Awning

An awning can be made of fabric or metal, though most residential awnings are fabric. Though different materials, fabric and metal awnings basically require the same type and regularity of cleaning.

Awnings, when hung out, need a monthly light cleaning. Get a broom and a ladder and sweep any debris from the top of the awning. Debris can collect rainwater and trap moisture, causing the awning to rot, mildew and stain. Don’t forget to clean the underside of the awning – brush away any dust or cobwebs.

Periodically, the awning will need a deeper cleaning. Start with the usual sweeping. After that, spray the awning gently with a hose. Then, using a soft-bristled brush, lightly scrub the awning with a mild mixture of dishwashing soap and warm water applied with a spray bottle. Rinse the awning thoroughly and brush off any water that may have collected.

Next clean the valance, which is the part of the awning that hangs down. Usually they can be removed from the main body of the awning. Clean the valance in the same way you cleaned the rest of the awning. The valance may need a little more vigorous scrubbing with the brush as they tend to collect mildew and slime. Rinse when clean and shake off the water.

Before reattaching the valance, clean the awning’s supporting structure. Use an old rag to wipe off the hardware, soak it in soap and water if the hardware is really dirty. Oil any joints with a silicone spray lubricant, and if you want, spray the whole structure with the silicone; it can add shine to the metal.

After cleaning the supporting structure, reattach the valance. Clean the underside of the awning with a broom, if you haven’t already, and then spray all the fabric with a water-repellant spray.

If your awning is metal, you may occasionally need to treat it to prevent rust. After the deep cleaning, apply an anti-rust spray to the entire awning, top and underside as well as the supporting structure. If you notice rust when cleaning, use a stiff-bristled wire brush to remove the rust and repaint as needed.

Do not use bleach or chlorine products to clean your awning as they can bleach the color out and cause the fabric fibers to erode. Also, do not use bug spray or insect repellants on the underside of the awning as they keep water repellants from working properly. Instead, use a broom to sweep away the unwanted visitors.

Your awning can take a lot of punishment, protecting you from the sun and the wind and the rain day after day. Clean the awning regularly and give it a rest (take it down and store it during the winter) and it will continue to protect you from the elements year after year.