Upon arrival

Caravan/motorhome: 10 tips to preserve your awning

Entretenir votre auvent
Entretenir votre auvent

 

If poorly maintained, an awning can quickly deteriorate and spoil your holiday in bad weather. Camping France gives you advice on how to maintain your awning effectively.

You have chosen to equip your caravan or your motorhome with an awning. Here are the maintenance rules to follow:

1. Ventilate your awning regularly

Moisture is the enemy of canvas. Open the windows and vents as soon as possible to prevent mould and unpleasant odours.

2. Clean gently and regularly

Dust the fabric before storing it away and use lukewarm water with a mild soap or an eco-friendly cleaner suitable for PVC or technical fabrics. Avoid corrosive products.

3. Protect seams and fragile areas

Inspect the seams and apply leak-proof patches if necessary. For small defects, modern adhesive patches or specific PVC repairs are more reliable and durable than candle wax.

4. Dry before folding

Always dry the awning before storing it to prevent mould from forming. Remember to alternate the folds to reduce wear on the fabric.

5. Mould prevention

Use moisture absorbers or anti-mould sprays suitable for technical fabrics. These solutions are particularly useful during extended stays.

6. Store wisely

Separate tubes and fabrics to prevent stains and deformation. Avoid extreme temperatures and protect awnings stored outdoors from rodents and UV rays.

7. Protect the bay window glass

Transparent parts are fragile. Roll them up carefully or place them on top of the pile to prevent them from being crushed.

8. Inspect the frame and structure

Before and after each installation, check that the poles and legs are intact and properly secured. For motorised or automatic roll-up motorhome awnings, take the opportunity to check the rails and mechanisms and lubricate them lightly if necessary. This prevents deformation and jamming and extends the life of the awning.

9. Adapt cleaning to the material

PVC, pine resin or technical fabrics: each material requires specific care. Pine resin should be gently scraped off after drying, while PVC can be wiped with a damp cloth.

10. Prepare for winter and long-term storage

For winter storage, store the awning in a dry, well-ventilated place. If you leave it outside, cover it with a breathable cover and avoid snow or standing water.

 

 

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