How To Maintain Fabric Awnings
A fabric awning, whether you use it to cover a patio, shade a window, or place it on your recreational vehicle, can last for many years if it is cared for properly. The problem is that many people are unsure of the best way to maintain their awning. The following guide can help you with this challenge so you awning looks great for a long time.
#1: Never leave it extended unattended
The biggest mistake you can make with an awning is to leave it fully extended when you aren't home. It only takes one extreme gust of wind to damage the awning arms or rips the fabric. Although awnings are made to be durable, there is only so much fabric can do to withstand high winds. If the awning is dry, then roll it up if you won't be home and using it. The only exception is if it is wet. In this case, leave it extending but drop the arms, so it is flush to the house as it dries. This way wind can't damage it.
#2: Keep it dry
Moisture can come from many sources, but morning dew and rain are the most common culprit. Usually, moisture builds up on top of the awning, but occasionally it may form on the underside due to condensation. Storing a wet awning leads to mildew and mold, which can leave behind unsightly stains or weaken the fabric. Let the sun dry the awning before putting it away, either by fully extending it or by using the advice above for windy days.
#3: Clean with care
Dust, pollen, bird droppings -- all of these are both ugly on the awning, and they can damage the fabric. Bird droppings are particularly bad because they are acidic. Clean the awning with nothing more than a soft sponge and plain water. You can add a drop or two of gentle dish soap or a specially made awning cleaner if you need to get off droppings. Scrub gently, but never use anything abrasive. The fabric is treated to be resistant to water, stains, and UV light, so scrubbing too hard removes the treatment. Rinse with clear water and then let it dry before putting it away.
Most importantly, know when you need to bring in a professional awning repair service. If you have tears in the fabric, damaged mechanisms, or if any of the treatment coatings are wearing off, it is time to have it repaired so you can prolong the awning's life. Contact a company like Lockhart Gene & Son Canvas Awnings for more information and assistance.