Your awning is a valuable part of your outdoor setup, but it faces constant wear from sun, rain, wind, and snow. Neglecting maintenance can lead to issues like mold, fabric damage, and rust, which are costly to fix. Here’s how to keep your awning in great condition year-round:
-
Clean Regularly: Use mild soap, soft brushes, and avoid pressure washers to prevent damage.
-
Inspect for Damage: Check for tears, rust, or loose parts every season.
-
Protect Against Weather: Retract during storms, remove snow buildup, and apply UV and waterproof coatings.
-
Store Properly: Ensure it's clean, dry, and stored in a cool, pest-free area during the off-season.
-
Repair Early: Fix small issues like pinholes or rust before they worsen.
RV Awning Cleaning and UV Protection Maintenance - Step By Step (Keep Your Awning Looking New)
Awning Types and Materials
Understanding the materials used in your awning is essential for setting up an effective maintenance routine. When you tailor your cleaning and preservation methods to match the specific materials, you can help extend its lifespan and keep it looking great.
Material Care Requirements
Acrylic fabrics are popular for their resistance to fading and mildew, plus they dry quickly. These awnings typically last between 8–12 years, which is also true for acrylic versions within this range. To clean them, use mild soap and water while avoiding bleach or harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
Vinyl awnings are known for their durability and can last 15–25 years with proper care. They are waterproof and easy to clean, but their lower breathability can lead to trapped moisture and condensation. A gentle detergent works best for cleaning, and it’s important to avoid abrasive scrubbing to preserve their protective coating.
Aluminum frames are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them ideal for mobile setups. Metal awnings with aluminum components can last 15–20+ years, while broader metal structures may last 20–30 years with regular upkeep. Check aluminum for signs of corrosion, particularly at joints and connection points, and clean it with soapy water to prevent wear.
Steel components are incredibly strong but need extra attention to avoid rust. Heavier than aluminum, steel can also impact weight distribution. Keep steel parts dry, apply protective coatings, and quickly touch up any scratches to stop rust from spreading.
Each material has its own cleaning and care requirements. For instance, acrylic on aluminum calls for gentle cleaning, while vinyl on steel requires strict rust prevention. Adapting your care routine to the specific materials is key to maintaining your awning’s performance year-round.
Material Type |
Typical Lifespan |
Key Maintenance Focus |
Climate Considerations |
---|---|---|---|
Canvas/Acrylic |
8–12 years |
Mildew prevention, gentle cleaning |
Breathable, dries quickly |
Vinyl |
15–25 years |
Waterproofing, condensation control |
Excellent weather resistance |
Aluminum Frame |
15–20+ years |
Corrosion checks, joint care |
Lightweight, vulnerable to salt air |
Steel Frame |
15–20+ years |
Rust prevention, protective coatings |
Strong but needs dry storage |
Basic Cleaning and Maintenance
Taking care of your awning regularly not only keeps it looking great but also helps you avoid costly repairs down the line. The cleaning process varies depending on the material, but with the right techniques, you can clean effectively without causing damage.
Cleaning Tools and Products
Using the right tools makes awning maintenance much simpler. Soft-bristled brushes are ideal because they clean effectively without scratching or damaging the fabric or finish. These brushes are gentle enough for all types of awning materials.
When it comes to cleaning solutions, opt for mild, non-abrasive detergents or basic dish soap. Specialized awning cleaners can also work well. As Venango Awning advises:
"For best results, go for a mild, non-abrasive detergent or soap. Harsh chemicals can degrade the fabric or finish of your awning."
Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia or acetone. These can weaken the stitching, strip away UV protection, and discolor the fabric. For rinsing, a standard garden hose provides just the right amount of pressure. Avoid using pressure washers, as they can cause serious damage. The Home Depot cautions:
"Never use a pressure washer on your awnings. It may damage them."
To protect yourself while cleaning, wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to guard against exposure to chemicals and debris.
How to Clean Your Awning
Start by brushing off loose dirt to prevent particles from embedding into the fabric during cleaning. Then, rinse the entire awning with clean water to wash away surface dust and prepare it for a deeper clean.
Mix water with a mild soap, such as Woolite or Dawn, and apply the solution from the bottom to the top. Let it sit briefly, then gently scrub using a soft brush.
