As the vibrant colours of summer gradually give way to the crisp, golden hues of autumn, it’s time to prepare your outdoor living spaces for the change in season. One often overlooked but essential aspect of this transition is safeguarding your awning. 

A well-maintained awning not only adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor area but also provides vital protection from the elements. Fortunately, all Fraser James Blinds Awnings require very little maintenance.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key steps and simple tips on how to safeguard your awning for the changing season, with a particular focus on the autumn months.

Assessing the Current Condition

Before you dive into autumn awning care, whether it be for manual awnings, electric awnings or retractable awnings, it’s crucial to evaluate its current state. This initial assessment will help you identify any pre-existing issues that need to be addressed. 

Here’s some top tips on what to look out for:

Torn or Frayed Fabric: Inspect the awning fabric for any tears, fraying, or damage caused by UV rays and weather conditions during the summer. If you notice any tears, consider patching them up with a high-quality fabric patch kit, following the manufacturer’s instructions. For more extensive damage, it may be necessary to replace the fabric entirely.

Rust or Corrosion: Check the awning’s frame and hardware for signs of rust or corrosion, particularly in areas exposed to moisture. If you find rust, remove it using a wire brush or sandpaper, and then apply a rust converter to prevent further corrosion. Finish by applying a rust-resistant paint to protect the frame.

Stains and Mould: Examine the fabric for stains, mildew, or mould, which can thrive in humid summer conditions. To remove stains, create a mixture of mild soap and water, and gently scrub the affected areas with a soft brush. For mildew or mould, use a specialised cleaner designed for awnings, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Mechanical Functionality: Test the awning’s retracting and extending mechanisms to ensure they work smoothly. If you encounter any issues, such as sticking or jerky movements, it may be necessary to lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. Be sure to consult your awning’s user manual for specific maintenance guidelines.

Cleaning Your Awning

Autumn awning care begins with a thorough cleaning. Removing dirt, debris, and any summer grime is essential to prevent stains and maintain the awning’s appearance. Follow these simple steps to help you to clean your awning: 

Remove Debris: Use a soft brush or broom to gently remove leaves, twigs, and dirt from the awning fabric. Start from the top and work your way down. Be gentle to avoid causing any additional damage to the fabric.

Hose Down: Use a garden hose to spray down the awning, paying attention to areas with visible stains or mould. Use a mild detergent or awning-specific cleaner to scrub away stubborn spots. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the fabric.

Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse the awning thoroughly, removing all traces of soap or cleaner, which can leave residue and potentially damage the fabric. A high-pressure nozzle on your hose can be particularly effective for this step.

Allow to Dry: Let the awning air dry completely before retracting it. Never store a wet or damp awning, as this can promote mould growth and damage the fabric. If you’re concerned about moisture, you can open the awning periodically to allow for proper ventilation and drying.

Inspecting and Repairing

After cleaning, it’s time to address any issues you identified during the initial assessment:

Fabric Repair: If you found tears or fraying, repair them promptly using an awning repair kit or consult a professional, like our quality team at Fraser James Blinds, if the damage is extensive. Make sure to follow the repair kit’s instructions carefully to ensure a durable and watertight fix.

Frame Maintenance: Lubricate moving parts and check for rust or corrosion. Use a rust converter if needed, followed by a coat of rust-resistant paint. Pay special attention to the awning’s arms and joints, as these areas are prone to wear and tear.

Hardware Check: Inspect all bolts, screws, and brackets. Tighten any loose fasteners, and replace any that are damaged or missing. Ensuring that all hardware is secure is essential for the awning’s stability and longevity.

Preparing for Autumn Weather

Autumn brings its own set of challenges, including falling leaves, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. To ensure your awning can handle these conditions, follow these steps:

Leaf Management: Consider installing a leaf guard or cover to prevent leaves from accumulating on your awning. Regularly remove any leaves that do land on the fabric to avoid staining. Alternatively, you can use a leaf blower on a low setting to gently blow away leaves and debris.

Waterproofing: Apply a waterproofing spray specifically designed for awnings to the fabric to enhance its ability to repel water. This will prevent moisture from seeping through and causing mildew or mould growth. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.

Tension Adjustment: Check the tension of your awning fabric. Proper tension ensures that rainwater drains off instead of pooling, reducing the risk of sagging or damage. Consult your awning’s user manual for guidance on adjusting tension if necessary.

Sun Protection: Continue using UV-resistant fabric and consider adding an extra layer of UV protection to prevent sun damage during the sunny autumn days. Some awning fabrics have built-in UV protection, but it’s still advisable to take precautions to extend the fabric’s lifespan.

Regular Maintenance Throughout Autumn

To keep your awning in top condition throughout the autumn season, it is always a good to establish a routine maintenance schedule, which should ideally include:

Regular Cleaning: Periodically remove fallen leaves and debris to prevent staining and mould growth. A soft brush or leaf blower can make this task easier. Additionally, consider giving your awning a light cleaning every few weeks to remove any dirt buildup.

Check for Mould: Inspect the fabric for signs of mould or mildew regularly. If you spot any, clean it promptly with a mildew remover and rinse thoroughly. Addressing mould promptly is crucial to prevent it from spreading and causing more significant damage.

Lubrication: Reapply lubricant to moving parts as needed to ensure smooth operation. Pay attention to any squeaks or resistance when extending or retracting the awning, as these can indicate areas that require lubrication.

Weather Awareness: Be vigilant about retracting the awning during heavy rain, strong winds, or snowfall to prevent damage. Some awnings come equipped with wind sensors that automatically retract the awning when strong winds are detected. If your awning doesn’t have this feature, be proactive in monitoring weather conditions and taking appropriate action.

Conclusion

As autumn approaches and the weather transitions, safeguarding your awning is a wise investment in the longevity and functionality of your outdoor space. With proper cleaning, maintenance, and preparation, you can enjoy the beauty and protection your awning offers throughout the season. 

By following these tips and staying proactive, you’ll ensure your awning remains a valuable asset, shielding you from the elements while adding style and comfort to your outdoor oasis. 

Remember that regular care and attention will not only extend the life of your awning but also enhance your overall outdoor experience, allowing you to savour the beauty of autumn in comfort and style.

For any additional tips, information or guides to choosing what awning will work best for you, our team at Fraser James Blinds is always more than happy to help. You can give us a call or arrange a free home visit today if you are within the Leicester, Coventry and Northampton areas.