How to Install a Retractable Awning on Vinyl Siding

Retractable awnings typically are an electrical unit operated by a remote control to open and close the awning. This type of awning is typically installed on the side of a house to provide shade for a deck or patio. Install a retractable awning on the vinyl siding of your home by first determining the type of awning you want and then installing the mounting brackets.

Step 1

Measure the length of the awning with the tape measure. Determine the location for the awning.

Step 2

Measure up from the deck or patio about 7 to 8 feet, using a tape measure. Make a mark every 2 feet, the length of the awning, with a pencil. Connect the marks with a chalk line.

Step 3

Find the location of the exterior wall studs with the stud finder. Mark the studs' location on the vinyl siding with a pencil.

Step 4

Place the 2-by-8 board on the outside wall along the chalk mark to use as a header board.

Step 5

Pre-drill holes into the header board at the location of each stud with a power drill.

Step 6

Insert lag bolts into each hole and tighten them with a socket wrench.

Step 7

Measure the awning and note the location of each of the mounting bracket supports. Transfer these measurements to the header board.

Step 8

Place the mounting brackets on the header board at the location of a wall stud. Pre-drill a hole into the header board for the mounting bracket.

Step 9

Place the mounting brackets over the holes and insert a lag bolt. Tighten the lag bolts with the socket wrench.

Step 10

Set the retractable awning in the mounting brackets and then inset the bolts from the bottom of the awning into the holes. Tighten the bolts with the socket wrench to secure the awning to the mounting brackets.