Awnings allow you to enjoy your garden in any weather, but some weather is more gentle than others. When winter arrives, it’s important you take some extra steps to protect your awning so that it stays in good condition when spring rolls around.
In this article, we explain some of the steps you should take to look after your awning in winter.
Keep it clean
Winter is the perfect time of year to clean your awning. All the dirt and debris that has accumulated during the summer months can stain the awning if left over the winter. And because you’re unlikely to use your awning as much during the colder months, the risk of your awning getting dirty again after being cleaned is much lower. Take this opportunity to gently clean your awning and prevent any stubborn or permanent staining.
Gently clean with warm soapy water. Simply wipe down the fabric until stains have been removed and allow it to dry completely before rolling away. Don’t use any harsh chemicals and don’t scrub too hard or you might damage the fabric.
Get any damage repaired
Speaking of damage, the winter months are the best time to check for and repair any tears in the fabric. Fabric that has torn during the summer months could suffer serious tears and damage if hit by torrential winds or snow during the colder months. Repairing any damage now will ensure your outdoor awning has the best chance to survive over the winter and be ready to use when spring rolls around.
Retract your awning during bad weather
While awnings were made to withstand all weather conditions, they can suffer if left open in strong winds or heavy rain. The latter causes pools of rainwater that can make your awning fabric too heavy and consequently damage the arms and motor mechanisms. If you’re not using your awning, your best course of action is to keep it retracted.
Clear out debris
It’s expected that an awning might catch leaves and twigs that have fallen from trees during autumn. If this debris isn’t removed it can get stuck in the mechanisms of the awning and cause damage. The best way to protect your awning is to brush away any debris from the top of the fabric or in the awning casing.
Check for mildew
Mildew is a white fungus that spawns in moist areas. As you’re likely to leave your awning folded up for long periods during winter, it’s vital you check regularly for the build up of any mildew hidden away in the folds. Mildew is most likely to spawn during the moist winter air, and it would be easy to miss if your awning fabric isn’t being used.
You should also avoid storing your awnings in plastic bags as these are excellent at trapping moisture and therefore present the ideal conditions for mildew to grow.
