Awning Tips

• Awnings provide shade for porches, decks and RVs.red awning image by Rikmo from Fotolia.com
  
  Awnings are used to reduce heat and glare by shading a porch, deck or even the space outside an RV. Awnings generally come in two types, metal or canvas, and in a variety of colors and sizes. Generally, they are either permanent or can be retracted by hand crank or mechanically. Buy awnings with UV protection and with frames made of either steel or aluminum. Mount awnings to window frames or walls to ensure stability.
  
  

Metal Awnings

• Use a water-displacing fluid on metal awnings to protect from rust. Use a rust-resistant paint made for metal surfaces on metal awnings. Completely cover every section of the awning. Even one section left unpainted will rust. Touch up any chipped or missing paint. Check for dents and fix them; dents will eventually rust. Fully secure metal awnings to your home's exterior. If not, storms could cause the awning to come loose or fall off. Use pressure washers to remove built-in dirt or debris. Use a vinegar and water solution on copper awnings to prevent a patina from forming.
  
  

Canvas Awnings

• Buy retractable awnings, which will allow you to control the light and allow you to retract them during bad weather. Place canvas awnings over seating or pool areas. Use a garden hose to remove debris or dirt. Do not use pressure washers as it could weaken the fabric. Use only mild detergents to remove stains; do not use bleach. Coat canvas awnings with some type of water repellent. Canvas awnings are less expensive than metal awnings but do not last as long. Pick an awning color that matches your home. Avoid awnings with patterns as they often do not fade evenly. Go with a solid color.
  
  

RV Awnings

• RV awnings allow recreational vehicle owners to comfortably sit outside of their RV on hot days. RV awnings are nearly always vinyl or acrylic and retractable, since the vehicle moves. Roll up RV awnings during stormy weather, otherwise they may tear off. Air out RV awnings on a regular basis to dry any lingering dampness. Wash RV awnings with a mild detergent, warm water and a car wash brush. Do not use chlorine bleach. Let it dry before rolling it back up. Check for mildew stains regularly, and clean it off with mildew remover. Tightly secure your awning to your RV after each use. Fix any damaged frames, as this could cause your RV awning to come off while driving. Always roll up your RV awning before moving.