Installing awnings – costs, types & real-life examples
Sun awnings are among the most effective ways to protect balconies, terraces, or garden seating areas from intense sunlight, heat, and harmful UV radiation. At the same time, they improve living comfort, extend the usable outdoor season, and enhance the façade.
If you’re planning to have an awning installed, the first questions are usually: How much does it cost? and Which option is the right one?
This guide gives you a transparent overview of all costs, awning types, and useful additional features.
What does it cost to have an awning installed?
The cost of a new awning depends largely on the awning model, the desired features, and the installation effort. Freestanding systems are more expensive than wall-mounted ones, and comfort features such as motors, remote control, or sensors increase the price. The following price ranges help you estimate a realistic budget.
Average total costs by awning type (incl. installation)
Freestanding awnings
Freestanding awnings are particularly stable and suitable for terraces that are not attached to a wall. For a motorised awning measuring approx. 5 × 4.5 m, expect costs of around CHF 5,000–6,000 (basic version) or CHF 7,000–9,000 (robust version). Ideal for large, open seating areas with high shading requirements.
Articulated-arm awnings (open / with roof / cassette)
Articulated-arm awnings are the most common solution in Switzerland and offer very attractive pricing. Depending on the version, a motorised 6 × 3 m awning costs around CHF 3,000 (open), CHF 3,500 (with roof), or CHF 4,000 (cassette). Ideal for balconies and façades with sufficient space.
Side awnings (horizontal / vertical)
Side awnings primarily serve as privacy and wind protection and complement existing awnings. When mounted horizontally, costs range from CHF 1,000–1,500; vertically mounted versions cost approx. CHF 1,000–1,500 depending on size and features. Perfect for balconies, terraces, exposed corners, and as an addition to articulated-arm awnings.
Telescopic-arm awnings
Telescopic-arm awnings are the premium solution for large areas of up to around 90 m² and are extremely stable. For a motorised 6 × 3 m version, expect costs of around CHF 8,000 (with roof) or CHF 12,000 (with cassette). Ideal for exposed locations or high-end terrace projects.
Additional costs
Colour selection & special fabrics
If you choose colours outside the standard range or particularly durable special fabrics, expect a surcharge of around +5–10%. This can be worthwhile if you want a precise match with the façade or outdoor furnishings.
Control options (manual, motor, remote, app)
Motors are now usually standard. If you choose a manual version, you can save around CHF 300–500 but lose a lot of convenience. Remote control or app control costs an additional CHF 150–250. For awnings wider than 6 m, a motor is mandatory.
Sensor packages (sun, wind, rain)
Sensors provide automatic safety and comfort by extending the awning in sunshine and retracting it in wind or rain. A basic sun/wind package costs around CHF 500–800; an extended sun/rain/wind package costs CHF 800–1,400. Particularly recommended for homeowners who are away during the day.
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The most important cost factors – What really influences the price?
Type of installation (wall, ceiling, rafters)
The type of installation has the greatest impact on labour costs. Wall or ceiling installation is usually straightforward, quick to complete, and therefore more affordable. Rafter installation — for example under a sloped wooden roof — requires more adjustments, special brackets, and additional time, which increases costs significantly.
Façade condition (insulated, non-insulated)
With insulated façades, installers must work particularly carefully to avoid thermal bridges and damage to the insulation. This requires suitable spacers and more time per fixing point. Installation on non-insulated façades is simpler and therefore cheaper.
Fabric quality & lifespan
The fabric determines not only the price, but also the durability of the awning. Branded fabrics with UV protection, high tear resistance, and dirt-repellent properties are more expensive, but last up to twice as long. Cheaper fabrics fade more quickly and often need to be replaced sooner — resulting in higher total costs in the long term.
Size & projection depth
The wider the awning and the further it extends, the more stable and high-quality the articulated arms, fabric shaft, and drive system must be. Large awnings require stronger mounting points and increase installation effort. Prices rise noticeably especially for projection depths of more than 3 metres.
Operation (manual, motor, remote control, automation)
Manual crank operation is the cheapest option, but quickly becomes impractical or even impossible for large awnings. Motorised models cost more, but are far more convenient and durable. Remote control or app-based operation further increases the price, while sensor automation (sun/wind/rain) adds additional safety but also raises the overall investment.
What types of awnings are available?
Freestanding awnings
Freestanding awnings are ideal for large terraces or garden areas where no wall is available for mounting. They offer maximum flexibility, as they can be positioned freely and create large shaded areas. However, they are more expensive than classic façade-mounted awnings and require a stable foundation, especially in windy locations.
● Advantages: Very flexible, large shaded area, ideal for open seating areas.
● Disadvantages: Higher costs, more complex installation, sensitive to wind.
