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How to Safely Retract and Store Your RV Awning to Prevent Damage

September 30, 2024

RV camper awnings are an essential feature for many outdoor enthusiasts, providing shade, protection from the elements, and a comfortable outdoor living space. However, due to their exposure to weather conditions and frequent use, awnings can be prone to wear and tear if not handled properly. A crucial step in maintaining the longevity of your RV awning is learning how to safely retract and store it to prevent damage.

In this post, we’ll dive into the best practices for retracting, cleaning, and storing your RV awning to ensure it stays in excellent condition for years to come.

Why Proper Retraction and Storage is Essential?

RV awnings are typically made from durable materials like vinyl, acrylic, or polyester, but even the toughest fabrics and mechanical components can suffer damage if not handled with care. When awnings are not properly retracted or stored, they become vulnerable to:

  • Wind damage: Awnings left extended during strong winds can tear or be torn from their mounts.
  • UV exposure: Continuous exposure to sunlight can degrade fabric and cause discoloration.
  • Water damage: Moisture trapped inside a rolled-up awning can lead to mildew, mold, or rotting.
  • Structural wear: Improperly storing the awning can result in bent arms or broken mechanical components.

Let’s explore how to avoid these issues by retracting and storing your RV awning safely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Retracting and Storing Your RV Awning:

1. Check Weather Conditions before Retracting

Before retracting your RV awning, it’s critical to evaluate the weather. Ideally, you should avoid retracting the awning when it is wet. Retracting a wet awning can trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth, which can deteriorate the fabric. If the awning is wet, let it air dry or gently wipe it down before rolling it up.

Additionally, ensure there is no excessive wind, as strong gusts can make retraction difficult and may cause damage to the arms or fabric. Retracting your awning in calm conditions will prevent unnecessary strain on its components.

2. Clean the Awning before Storage

Debris, dirt, and sap from trees can accumulate on your awning over time, especially if it’s been extended in areas with heavy vegetation. It’s important to clean the awning before retracting it to avoid dirt buildup that could degrade the fabric over time.

Here’s how to properly clean your RV awning:

  • Extend the awning fully and secure it with the support arms.
  • Use a soft-bristle brush and a gentle cleaner specifically designed for RV awnings (avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric).
  • Rinse the awning with water and let it dry completely in the open position.

This step ensures that any dirt or moisture is removed before storing, reducing the risk of mold or fabric deterioration.

3. Lower One End to Allow Water Runoff

If it’s been raining and your awning has collected water, lower one end slightly before retracting it. This allows any standing water to run off rather than being trapped inside the rolled-up awning. Excess water can add unnecessary weight to the awning and may cause sagging or damage over time.

You can achieve this by adjusting one of the vertical support arms to create a slight slope, allowing water to drain. Once drained, return the support arms to their normal position before continuing with the retraction process.

4. Check for Obstructions

Before you begin retracting the awning, make sure there are no obstructions that could get in the way of the fabric rolling up. Look for:

  • Loose branches
  • Dirt or debris
  • Items hanging from the awning (lights, decorations, etc.)

Obstructions could cause the fabric to tear or roll unevenly, which can lead to long-term damage.

5. Release the Locks and Adjust the Tension

Most RV awnings come with tension arms or locks that need to be disengaged before you can retract the awning. Release the tension arms on either side of the awning to allow the fabric to roll up smoothly without resistance. Failing to disengage these locks can result in the fabric not retracting evenly, which may damage the awning’s fabric or arms.

If your awning has a crank handle, begin turning the handle to start the retraction process. For automatic awnings, use the remote or switch to activate the retraction mechanism.

6. Retract the Awning Slowly and Evenly

As you retract the awning, ensure that it rolls up slowly and evenly. If the awning retracts too quickly, it can snap into place with force, which may damage the arms, fabric, or the motor in automatic awnings. On the other hand, retracting it too slowly may allow one side to become unbalanced.

Here are a few key tips for safe retraction:

  • Crank-operated awnings: Turn the crank at a moderate speed to ensure smooth retraction.
  • Electric awnings: Monitor the retraction and stop the motor if you notice any unevenness or resistance.

Make sure the awning rolls up tightly and evenly across the length of the tube to avoid slack, which can lead to sagging over time.

7. Secure the Awning Locks

Once the awning is fully retracted, check to ensure the locking mechanism or travel latches are securely fastened. This is crucial, as unsecured awnings can become loose while driving, which can result in catastrophic damage to both the awning and your RV.

Make sure to double-check the locks before moving on to your next destination.

8. Use Awning Storage Covers

For extended periods of storage, especially during off-season or long-term parking, consider using an RV awning storage cover. These covers are designed to protect the retracted awning from the elements, particularly UV rays, which can cause fading and fabric degradation over time.

Awning storage covers are typically made of UV-resistant materials that shield your awning from direct sunlight, wind, and moisture. Investing in a cover will help prolong the life of your awning by reducing exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

To further protect your RV awning from damage, avoid the following common mistakes:

1. Retracting the Awning Wet

As previously mentioned, moisture trapped in a retracted awning can lead to mildew and mold growth. Always dry the awning before storing it.

2. Leaving the Awning Extended in Strong Winds

Even mild winds can put a strain on your awning. If you anticipate high winds or storms, retract the awning as a precaution to avoid damage.

3. Not Securing the Locks Properly

If your awning isn’t securely locked, it can unroll while you’re driving, leading to damage or even loss of the awning.

4. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Even when retracted, your awning requires periodic maintenance. Check for signs of wear and tear, clean the fabric, and lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

Tips for Long-Term Awning Storage:

If you’re planning to store your RV for an extended period, taking extra steps to protect your awning is important:

  • Inspect for damage: Before long-term storage, check your awning for any tears, holes, or mechanical issues. It’s better to repair any damage before storing.
  • Use an awning cover: As mentioned earlier, a storage cover is a worthwhile investment for long-term protection.
  • Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid parking your RV in direct sunlight for extended periods. UV rays can still penetrate and damage an unprotected awning.

By taking these precautions, your awning will remain in top condition and be ready for use when you take your RV out of storage.

Conclusion:

Properly retracting and storing your RV awning is crucial for extending its lifespan and preventing costly damage. By following the right steps—cleaning the awning, ensuring it’s dry, and retracting it evenly and securely—you can protect it from common threats like wind, moisture, and UV exposure. Simple precautions, such as using an awning cover and regularly checking the locks, make a significant difference in preserving both the fabric and the mechanical parts of the awning.

Neglecting these measures could lead to damage that may require professional repairs, potentially leaving you searching for RV Camper Repair in Michigan or other specialized services. The good news is that with consistent care, you can avoid many of these common issues, saving yourself from the inconvenience of unexpected repairs or replacements while on the road.

Long-term storage demands extra attention—make sure your awning is completely dry, free of debris, and properly secured before putting your RV away for the season. For RV owners who live in regions with harsh winters or strong UV exposure, using a protective awning cover is highly recommended. This added protection ensures that your awning remains in top condition even when your RV is not in use.

In summary, taking a few extra minutes to safely retract and store your RV awning will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Whether you’re enjoying the open road or preparing for off-season storage, these best practices are essential to keeping your awning functional and ready for your next adventure. And if you ever face awning issues beyond your expertise, seek out RV Camper Repair Michigan professionals to ensure the best care for your vehicle.

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