The best awning companies combine smart tech, durable fabric, and expert installation. Marygrove leads the field with in-house service, fast lead times, and full-featured designs. SunSetter, Sunesta, Advaning, and ALEKO offer varying value depending on use and budget.
What to Expect from a Top-Rated Awning Company
Not all awning companies are built the same. Some excel at service, some offer customization, and others just get the job done.
But if you’re serious about getting shade that lasts, the difference between a good awning and a regrettable one starts with the company you choose.
Here’s what the best ones deliver:
- Seamless installation by trained, in-house professionals
- Smart-home features like app control and weather sensors
- Durable, full-cassette designs that protect fabric and motors
- UV-resistant polyester that outlasts cheaper fabrics
- Clear warranties that actually cover what matters
- Options to match your home’s style and structure
Whether you’re building out a patio, upgrading a deck, or covering a storefront, the wrong awning can end up costing you more than the right one.
Choosing the best awning company doesn’t have to be a gamble, and companies like Marygrove make it clear what a premium experience should look like. We have compiled a simple chart below to examine the differences along with breakdowns by brands. We also referenced data from each brand’s website, along with reviews, and Reddit comments to be as accurate as possible.
The Top Awning Brands That Homeowners Trust (And What Sets Them Apart)
Before choosing an awning, most homeowners start by comparing the top brands.
But not all awning companies operate on equal ground. Some outsource service, others focus on mass production, and a few still believe in craftsmanship and local support.
Below, we break down five leading names in the market so you can make an informed, confident decision.
Brand Comparison | In-House Install | Smart Features | Full Cassette | Customization | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Yes | Voice, app, weather automation | Standart | Fabrics, frames, sizes | 10 years |
 | Dealer-based | Limited (wind sensors, LEDs) | Semi only | Moderate fabrics & colors | Shorter |
 | DIY/self-install | Basic remote only | Open/semi | Basic options | Short |
 | Specialty contractors | Advanced pitch, some smart add-ons | Available | Extensive, premium | European coverage |
 | Dealer network | Some smart options | Standart | Flexible options | Longer than average |
 | Dealer network | None | Yes | Limited | Focus on durability |
 | Dealer/regional | None | Basic only | Limited | Varies by distributor |
Brand Comparison | In-House Install | Smart Features | Full Cassette | Customization | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Voice, app, weather automation | Standart | Fabrics, frames, sizes | 10 years |
| Dealer-based | Limited (wind sensors, LEDs) | Semi only | Moderate fabrics & colors | Shorter |
| DIY/self-install | Basic remote only | Open/semi | Basic options | Short |
| Specialty contractors | Advanced pitch, some smart add-ons | Available | Extensive, premium | European coverage |
| Dealer network | Some smart options | Standart | Flexible options | Longer than average |
| Dealer network | None | Yes | Limited | Focus on durability |
| Dealer/regional | None | Basic only | Limited | Varies by distributor |
1. Marygrove Awnings
A family-run powerhouse with over 90 years of experience, Marygrove has become one of the most trusted names in residential retractable awnings.
Known for its hands-on approach and high-end smart features, the company delivers a fully integrated experience, from design to installation, with no outsourcing at any stage.
Pros:
- In-house installation and service teams
- Fully enclosed cassette design standard
- App and voice-controlled “smart” tech with weather retraction
- Fast lead times thanks to pre-inventoried sizes
- Over 1,000 positive reviews across major platforms
What’s Missing:
- Not suitable for renters or very small installs
Marygrove is built for homeowners who value premium protection, seamless service, and real smart-home integration.
It’s the company that raises the bar for what an awning experience should feel like.
Also Read → Top Awning Frame and Fabric Materials for Long-Term Use
2. SunSetter Awnings
Source: SunSetter
SunSetter is a familiar option for many first-time awning buyers, often showing up in big-box stores and general online searches.
It offers a mix of manual and motorized models designed for straightforward, entry-level use.
Pros:
- Offers both manual and motorized options
- Reasonably priced for most households
- Wide variety of basic fabric and size options
- Can be purchased without going through a consultation process
- Appeals to budget-conscious shoppers
What’s Missing:
- Reported customer service issues
- Lawsuit history regarding falling units
- Lower-grade fabric unless upgraded
- No full cassette standard
- Dealer model can lead to inconsistent installs
SunSetter may suit those looking for a quick, budget-oriented solution, but it leaves many of the advanced features, protections, and long-term considerations off the table.
3. Sunesta
Source: Sunesta
Known for customization and premium materials, Sunesta appeals to buyers who want every detail tailored to their home.
Pros:
- Custom width, projection, and fabric options
- High-end fade-resistant acrylic fabrics
- Drop valance and wind sensor upgrades available
- Full cassette housing available on select models
- Long warranty options (up to 10 years)
What’s Missing:
- Expensive compared to competitors
- Slower delivery timelines (6–8 weeks)
- Requires dealer for purchase and installation
- Not a DIY-friendly brand
- Limited smart-home integration
Sunesta is well-suited for homeowners who want full control over design and are willing to invest in a longer-lasting, high-quality product.
Just be prepared for a slower buying process and a price tag that reflects the premium positioning.
4. Advaning
Source: Advaning
A reliable mid-to-premium brand with an emphasis on quiet operation, modern aesthetics, and pre-engineered models.
