7 simple steps for awning maintenance

1. Wash your awning at least twice per year.

Washing will help to minimize dirt stains, get rid of sap and leaves from trees, as well as mold and mildew. No matter how often you use your RV awning, be sure to clean it with a proper awning cleaner at least once a year. This can be found at O’Connor RV Parts Store and should be sprayed onto the awning before scrubbing or rinsing.

2. Allow your awning to dry before storing it.

Improper drying practices can be extremely damaging to your awning. This will cause mold and mildew growth, as well as fabric dry rot and rust on your awning’s mechanical components. Be sure to allow it to fully dry before you roll it up and store it.

3. Lock your awning in place during travel.

Most awnings have a locking mechanism that many RVers overlook.  To avoid damage in transit, be sure to utilize the safety locking device when storing your awning for travel.

4. Roll your awning up when it’s not in use.

Constant UV rays can damage your awning over time. When you are not using your awning, roll it up and stow it away. This is especially important if you are a full-time RVer who uses their awning often or if you take lots of trips during the summer.

5. Make adjustments for inclement weather.

Keep your awning stored away during heavy rain If your awning is out when it rains, position one side of the awning lower than the other to allow the rain to run off instead of pooling in the center. Be aware of heavy winds that could also damage your awning.

6. Consider using a stabilizer kit.

If you camp often in regions with high wind speeds, an RV awning stabilizer kit could be very valuable to you. This will help to keep your awning from flapping around in the wind, which can damage the fabric and the mechanical parts.

7. Inspect your awning twice each year.

Despite proper maintenance and care, your RV’s awning will wear as it ages. In order to stay ahead of any potential issues, you should thoroughly inspect your awning at least twice per year.

1. Open your awning slowly and pay attention to how it feels. If there is resistance or loud noises, it may need to be inspected by a mechanic.
2. Once the awning is out, you should check over all the mechanical parts. Start by inspecting the roller tube closely for signs of warping.
3. Check over the awning arms. Inspect the brackets and poles for missing screws or signs of bending. Look for broken rivets or enlarged holes in the handles. All of these can cause issues in the future if they are not repaired.
4. Look over the awning end caps, checking closely for signs of damage, and broken or missing rivets.
5. Inspect the mounting hardware and ensure that it is properly secured to the RV.
6. Thoroughly inspect the awning fabric, keeping an eye out for tears or signs of excessive wear. Talk to your RV mechanic about patching holes if they arise.
7. Roll up your awning, paying close attention to its movement as you put it away. Once again, listen for loud noises, clicking or other unusual sounds.
8. Once your awning is away, test the safety locking mechanism. Pull very gently on the awning to see if you can open it while it is locked. If the lock is working properly, the awning should not budge.