Retractable awning maintenance is simple: clean the fabric at least once a year, let it dry fully before you roll it up, lubricate the moving parts, retract it in bad weather and look it over for damage a few times a season. Those habits take very little time and they are what keep an awning working and looking good for years.
Here is how to do each step, plus a few notes on caring for fixed awnings over doors and windows.
How to Clean a Retractable Awning
Dirt, leaves and airborne pollutants build up on awning fabric over time. Left alone, they cause stains and can wear down the fabric. Give your retractable awning a thorough cleaning at least once a year.
Brush off loose debris
Use a soft-bristle brush or a broom to sweep leaves and loose dirt from the top and the underside of the fabric. Doing this now and then between full cleanings keeps debris from being rolled up inside the awning.
Wash with mild soap
Hose off the awning, then mix mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid, with lukewarm water. Scrub the fabric gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose until all the soap residue is gone.
Avoid harsh chemicals and do not use a pressure washer on the fabric. Both can damage its protective coating.
Let it dry completely
Never retract a wet awning and leave it that way. Moisture trapped in rolled fabric leads to mold and mildew. Plan your cleaning for a sunny day so the fabric dries quickly, and if the awning gets caught in a shower, extend it again afterward until it is dry.
Lubricate the Moving Parts Once a Year
A retractable awning has joints and hinges that move every time you open or close it. Once a year, apply a silicone-based spray lubricant to those moving components. It reduces friction, keeps the awning operating smoothly and helps prevent rust.
Retract the Awning in Bad Weather
Retractable awnings are designed for sun protection. One of the biggest mistakes an owner can make is leaving the awning extended in strong wind. Wind can damage both the fabric and the frame, and branches or other flying debris can strike the awning.
Keep an eye on the forecast. Retract the awning ahead of heavy rain, strong wind gusts and snow. In a Connecticut winter, it should stay closed.
Inspect the Awning for Early Signs of Trouble
Regular inspections catch small issues before they turn into major repairs.
Check the fabric for tears, holes and fraying, and have any damage taken care of promptly so it does not spread.
Look over the frame and mounting hardware for rust, corrosion and loose bolts. Make sure all metal components are securely attached, and tighten or replace parts as needed.
Remember to look at the area where the awning attaches to the house. Birds and insects sometimes build nests there, and a nest or any other object can interfere with the awning opening and closing.
Keep trees and shrubs trimmed
Prune trees, shrubs and vines so they do not rub against the fabric. Branches can cause tears, and sap and berries leave stains.
How to Maintain a Fixed Awning
If you have a fixed door canopy or window awning, use a broom to remove debris, and stand where nothing can fall on you while you work. Clean a fabric awning with the same mild soap method described above. A metal awning is sturdier and can be washed with a pressure washer. Check for damage while you are there and have it repaired if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my retractable awning?
Do a full wash at least once a year, and brush off leaves and dirt whenever you notice buildup.
Can I use a pressure washer on awning fabric?
No. Pressure washers and harsh chemicals can strip the fabric’s protective coating. Use mild soap, a soft brush and a garden hose.
What should I do if my awning gets wet?
If you had to retract it wet, extend it as soon as the weather clears and leave it open until the fabric is completely dry.
When Maintenance Is Not Enough
If your inspection turns up torn fabric, a bent arm or an awning that no longer opens smoothly, it may be time to talk with an awning company. Aladdin Inc. installs custom retractable awnings for homeowners throughout Connecticut. Call (203) 776-9996 or get in touch with Aladdin to discuss your awning.