For stains, quick action is key:
-
Mildew: Use a mixture of 1 cup bleach and ¼ cup mild soap per gallon of water. Always test on a hidden area first.
-
Grease: Clean with mild dish soap and water, using cold water for the best results.
-
Bird Droppings: Dish soap and water work well; clean promptly to avoid stains.
-
Tree Pitch: Use turpentine and dish soap for fabric or rubbing alcohol for vinyl. Ensure proper ventilation when working with these solutions.
In June 2025, Marygrove Awnings shared their professional cleaning advice, emphasizing careful scrubbing with a soft bristle brush and focusing on trouble spots without over-saturating the fabric.
Rinsing thoroughly is crucial - make sure all soap residue is gone, as leftover cleaner can attract dirt. After cleaning, allow the awning to air dry completely before retracting it to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Stain Type |
Treatment Solution |
Special Notes |
---|---|---|
Mildew |
1 cup bleach + ¼ cup soap per gallon water |
Test on a hidden area first |
Grease |
Mild dish soap + water |
Use cold water for best results |
Bird Droppings |
Dish soap + water |
Clean promptly to prevent staining |
Tree Pitch |
Turpentine + dish soap (fabric) / Rubbing alcohol (vinyl) |
Ensure proper ventilation |
Preventing Common Problems
Routine cleaning is the cornerstone of long-term awning care. Aim to clean your awning once or twice a year, or more often if you live in a dusty or polluted area. Monthly sweeping helps remove dirt and debris before they can cause permanent stains.
Proper drying is essential. Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions, so always ensure your awning is completely dry before retracting it. If you have to retract it while damp due to weather, open it again as soon as possible to let it dry thoroughly.
Tackle stains as soon as they appear - fresh stains are much easier to remove than ones that have set. Keep a small bottle of mild dish soap handy for quick spot cleaning.
To minimize debris buildup, trim nearby plants and branches. Overhanging vegetation can drop leaves, sap, and even insects onto your awning, leading to stains or damage.
After a deep cleaning, consider applying a fabric protector to maintain water resistance and make future cleaning easier. However, always check with your awning manufacturer before applying any treatments to avoid voiding warranties or interfering with existing coatings.
Seasonal Care Guide
To keep your awning in top shape throughout the year, it's important to adapt your maintenance routine to the changing seasons. Weather conditions, temperature shifts, and how often you use your awning all play a role in how you should care for it.
Spring and Summer Care
Spring is the perfect time to give your awning a thorough checkup after the challenges of winter. Inspect for any damage, such as tears, frayed edges, or rusted hardware, and pay close attention to mounting points and mechanical parts that might have been stressed by cold weather. Clean the awning using warm, soapy water (mix 2 oz. of soap per gallon of water, keeping the temperature below 100°F) to remove any winter grime. Once cleaned, lubricate moving parts, test weather sensors, and clear out gutters to prevent water overflow.
As summer rolls in, UV exposure and frequent use demand extra care. Clean your awning more often to quickly remove bird droppings and tree sap, which can cause permanent stains. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, and retract the awning during high winds to avoid structural damage. Inspect the fabric regularly for signs of UV wear, like fading or brittleness, and ensure proper tension to prevent water pooling during summer storms. After cleaning, apply a marine-grade fabric protectant to maintain its waterproofing and UV resistance. If you’re near the coast, wipe down the frame with soapy water to guard against salt corrosion.
As summer fades, it’s time to gear up for fall and the colder months ahead.
Fall and Winter Care
Fall is all about preparing your awning for winter’s harsher conditions. Start by giving it a deep clean to remove dirt and debris that could worsen in cold, damp weather. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent with a soft brush along with warm, soapy water. Inspect the frame for rust, loose parts, or other structural issues, and address any problems immediately. Apply a protective coating or rust inhibitor where necessary, and lubricate moving parts to keep everything running smoothly during storage.
Retract your awning when heavy snow, ice storms, or high winds are in the forecast to minimize damage. For removable parts like valances, clean them thoroughly and store them in a dry place. If you need to take down the entire awning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wrap it in a protective cover. During winter, check periodically for snow and ice buildup, and gently remove snow with a soft broom to avoid stressing the fabric. As Peterson Canvas & Awning advises:
"By cleaning, inspecting, retracting, covering, and performing regular maintenance checks, you can protect your awning from the harsh effects of winter weather."
