Outdoor awnings are utilised and invested in for the sake of light protection against your home or outdoor areas, or for adding an element of comfort to entertainment spaces such as patios, pergolas, and timber decking. But having an outdoor awning installed doesn’t mean you can just set and forget, as they come with the need for routine awning maintenance – and an awning that is neglected will only look worn, unloved, and bring down the exterior appeal of your home.
The good news is that awning maintenance isn’t difficult, it just requires some regular care and attention to keep them looking great all year round and long lasting. In this blog, we offer a thorough guide to cleaning awnings that ensures they last, look fabulous and keep the appeal of your home intact.
Check out our outdoor awnings and blinds on our website today and call us on 1300 303 391 to place an order for your home! Additionally, head to our website to request a free measure and quote today.
A Guide to Awning Maintenance
Retract it When Not in Use
The best way to maintain longevity when it comes to your awnings is to retract them whenever they aren’t in use. Once you’ve finished entertaining, or you’re done relaxing outside for the day/evening, simply retract your awning back to a closed position. This can easily become a habit, and ensures your awning isn’t exposed to the harsh Australian elements every day or gathering a build-up of grime and dirt.
Clean it Regularly
Cleaning your awnings should be done at least once a season, and more frequently if they’re in a particularly exposed position or you live near the coast. Remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface of the awning using a brush. Be sure to use a soft brush as anything abrasive will damage the awning fabric. Hose down the awning using a low pressure setting and allow it to dry completely in the sun before folding it away or retracting it. If there are any stubborn stains, you can treat them with a mild soap solution and a sponge. Again, be sure to rinse the awning thoroughly afterwards and leave it to dry in the sun.
Protect from Hostile Weather
It’s always imperative that you do what you can to protect your outdoor awnings from the harsh Australian elements. If you have a fabric awning, we recommend treating it with a waterproofing spray or solution. This will help to repel water and protect the fabric from sun damage, mould, and mildew. You can also purchase awnings that come with a built-in UV protection feature. These awnings will still need to be cleaned regularly, but the UV protection will help to extend their lifespan and protect the fabric from major and longstanding damage caused by direct exposure to the sun.
Do Not Retract When Wet
Mould and mildew can become a problem if cleaning awnings around your home is not done correctly, regularly, or if they are retracted while still substantially wet or damp. If you notice any mould or mildew appearing on the awnings around the exterior of your home, clean the affected areas with a bleach solution and rinse well. Be sure to do a patch test on an inconspicuous area of one of your awning first to ensure the bleach doesn’t damage the fabric any further.
After having your awnings installed by U Blinds Australia, we recommend asking our team about the best course of action when it comes to maintaining and cleaning awnings. Our professional installation contractors will give you industry leading and proven advice to ensure your awnings are always kept in great condition and lasting their whole life through. We create blinds, shutters, and awnings to a high standard, because we want our clients to invest in nothing but high quality products.
Up Your Awning Game with U Blinds Australia!
Browse our extensive and versatile range of curtains and blinds on our website now and visit us at one of your nearest showrooms to see our products up close! Found something from our collection that you like? Give us a call on 1300 303 391.