Business Details
44 Years
experience
Custom Awnings & Canopies in London, ON
London Awnings has been a trusted provider of premium retractable awnings and screen systems for over 40 years. Our family-owned business, founded in 1982 by Adrian and Marja van Dorst and now led by Dennis and Christina van Dorst, serves London, Ontario, and surrounding areas including Woodstock, St. Thomas, and Sarnia. We specialize in custom-designed solutions for residential and commercial properties, combining technical expertise with durable materials to enhance outdoor living spaces. As a 10-time Consumer Choice Award winner and Better Business Bureau member, we guarantee quality craftsmanship backed by a 6-year frame warranty, 10-year pro-rated fabric warranty, and 5-year motor warranty.Our in-house fabrication shop ensures precise, tailored installations for decks, patios, pergolas, and more. With decades of experience, we prioritize customer satisfaction through personalized service, from site consultation to post-installation support. Our team educates clients on proper awning maintenance and offers innovative motorization options for convenience. By manufacturing all systems in Ontario, we maintain strict quality control while supporting local industry. Our commitment to sun protection and healthy outdoor living has made us Londons dedicated shade specialists, serving over 40 years of happy customers.
Services
Retractable Screens
Classic Awnings
Cassette Awnings
Stationary Awnings
Terrace Awnings
Window Awnings
Motorized Awning Systems
Screen Systems
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of experience in retractable awning design and installation
- Second-generation family-owned business with local community ties
- Custom manufacturing ensures precise, tailored solutions for every space
- Industry-leading warranties on frames, fabrics, and motors
- Award-winning customer service with personalized post-installation support
Associations and certifications
- Consumer Choice Award
- Better Business Bureau
What people say
Fantastic service and advice
Quality of work is exceptional
Dedicated to excellent customer care
Best awning money can buy
Enjoy for years to come
Services
Retractable Screens
Our retractable screen systems provide insect protection and privacy for outdoor spaces. Using high-density mesh with integrated side tracks, they keep pests out while maintaining clear visibility. Motorized options allow seamless operation for decks, patios, and windows.
Classic Awnings
Retractable classic awnings add style and sun protection to homes and businesses. Water-resistant fabric with a 10-year warranty withstands weather while allowing water runoff. Available in widths up to 26 feet with customizable slope and support arms.
Cassette Awnings
Cassette awnings feature fully enclosed housing that protects fabric from debris and weather. Ideal for long-term durability, these systems combine sleek aesthetics with functional design for patios, windows, and commercial applications.
Terrace Awnings
Terrace awnings cover expansive outdoor areas with single units up to 23 feet wide and 19 feet 8 inches projection. Modular designs allow connecting multiple units for extensive coverage of commercial and residential terraces.
Motorized Systems
Motorized awning and screen systems offer convenient operation via remote, wall switch, or smartphone app. Integrated sensors can automatically retract awnings in strong winds or heavy rain, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
People
Adrian van Dorst
Founder
Adrian van Dorst co-founded London Awnings in 1982 with his wife Marja. As initial pioneers of retractable awning solutions in the region, they established the foundation for the family businesss 40-year success and reputation.
Dennis van Dorst
Current Owner
Dennis van Dorst leads London Awnings in its second generation, maintaining the family tradition of quality and customer care. He oversees technical operations and continues the businesss commitment to excellence in custom awning design and installation.
Christina van Dorst
Current Owner
Christina van Dorst co-owns London Awnings with her husband Dennis. She plays a key role in client relations and business development, ensuring the companys personalized service approach remains central to its operations.
Questions
Do your awnings provide rain protection?
Yes, our retractable awnings offer water-resistant protection for light rain when supervised, requiring proper slope for water runoff to prevent fabric damage.
How do I clean my awning fabric?
Clean awning fabric annually with a garden hose and mild soap like Dawn, rinsing thoroughly before retraction to prevent soap residue buildup.
Can awnings cover large outdoor areas?
Our retractable terrace awnings can cover large spaces with single units up to 23 feet wide and 19 feet 8 inches projection, with modular options for even larger areas.
Do screen systems provide privacy?
Higher density mesh offers daytime privacy, while solid acrylic fabrics provide complete privacy day and night for screen systems.
What warranties do you offer?
We provide a 6-year frame warranty, 10-year pro-rated fabric warranty, and 5-year motor warranty, exceeding manufacturer coverage for customer peace of mind.
Are your products custom-made?
Yes, all London Awnings products are custom-manufactured in Ontario, with detailed on-site measurements ensuring perfect fit for unique architectural specifications.