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Awning

An awning is a retractable sun and weather cover made of fabric, mounted on a facade, terrace or balcony, that can be extended or retracted over a frame as needed. It shades the outdoor area, reduces heat in the rooms behind it and offers protection from sun and light rain.

Updated 2026-10-11

Awning: Handwerk & Bau – CityHero glossary graphic

What is Awning?

At its core an awning consists of a weather-resistant fabric wound onto a roller tube and of articulated arms that tension the fabric as it extends. It is driven either by hand with a crank or conveniently by an electric motor, often complemented by remote control, an app or sun and wind sensors. Common types include open and cassette (fully enclosed) folding-arm awnings, drop-arm and vertical awnings for windows, as well as conservatory and pergola systems for larger areas.

The process starts with on-site measuring and consultation: orientation, facade material, wind exposure and the desired area determine the right model. This is followed by ordering the made-to-measure fabric, professionally anchoring the unit into masonry or concrete, and adjusting the pitch and controls.

An awning is needed wherever a terrace, seating area or shop window overheats or glares in summer - in private homes just as much as in restaurants and retail stores.

Look for spun-dyed acrylic fabrics (colourfast, dirt-repellent), a sturdy substructure suited to the wind load, and clean fixing. Common mistakes are anchoring that is too weak, a missing wind sensor on motorised units, and an undersized fabric. Costs depend on size, type, fabric quality, motorisation and installation effort.

Example: Awning in practice

A family in Winterthur wants to shade their south-west-facing terrace because the seating area heats up strongly from midday. After taking measurements, the tradesperson recommends a closed cassette awning about four metres wide, with an electric motor and a wind sensor so the fabric retracts automatically in gusts. This keeps the terrace usable on hot afternoons and the living room behind it cooler.

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Frequently asked

Does an awning keep out rain?

A classic folding-arm awning protects against light drizzle when extended with enough pitch. It is not built for lasting rain protection: in heavier rain or wind the fabric should be retracted, otherwise water pockets can form. If you want genuine all-weather cover, a louvered roof or a water-draining pergola is the better choice.

Do I need a permit for an awning?

That depends on the municipality, zone and building. In rented flats you need the landlord's or owner's consent, and in condominium ownership usually a decision by the owners' association. In core zones or on protected facades a building permit may be required. Clarify this with the municipality - and the property management if relevant - before ordering.

What does an awning cost?

There is no fixed price, as it depends heavily on size, type, fabric quality, drive (crank or motor) and installation effort. A small crank awning is considerably cheaper than a wide motorised cassette awning with sensors. It is best to request several quotes after an on-site measurement so the prices are truly comparable.

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