Your RV canopy perhaps isn’t one of your main concerns while you’re considering precautionary upkeep on your RV. Actually, awnings are not really thought about that seriously as compared to other parts of any RV.
Nonetheless, it is still important to think of the amount that you will be spending in case you need to replace an RV awning. You might be a bit more attentive in showing it the maintenance care it could use.
Be cautious when it is mistreated or ignored — You might end up shouldering the burden of a costly replacement in the next few years.
Take a closer look these important points to take note about RV awning maintenance.
- Never Roll in a Wet Awning
Every time you store your awning, make sure that it is dry. If you roll it up wet, then moisture will accumulate. Once moisture accumulates and it remains on the fabric, gradually mildew will destroy the fabric.
One important point that you need to keep in mind is to let it be air dried before packing and storing. High moisture will increase the time it takes for your awning to totally dry.
- Distinguish the Kind of Awning on Your RV
Vinyl and acrylic are usually the two types of materials for awnings. The way you should clean and wash your RV’s awning relies on the kind of material. For both vinyl and acrylic, use a water hose to remove the dirt in your awning. Less scrubbing will work better. Especially for acrylic type of awning, use can make use of a firm brush, water, and soap.
- Defend Your RV Awning from the Harmful Effects of UV Radiation
Damaging ultraviolet rays from the sun will also take their toll on your awning. It is like exposing a banner made of tarpaulin under the sun. What happens after a few months? Seriously, it has become thinner until it is no longer functional.
Hence, if you are going to purchase a new one, consider taking a final covering of elastic aluminum which will enclose the awning material it is kept in storage. This will help in reducing the damage that can be struck by the sun’s UV rays.
- Clean Your RV Awning Regularly and With Suitable Goods
There are industrial cleaning products that are endorsed to keep your awning fabric clean. Mild detergent is suitable for cleaning it.
- Don’t Allow the Wind Take Your Awning for a Ride
During windy conditions, take proper precautions. Minimize the flapping to prolong the life of the awning fabric.
- Use An Awning Preservative Set
Make use of a preservative set to extend the life of your awning. You can purchase this in the market.
- You Drain Your Awning of Water
Continuously set your awning so that one corner is immersed. Just take good care that the whole awning is not loose from the RV.
- Always Lock the Rewind Tool
Always pay attention that when you store your awning for any travel, see to it that you set the rewind mechanism so that the awning cannot be trundled out. You can make use an awning bolt to guarantee that yours is safe.
Take these tips above with you as you maintain your RV’s awning.
Always remember this cliché, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.