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Frequently Asked Questions

+ Do I need a building permit for a retractable awning?

In most cases, no. Because retractable awnings are not permanent structures, they typically do not require a building permit on Long Island. The awning retracts fully against the wall of your home or business when not in use, which means it is not classified as a fixed addition. However, building codes can vary by municipality, so we recommend checking with your local town or village building department if you have any concerns. Our team is happy to help you navigate any local requirements.

+ How long will the installation take?

Most retractable awning installations are completed in approximately 1 to 2 hours. Our experienced technicians arrive with all the necessary tools and hardware, and we handle everything from mounting the brackets to testing the motor and demonstrating operation. Larger commercial installations or retractable roof systems may take longer depending on the scope of the project, but we will always provide you with a clear timeline before we begin.

+ How will an awning hold up in the wind?

Sunsetter retractable awnings are engineered to withstand winds of 55 to 75 mph depending on the model. That said, we always recommend retracting your awning during severe weather events such as nor'easters, tropical storms, and heavy thunderstorms that are common on Long Island. For added protection and convenience, we offer the Sunsetter Wireless Wind Sensor, which automatically retracts your awning when it detects high winds. This gives you peace of mind even when you are not home.

+ I have a ranch house with low eaves. Will an awning fit on my home?

Absolutely. Ranch-style homes are very common across Long Island, and we install retractable awnings on them regularly. For homes with low eaves or limited wall space above the door or window line, we use specially designed roof-mount brackets that attach directly to the roof structure. This gives you the same full shade coverage without needing tall walls. Our technician will evaluate your specific situation during the free in-home consultation and recommend the best mounting approach.

+ What do I do with the awning in the winter?

Long Island winters bring snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, so proper winter care is important for protecting your retractable awning investment. We strongly recommend retracting your awning for the winter season and keeping it in the closed position. For additional protection, we offer the Sunsetter All-Weather Winter Cover, a durable protective shell that shields the retracted awning from snow, ice, and debris throughout the off-season. If you prefer a hands-off approach, Long Island Awnings also offers a seasonal removal and reinstallation service. We will take your awning down in the fall, store it safely, and reinstall it in the spring so it is ready for another season of outdoor enjoyment.

+ What types of fabric choices are available for my awning?

We offer an extensive selection of premium acrylic fabrics from Sunbrella and Tempotest, two of the most respected names in outdoor fabric manufacturing. You can choose from hundreds of solid colors, stripes, and patterns to match your home's exterior and personal style. All of our fabrics are solution-dyed acrylic, which means the color goes all the way through the fiber for exceptional fade resistance. They are also water-resistant, mildew-resistant, and easy to clean. During your free consultation, we will bring fabric samples directly to your home so you can see exactly how each option looks against your house.

+ Can retractable awnings handle Long Island's coastal salt air?

Yes. All of the retractable awning systems we install use powder-coated aluminum frames and stainless steel hardware that are specifically designed to resist corrosion from salt air exposure. This is especially important for homes along Long Island's coastline, from the South Shore beaches to the North Shore harbors. The acrylic fabrics from Sunbrella and Tempotest also resist salt damage, mildew, and moisture. With basic care and our optional seasonal maintenance service, your retractable awning will perform beautifully for many years in a coastal environment.

+ Do you service both Nassau and Suffolk County?

Yes, Long Island Awnings proudly serves all of Nassau County and Suffolk County, from the western border near Queens all the way out to Montauk. Whether your home is in Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Smithtown, Islip, Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, or anywhere else on the island, our team will come directly to you for consultations, installations, and repairs. We also serve parts of Queens for select projects.

+ How do retractable screens hold up in Long Island winters?

Our retractable screens are designed for three-season use and should be retracted and stored in their housing during the winter months. The screen fabric and housing are built to withstand rain, wind, and temperature swings during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. When winter arrives, simply retract the screens into their protective cassette housing, where they are shielded from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. This simple step keeps your screens in excellent condition year after year.

+ What is the warranty on your retractable awnings?

Warranty coverage varies by product and manufacturer. Sunsetter retractable awnings come with a limited warranty that covers the frame, hardware, and fabric for a specified period. KE Outdoor Design products include their own manufacturer warranty. During your consultation, we will provide complete warranty details for the specific product you choose. Long Island Awnings also stands behind our installation workmanship, and our team is always available to address any issues that arise after your installation is complete.

+ Can I get a retractable roof for my restaurant or commercial space?

Absolutely. Commercial retractable roof installations are one of our specialties. We have outfitted restaurants, hotels, event venues, bars, and retail spaces across Long Island with retractable roof and pergola cover systems that maximize outdoor seating capacity regardless of the weather. Our commercial systems from KE Outdoor Design feature heavy-duty aluminum construction, commercial-grade waterproof fabrics, and quiet motorized operation. Contact us to discuss your commercial project and schedule a free on-site evaluation.

+ How much does a retractable awning cost on Long Island?

The cost of a retractable awning depends on several factors, including the size of the area you want to cover, the type of system (manual vs. motorized), the fabric selection, and any optional accessories like wind sensors or protective covers. We offer solutions to fit a range of budgets, and we provide free, no-obligation estimates for every project. The best way to get an accurate price is to schedule a free in-home consultation where we will measure your space, discuss your options, and provide a detailed quote on the spot.

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Location Served

60 Ralph Ave. Copiague, NY 11726

Hours

Mon: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tue: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wed: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thu: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Fri: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sat: CLOSED
Sun: CLOSED