As with many things in life, problems arise, even with Awnings. With these issues come expenses – sometimes unnecessary – and un-called for stress which is why we thought we’d share some important issues to keep an eye out for (in no particular order) and tips on how to prevent common maintenance issues from damaging your Awnings as well as how to maintain your Awning so that you aren’t faced with these issues on a regular basis.
- The Weather
As many of you will know by now, one of the most common causes of issues or damage to your Awnings Is none other than the weather.
Depending on where you live and where exactly your Awning is positioned, the weather can take its toll on the condition of your Awning. Whether its harsh exposure to the Suns UV Rays, strong winds or heavy thunder storms and rainfall, your Awning will always take the brunt of the weather.
In order to prevent or maintain your Awnings so that they do not become damaged by the weather conditions be sure to conduct seasonal and routine inspections that include a gentle wash with water and a soft bristle brush as well as the removal of any leaves, twigs, branches or anything that can cause damage to your Awning in instances of hazardous weather conditions.
- Mould and Mildew
This generally applies to those of you who have a material cover or shade cloth for your Awning. Water and moisture from humidity tends to collect and flourish in the materials used for Awnings or Car Ports, making them the perfect area for bacteria, mould and mildew to grow. Not only does this mould or mildew keep growing at a rapid pace but it is also very difficult to get rid of once it starts.
To avoid this- as mentioned above – be sure to clean your Awning on a regular basis – monthly if you can – ensuring to use warm soapy water with a soft bristled brush and ensure to do so on a warm day giving your Awning enough time to dry in the sun. It is also important to pay attention to the condition of your Awning so that you can address the problem before it develops.
- Motor Damage
This applies to those of you who have motorised retractable Awnings.
Most motors should have a built in thermal override to prevent over-heating but when utilised several times over a short period of time these motors can temporarily shut down. The best way to fix this is to switch the motor off for roughly 10 to 15 minutes so that it can cool down and then try the motor again.
- Bees and other insects
Although it may sound a bit absurd, bees and other insect-like pests can be very harmful to your Awning and its mechanisms as these insects tend to form nests and hives that are most often attached to your Awning. It is best to remove these as soon as you see one developing and not to leave it for too long as it then becomes difficult to get rid of the problem.
To prevent nests or hives from occurring be sure to keep the area underneath your Awning clean. Do not leave out any food, cool drink or anything of that nature that can attract insects into the area.
- Rust
It is not uncommon to see rust developing on the frame of your awning. Over time the frame of the Awning will corrode and deteriorate, it is essentially part of the lifespan of an Awning. The problem however, is when the rust is left untreated causing the support structure or frame of the Awning to collapse which is a huge safety hazard.
So, how do we deal with a rusting Awning? Always monitor the damage and inspect your Awning for any rust that is present; cleaning your Awning and removing the dirt and debris build-up will help a tremendous amount in keeping your Awning in good shape and you may also want to paint the rusted areas of your Awning and apply a coat of sealant at least once a year to keep from corroding
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