Finding the awning you want is very important. Patio Awnings come in different sizes, colors, textures and materials. Setting them up properly is very important and they offer good instructions to help you.
Retractable awnings usually are made form a heavy canvas. They provide nice shade as the sun does not penetrate the fabric. You can order them and hang them up in a day, with a little extra help from someone. They usually have aluminum frames with a bracket design. These awnings also come motorized or manual. Motorized is nice because if you live in a windy area it will be easy to fold up. When using a manual awning it usually takes two people to set up.
Pop up awnings are good for a quick set up and an easy way to get instant shade. It takes two people and you slowly spread it out and slide it up. They come in pretty big sizes and there is nothing to put together.
There are also solid roof covers. They are made of alumawood and protect from all the elements. They have aluminum construction. These can be bought as a kit to build yourself.
Professional people can build you a nice top. If you like the wood look, the lattice is very popular. They offer about 50% protection from the sun. A person could build them by getting plans and purchasing wood. They are permanently attached to the house so one needs to be sure they know what they are doing. Since the sun protection is low, they have material covers at hardware stores to help provide sun protection that you can add on top for this purpose.
I would like to mention polycarbonate panels.This cover protects 98% of the suns rays. It is also great if you live in a windy or snowy area. One can actually walk on these panels they are so strong. These also come as a kit and have good directions. If you follow the step by step instructions you will have no problem setting it up.
The awnings are great to have because they can be rolled up when not needed. When the weather starts getting warmer, get a helper, and unroll and lock your awning. They have legs to secure them to the ground so it will not be a safety problem. Awnings are made of canvas fabric and can keep out the unwanted sun rays. They are very durable and should last many years.