ArcaMax

Give your home a facelift that protects it from the damage of strong sunlight with the addition of a colorful aluminum awning at the entry door. That curb appeal is nice, but you’ll also enjoy lower summer energy costs and gain protection from the rain with this positive improvement. To make a statement, choose a color that contrasts with the siding; for a more subtle look, go with a color that blends with the siding. Curb appeal is one incentive, but blocking the glare from the sun and lowering summer energy costs is another. An aluminum awning is a well-tested material known for its durability.

To install an awning involves assembling the unit and then fastening it to the siding with interlocking hangers. Have a helper who is strong enough to hold the awning in place while you secure it. And try to schedule the job on a not-so-windy day to make the installation go smoothly.

If you’re a handy homeowner with some carpentry experience and tools, you can make the installation of a 5-foot wide awning for $296. A contractor will charge $450, which includes labor and material.

You’ll find aluminum awnings sold online and at home centers, and both sellers will provide guidelines about measuring so you’ll order the correct size. The key measurements include the height and width of the door, the projection of the awning and the drop of the side panels. The units are sold with adjustable support arms and come partially assembled with the installation hardware.

Pro Cost: $450 — DIY Cost: $296 — Pro time: 4.0
DIY Time: 5.0 — DIY Savings: $154 — Percent Saved: 34%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2026 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.