
Top-Quality Awnings and Pergolas in New York City and the Tristate Area

Frequently Asked Questions:
How long has Capitol Awning been in business?
Capitol Awning Company has been designing and installing custom awnings since 1947, making us one of the oldest and most experienced awning companies in New York. As a family-owned business with over 75 years of experience, we have served thousands of commercial and residential customers throughout NYC and Long Island.
What areas does Capitol Awning serve?
We proudly serve all five NYC boroughs—Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island—as well as Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties). Our showroom is located in Jamaica, Queens at 105-15 180th Street.
What types of awnings and shade products do you offer?
We offer a complete range of shade solutions including:
- Commercial storefront awnings
- Residential awnings for homes
- StruXure louvered pergolas
- Shade sail systems
- Retractable awnings
- Metal canopies (Mapes)
- Vestibule enclosures
- Motorized screens
All products are custom-designed to fit your space and aesthetic preferences.
What is a StruXure pergola and how much does it cost?
StruXure pergolas are premium motorized louvered roof systems made from extruded aluminum with integrated rain sensors. The louvers automatically close when it rains and open in high winds to protect the system. Cost typically ranges from $150-$200 per square foot installed, with a 12×20 pergola averaging $36,000-$48,000. Capitol Awning is an authorized StruXure dealer serving the NYC metro area.
Do I need a permit for an awning in New York City?
Yes, most awning installations in NYC require a permit from the Department of Buildings (DOB). Commercial awnings almost always require permits. Residential awnings projecting over 3 feet or involving electrical work also need permits. If your property is in a landmark district, you will also need Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) approval. Capitol Awning handles the entire permitting process for our customers.
What is the difference between an awning and a canopy in NYC?
Under NYC building code, an awning is supported entirely by the building it is attached to and only requires a DOB permit. A canopy extends over the sidewalk with support columns and requires both a DOB permit AND a Department of Transportation (DOT) permit. Both must use fire-resistant materials and meet wind load requirements. We help you determine which solution is right for your property.
How long do awnings last?
With proper care, quality awning frames can last 15+ years, while fabric typically lasts 5-10 years depending on sun exposure and weather conditions. Metal awnings and canopies can last a lifetime with minimal maintenance. We offer re-covering services to extend the life of your awning frames when fabrics need replacement.
Can awnings withstand NYC weather and wind?
Yes, when properly installed. Our commercial awnings are engineered to meet NYC building code wind load requirements. For retractable awnings, we recommend retracting them in winds above 25-35 MPH. Many of our motorized awnings include wind sensors that automatically retract the awning in high winds to protect your investment.
Do awnings help reduce energy costs?
Absolutely. According to the Department of Energy, window awnings can reduce solar heat gain by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows. This can translate to significant air conditioning savings during New York hot summers—some studies show savings of $200+ annually. Awnings also protect furniture and flooring from UV fading.
How long does awning installation take?
For most residential projects, installation takes 1-2 days once the awning is manufactured. Custom commercial projects typically take 4-6 weeks from design approval to installation, depending on complexity and permitting requirements. We schedule installations to minimize disruption to your business or home.

We recently had a beautiful new awning installed by Capitol Awning at our day spa, and we couldn’t be happier! From start to finish, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to our needs. They helped us choose the perfect design that complements our business and provides great shade for our clients. The installation was seamless, and the quality of their work is outstanding. Our storefront now looks more inviting than ever! Highly recommend Capitol Awning for anyone in need of high-quality commercial awnings. Thank you for a job well done!