Frequently Asked Questions

Why do SunSetters cost so much less than a custom awning? Will it stand up to years of service? Will it last?

SunSetters are such good values because as the largest American manufacturer of home Awnings, we buy raw materials at the best prices possible, we assemble our awnings at the most efficient way, using electricity generated by the sun, and we pass the savings along to you. Yet when it comes to quality you'll find you're not giving up anything. Your SunSetter Awning is assembled with care in America in our 78,000 sq. ft. factory using only the finest quality materials. Our struts and supports are made from high quality aluminum for superior strength without excess weight. Our rolling mechanisms have been tested for over 20,000 cycles without failure - the equivalent of over 20 year's use.

What is the difference between the Motorized, Motorized XL, VISTA, 1000XT, and SunSetter Oasis models?

The SunSetter Motorized Awning, the Motorized XL, and the VISTA awning are all lateral-arm awnings. They do not have vertical support arms. The SunSetter Motorized and Motorized XL are electric-powered awnings that open and closes with the touch of a remote control (included). They are our most popular models. You just plug the 18 ft. cord into a grounded electrical outlet. The motor is hidden in the roller bar itself. The VISTA Awning is manually-operated using a hand-cranked gear mechanism. The hand crank is included.

Can a retractable awning help keep the inside of my home cooler?

Yes. In addition to keeping your deck or patio up to 20 degrees cooler, by blocking the sun from shining in a patio door or window, you can keep the inside of your house cooler, save on air conditioning bills and help prevent your carpets from fading! A SunSetter helps cut energy use, and lowers your carbon footprint.

Which SunSetter model is right for me?

That depends on your needs, where you live, where you want to install the awning, how you plan to use it, and your budget. Each model offers distinct advantages.

If you want the absolute ease, elegance, and simplicity of one-touch operation and an awning that has no vertical supports, the Motorized SunSetter or the larger Motorized XL is the obvious choice. (Our motorized awnings are designed to be retracted when not in use.) They not designed to be used with a Screen Room or Rainaway Arches. Our Motorized model costs more than the manual models - because of their superb quality Somfy motor and "lateral arm" system. But they are still hundreds of dollars less than the competition - without sacrificing any features or quality.

If you prefer the lateral-arm design over the XT models, but do not need motorization, the manually-operated VISTA should be your choice.

If you live where wind is a factor; if you plan to leave your awning open much of the time; if you want to take advantage of accessories such as our Rainaway Arches; if you have low eaves; or if you want the most awning for the least cost, the Model 1000XT is your best choice. You can also adjust the pitch of the 1000XT simply by raising or lowering the support arms.

If you want to put shade and protection anywhere, near your pool or just further away from your house, our freestanding SunSetter Oasis in either the motorized or manual version is the model you want. The manual version can be placed anywhere there is a level surface. The motorized version comes with a 24 ft. power cord.

We want to emphasize that no matter which model you select, you can't make a bad choice when it comes to a SunSetter. You'll always be getting a superbly built, easy-to-operate, beautiful awning at an exceptional price. We guarantee your satisfaction or we'll give you your money back.

What type of fabric do you use and how long does it last?

Our decorator Woven Acrylic Fabric is the same superb quality woven fabric found on custom-made awnings across the country, but we offer exclusive stripe combinations available only from SunSetter. This woven fabric is water repellant, and 100% solution-dyed. The color goes all the way through, so it resists fading and will hold its beautiful colors for years.

Is the awning fabric easy to clean?

Yes. Most dirt will come off just by brushing the fabric while dry and then further washing it with lukewarm water and mild soap. For stubborn dirt, follow our care and maintenance instructions included with your awning.

Can I adjust the front height of the awning?

Yes, the Model 1000XT has adjustable arms which allow you to adjust the front height easily to suit your preferences or the weather. You can move it up or down to block the sun, wind, or rain as you wish. You can even adjust the two arms independently so that one side is higher than the other for better rain runoff. The front height on the SunSetter Motorized, Motorized XL, VISTA Awnings can also be adjusted, but it requires a few mechanical steps.

Do I have to take down my awning and store it over the winter?

No. Just close your awning and leave it on your house all year long. The SunSetter Oasis freestanding model can also be left retracted outside -- no need to store it.

Is the SunSetter good for use on a garage, outbuilding, or mobile home?

Yes. Many people have installed SunSetter Awnings on their garages, mobile homes, poolside fences, and other stationary walls.

I have a Ranch house with low eaves. Will the SunSetter fit on my home?

We can install the Model 1000XT on houses with mounting heights as low as 7 ft. under overhangs and gutters. The SunSetter motorized Awning and VISTA awning need a floor-to-eave clearance of 7 ft. 6 inches.