. However, unlike wood, an aluminum patio cover does not require maintenance and isn’t prone to warping. You will save money over the years with an aluminum patio cover that does not need to be painted, treated, or realigned.
Technically yes, if you have the know-how and construction experience. Remember that this project isn’t a one-person job; you will need a team to put it together. It’s also a time-consuming project, so if you’re limited in available hands or don’t have the time, it's probably best to hire an expert. Time is money, and hiring a professional will save you money in the long haul.
Your aluminum patio cover will need footings on the bottom of the columns that aren’t attached to your house. The width of the footings is typically 20 inches round and a minimum of 24 inches deep.
No. Aluminum is immune from the ravages of rust as well as mildew, mold, and insect damage. Being made of aluminum, you can expect your patio cover to last decades without rusting.
Simply put, yes! Vinyl patio covers are strong and durable. They are maintenance-free structures made from long-lasting materials, so you can expect your vinyl patio cover to provide years of shade to your outdoor space.
Both aluminum and vinyl patio covers effectively provide shade for your patio. They are comparable in price, and are both have decades-long life expectancies. The main thing to consider when choosing between aluminum and vinyl is if you like how the material looks in your space.
The best material for a patio cover is one that is long-lasting and low maintenance. Vinyl is a durable choice and will remain new-looking for years. It is durable and isn’t prone to cracking, warping, or fading, saving you money in the long run on repairs and maintenance.
This depends mainly on how big of a patio cover you choose and the design. A lattice vinyl patio cover typically costs between $2,000 and $4,000, while a solid cover will cost a bit more.
The cost of a motorized patio screen will depend on the size, material, and features you choose. Generally speaking, prices range from $500 to $2,000 for standard sizes and materials. The price may be higher if you require custom sizing or additional features such as remote control operation or wind sensors. Ultimately it is best to contact a professional shade provider who can provide an accurate quote based on your specific needs.
Yes, power screens are an excellent choice for homeowners and business owners in South Florida. They provide superior protection from the sun's harmful UV rays while still allowing fresh air to circulate through your space. Additionally, they are easy to install and maintain, making them an ideal solution for those looking for a reliable shading option. Power screens also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find one that best fits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
Typically, a standard residential power screen installation can be completed within 1-2 days. However, if it's a larger job or a job with atypical complications, it could take a little longer. For commercial power screen installations, the job could take anywhere from one day to one week, depending on the size of the screen that is being installed, how many screens we're installing, and any customization specifics that could make the installation more complex.
Depending on the type of cabana you intend to build and the type of property you plan to build it on, you may or may not need a permit. The best way to know for sure is to speak to one of our shade experts about your requirements so we can advise you.
The build-out for a custom cabana can range anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000+, depending on the size and scope of the build. This price can go up depending on furnishing, electronics, entertainment systems, and any other customizations. Commercial cabanas are priced based on the size of the order as well as the scope of each cabana.
Shading your backyard without trees is possible with custom shade products such as awnings, cabanas, patio roofs, shade covers, and pergolas. These solutions are designed to provide protection from the sun's harmful UV rays while still allowing natural light into your outdoor space. Awnings can be installed over windows or doors to reduce glare and heat gain inside the home. Cabanas offer an attractive way to create a shady spot for entertaining outdoors. Patio roofs can be used to cover decks or patios for additional protection from the elements. Shade covers provide full coverage of larger areas like pools or gardens, while pergolas add architectural interest and style in addition to providing much-needed shade. With these options available, you don't need trees in order to enjoy time outside in comfort and style.
Shading your backyard can be achieved in a variety of ways. Awnings, cabanas, patio roofs and shade covers are all excellent options for providing shade to outdoor spaces. Pergolas are also great for creating shaded areas while still allowing some natural light to filter through. If you’re looking for more permanent solutions, custom-built structures such as lattice or trellis designs can provide ample coverage from the sun’s rays. For those in South Florida, there is an experienced builder who specializes in these types of projects - they will help you find the perfect solution that meets your needs and budget.
There are a number of inexpensive options for deck shade that still look great! Two of the most popular inexpensive deck shade solutions in South Florida are umbrellas and shade sails. Both of these solutions come in just about any size and color, ensuring they can seamlessly integrate with the design of your backyard and home. In addition, they can be put up and taken down very quickly, making them easy to deal with during hurricane season.
The right choice for a deck shade solution will ultimately depend on the size of your deck and your budget. Some of the most popular options are patio roofs, retractable awnings, and fixed awnings. These are permanent shade products that, in some cases, can be opened or closed for maximum flexibility. In addition, cabanas, umbrellas, and shade sails are also very popular, especially on pool decks when you still want a little sun to get through.
When you're investing in a custom deck shade solution, the cost of the product will be dependent on the size, the materials used, and any complexities involved in the installation. Fixed solutions like patio roofs and retractable awnings will be on the higher end of the cost spectrum, while products like shade sails and canopies can be a little less costly. The best way to get an estimate for your project is to give us a call and speak to one of our shade experts about your project's specifics.
