From O'Connor RV
We remember to take great care of the interior of our RVs, but many of us neglect to take care of our awnings. Awnings are an important part of RV living and they only require a bit of care and maintenance to keep them functioning properly. Simple maintenance will keep this transformative part of your rig ready for you to enjoy when you want to be outside. Here are seven simple steps.
1. Wash your awning at least twice per year.
Washing will help to minimize dirt stains, eliminate sap and leaves, as well as eradicate any 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. Putting the awning away damp 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 RV a lot during the summer.
5. Make adjustments for inclement weather.
Try to 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 centre. 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. To stay ahead of any potential issues, you should thoroughly inspect your awning at least twice per year.
- 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.
- Once the awning is out, you should check over all the mechanical parts. Start by inspecting the roller tube closely for signs of warping.
- Then check over the awning arms. You will want to inspect the brackets and poles for missing screws or signs of bending. Be sure to look for broken rivets or enlarged holes in the handles. All of these issues can cause problems in the future if they are not repaired.
- The next step should be to look over the awning end caps, checking closely for signs of damage, and broken or missing rivets. Then inspect the mounting hardware and ensure that it is properly secured to the RV.
- Then take a close look at the awning fabric, keeping an eye out for tears or signs of excessive wear. Your RV mechanic can patch holes if you find them.
- Lastly, roll up your awning and pay close attention to its movement as you put it away. Again, listen for loud noises, clicking or other unusual sounds.
- 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.
RV awnings create an extra living space for you where you can relax, enjoy the outdoors, and greet your neighbours. Keeping them in top shape is worth the effort.