A roll up awning can extend the use of your camper or back yard patio, keeping the blistering sun and rain off of you and your belongings. With some simple care you can extend the life of your awning, saving yourself money and preventing the possibility of losing the use of your camper while it is repaired.
Most roll up awnings are made of a durable material that also includes a UV layer to protect the fabric from the sun. Frequent cleaning with a vinyl fabric cleaner, or simple soap and warm water and a soft brush, rinsing thoroughly adds to the useful life of your awning, while offering you the opportunity to inspect your awning for holes, rips or frays in the fabric. Be sure to allow the awning to dry completely before rolling it back up, to prevent mold and mildew.
One of the simplest ways to prevent damage to your awning is to roll it up when not in use or during bad weather. Strong winds can easily rip the fabric or pull it away from the support bars, even bending the bars and braces. Tie downs can be used to anchor the awning to the ground but rolling it up is a sure way to prevent damage. Falling limbs can cause holes in your awning, so be sure to inspect the trees above your awning.
Be sure to also inspect the braces that support your awning on a frequent schedule. They should be screwed securely into the railings as well as the wall side. Winds can cause loose braces to bend, if the roller bar gets bent it will make it difficult if not impossible to roll up your awning.
Before traveling with your camper, be sure that all braces are secured to the camper and in the locked position. Most awning damage comes from the high winds during travel.