The problem I've run into is not having the poles long enough when extending the
awning. The first time this happened, the knobs on the rafter beams
caught on the casing rather than extend properly. The beams can bend if this happens.
Extend the poles as long as possible to prevent this or better yet have one person on each pole and hold it high as you walk it out. This procedure does get easier with practice. I enjoy using the awning enough that I am willing to deal with the opening and closing procedure. If I ever replace the awning, I will probably not get the same one, as I have seen other easier to operate awnings. I think there may be threads where other brands have been discussed already.