Tips for Keeping Birds Away From Retractable Awnings

A retractable awning is a flexible way to shield your deck, patio, or any other outdoor living space against the elements. However, one problem you’ll often encounter is birds searching for a secure nesting spot, which can result in a serious mess that compromises your awning’s appearance and longevity.
Bird droppings are especially acidic and can quickly erode your awning fabric, leading to premature repairs or replacements. Additionally, these feathery friends may carry bacteria and parasites that pose health risks to your family. So you might ask, “How do I keep birds out of my retractable awning?”
At Van Nuys Awning Co., we provide custom retractable awnings in Los Angeles. In this article, we draw on our extensive industry experience to offer five tips for keeping birds away from your awning.
1. Place Bird Spikes on the Edges of Your Awning
If you want to keep birds away from your awning without hurting them, consider installing bird spikes. These bird deterrents make it uncomfortable for the feathered intruders to land on your awning so they’ll end up looking for another spot. Ultimately, you won’t have to worry about birds perching and nesting on your retractable awning, which can cause staining and long-term damage.
2. Install Netting to Block Bird Access
Suppose birds love to nest on your awning and you want a long-term solution to the problem. In that case, you can place a net that completely prevents the feathery friends from roosting in your awning area.
This type of deterrent can work well for your enclosed patio area, large canopy or commercial building. You should find a netting that is virtually invisible from a distance to ensure a professional look.
3. Opt for a Cassette-Style Awning
When you ask an experienced awning maintenance professional, ”How do I keep birds out of my retractable awning?” they’ll likely suggest installing a cassette-style awning for effective nest prevention, as birds often nest on the square mounting bar of retractable awnings.
If you’re looking for the best types of retractable awning designs, choose a cassette style because it doesn’t offer a comfortable spot for nesting.
4. Install Visual Scare Devices
You can use decoy predators such as hawks, snakes, and owls to keep birds at bay. No bird will come close to your awning, thinking the decoys are a real thing. Consider moving the scare devices around from time to time so the birds don’t become accustomed and stop fearing them.
5. Use Ultrasonic Repellers To Annoy Birds
While you can’t hear the high-frequency sounds from ultrasonic bird repellers, they can be irritating to birds. You can install these devices around your retractable awning, creating an unwelcoming environment for birds but a tranquil one for you.
Contact Us for a Free Estimate
How do I keep birds out of my retractable awning? If you need professional help with this and other retractable awning problems, the expert team at Van Nuys Awnings Co. has your back. Call us at (805) 973-0257 for a free estimate today!






