Summer opens up new days, warmer nights, and the right time to turn your patio into a comfortable space to spend time in. But before you start cleaning, painting, or preparing your garden for the warm season, think about another important element of outdoor life: the awning.

An awning is an essential patio feature during summer due to its ability to offer shade, protect the sitting and sun from scorching UV rays, and control temperature while well maintained.

Here are some important tips on how to maintain your awning in good hygienic condition during the season and how to store it safely once the season is over.

1. Embrace a Regular Cleaning Routine:

It means that an awning should not only be clean to the extent that it reflects its aesthetic value but also be capable of functioning optimally.

• Gentle Rinse: Here is how to clean your awning; you should rinse down your awning with water from time to time to wash away dust, dirt, and cobwebs. It is also important not to use high-pressure water tools because they may damage the fabric.
• Mild Soap Solution: For stubborn stains, use a liquid soap solution, which should be made by adding a few drops of dish soap to warm water. To use the solution, one should gently brush the area with a soft brush, followed by vigorously rinsing the area.

2. Weather the Storm – Retract Your Awning in Harsh Conditions:

Even though they are constructed to protect the house from rain and sun, it is always best to be careful during storms or any other conditions that have strong impacts.

• High Winds: However, the stronger the winds are, the more tension is put on the frame as well as the awning fabric. Pull down your awning during windy weather or when there is a threat of a storm to avoid having it collapse or get damaged.
• Heavy Rain or Snow: While some manufacturers make their awnings with the ability to handle some light showers, issues such as sagging or water pooling occur during heavy rainfall or snow. It is even advisable to retract your awning during such weather conditions, as this will help maintain the proper shape and also prevent any water damage that might occur.

3. Invest in Professional Cleaning (Optional):

If you want to go deeper or if there are certain stains on the upholstery, it might be reasonable to turn to professional cleaning services. Professionals are also knowledgeable about the most effective ways to clean your awning, especially when the awning has dirt, mold, and grime that are hard to remove. This can be especially beneficial for awnings made from delicate fabrics or those in high-traffic areas.

4. Embrace the Power of Canvas Awning and Storage Services:

As summer winds down and cooler weather approaches, consider professional canvas awning and storage services. Here’s how these services can benefit you:

• Safe Off-Season Storage: Proper storage protects your awning from harsh winter elements like snow, ice, and strong winds. Professional storage facilities provide a clean, dry environment to ensure your awning remains in pristine condition.
• Expert Cleaning and Inspection: Many storage services include a thorough cleaning and inspection before storing your awning. This ensures any minor tears or damage are identified and addressed before next season.

By utilizing canvas awnings, you’ll extend the lifespan of your awning, save time and effort, and ensure it’s ready to provide shade and enjoyment when summer returns.

Amelia W. Cleveland