Don’t forget to clear away fallen leaves and branches to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to mildew or stains. A durable winter cover made from weather-resistant materials adds an extra layer of protection.
Climate-Specific Tips
Your local climate may require some tweaks to these seasonal care steps. In areas with strong sun and temperature swings, applying water-blocking treatments and UV coatings can help reduce sun damage. Monthly cleanings with mild soap are also a good idea to prevent dirt and mold buildup in these conditions. As myawnings.com highlights:
"By cleaning your awnings each month, you not only prevent dirt, debris, and mold from accumulating but also help maintain their aesthetic appeal and protect the fabric from damage."
For regions prone to rapid weather changes, like mountainous areas, check your awning every three months for damage from wind or snow. In humid climates, promptly address mold or mildew and ensure the awning is completely dry before retracting it. If you live in a snowy region, follow winter storage guidelines to protect against freezing temperatures and ice damage. Regularly remove snow with soft tools and keep nearby trees trimmed to minimize debris, sap, and pests.
Storage and Off-Season Prep
Once you've adjusted your maintenance routine for seasonal challenges, it's time to think about proper storage. Storing your awning correctly during off-peak times not only keeps it in great shape but also ensures it’s ready to perform when you need it next. A little effort now can go a long way in protecting your investment.
How to Store Your Awning
Start by giving your awning a good cleaning. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush to remove dirt and stains. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing it - this step is key to avoiding mold, mildew, or structural damage.
Once clean and dry, retract the awning fully and secure any loose fabric. If you're removing the awning entirely, fold it carefully without creating tight creases, and store poles separately. For added protection, consider treating the fabric with a waterproofing spray and lubricating any moving parts, such as zippers, with silicone spray. Place the awning in its original bag or a breathable fabric bag; avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to problems.
Best Storage Conditions
The right storage environment can make all the difference. Keep your awning in a dry, cool, and pest-free area, ideally off the floor. Shelves or pallets work well, and adding moisture absorbers can provide extra protection. If you're storing it at home, an insulated garage or an interior room like a utility or spare room is better than an uninsulated shed. To ward off pests, consider using traps or repellents.
For larger or high-value awnings, professional storage services might be worth considering. These facilities often provide consistent temperature and humidity control, offering an extra layer of care.
Inspection and Small Repairs
Before packing your awning away, take the time to inspect it thoroughly. Look for any wear and tear, such as scratches, holes, seam separations, rusted hardware, tears, fraying, fading, or mold. Check the frame and support structure, tightening loose bolts and replacing damaged parts as needed.
Small issues can often be fixed at home. Use a fabric marker to touch up scratches or seal pinholes with adhesive. For tears under six inches, apply RV awning adhesive and clamp gently until dry. Larger tears might require professional repair or even fabric replacement.
If you spot mold or mildew, clean the affected area with a mix of water and mild soap, then allow it to dry completely before storing. Don’t forget to check on your stored awning periodically to catch any early signs of trouble. Keeping a record of maintenance and scheduling a professional inspection annually or bi-annually can help you stay ahead of potential issues. With these steps, your awning will be ready and waiting for its next season of use.
Professional Awning Services
While routine cleaning and inspections can handle many maintenance tasks, some problems demand the expertise of a professional. Expert services can identify hidden issues and perform specialized repairs, ensuring your awning remains functional and safe.
When to Call a Professional
Certain warning signs indicate it’s time to seek expert help. For instance, if your awning struggles to extend or you hear grinding or squeaking noises, these could point to motor or gear problems that require professional diagnosis.
Structural concerns, such as rust or sagging, are another red flag. Rust or corrosion on metal components can weaken the frame and create safety risks. Similarly, sagging fabric, large tears that can’t be patched, or leaks and drips are issues that call for a professional assessment. These problems often become noticeable after seasonal wear and tear. Keep in mind that fabric awnings typically last 5 to 15 years, while metal awnings can endure up to 20 years with proper care.
Sandy Vans Awning Services
Sandy Vans specializes in awning installation tailored to van conversions and RVs. Whether you’re outfitting a new Sprinter van or repairing an existing setup, Sandy Vans combines high-quality materials with skilled craftsmanship to ensure your awning performs well in all conditions.