● Ideal for whom? Households with large terraces or gardens who want maximum coverage without wall mounting.
Articulated-arm awnings
Articulated-arm awnings are the classic choice for balconies and terraces. They are comparatively affordable, discreet in appearance, and highly flexible. Motorised versions or cassette systems protect the fabric well. However, they reach their limits more quickly in strong winds, as no support posts are used.
● Advantages: Good value for money, space-saving, versatile.
● Disadvantages: Wind-sensitive, limited projection depth.
● Ideal for whom? Balconies, loggias, and terraces where good value for money is a priority.
Side awnings
Side awnings are perfect as privacy, wind, or low-angle sun protection. They ideally complement horizontal awnings and protect against low sun. However, they provide very little surface shade and are therefore not a replacement for classic sun awnings.
● Advantages: Privacy protection, wind protection, easy operation, ideal for neighbours.
● Disadvantages: No surface shading, limited height/width.
● Ideal for whom? Terraced houses, balconies, and terraces with side exposure or wind issues.
Telescopic-arm awnings
Telescopic-arm awnings are the premium solution for large terraces and hospitality areas. They allow very large projection depths and offer excellent stability. However, they are significantly more expensive than articulated-arm awnings and require plenty of space.
● Advantages: Very stable construction, large projection, high-end appearance.
● Disadvantages: High purchase costs, complex installation.
● Ideal for whom? Large terraces, exclusive outdoor areas, and demanding users who want maximum stability.
What control options are available?
Manual crank
The classic hand crank is the most affordable solution but requires physical effort and quickly becomes impractical for wider awnings. It is sufficient for small balconies or awnings that are rarely used. For systems wider than approx. 5–6 m, it is hardly a sensible option anymore.
Motor (semi-automatic)
Motorised operation is the standard today: reliable, comfortable, and reasonably priced. It is operated via a wall switch and is suitable for almost any awning. Particularly recommended if the awning is used frequently or is difficult to access.
Remote control / wireless control
With remote or wireless control, the awning can be conveniently operated from a seat or from inside the house. Ideal when no additional wiring is desired or when several awnings need to be operated simultaneously.
Smart home / app
The awning is controlled via smartphone, tablet, or a smart-home system. Perfect for users who want automation (e.g. “extend awning when sunny”). Especially useful in modern households or when multiple systems (e.g. shading, lighting) are networked.
Automatic control with sensors
Sun, wind, and rain sensors take over full control: the awning extends or retracts automatically — even when no one is home. This protects the fabric, prevents storm damage, and ensures optimal shading. The ideal choice for large terraces, frequent use, and maximum safety.
Cost examples from real projects
Awning for a balcony
For a small to medium-sized balcony, articulated-arm awnings or side awnings are usually sufficient. A classic 4 × 2.5 m articulated-arm awning in standard design with motor typically costs CHF 2,000–4,000, depending on fabric quality and installation effort. If the façade is insulated or installation under sloping rafters is required, the effort — and price — increases by several hundred francs. Colour selection, remote control, or higher fabric quality can increase the price by an additional 10–15%. For many apartments, this is the ideal, affordable solution with good sun protection.
Awning for seating area / garden
For larger open areas such as seating areas, garden zones, or outdoor dining spaces, freestanding awnings or wider articulated-arm or telescopic awnings are particularly suitable. A motorised 5 × 3 m awning usually costs CHF 4,000–6,000, while freestanding models range from CHF 7,000–10,000. The higher price is due to stronger support profiles, more robust arms, and more complex foundations or posts. If guests are hosted frequently or the area is used regularly, investing in greater stability and wind resistance is worthwhile.
Awning for terrace with automation
For terraces with strong sun exposure or changeable weather, a fully automated solution with sensors is recommended. A 6 × 3 m telescopic or articulated-arm awning with high-quality fabric, motor, remote control, app control, and sun/wind sensors typically costs CHF 6,000–8,000. After adding fabric upgrades and installation, total costs can reach CHF 5,000–8,000. The awning extends automatically before strong sun and retracts before storms — preventing damage and saving hassle in the long run. Ideal for frequently used terraces, holiday homes, or customers who want maximum comfort.
Which awning is right for your home?
The right awning depends primarily on the installation location, frequency of use, operating comfort, and budget. Small balconies benefit from affordable articulated-arm awnings, while large terraces or garden areas require stable freestanding or telescopic awnings. Additional functions such as remote control, app control, or sensors increase costs but significantly improve comfort and service life. Most important of all is professional installation — because it determines whether your awning will last 10 or 20 years.
Get awning quotes
Free & without obligation
With just a few clicks, receive up to three awning quotes from vetted specialist companies in your area.