What to Know Before Installing an Awning

June 5, 2025

Smart Planning for Lasting Results

Adding an awning to your property is one of the most effective ways to improve both form and function. Whether you’re looking to create a shaded retreat, reduce indoor heat from sun exposure, or simply elevate your outdoor aesthetic, these structures offer a versatile solution.


That said, a project like this is more than just picking a design and signing a contract. At MQ Awnings, we work with clients who value quality, durability, and attention to detail—and we know that getting the best results starts with being fully informed from the beginning.


If you’re considering a new awning for your home or business, here are the key things to know before you start.

A blue house with white trim and awnings on the windows

Know What You Want the Structure to Do

Before selecting materials, colors, or styles, clarify your priorities. Ask yourself:



  • Do you want to create shade over a deck, patio, or pool area?
  • Are you looking for something retractable or fixed?
  • Will the structure need to withstand high winds or harsh sun year-round?
  • Do you want a clean, modern look or something more classic?


The right solution depends on how you use your space.

A row of houses with striped awnings on their porches

Understand Your Material Options

Not all awnings are created equal. Material selection plays a major role in how your structure performs over time, especially in our climate.


  • Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low-maintenance—ideal for coastal areas.
  • Powder-coated steel adds strength and can be customized in a variety of finishes.
  • Fabric awnings offer breathable shade and are often used in retractable applications.
  • Polycarbonate covers provide UV protection and a sleek, modern appearance.



We help you choose materials that align with your design goals, environmental conditions, and expected use.

A large swimming pool with a blue umbrella in the background

Pay Attention to Mounting and Structural Integrity

How your awning attaches to your property matters. Improper installation can damage walls or roofing, especially if water drainage isn’t addressed or support posts aren’t properly secured.



Our team takes precise measurements and evaluates structural load, mounting surfaces, and wind exposure to ensure your installation is safe and built to last. Every project is custom-measured and fabricated to fit your exact specifications.

A house with a sliding glass door and a white railing

Don’t Overlook the Visual Impact

A shade structure is not just functional—it becomes part of your home or business’s exterior. The wrong style or proportion can feel out of place. The right design enhances curb appeal and adds visual cohesion.



We offer design consultations to help you select the right color, shape, and finish to complement your building. Whether you want a statement piece or something that blends seamlessly, every detail matters.

A white mobile home with black shutters and a porch.

Choose the Right Installation Partner

This is not the kind of project to cut corners on. A poorly installed awning can cause damage, wear out prematurely, or detract from your property’s appearance.


MQ Awnings specializes in high-quality, custom-built installations using premium materials and expert craftsmanship. We manage everything from permitting to fabrication to final installation—and we do it with professionalism and precision.


Plan It Right. Build It Right.

Adding a shade structure is an investment in comfort, style, and usability. When done thoughtfully, it can redefine how you experience your outdoor space.


If you’re ready to explore options for an awning, our team at MQ Awnings is here to help. Reach out for a consultation and let us help you create a solution that fits your space, your style, and your future.

A building with a awning on the side of it
A blue and white striped awning is covering a patio.
A man is sitting on a chair outside of a house.
A patio with a table and chairs under an awning.
A house with two white garage doors and a large window
A white door with a blue awning over it.

How to Extend the Life of Your Custom Awning: Care and Maintenance Tips

July 17, 2025
 Essential Awning Care Investing in a high-quality custom awning is a smart decision, one that improves your outdoor living space, adds architectural character to your home or business, and provides long-lasting protection from the elements. But like any investment exposed to weather and time, your awning needs proper care to maintain its performance and appearance. At MQ Awnings, we build canopies that are engineered to last. That said, routine upkeep plays a vital role in keeping your awning looking sharp and functioning as intended. Below are practical tips to help you extend the life of your awning, whether it is installed at a residential property or a commercial storefront.

The Role of Awnings in ADA Compliance and Accessible Design

July 11, 2025
Functional and Inclusive Designing an accessible building is about more than just meeting code requirements — it’s about creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments for everyone. For commercial properties, one of the most overlooked but valuable elements in accessible design is the awning. At MQ Awnings, we specialize in crafting custom awning solutions that do more than provide shade — they enhance functionality, safety, and accessibility. In this article, we’ll explore how properly designed and installed awnings can support ADA compliance and why they matter in inclusive architectural planning.

