Key Takeaways
● Removing and replacing RV awning fabric is an easy process.
● Make sure to gather the necessary supplies before starting the project.
● Be sure to take accurate measurements of your awning so you can buy the correct size replacement fabric.
If you’re an RV owner, you know that pesky awning can sometimes give you trouble. Whether it’s a torn fabric or doesn’t open and close like it used to, sometimes you need to replace the fabric on your RV awning.
An RV awning is a great way to add shade to your outdoor living space, but it’s essential to take good care of it. You’ll need to gather the right tools and materials to start your project and ensure you have a few hours to complete it.
This blog post will show you how to do that in 10 simple steps, so keep reading to get started.
Table of Contents
Different Types of RV Awnings
When it comes to RV awnings, there are several different types available you can choose from. Here are some of the most common types of RV awnings:
Fabric Awnings
Fabric awnings are one of the most POPULAR types of RV awnings. These awnings come in different colors, fabrics, and sizes to suit whatever type of RV you have.
Fabric awnings offer PROTECTION from rain, wind, and sile, providing style to your outdoor space [1].
Aluminum Awnings
Aluminum awnings are another popular type of RV awning and offer many advantages over fabric awnings. They’re lightweight, durable, and provide SUPERIOR protection from the elements.
Aluminum awnings are also extremely low-maintenance and require only MINIMAL cleaning to keep them in top condition. Plus, they come in several colors and styles, so you can find one that best fits your needs.
While they may be slightly more expensive compared to other types of awnings, aluminum awnings last much LONGER and look great for years to come with minimal upkeep.
Pop-Up Awnings
Pop-up awnings are the perfect option for RV owners needing a QUICK, easy shade solution. These awnings are simple to install, require little maintenance, and offer excellent protection from sun and rain.
They come in various sizes, so you can find one that meets your needs. Plus, they’re completely retractable, making them great for those who need to SAVE space when not in use.
Manual and Electric Awnings
Manual and electric awnings are great options for RV owners who need more CONTROL over their awnings [2].
Manual awnings require the user to manually open and close the awning by hand, while an electric awning opens and closes with the touch of a button. Both offer SUPERIOR protection from sun and rain while being simple to use.
Electric awnings typically come with REMOTE controls so that you can operate them anywhere. It is easier than ever to take advantage of your outdoor living space. Plus, manual and electric awnings look fantastic when installed properly.
Patio Awnings
Patio awnings are the perfect solution for RV owners who want to add some extra style and sophistication to their OUTDOOR living space.
These awnings come in different styles, sizes, and colors, so you can find one that best suits your needs.
RV patio awning fabric protects the vehicle from the elements while adding aesthetic value to any area they cover. They’re typically made of LIGHTWEIGHT aluminum frames and fabrics, making them easy to install and maintain.
Plus, these types of awnings are RETRACTABLE, so you can open them up when needed and close them when not in use – perfect for those needing added flexibility in their outdoor spaces.
Signs It’s Time To Replace Your RV Awning Fabric
Knowing when to get a new awning fabric for your RV is crucial. Not only can a worn-out awning fabric look unsightly, but it can also leave your RV vulnerable to the elements. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your RV awning fabric:
Fading Or Discolouration
If your RV awning fabric is fading or discoloring, it’s time to replace it. Fading and discoloration are common signs of wear and tear. UV rays from the sun can also cause DAMAGE to your awning fabric over time.
Replacing your old, faded fabric with new material will help give your RV a fresh look and PROTECT it from further damage caused by the elements.
Fraying Edges
If you notice your RV awning fabric beginning to fray at the edges, it’s time for a replacement. Fraying edges indicate that your fabric can no longer PROTECT your vehicle from the elements and could be causing damage to other parts of the RV.
Itessentialant to replace the fraying fabric as soon as possible to keep your RV looking great and well-maintained.
Tears And Rips
Tears and rips in your RV awning fabric should be replaced IMMEDIATELY. If left unchecked, these tears or rips can grow and cause severe damage to other parts of the RV.
Replacing torn or ripped awning fabric will ensure that your vehicle is properly protected from the elements, helping to keep it looking great and well-maintained for years to come.
Loose Seams
Loose seams can be DANGEROUS, as they can cause excess wear and tear on the RV awning fabric. If your RV awning fabric has loose seams, it’s time to replace it.
Tightening or repairing the seams will not ensure proper protection from the elements and could lead to further damage.
A variety of factors, including water damage, poor ventilation, and excessive moisture, can cause mold and excessive mildew moisture. If you notice mold or mildew on your RV awning fabric, it’s time to replace it.
Not only will replacing the fabric help protect your vehicle from further damage caused by the elements, but it will also help IMPROVE air quality inside your RV.
Pro Tip: Before investing in a new RV awning fabric, take the time to clean and inspect your current one.
How To Choose The Right Awning Fabric
Choosing the right awning fabric is key to ensuring your RV awning looks great and lasts for many years. Here are some things to consider when selecting the right fabric for your awning:
Durability
When it comes to durability, you need to ensure the fabric replacement you choose can withstand EXTREME weather conditions and UV rays.
Look for fabrics specifically designed for outdoor use, as they will be more resistant to wear and tear.
Synthetic materials such as acrylic or polyester are often a good choice since they are more RESISTANT to fading, water damage, and mildew than cotton or other natural materials.
Additionally, waterproofing treatments can further enhance the longevity of your fabric.
Breathability
Breathability is an important factor to consider when selecting awning fabrics. You want a fabric that can breathe, allowing hot air and moisture to escape while helping keep the RV COOLER during those warm summer months.
Look for fabrics with open weaves or mesh designs, so they don’t trap too much heat and humidity inside the RV.
