A retractable awning can protect your family and guests from sun and rain so you can enjoy relaxing on your deck or patio. Since it’s exposed to the elements, an awning has to be cleaned from time to time to prevent damage. The process is relatively simple and straightforward.
Follow This Easy Process to Clean Your Awning
Start by using a broom to brush off any twigs, pine needles, loose dirt, leaves, and other visible debris. You might need to climb on a ladder to reach all the corners of the awning. If you use a ladder, have someone hold it so you don’t fall.
Spray the awning with a hose, then prepare a solution of mild laundry soap or dish soap and water. Use ¼ cup of soap for every gallon of water. Mix until the solution is foamy.
Dip a soft-bristled brush in the solution, then brush in circular motions to get rid of any stuck-on dirt, mold, and mildew. Once you have finished scrubbing, use a hose to rinse away the cleaning solution and grime.
If there are any stubborn stains, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to find out the best way to clean them. For some types of awnings, you can use a solution of bleach and water. In other cases, bleach can cause damage. If bleach isn’t recommended for your particular awning, use baking soda to get rid of tough stains.
Once you have finished cleaning the awning, allow it to dry completely before you retract it. That will keep the fabric from getting moldy.
Prevent Damage to Your Awning
You might be thinking that power washing would be quicker and easier, but it’s not a good idea. Power washing an awning can damage the fabric and make it less able to provide protection from the elements. It can also cause the awning to wear out faster than it should.
Routine maintenance can keep your awning in good condition and help you avoid having to spend a lot of time scrubbing stains. Make it a habit to periodically brush off loose debris with a broom and hose down the awning to get rid of dirt.
Get an Estimate for a New Awning
If you don’t currently have a retractable awning and you’re frustrated because you can’t use your deck or patio as often as you would like, the team at Aladdin can create a custom awning that fits your needs and style. We can design an awning in a size that suits your outdoor space and help you choose from our selection of more than 150 weatherproof fabrics. Contact us today to learn more or to get a quote.
