RV Awning Maintenance: Keep Your Awning in Great Shape for Every Trip

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Regular Cleaning of Your Awning

Keeping your awning clean prevents mold, mildew, and stains, helping it look great and last longer.

How to Clean Your Awning:

• Step 1: Extend the Awning Fully – Make sure the fabric is taut to make cleaning easier.
• Step 2: Use Mild Soap and Water – Mix water with mild dish soap or an RV-specific cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material.
• Step 3: Scrub with a Soft Brush – Gently scrub both sides of the awning with a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt, debris, and mildew.
• Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly – Use a hose to rinse the awning completely, ensuring no soap residue remains.
• Step 5: Air Dry – Let the awning dry fully before retracting it to prevent mildew growth.

Tip: For stubborn stains or mildew, mix equal parts water and white vinegar, spray it on the area, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Inspect the Awning Fabric and Hardware

Regular inspections help you identify any small issues before they turn into bigger problems.

Inspection Tips:

• Check for Tears or Holes: Look for any signs of damage, including small tears or punctures, especially around seams.
• Examine the Hardware: Inspect arms, brackets, and roller tubes for rust, cracks, or loose connections.
• Test the Springs and Locks: Extend and retract the awning to ensure the springs are operating smoothly and the locking mechanism holds properly.
• Look for Rust or Corrosion: Check metal parts for any rust or corrosion, especially if you've been camping near the beach.

Tip: If you find small holes or tears, use RV awning repair tape or fabric adhesive for a quick and durable fix.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Lubricate Moving Parts

To keep your awning operating smoothly, lubricate all moving parts, especially if it feels stiff or squeaky.

Lubrication Tips:

• Use a Silicone-Based Spray: Spray silicone lubricant on the joints, arms, and tracks to reduce friction.
• Avoid Oil-Based Lubricants: These can attract dirt and debris, which can gum up moving parts over time.
• Apply Sparingly: A little goes a long way. Apply a small amount and work the awning back and forth to spread the lubricant evenly.

Tip: Lubricate your awning at least once or twice a year, or more often if you frequently extend and retract it.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Protect the Awning from Harsh Weather

Extreme weather can quickly damage your awning, so it's best to retract it when conditions are unfavorable.

Weather Protection Tips:

• Retract in Strong Winds: Even moderate winds can cause an extended awning to whip around, potentially damaging the arms and fabric.
• Avoid Heavy Rain or Snow: Excess weight from pooled water or snow can stretch or tear the awning fabric.
• Use Awning Tie-Downs in Light Winds: If you need extra stability, secure the awning with tie-down straps or deflappers in light winds.

Tip: If you're camping in a windy area, consider retracting the awning when you’re away from the RV to avoid unexpected gusts.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Prevent and Treat Mildew

Moisture and mildew can quickly accumulate on your awning, especially in humid environments.

Mildew Prevention and Treatment Tips:

• Air Dry After Cleaning or Rain: Always let the awning dry completely before rolling it up.
• Use a Mildew Treatment Spray: Apply a mildew treatment spray specifically designed for awning fabric, especially in humid or rainy climates.
• Spot Clean Mildew Stains Promptly: Treat small mildew spots as soon as you notice them to prevent further spread.

Tip: If mildew becomes a recurring issue, clean your awning with a vinegar solution or an RV-safe mildew remover every few months.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Secure the Awning During Storage

When storing your RV, properly securing the awning protects it from damage.

Storage Tips:

• Retract Fully and Lock in Place: Ensure the awning is fully retracted and locked to prevent accidental extension.
• Use an Awning Cover: Consider installing an awning cover or shield to protect the fabric from UV exposure, dirt, and moisture.
• Cover the Roller Tube Ends: Place covers on the roller tube ends to keep dirt and insects out of the mechanism.

Tip: If you’re storing your RV for an extended period, check the awning every few months to ensure it remains clean and dry.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Replace Worn-Out Parts

Sometimes, regular maintenance isn’t enough, and worn parts need replacing to keep the awning functioning well.

Parts to Consider Replacing:

• Awning Fabric: If the fabric becomes too worn, faded, or torn, replacing it will enhance both function and appearance.
• Springs and Gears: If the awning doesn’t retract or extend smoothly, the springs or gears may need replacing.
• Locks and Latches: Worn-out locks and latches can cause the awning to slip or retract unexpectedly, so replace these as needed.

Tip: Many replacement parts are available online or through RV service centers, making it easy to find compatible components for your awning.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Essential Tools and Products for Awning Maintenance

To properly maintain your RV awning, keep these items on hand:

• Mild soap or awning cleaner
• Soft brush or sponge
• Silicone-based spray lubricant
• Vinegar or mildew remover spray
• Awning repair tape or fabric adhesive
• Awning tie-downs or deflappers
• Awning cover for long-term storage

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Troubleshooting Common Awning Issues

• Problem: Awning won’t retract or extend smoothly.
• Solution: Lubricate moving parts, inspect for obstructions, and check the springs and gears for wear.
• Problem: Fabric is sagging or stretched.
• Solution: Ensure the awning is fully extended when in use, and avoid letting water pool on it. Consider replacing the fabric if it’s too stretched.
• Problem: Awning has mildew or stains.
• Solution: Use a vinegar solution or mildew remover spray to treat the stains and let it dry completely in the sun.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your RV Awning

1. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Always use gentle, RV-safe products when cleaning your awning.
2. Retract When Not in Use: If you’re away from your RV, it’s best to retract the awning to avoid unexpected weather.
3. Use Support Arms or Tensioners: These can help reduce flapping and minimize wear on the fabric and arms.
4. Perform Seasonal Inspections: Regular checks at the beginning and end of each camping season ensure small issues don’t turn into big problems.
5. Shade from Direct Sunlight: Over time, UV rays can fade and weaken awning fabric, so use an awning cover if storing for long periods.

AWNING MAINTENANCE

Key Takeaway: Keep Your RV Awning in Top Shape

Proper awning maintenance keeps it looking great and functioning well, providing shade and shelter for many seasons to come. Regular cleaning, timely repairs, and sensible weather precautions will go a long way in prolonging the life of your awning.

RV Expeditioners Pro Tip: Make awning maintenance a regular part of your RV care routine. By staying proactive, you’ll keep your awning ready for every adventure, whether it’s a sunny beach day or a quiet forest retreat.