How to Put up Fabric Awnings

Lay the awning frame, or housing, on a flat surface and measure its width with a tape measure. Position a ladder above the door or window where you are installing the awning and measure its width. Divide the window width by two to locate the center then draw a pencil line over the location that is the same length as the awning. The awning will be slightly longer than the window opening.

Place the mounting brackets for the awning up to the pencil line and mark inside each screw hole. There are typically at least three brackets, but there may be more, depending on your model of awning.

Set the brackets aside and put on a pair of safety glasses. Drill 1/4-inch-diameter holes in each pencil mark with a drill bit.

Reposition the mounting brackets and insert 1-inch masonry screws, or the ones provided, through each hole to secure the brackets to the wall.

Set the frame on the ground just as it will hang once installed. Drape the fabric awning over the frame so it is even on all sides and secure the awning to the frame. Awnings usually attach via snaps or clips that wrap around the frame; refer to your specific model instructions for the attachment method.

Lift the main housing up onto the bracket and snap it into place. Ask another person to hold it upright while you angle a drop arm along the left side. The base of the arm should sit flat against the wall or the housing frame, and the other end will grasp the front of the frame to hold it up. Drill pilot holes into the wall and insert the provided screws to hold the arm in place if it mounts to the home. If it mounts to the frame, simply insert the screws with the drill.

Repeat the process on the opposite side of the awning to install the other drop arm.