Motorized screens vs. retractable awnings.

Wind resistance

Retractable awnings are fabric panels cantilevered out from the wall on arms. Manufacturers typically rate them for winds of 20–25 mph before they must be retracted, and a sudden gust can bend the arms or tear the fabric. Motorized patio screens run vertically inside a track system anchored to the structure. Ours are engineered to hold in sustained winds well beyond what an awning can survive, which is why we install them in Oklahoma, the Emerald Coast, and along the Front Range.

Sun and heat

An awning shades from above and blocks overhead sun, but low-angle morning and evening sun still hits the seating area. A motorized screen drops floor to ceiling and blocks direct sun at every angle, cutting radiant heat on the patio dramatically without giving up the view.

Bugs

This is the biggest difference. Awnings do nothing for mosquitoes, wasps, or no-see-ums. Our motorized screens use a welded vinyl-coated mesh that fully encloses the opening, turning an open patio into a screened-in room at the push of a button — then back to an open patio when you're done.

Durability and service

Awning fabric fades and stretches; the arm mechanisms are exposed to weather year-round. Motorized screens retract into an aluminum cassette when not in use, so the fabric and motor spend most of their life protected from UV and rain. Because we manufacture our own shades, replacement parts and service calls don't wait on a distributor — our own crews handle them.

Value

A quality retractable awning and a quality motorized screen land in the same price neighborhood on a per-opening basis. The screen protects against wind, sun, and bugs, retracts out of sight, and comes with our 5-year warranty backed by the factory that made it. For most patios, it's the better long-term investment.

Quick comparison

• Wind: Screens — engineered for high wind. Awnings — retract by 20–25 mph.
• Sun at all angles: Screens — yes. Awnings — overhead only.
• Bugs: Screens — full mesh enclosure. Awnings — none.
• Protected when closed: Screens — cassette-housed. Awnings — arms exposed.
• View preserved: Both — yes.
• Made in USA and installed by employees: Shade Co screens — yes.

Want to see them in person? Every one of our local markets can put a working shade in front of you, and every quote comes with our best price guarantee.