The RV Awning
The RV awning is one of those have-to-have accessories that at 3
am, with a howling wind , you may wish you didn't have!
Who can remember the half-dozen or so steps required to lower the thing under these
conditions ? Have you ever awakened after that midsummer overnight thunderstorm and your awning is sagging
alarmingly? Have you ever tried to empty the hundred or so gallons of water that has collected in that sagging
awning ? Trust me when I say that you don't need to go through that "joy " of camping.
The recreational vehicle awning is designed as a sunshade, period.
If, perhaps, it starts to sprinkle a bit and also kicks up a mild breeze - don't worry - your RV awning can handle
that. But if those dark clouds are building on the horizon and the birds are seeking shelter, then you really
should consider rolling up. And you really should consider rolling up, NOW.
Practice rolling up your awning on a calm day until you have the
procedure memorized. Then do the same thing while blindfolded, with someone spraying a hose in your face. This will
simulate a typical emergency storm take-down. Except for the wind, of course. For this simulation you will need
three fairly burly guys, all yanking the awning in a different direction at once. Once you have gone through the
preceding exercise, you will understand why the experienced camper will take down the awning at the first sign of
trouble.
After being rolled up and possibly damp for several months your
awning will appreciate a good airing out and a bath with warm water and a mild detergent. Use a car wash type brush
to scrub the surface of both the top and the underside. A little WD-40 on the moving parts helps to free up and
protect these components. Dry it thoroughly before re-rolling it.
Lower one end of your open awning to allow rainwater to drain off.
Peg down the awning feet when the awning is free standing so that a gust of wind will not flip over the awning.
Also, the awning may be straped down with the special awning straps available at your local RV store. If you
suspect a strong wind or storm is coming the safest thing to do is roll up the awning.
- RV Awning Operation
RV Awning Operation
- RV Awning Operation Pictorial
How to operate the RV awning with a step by step pictorial. A series of 11 pictures show the set up process.
- RV Awning Repair
RV Awning Repair - how to do it safely. Special cautions are outlined to avoid mishap or injury. If you are not fully confident in you abilities, this chore is best left to trained personnel.
- Slide topper awning
How to install a slide topper awning - including a step-by-step picture sequence.
- RV Awning Spring Replacement
RV Awning Spring Replacement
- Awning Repair Tape
Awning repair tape - quickly repair any awning fabric with easy to use awning repair tape.
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