Why Professional Care Matters
Professional maintenance does more than fix problems - it prevents costly repairs and enhances safety and performance. Early detection of issues through expert inspections can extend your awning’s lifespan to 20–25 years or more. Tasks like seam re-stitching, fabric re-tensioning, and structural repairs require tools and skills that most awning owners simply don’t have.
Annual professional inspections, which typically cost around $150 plus sales tax, are a smart investment. These check-ups not only maximize your awning’s lifespan but also help maintain benefits like reducing cooling costs by up to 25%. Additionally, trained professionals can spot safety risks that might escape an untrained eye, making expert care an essential part of awning maintenance.
Key Points Summary
Here’s a quick rundown of the seasonal care tips that can help keep your awning in great shape and extend its lifespan.
With proper seasonal care, you can significantly increase your awning's longevity - potentially stretching its life from the usual 8–12 years to as much as 12–18 years or more. Taking the time to maintain it not only protects your investment but also saves you from costly repairs down the road.
Spring maintenance is where it all begins. Start by giving your awning a thorough cleaning, checking for any winter-related damage like mildew or stains, and lubricating moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. Don’t forget to inspect the frame for rust. Tackling these tasks early helps catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
Once summer rolls around, summer care is all about keeping things clean and protected. Regularly remove dirt and leaves, trim nearby plants to avoid fabric damage, and retract your awning during storms. These simple steps can help avoid structural damage and extend your awning’s usability.
As the weather cools, fall preparation becomes essential. Clear away leaves and debris that could trap moisture, inspect seams for wear and tear, and apply waterproofing treatments. Many owners opt to retract or even remove their awnings before winter hits to avoid snow-related damage.
During the colder months, winter protection is crucial. Use a soft broom to clear off heavy snow buildup and consider using a winter cover to shield your awning from moisture, frost, and dirt. Removing snow quickly prevents damage that could lead to expensive repairs.
The financial benefits of regular upkeep are hard to ignore. For example, replacing awning fabric can cost anywhere from $350 to $1,400, while motor replacements range between $200 and $600. Staying on top of maintenance can save you from these hefty expenses.
Spotting issues early not only reduces safety risks but also ensures your awning performs reliably. Whether you prefer DIY maintenance or professional help - like the services offered by Sandy Vans - seasonal care keeps your awning in top condition and protects your investment in the long run.
FAQs
What’s the difference in maintenance between acrylic and vinyl awnings?
Acrylic awnings are often simpler to care for compared to vinyl ones. They naturally resist UV rays, fading, and mildew, so a quick rinse or a gentle brush every now and then is usually enough to keep them looking great. This makes them a popular choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance option.
Vinyl awnings, on the other hand, are sturdy but more susceptible to mildew and mold. They tend to require more frequent cleaning, often with specific cleaning products, to preserve their appearance and prevent long-term damage. If easy upkeep is a priority, acrylic awnings might be the better fit. However, vinyl options may demand a bit more regular attention to stay in top shape.
How can I stop mold and mildew from growing on my awning during rainy seasons?
To keep mold and mildew away during the wetter months, make a habit of cleaning your awning regularly. Use a soft brush along with a mild soap or a vinegar solution to scrub away dirt and grime - these are the spots where mold loves to grow. After cleaning, ensure the awning is completely dry before retracting or storing it. Trapping moisture can create the perfect environment for mold to develop. Also, maintaining good airflow around the awning helps reduce humidity, which is another way to prevent mold growth.
If there's been heavy rain or a storm, check your awning for any water pooling. Clean and dry it promptly to avoid moisture lingering for too long. By staying on top of cleaning and drying, you can keep your awning in excellent shape no matter the season.
How can I store my awning during the off-season to keep it in good condition?
To keep your awning in good condition during the off-season, start by giving it a thorough cleaning to get rid of dirt, debris, and any stains. Once cleaned, ensure it’s completely dry before storing it to avoid issues like mold or mildew. If you can, retract or remove the awning to protect it from snow, ice, or other harsh weather.
Take a moment to check for any signs of damage, such as tears or loose components, and fix these issues before putting it away. Adding a protective cover can help shield it from dust and moisture while in storage. Lastly, store the awning in a dry, well-ventilated area to keep it in great shape until it’s time to bring it back out.