Tips for Awning Maintenance

If you live on the Sunshine Coast, then you know how convenient it is to have awnings on your home. They offer sun protection and provide shade for as long as you need it when the temperatures are high, making them a smart purchase for any homeowner. Yet, awnings are exposed to a lot of wear and tear. Between bad weather, sun exposure, and the countless critters that often like to hang out on them on a daily basis, many things can cause your awnings Sunshine Coast to deteriorate quickly, which is why proper care and maintenance is so important for increasing the lifespan of your awning. This will allow you and your family the ability to enjoy them for years to come. Check out these tips below:

Retract It 

Awnings are meant to be used for shade and protection from the sun, and will not effectively protect a person from heavy storms or other serious weather. It is always a good idea to buy an awning that will retract or wind up, ensuring that it is well protected when not in use. Excess exposure to water will cause deterioration, no matter the material your awning is made of. All awning fabrics will gradually fade over time. The fabric can also stretch, particularly if over tightened for long periods after locking down the awning. Rusty spots can appear on some components if not looked after.

Whenever you are not using your awning, be sure that it is not out. If you hear that bad weather is approaching, double check that everything is tucked away and out of harm’s way, so that you can put it to good use when the sun is shining again. 

Clean your awning regularly

Another important part of awning maintenance is regular upkeep and cleanings. Make certain that any excess dirt and debris are washed off regularly to ensure that no build-up can occur. Also, hosing down the gears and motors every once in a while is always a good idea to decrease the likelihood of anything getting trapped inside of them. Cleaning your awning on a regular basis will ensure that minimal stains or marks will appear and will help it maintain its superior quality.

Operate It Efficiently

When it comes to operating your awning, be careful and make sure that all parts are able to function together as smoothly as possible. Clear off any debris that may have accumulated before rolling it up to prevent any tears or further damage. If it is wet, it is usually recommended to let it dry out before putting it away, and be sure to not overwork the motor or any other mechanisms that are helping things operate. If something seems off or forced, then there is likely some sort of issue that needs to be addressed before proceeding any further. If you have to roll up your awning whilst it is wet, don’t panic. Just be sure to roll it day in the next day or two so that the fabric can dry.

 If you are on the Sunshine Coast and are in the market for a new awning, turn to BSA  Direct today to see our wide selection of awnings on the Sunshine Coast. Click here to view our range of awnings. We look forward to working with you soon!