| Awning Care |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-113 |
|
|
|
advertisement
|
 |
|
Scrub a cloth or canvas awning with dishwashing detergent and a soft-bristle brush -- nothing harsher.
|
Q: How do I preserve and keep my awning looking new? A: (Brad Staggs, Ask DIY Home Repair expert) Cleaning a cloth or canvas awning isn't bad -- you just have to be comfortable working on top of a ladder. And you'll need some sort of long broom that you can use to reach on top of the awning and sweep off any leaves and twigs. If you don't, the rainwater will collect on top of the awning and rot the debris. While you're up on the ladder sweeping the awning, go ahead and sweep the roof and gutters above it, since that stuff will eventually end up on the awning if you don't. Of course, the debris will fall down on your porch or deck below, so plan on cleaning that off next. Next, clean the valance -- the part of the awning that hangs down like an apron. Take down any hanging plants first. Then scrub the valance with a soft-bristle brush and a spray bottle of dishwashing detergent mixed with water. Keep soaking down and scrubbing the fabric until the mildew and slime are loosened. Then hose it off, repeating the process until the valance is clean. Nobody's perfect: Don't use products with chlorine in them, such as bleach, to scrub an awning. Chlorine will actually rot the fabric. Once the valance is clean and dry, spray on a water-repellant fabric-protector. That will preserve the life of the awning a little bit longer. And don't forget the underside of the awning. Knock down the dirt and cobwebs with a broom. More questions for Brad: Q: Could I replace my awning by myself? A: I wouldn't recommend replacing your entire awning yourself. But if you have a detachable valance, you can try sewing a replacement for that with supplies from a sewing store.
Q: I just got a new awning, and the colors are bleeding together. What is causing this? What can I do?
A: Sounds like you have a bad batch of fabric. I would immediately call the manufacturer or the company that put the awning in for you and have them come take a look. I would think they'd replace that for you right away.
Q: Can I use a pressure washer on my awning?
A: I wouldn't recommend it. You would risk damaging the awning. Web site resources for Awning Care Awning Care from Carefree Awnings.com Hints and Tips for Care of Your Awnings from Do-It-Right Inc.com Awning Care Advice from Det News.com Care of Fabric Awnings from Indutex.com Care and Maintenance of Awnings from DWC Designet.com
| 
)