Additionally, lighter colors tend to be more BREATHABLE than darker ones, so look for light options that still offer adequate protection from the elements.
Color
Color can greatly impact your RV’s overall look and feel. Choose a color that COMPLEMENTS the exterior of your vehicle, as this will provide a more cohesive and unified appearance.
You can also choose fabrics with fun prints or patterns to make your RV look more stylish and unique. Select a fabric designed for OUTDOOR use, so it won’t fade or deteriorate quickly.
Weight
The weight of the awning fabric is another important factor to consider. Look for LIGHTWEIGHT fabrics that won’t add too much strain to the RV’s frame and are easy to install and remove when needed.
Lightweight materials such as vinyl or polyester are great choices, as they offer good protection without adding too much extra weight.
Additionally, you can look for fabrics with reinforced edges or seams, which will help make them even more DURABLE over time.
Maintenance
Furthermore, you want to make sure that the fabric is easy to maintain and clean. Look for fabrics designed specifically for outdoor use and resistant to water damage and mildew.
Most awnings come with detailed cleaning INSTRUCTIONS, so follow them carefully.
And if you’re looking for even fabrics on the market that can be easily wiped down or machine washed, such as vinyl or acrylic.
Price
Finally, you’ll need to consider the price when choosing the right awning fabric. There are many different options available on the market, so it pays to shop around and COMPARE prices before making your purchase.
Higher-quality fabrics typically come with a higher price tag, but they can often last longer and provide better protection. Ultimately, choosing an option that fits BOTH your budget and needs is essential.
Pro Tip: Consider purchasing extra fabric when replacing your awning, so you have some on hand in case of future repairs or replacements.
10-Step Guide To Replacing RV Awning Fabric
Replacing RV awning fabric is a great way to give your vehicle a new look. With this 10-step guide, you can do it yourself in no time.
Step 1: Gather The Tools You Need
Before you begin the process of replacing your RV awning fabric, it is essential to make sure that you have all of the necessary tools and materials.
You will need a ladder or step stool, an awl, scissors, grommets and eyelets, waterproof sealant, an air compressor (if applicable), rivets and screws, and a retractable tape measure.
Additionally, wear protective gloves and a process to protect yourself from injury.
Step 2: Remove Old Awning
If you have all the necessary tools and materials, it’s time to replace your RV awning fabric. Start by removing the old awning fabric from the awning arms.
Remove the screws from the awning bracket and carefully lift the arms away from the RV frame. Then, use a pair of scissors to cut the old fabric into manageable pieces so it can be removed more easily.
Step 3: Measure And Cut New Fabric
Once the old fabric has been removed, use a retractable tape to measure the DIMENSIONS of your awning carefully. Then, cut the new fabric according to these measurements and lay it over the frame for inspection.
Double-check your measurements before cutting to ensure that you have ENOUGH material for an installation.
Step 4: Make Any Necessary Repairs To The Frame
Inspect the frame for any signs of DAMAGE and make the necessary repairs before proceeding. This may include fixing broken rivets, replacing screws or tightening loose bolts.
If you are uncertain how to make these repairs, contact a qualified RV technician for help.
Step 5: Secure New Fabric To The Frame
Once the frame has been repaired and inspected, begin attaching the new fabric to the frame. To do this, use grommets and eyelets for lightweight fabrics or rivets and screws for heavier fabrics.
Make sure to attach all corners SECURELY and EVENLY to avoid sagging. Additionally, apply a waterproof sealant around any edges where water may leak in.
Step 6: Reinforce Seams And Edges With Tape Or Binding
Once the fabric is attached to the frame, reinforce any seams and edges with tape or binding. This will help keep the awning stable and PROTECT it from wind and water damage.
Step 7: Ensure Proper Tension On The Awning Fabric
Once the awning fabric is attached, check that it has PROPER tension. This can be done by pressing down on the fabric and ensuring it does not sag or droop.
If there is TOO much tension, you can adjust the grommets or eyelets to loosen them up accordingly.
Step 8: Clean And Wax The Awning Roller Tube
Once the fabric is properly tensioned, clean and wax the awning tube to ensure that it is in GOOD working condition, this can be done with a mild soap solution and an automotive wax.
Step 9: Reinstall And Test System Operation
Once the roller tube is clean and waxed, reinstall it onto your RV and test that the system operates properly. To do this, retract and deploy the awning and ensure it moves FREELY; use your awning rod to hook it down. If the system does not operate as intended, consult your RV manual for troubleshooting tips.
Step 10: Perform Maintenance As Needed For Long-Term Performance
Once your new awning fabric has been properly installed, it’s important to perform maintenance as NEEDED.
This may include cleaning and waxing the roller tube every few months, tightening loose hardware, and applying waterproof sealant if necessary.
Pro Tip: Store your awning in the retracted position when not in use to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Regular Sewing Machine To Repair Or Install Awning Fabric?
No, you should not use a regular sewing machine to repair or install awning fabric. Specialized tools and supplies are required for this task.
What Should I Use If I Need To Repair Awning Fabric?
For minor repairs, you can use a fabric adhesive or patch kit. For more extensive repairs, it is recommended to contact a qualified RV technician for help.
I Don’t Have An Air Compressor – Can I Install Awning Fabric?
Yes, you can still install the fabric without an air compressor. You will need to use grommets and eyelets instead of rivets or screws.
Conclusion
With these ten simple steps, you’ll be able to replace your RV awning fabric in no time! Just be sure to take your time, read the instructions carefully, and gather all the necessary tools and materials before you start.
And if you run into any trouble along the way, don’t hesitate to ask a friend or family member for help – they might have some helpful tips and tricks that can make the process even easier.
