Home awnings are a great addition to any property, providing shade and protection from the elements. But over time, they can accumulate dirt, debris, and stains, which can make them look unsightly and affect their performance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep your awnings in top condition and extend their lifespan.
In this post, I wanted to share with you my favourite tips and tricks on how to clean your home awnings effectively and safely, so you can enjoy their benefits for years to come.
Remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care and maintenance tips for your awning. Every company might have slightly different suggestions on how to look after your awning.
Over the years, I have also found that investing in good quality awnings goes a long way towards keeping your home awnings at their very best. High-quality awnings are much easier to clean, maintain and make your house looking great at all times.
The frequency of cleaning your awnings depends on the location of your home or business. If you are located near a main road or a farmer’s field, your awnings will get dusty quite often. In such cases, you might want to consider having them cleaned monthly. Otherwise, cleaning your awnings every two to three months will keep them performing well and looking good year after year.
To keep your home awnings in good condition, here are my favourite tried and tested tips:
Remove debris
Start by using a broom to sweep away any loose leaves, dirt, cobwebs, or other debris. Sweep out the underside as well. If your awnings are high, use a ladder. Exercise caution while you’re on the ladder.
When cleaning your awnings, it’s best to use a soft-bristled brush or a broom with soft bristles. A brush with stiff bristles can damage the fabric of your awning. You can also use a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge to gently scrub away any dirt or stains.
Clean the fabric
Use a solution of dish soap and water to clear up stains. Be sure to clean every part of your awning, as you’ll notice if you miss a spot. Rinse your awning with a garden hose and clean up underneath.
Avoid using pressure washers or harsh chemicals on your awning as they can damage the fabric and frame.
Clean the frame
Use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap to clean the frame of your awning. Rinse carefully with a garden hose and dry with a soft clean cloth.
Protect from trees and sap
Keep your awning away from trees to avoid damage from falling branches or sap. Sap can stain the fabric, leaving unsightly marks that are difficult to remove. It can also attract dirt and debris, which can cause the fabric to deteriorate over time. If left on the awning for an extended period, the sap can harden and become more difficult to remove, requiring more aggressive cleaning methods that can damage the fabric.
Lubricate moving parts
Lubricate the moving parts of your retractable awning to keep it functioning smoothly.
You can use a silicone-based lubricant or a dry lubricant to lubricate the moving parts of your awning. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract dirt and grime, which can cause damage to your awning. One recommended product is WD-40 Multi-Use Smart Straw, which has excellent greasing properties and does not attract dirt while insulating from moisture.
Leave a Reply