If you are wondering how to clean metal awnings after a snowstorm, the short answer is to clear the snow soon after each storm with a tool that will not scratch or gouge the surface. A soft snow broom, a leaf blower or a carefully used roof rake all work on aluminum awnings. Fabric awnings need a gentler approach, and a regular shovel or household broom should not be used on either kind.
Many Connecticut homeowners have awnings over their windows and doors. They keep a home cooler in summer by blocking the sun, and in winter they protect entryways, walkways and porches from snow. A little care after each storm keeps them doing that job.
How Snow Can Damage Awnings
Connecticut winters can bring large snowstorms. Fabric or aluminum awnings can be damaged if too much snow and ice is allowed to build up on them. They can sag, and they can even come down if the weight becomes too much to bear.
The fix is simple: clear the snow off your awnings after each winter storm instead of letting several storms pile up.
How to Clean Metal Awnings and Fabric Awnings After a Storm
Awnings are durable, but the wrong tool can scratch an aluminum awning or tear a fabric one. Do not use a snow shovel, a regular broom or any other tool that is not designed for the job. These three tools are safe when used the right way.
Snow Broom
A snow broom looks like a push broom with an extendable handle. Its soft bristles will not rip or damage a fabric awning, and it is safe on metal as well. Use it to push or brush the snow off.
Store the snow broom indoors when you are not using it. If the bristles freeze or get covered with buildup, they become hard enough to damage the awning.
Leaf Blower
A leaf blower lets you remove snow from a distance and can clear an entire awning quickly. It works best on light, dry snow and is less effective when the snow is wet or heavy. It also blows snow in several directions, so expect some extra cleanup on the ground.
Roof Rake
If you have aluminum awnings, you can remove snow with a roof rake. Do not use one on fabric awnings, because the flat aluminum piece at the end can cause damage.
Even on a metal awning, keep the rake from touching the awning itself. Pull the snow off without scraping, because the rake can gouge the surface.
Tips for Clearing Snow Safely
Work from the ground whenever you can, using a tool with a long handle. Stand to the side so the snow does not land on you, and watch for ice sliding off with it.
Do not chip at ice that has frozen to the awning. Hacking at it is more likely to dent the metal or tear the fabric than to help. Clearing snow promptly, before it melts and refreezes, is the better way to avoid ice buildup.
If you have a retractable awning, keep it retracted for the winter so snow never has a chance to collect on it.
Check Your Awnings When Winter Ends
Once the snow is gone, take a look at each awning. Wash off the grit that winter leaves behind with a garden hose, mild soap and a soft brush, then rinse well. Look for loose fasteners, bent frames, sagging or torn fabric.
An awning that was bent or pulled loose by snow should be repaired or replaced before the next season. Aladdin Inc installs new door canopies and window awnings for Connecticut homes, along with aluminum patio covers for larger outdoor areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I remove snow from my awnings after every storm?
Yes. Clearing snow after each storm keeps the weight from building up and reduces the chance that an awning will sag or fall.
Can I use a shovel or a regular broom to clear snow off an awning?
No. A snow shovel or stiff broom can scratch aluminum and tear fabric. Use a soft-bristled snow broom, a leaf blower or, on aluminum only, a roof rake.
Is a roof rake safe for fabric awnings?
No. The flat aluminum end of a roof rake can damage fabric. Use a snow broom or a leaf blower on fabric awnings.
Get an Estimate for New Awnings
Aladdin Inc has been providing Connecticut homeowners with home improvements since 1949. If winter weather has taken a toll on your awnings, or you would like to add them to your house, contact Aladdin for an estimate or call (203) 776-9996.