Custom Printing for Commercial Awnings: Make Shade Work for Your Brand

July 3, 2025
First Impressions Start at the Curb For businesses across Southern California , storefront visibility is everything. Whether you’re drawing foot traffic in a bustling shopping district or building repeat business in a quieter neighborhood, first impressions matter. One of the most overlooked yet effective tools for reinforcing your visual identity is the commercial awning. When designed with intention, awnings are more than sun protection—they become a powerful extension of your brand . At MQ Awnings, we specialize in custom-printed awnings that not only provide durable shade but also carry your business’s name, logo, and colors right out to the curb.

Outdoor Business This Summer? Improve Customer Comfort with Commercial Shade

June 27, 2025
From Curb Appeal to Comfort Summer is peak season for restaurants, cafés, markets, and storefronts that rely on foot traffic. But in Southern California, sunshine can be a double-edged sword: high heat and UV exposure make outdoor areas less inviting if shade isn’t part of the design. If your business includes outdoor seating, waiting areas, or merchandise displays, now is the time to think about adding—or upgrading—your commercial awnings. At MQ Awnings, we design and install custom awnings that make outdoor areas cooler, more comfortable, and more visually appealing. Whether you run a restaurant in Newport Beach or a boutique in Huntington Park, a well-designed awning isn’t just about blocking sun—it’s a way to improve customer experience, extend usable space, and strengthen your brand.

What Makes a High-Quality Awning?

June 19, 2025
Not all awnings are built the same. While many shade structures may look similar at a glance, the difference between a high-quality awning and one that wears out prematurely often comes down to the details—the materials used, the engineering behind it, and the experience of the team installing it.  At MQ Awnings, we have spent over 20 years designing and fabricating awnings for homes and businesses across Southern California. Our clients come to us for more than just shade—they want durability, function, and design that holds up season after season. So what exactly sets a premium awning apart from a lower-grade product? Here is what to look for.

Is It Time to Replace Your Old Awning? Here’s What to Look For

June 13, 2025
Assessing Awning Lif  espan A high-quality awning can last for years—but even the most durable shade structures do not last forever. Sun, wind, moisture, and age all take a toll. In Southern California, where exposure to intense UV rays is nearly constant, fabric and hardware wear down over time—even with proper care. At MQ Awnings, we specialize in designing, fabricating, and installing long-lasting awnings built to stand up to the elements. But we also handle repairs and recovers, and we know exactly what the warning signs are when an awning is reaching the end of its lifespan. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace yours, here are the key indicators to watch for.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Get Your Backyard Ready for Summer

May 30, 2025
Summer Starts Here As the weather warms up and the days stretch longer, backyards across Southern California begin calling for attention. Whether it’s family gatherings, quiet mornings with coffee, or weekend barbecues with friends, outdoor spaces come alive in the summer. But comfort, shade, and functionality do not happen on their own. Investing in the right shade structures now—awnings, pergolas, or canopies—can make all the difference when it comes time to enjoy the season. If you have been thinking about upgrading your outdoor space, this is the ideal moment to act. Here’s why.

Why Fabric Quality Matters: Choosing an Awning Company That Prioritizes Premium Materials

May 23, 2025
Quality Makes All the Difference When investing in an awning for your home or business, design and installation often take center stage. However, one of the most critical—and frequently overlooked—elements of a successful awning system is the quality of the fabric itself. Whether shading a backyard patio or creating an inviting storefront, the fabric used will directly impact the awning’s performance, longevity, and appearance. At MQ Awnings, we place a strong emphasis on using only high-quality awning fabrics because we understand that the material is more than a covering—it is the backbone of the product’s durability and value.

Modern Shade Solutions for Patios, Pools, and Rooftop Terraces

May 15, 2025
Shade in Style Southern California is made for outdoor living. With warm weather most of the year, homes and businesses in the region are increasingly transforming their outdoor areas into usable, comfortable extensions of their indoor space. The key to making these spaces enjoyable year-round? Effective shade. Whether you’re hosting pool parties, relaxing on your rooftop, or enjoying your backyard patio, having the right shade solution not only improves comfort but also adds style and value. Here’s a look at some of the most popular and effective modern shade structures offered by MQ Awnings—and how they’re being used across Southern California’s diverse properties.

The Truth About UV Protection: Why Your Home Needs a Quality Awning

May 9, 2025
Smart Shade, Safer Spaces When most people think of awnings, they picture shade and comfort—but few realize just how critical awnings are for protecting against harmful ultraviolet ( UV ) rays. In sunny climates like Southern California, prolonged sun exposure isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. That’s where high-quality awnings from MQ Awnings come in. Offering up to 98% UV blockage, our awnings do more than just provide shade—they actively protect your home, health, and belongings.
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