Getting your retractable awning for winter ready takes one mild afternoon: clean the fabric, let it dry completely, check it for damage, and retract or store it before the first snow. Snow, ice and wind are hard on awning fabric and frames, and a little work in the fall helps your awning last for many more seasons.
Here is how Connecticut homeowners can protect a retractable awning for a deck or patio before the cold weather settles in.
Why Winter Is Hard on an Awning
An awning is built to give you shade in the warmer months. It is not built to carry a load of snow. Connecticut often gets heavy snowfalls, and the weight can stretch or tear the fabric and strain the frame. In a bad case, heavy snow can pull an awning away from the house and damage another part of your home when it falls.
Moisture is the other problem. Snow and ice that sit on an awning can cause the frame and joints to rust, and fabric that stays damp can grow mold and mildew. Leaving the fabric exposed all winter can shorten its lifespan.
How to Prepare Your Retractable Awning for Winter
Pick the right day
Choose a relatively warm, sunny day so the fabric can dry. Do not try to extend or retract the awning if it is covered with frost. That could damage the fabric and the motor. Let the frost melt first.
Clean the fabric and frame
Start with a broom or soft brush and sweep off leaves, twigs, pine needles, pollen and loose dirt. Then hose the awning down to wash away the grime that is left.
For stains or caked-on dirt, mix a little dish soap with water, or use a cleaner made for your type of fabric, and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush or washcloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, because they can damage the fabric. Remember to clean the valance and wipe down the frame, then rinse everything clean.
Let it dry completely
This is the step people skip, and it matters most. If you retract or fold an awning while it is still damp, mold will grow. Mold looks bad, it can damage the fabric, and it can be a health concern for your family and guests. Let the fabric air dry all the way before you close it up. Our guide on how to remove and prevent mold and mildew on a retractable awning has more detail.
Inspect for damage
While you clean, look the awning over. Check the fabric for holes, tears and worn areas. Look at the stitching to make sure it is not starting to unravel. If your awning has a valance, see whether wind has started to wear it out.
Check the hardware as well. Tighten loose bolts and screws and lubricate moving parts if they need it.
You can probably fix a small tear yourself with an awning repair kit. If you find serious damage or a problem you are not sure how to fix, hire a professional. Ignoring an issue or making a mistake with a do-it-yourself repair can cost a lot more later. Either way, make repairs before winter so the awning is ready to go in the spring.
Retract it or put it into storage
Once the awning is clean and dry, retract it fully and leave it closed for the season. The surest way to protect awning fabric from a Connecticut winter is to take it down and store it in a safe, dry place such as a garage or shed. Make sure it is completely dry before you fold it and put it away, or you may find it covered with mildew in the spring.
If your home also has fixed fabric window awnings or door canopies, give them the same cleaning and inspection, and ask your installer whether the fabric should come down for the winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave my retractable awning open in the snow?
No. The weight of snow and ice can damage the fabric and the frame. Keep the awning retracted whenever snow, ice or strong wind is expected.
Can I use my awning on a mild winter day?
You can, as long as there is no frost, ice or snow on it. Let any frost melt before you operate it, and make sure the fabric is dry before you retract it again.
What should I do if I find a tear in the fabric?
Fix it before you close the awning for the season. A repair kit can handle a small tear. Larger tears, loose stitching and frame problems are jobs for a professional.
Thinking About an Awning for Next Season?
If you do not have an awning over your patio yet, winter is a good time to plan one. Aladdin offers both hand-cranked and motorized retractable awnings made by Sunesta, with more than 150 weatherproof fabrics to choose from. Contact us to learn more or to get an estimate, or call (203) 776-9996.