How to Remove Snow from an Awning
January 1, 2019
Having an awning to protect an entryway or deck from winter weather can be convenient and can increase the safety of those visiting the home or business. However, it is important to properly clear the awning of snow and ice to maximize the life of the awning. Having excessive weight on the awning can also pose a safety hazard, as the weight may cause the awning supports to snap and the awning can fall unexpectedly.
Tools for Clearing Snow
Snow Broom
Snow brooms are similar to push brooms with extendable handles. The bristles are soft so that even fabric awnings will not become ripped or damaged during cleaning. The broom can be used to push or brush off snow. Snow brooms should be stored indoors to prevent the bristles from becoming frozen or covered with build-up, as hardened bristles may cause damage to awnings.
Leaf Blower
Leaf blowers can be used to easily blow snow off of awnings and surrounding structures. Leaf blowers are convenient because the snow can be removed from a distance and the blower can completely clear the awning of snow with little effort. However, if snow is heavy or wet, the leaf blower may be relatively ineffective. The leaf blower may also cause snow to blow off in all directions, which may result in more extensive cleanup than when more focused tools are used.
Roof Rake
Roof rakes should only be used on sturdier awnings that are made of metal or aluminum. The flat aluminum piece at the end of the roof rake that is used to clear the snow may damage fabric or wood. When used on aluminum or metal, care should be taken not to touch the awning while clearing, as it may gouge the surface.
Awning Clearing
Awnings should be cleared after each winter storm, for best results. Care should be taken when clearing awnings to protect items below the awning that may become damaged by the falling snow or ice. The area should be blocked off during cleaning to prevent people from walking under the awning and becoming injured.
