Preparing Your Retractable Awning for the Winter

As the weather turns from warm to cool, and leaves change their colors, it's a sign that fall is around the corner. Preparing your home for the fall and winter seasons can be a lot of work, and that includes making sure that your awning is ready for the upcoming season. We have a few tips for you to get your awning prepared for the fall:
1)Clean your retractable awning fabric.
By this point in the year, your awning is due for a thorough cleaning. To start, get rid of any leaves, dirt, and debris off the awning and hose off anything you might have missed. Next, use warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove stains. Don't use any harsh cleaners because these can damage your awning fabric. Do a thorough rinse to get rid of any cleaning products, which will avoid any streaks or marks on your fabric.
2)Clean the retractable awning frame.
Next up, you are going to be cleaning the awning frame. Your frame is crucial to ensuring your awning operates properly. The good thing is that it's very easy to clean. To start, wipe down your frame with a soft cloth. Afterward, check the frame to make sure it's free of rust and that there aren't any loose nuts and bolts. There isn't any need for frame to be lubricated, except for the moving parts. You can use a silicone lubricant for the end of the roller tube and the opposite side of the motor.
3)Make sure your awning fabric is dry.
After you've cleaned your awning fabric, it's crucial you give it time to dry. If you do not, you encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Make sure you extend your awning in full and let it dry naturally in the sun. Then, after it's fully dry, it's safe to reattach it or put it away for storage. If you leave your awning fabric on the frame while it's retracted, make sure there isn't any loose or hanging fabric.
Awnings can last for years if taken care of through proper cleaning and maintenance. Also, make sure you protect your awning and retract it before the stormy season arrives. Retractable awnings are made to endure so you can enjoy protection from summer rays for years to come. Proper installation is also key, so contact us at Ramapo Awning to install a retractable awning in your home.







