Tips for Easier Awning Maintenance

Awnings add a lot of aesthetic value to your home, and when used on decks or porches can help you enjoy the outdoors no matter how hot the sun is or what type of precipitation you’ve got coming down. In some circumstances, they can even help you save money on your utility bills because of how they slow down heat transfer into the home.

Therefore, it’s important you keep your awnings in good condition so they will continue lasting for years to come. Here are some maintenance tips from an awning manufacturer in Austin, TX:

• Clear off any dirt or debris: Every now and then, go out and check for any loose debris, including dirt or leaves, sitting on the awnings. In some cases, birds may even attempt to make nests in or on them. You should try to avoid encouraging this if at all possible.
• Wash and rinse: You can wash off your awnings using a mixture of water and dish soap or any other type of mild detergent. With a rag or sponge, scrub off stubborn dirt and dust to prevent stains from forming on the surface. This will keep it looking great, and prevent deterioration from occurring. You can use a garden hose to rinse off the awning when you’re done. Never attempt to use a power washer to clean off your awning—this could cause some irreparable damage.
• Check for signs of rusting: When you inspect your awning, take a close look at the metal frame. If you notice any rust, try to scrape it off. However, if you notice that rust starts to show up in the same place on a regular basis, there’s a chance you’ve got a hole in your awning where moisture is seeping through. You’re going to want to address this as soon as possible if this is the case, as this could result in some long-term maintenance issues.
• Patch up holes: As we said, you should make sure you address holes as soon as you notice them. There are some types of awning materials that are more at risk of tearing than others. Vinyl and fabric are not going to be nearly as strong as aluminum. But any type of awning material is capable of having holes poked in it. Fabric awnings are relatively simple to patch up using your typical sewing processes; holes in metal awnings are a little more difficult to patch up, but it can still be done.
• Put the awning away for the season: Assuming you have removable awnings, make sure you roll them up and pack them away properly for the season. Just make sure it’s fully dry first, otherwise you’ll have to deal with potential mold or dry rot, which could ruin the integrity of the material.

Interested in learning more maintenance tips from an awning manufacturer in Austin, TX and the steps you should take to keep your awnings in great condition? We encourage you to contact Hill Country Awnings & Shades of Texas with your questions.

Categorised in: Retractable Awnings