Retractable awnings provide shade on demand and direct sun on warm, breezy days. Unlike traditional awnings, retractable awnings allow homeowners to control the amount of shade. The downside to installing a retractable awning is having to adjust it from time to time to beat the sun's rays as the seasons change. This can be done with the push of a button or the turn of a crank or wrench.

  • Retractable awnings provide shade on demand and direct sun on warm, breezy days.
  • The downside to installing a retractable awning is having to adjust it from time to time to beat the sun's rays as the seasons change.

Determine the correct slope of your retractable awning. During installation the slope may have been installed differently because of the season. Identify how much more or less slope you need in your retractable awning to provide sufficient shade.

Make sure outdoor furniture and appliances will not be affected by the change. If you have a grill, allow for ample room between it and the awning to avoid fire damage or smoke inhalation.

  • Make sure outdoor furniture and appliances will not be affected by the change.
  • If you have a grill, allow for ample room between it and the awning to avoid fire damage or smoke inhalation.

Adjust your retractable awning, using the manufacturer-provided crank or a wrench. Set the crank into the adjustment socket and turn it to change the slope pitch upward or downward. On other model awnings, this is controlled by an electric button. The slope of some retractable awnings must be adjusted with a wrench.

Set your awning to its fullest extended position. Move any items that may get in the way and have anyone present step away from the awning to avoid injury. Push the adjustment button, crank the socket or turn the wrench until the correct slope is achieved.