Retractable awnings provide protection for your sundeck, patio or pool area as and when you need it. They’re of course a lot more affordable than building a permanent type of cover. It’s amazing what a lot of usable space you can create with one of these though. While it’s possible to have such an awning installed by a carpenter or even a handyman, it’s possible to install it yourself. For the DIY type of guy: here’s an outline of the way it should be done.

Get to know the contents:

To begin, unpack everything from the box and put them down in an orderly way on the lawn or a similar flat surface. Scrutinize every part until you know where it should go. And yes guys, this is also the time you should read the instruction manual, not afterwards!

Get the correct height:

Decide at which height the awning has to be mounted. To do this properly you must first decide how high the front rail should be. Then decide on how steep you want the pitch to be. Added to the height of the front rail, it will give you the height of the mounting.

Draw lines:

Now get yourself a piece of chalk and then draw a straight, horizontal line across the external side of the wall where you want to fit the awning. To make sure the line is straight and horizontal, use a measuring tape and a carpenter’s level.

Where are the studs:

This is very important. You can’t simply mount the awning anywhere you want on the wall. You have to find the interior studs first. If you don’t mount it to a stud, joist or header, the first strong wind will probably destroy all your handiwork. You will probably have to locate the studs on the inside of the wall and use a measuring tape to not how far it is from the nearest door or window. Then do the same measurement on the outside of the wall. Drill a couple of locator holes to ensure that you have found the precise center of the stud. Then use your chalk and draw a vertical line of about 10cm to 15 down from that point.

Mount the brackets:

The following step is to situate the brackets with which you’re going to fasten the awning on the vertical line that you’ve drawn. Take a pen or a piece of chalk to mark the exact spots of the mounting holes. Then use the bolts provided in the kit to mount the bracket along the line you have drawn.

Fit the roof:

You’re nearly done. Your next step is to fasten the awning to the brackets that you’ve just mounted. The way to do this differs slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer, so read their instructions. Basically the awning bar has to be fastened to the brackets, making sure it’s securely mounted.

The correct pitch:

Now all that remains is to set the pitch of the awning. Remember that if it’s too little, water may collect on top of the awning and if it’s too much, people may bump their heads.

Retractable awnings is a great way to increase your living space and at the same time protect you against the sun and rain. It’s a sound investment and doesn’t take a rocket scientist to install.

If you want to add to the functionality of your patio or deck, retractable awnings Lincoln location provides a wide range of options. Retractable awnings add usable outdoor living space quickly and easily.