Good winter awning maintenance comes down to a few jobs done before the first snow: clean the fabric and frame, repair small damage, and retract or cover the awning so it never carries a snow load. The same thinking applies to your gutters and other outdoor structures. A little work in late fall prevents most of the damage that Connecticut snow and ice can cause.
Here is what to check on each part of your home’s exterior before winter sets in.
Winter Awning Maintenance
Retract or remove the awning when you can
Fabric awnings are made for sun and light rain, not for the weight of snow and ice. If you have retractable awnings on your deck or patio, close them fully for the season. For stationary awnings that are not designed to handle snow, consider adding support or taking the fabric down until spring.
Clean the fabric and frame
Wash the fabric with mild soap and water before you close it up, and let it dry completely. Dirt, leaves and moisture trapped in a rolled awning all winter are what lead to mold and mildew. Wipe down the frame at the same time.
Inspect for wear and tear
Look for rips, holes, loose stitching and weakened or bent frame parts. Small problems are much easier to fix in the fall than after a winter of snow and ice has made them worse.
Use a protective cover
If possible, cover the closed awning with a weather-resistant cover. It shields the fabric and moving parts from snow and ice buildup and keeps the awning cleaner for spring.
Metal canopies and patio covers
Aluminum door canopies and window awnings stay up year-round, so they need less preparation. Rinse them off, check that the mounting hardware is tight, and brush away heavy snow after a large storm.
Gutter Maintenance Before the First Snowfall
Clogged gutters are a common cause of winter water damage. Remove leaves, twigs and other debris so melting snow can drain. Blocked gutters can contribute to ice dams, where water backs up and freezes at the roof edge.
While you are up there, check for cracks, rust or sagging sections and make repairs before the snow arrives. Confirm that the downspouts are clear and that they direct water away from your home’s foundation.
If you clean out the same clogs every year, gutter guards are worth considering. They keep debris out and reduce the risk of clogs during the winter months.
Pergolas, Carports and Other Outdoor Structures
Start with a structural check. Look over pergolas, carports and aluminum and fabric patio covers for loose bolts, cracked wood or rusted metal, and tighten or repair what you find. Add extra support to any section that seems weak so it can handle the added weight of snow and ice.
Treat exposed wood and metal surfaces with a weatherproofing product to limit damage from moisture and freezing temperatures.
During the winter, clear snow off regularly instead of letting it pile up. Use a soft-bristle broom or a roof rake and work gently so you do not scratch or dent the surface.
Do not forget your steps and handrails. Check that aluminum and wrought iron railings are firmly anchored, since they get the most use when the steps are icy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave a retractable awning open in the snow?
No. Keep it closed whenever snow or ice is possible. The weight can stretch the fabric and strain the arms and frame.
When should I do winter maintenance on my home’s exterior?
Late fall is best, after most of the leaves have dropped and before the first snowfall. That way gutters are cleaned once and awnings are put away clean and dry.
What is the safest way to remove snow from an outdoor structure?
Use a soft-bristle broom or a roof rake from the ground when you can, and remove snow in stages after each storm. Avoid metal shovels and sharp tools that can damage the surface.
Need Help Getting Your Awning Ready for Winter?
If your inspection turns up a torn awning, a loose railing or a canopy that has seen better days, Aladdin Inc. in Wallingford can take a look and recommend a repair or replacement. Call (203) 776-9996 or send Aladdin a message to get started.