Awning Cleaning Tips

January 1, 2019

Due to being constantly exposed to the weather’s conditions, your awning will inevitably need to be cleaned and maintained. While some may believe that this is too tough or complex to handle without the help of a professional, there are some simple tips that awning owners can take to maintain their awnings on an occasional basis.

Importance of Awning Cleaning

Over time, your awning will be exposed to less-than-desirable conditions like mold, mildew, debris, and bird droppings. If awning owners fail to maintain a periodic cleaning regimen, the longevity of the awning can suffer. It’s important to keep a clean awning to make sure that you’re reaping the full benefits of its quality and lifespan. Of course, a clean awning is always more visually appealing than a dirty one!

How to Clean Awnings

The question of how best to clean your awning will not have the same answer for every awning owner. The type and nature of awning cleaning depends on a number of factors. These factors include the shape and size of the awning, the materials it’s made from, and the amount of dirt and debris that needs to be removed. Before using any particular cleaning products, awning owners should be sure to first do their research to make sure that any products or chemicals will not jeopardize the awning’s materials, such as vinyl or fabric. If you’re unsure, check with the manufacturer or professional who helped to build and install the awning.

Awning Rinsing

It’s generally recommended to periodically rinse your awning with water. A simple rinse can work wonders for clearing up debris and dust that accumulate over time. This may require a ladder so that you can be sure to reach all the tough spots on the top of the awning. In these cases, stay safe by making sure someone holds the ladder for you.

Washing Your Awning

Many home and business awnings can be cleaned using a solution of water and mild household soap such as dish soap. There are also a number of commercial cleaning products that may help to leave your awning sparkling clean. Before you get to scrubbing, make sure to brush off any visible debris on the awning. Then, use a soft brush to gently scrub the awning to make sure that dirt and debris is lifted. Be careful when selecting a brush, as stiffer brushes may damage the awning material or the waterproof coating. Rinse off all soap and admire your good-as-new awning!