Shade that disappears
when you don't need it.

With routine retraction in storms and standard cleaning, expect 15–20 years of service from the frame and 10–12 years from the fabric. The Olympus, Regal, and Summit carry lifetime frame warranties; the Rainier carries a 10-year frame warranty. Most failures we see in PNW installs are fabric-related — sun and rain are the long-term enemies — and Sunbrella holds up better than almost anything else available.

Retractable awnings are rated for moderate wind extended — typically up to about 25 mph. The right answer for high winds is to retract. That's why we recommend the optional wind sensor on every install: it auto-retracts when gusts hit your threshold, even if you're not home. The Summit is the exception in the line — it's Miami-Dade NOA-rated for hurricane-zone wind loads when extended, which is why we recommend it for commercial and exposed sites.

Light rain is fine — the awnings are pitched to shed water. Heavy or prolonged rain isn't recommended because water can pool in the fabric and stretch it over time. The fabric is waterproof; the issue is weight and pooling, not the fabric itself. If you live somewhere it rains for weeks at a time (so, here), retract during long stretches and you'll get the longest service life out of the fabric.

If the awning is extended when power goes out, it stays extended — the motor holds position. If a storm is rolling in and you've lost power, that's a problem, which is why every install ships with an emergency manual override. A small crank engages the motor and lets you retract by hand. Takes about a minute on most models.

In most King, Pierce, and Snohomish County jurisdictions, retractable awnings on residential homes don't require a permit — they're treated like an attached fixture, not a structure. Commercial installs and large Summits over 30 feet wide sometimes need engineering review. We handle that paperwork on every install where it applies; you don't have to chase it.

From signed quote to installed: typically 4–6 weeks for the Rainier, Olympus, and Regal; 6–8 weeks for the Summit. Sunbrella fabric availability is the most common variable. Spring is our busiest season — if you want it on the wall before Memorial Day, get the consultation on the calendar by mid-March.

Less than you'd think. Once or twice a year, hose down the fabric while it's extended, brush off any tree debris, and check that the arms still pivot freely. The motors are sealed and don't need lubrication. We offer an annual maintenance check for $200 if you want a professional eye on it — but most homeowners do it themselves and never have an issue.

Frame: pick from the standard finishes for your model (3 on the Rainier, 2 matte on the Regal, 4 on the Olympus and Summit). Fabric: 150+ Sunbrella patterns and solids — most homeowners can find a near-perfect match for their siding or trim color. We'll bring physical fabric and frame samples to the consultation so you can hold them against your house in real light.