Pros:
- Quiet motor operation
- Sleek, modern hardware designs
- Adjustable pitch functionality
- Easy-to-navigate website and ordering system
- Strong online reviews for quality
What’s Missing:
- Limited service or support post-install
- Some reports of challenging DIY installs
- Not as customizable as Sunesta
- No in-house teams for installation
- Limited wind sensor integrations
Advaning strikes a middle ground between budget and boutique, offering solid performance with a more contemporary look.
It’s best for those who don’t mind a bit of DIY effort and prefer to skip the full-service experience.
5. ALEKO
Source: ALEKO
ALEKO is a budget-friendly brand primarily sold through online marketplaces. It caters to homeowners looking for the lowest possible price point, often for short-term or rental applications.
Pros:
- Very low price points
- Widely available online
- Lightweight and simple designs
- Basic motorized options available
- Great for temporary or seasonal use
What’s Missing:
- Lower build quality and fabric durability
- Minimal warranty and limited product support
- No smart-home or weather sensor features
- Rarely includes full installation hardware
- No service network for repairs or follow-up
ALEKO is an option when cost is the driving factor and long-term use isn’t a priority.
It’s best suited for DIYers or renters who need basic shade without the expectations of performance or support.
Each of these brands brings something different to the table, but finding the right fit goes beyond names or price tags.
Before you decide, it’s worth understanding the features, materials, and installation details that truly define a great awning experience.
Helpful Resource → How Much Do Retractable Awnings Cost in 2025? [Full Pricing Guide]
What to Consider Before Choosing an Awning Company
Hear What Cake Boss Has To Say About Marygrove Awnings
Just ask Cake Boss, he went with Marygrove. And for good reason: Buying an awning isn’t just about picking a popular brand.
The best long-term experiences come from understanding how an awning fits your space, climate, and lifestyle.
These seven considerations will help you look beyond the logo and focus on what really matters.
- Installation quality: Even a great awning fails with poor installation. Prioritize in-house teams or certified pros for dependable setup.
- Smart features: Look for weather retraction, voice assistant compatibility, and automation, not just a remote or mobile app.
- Cassette design: Full cassette housings protect fabric and motors from weather, debris, and UV damage when not in use.
- Material matters: High-quality polyester resists fading, holds color, and handles daily sun exposure better than vinyl alternatives.
- Warranty clarity: Review coverage carefully. Some skip motors or labor. The best warranties are clear, honest, and inclusive.
- Mounting style compatibility: Brick, siding, and stucco require different hardware. Match your awning to your home’s surface type.
- Customization options: Flexible sizes, valances, and fabric patterns help your awning blend seamlessly with your space and style.
Choosing the right features and structure is just part of the equation, and this is where companies like Marygrove consistently shine.
Because when an awning is built and installed right the first time, it doesn’t just look better, it performs better for years.
Helpful Resource → How to Protect Your Awning from Wind Damage
Why Cheap Awnings Often Cost More in the Long Run
It’s easy to focus on price when choosing an awning, but going with the cheapest option often leads to regret.
Whether it’s fading fabric, poor installation, or zero support when things go wrong, low-cost awnings tend to cut corners that matter.
Here’s why the least expensive choice may end up costing you more.
1. Cheap Fabrics Don’t Last
Most low-cost awnings use thin polyester or vinyl without proper UV treatment.
These materials fade, fray, or tear after one or two seasons, especially in full-sun areas. Once the color fades and the edges sag, replacement becomes the only real option.
2. Warranties Are Short Or Nonexistent
Budget awnings often come with minimal or no warranty protection.
Some offer just 90 days on fabric or a limited parts guarantee that excludes motors and installation. When issues arise, you’re usually left to deal with them on your own.
3. Poor Installation Leads To Bigger Problems
Many inexpensive awnings are marketed as DIY-friendly but come with unclear instructions or inadequate brackets.
Improper installation can damage siding, brick, or stucco, and in windy conditions, unsecured awnings can pull away from the wall entirely.
4. Replacement Parts Are Hard To Find
With off-brand or mass-produced models, getting replacement parts can be nearly impossible. Whether it’s a motor failure or broken arm, the cost to repair is often equal to buying a new unit.
5. No Support When You Need It
Most ultra-cheap awnings are sold online with little or no after-sale support. If something goes wrong, there’s rarely a team or service network to call for help.
When it comes to awnings, choosing the cheapest option often means sacrificing quality where it matters most.
From fabric lifespan to installation safety and support, the risks add up quickly. Spending a little more upfront can save you a lot more in the long run.
That’s why Marygrove stand out, offering long-term durability, smart features, and professional installation that prevent these exact pitfalls.
With in-house service, high-quality materials, and real support, it’s the kind of investment that protects itself over time.
Choose the Right Awning with Confidence
The best awning companies deliver more than shade, they offer long-term reliability, smart convenience, and support when you need it.
Whether you want full-service installation, fabric that doesn’t fade, or tech that works with your home, it all starts with choosing the right partner.
Avoid the pitfalls of poor support, cheap hardware, and fading fabric by sticking with Marygrove.
And remember, the right awning doesn’t just cover your space, it elevates it.
Looking for professional-grade installation with no guesswork? Marygrove’s in-house team can help you get started with a custom setup built to last.
