Outdoor Awning Care and Maintenance

Outdoor awnings are an attractive and in many cases a very practical addition to any home. Today's marketplace is filled with awning varieties for every need, from the basic window awnings to protect indoor furnishings from the sun to retractable awnings used to shade outdoor living spaces, even some motorized models. Regular awning care and maintenance is vital if you want to keep your awnings looking new and working properly for years to come.

Cleaning Your Awnings

Awning care starts with regular cleanings.

• Treat stains as soon as possible. Dirt, bird droppings and any other stains that appear on your awnings will be easier to clean if you treat them right away.
• Regularly brush dirt and debris off of your awnings. This can be accomplished with a stiff brush or a broom.
• Wash your awnings anytime you notice a buildup of dirt. If left in place, this dirt can lead to mildew.
• When washing your awnings use only water, mild soap and a brush. If your awnings came with a manual, consult it to see if they recommend a particular cleaning solution.
• Use only cold or lukewarm water to clean your awnings. Air dry your awnings after washing; heat may cause awnings to shrink.
• For easy cleaning, leave your awnings on their frames. After a vigorous cleaning, you may need to treat them with fabric guard. Consult your owner's manual to see what product is recommended.
• In between deep cleanings, it's a good idea to periodically rinse awnings with clear water.
• If you live in a warm, humid environment, you'll need to clean your awnings more frequently. Develop a cleaning schedule based on the requirements of your locale.

Maintaining Your Awnings

Regular maintenance inspections can help you to identify and correct problems with your awnings before they become serious.

• Inspect your awnings yearly, looking for any rust on the frame or areas where the paint has chipped off. Give these areas a fresh coat of paint.
• To prevent rusting, be sure to keep your frame clean of dirt and debris. This can be accomplished by brushing off dirt with a broom and scrubbing down the frame once a year.

Repair rips and tears as soon as they occur. The wind and rain can quickly cause the tear to grow.

Awning Storage

Proper awning storage is just as important as regular cleaning and maintenance.

• To maximize the life of your awnings, consider removing them in the winter, particularly if you live in an area that receives a lot of snow.
• Before storing your awnings, be sure to clean them thoroughly. Any dirt left on them will encourage mildew growth.
• Store your awnings in a dry location to further protect them from mildew.

With regular care and maintenance, your awnings will serve you for many years, and it's easy to make awning care a regular part of your yearly home care schedule. Develop a maintenance schedule that you can handle, then sit back and enjoy your awnings.