If it makes your deck usable in periods where It was not then I'd say go for it. You can always retract the awning when not in use.

I thought the same thing about the "cheesy" look, but we did get the motorized one for the same reason as you. We chose the 2nd longest one they offer in a solid color which matched the trim on our house, so it didn't look too bad.

The one bad thing is that if it gets too windy on a beautiful day, the awning retracts, making it useless, but it's a less expensive option than having a permanent roof built over it and it isn't windy every nice day. I would go for it.

Retractable awnings definitely do not look "cheesy" and instead of devaluing a home actually increase the value of a residential house or commercial building. I think most would agree that retractable products are beautiful and definitely not "cheesy". See some of our residential and commercial pics below showing different types of retractable products.

Retractableawnings.com®

Thanks installed one in May and don’t regret it for a second. I absolutely love it.