Upgrading the awning fabric on your RV can revitalize its appearance, enhance its functionality, and increase your enjoyment during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to replace faded or damaged fabric, or simply desire a fresh look, tackling this project yourself is a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. With careful planning, attention to detail, and the right tools, you can transform your RV awning with ease, giving it a renewed lease on life.
Before embarking on this endeavor, gather the necessary materials and tools, including new awning fabric, a staple gun, staples, awning cleaner, and a ladder. Safety should be your top priority, so wear protective gloves and use caution while working at heights. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the awning frame to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the new fabric’s adhesion. Once the frame is clean and dry, carefully roll out the new fabric and align it with the existing awning roller tube.
Secure the fabric to the roller tube using the staple gun and staples, ensuring a taut fit. Avoid over-stretching the fabric, as this can lead to premature wear and tear. Continue stapling the fabric along the length of the roller tube, working your way towards the opposite end. Once the fabric is fully attached to the roller tube, inspect the edges for any loose or uneven areas and reinforce them as necessary. With the awning fabric securely in place, retract and extend it a few times to ensure smooth operation and proper tension.
Assessing the Need for Awning Fabric Replacement
Deciding whether or not to replace your RV awning fabric can be a difficult decision. On the one hand, you may be tempted to put off the expense of a new awning, especially if the old one is still functional. On the other hand, a damaged or faded awning can make your RV look unappealing and can even lead to problems down the road.
Here are a few factors to consider when assessing the need for awning fabric replacement:
- Age and condition of the fabric: Awning fabric typically lasts for 5-10 years, depending on the material and how well it has been cared for. If your awning fabric is starting to show signs of age, such as fading, cracking, or tearing, it may be time to replace it.
- Functionality of the awning: If your awning is no longer functioning properly, such as if it is difficult to open or close or if it leaks, it may be time to replace the fabric.
- Appearance of the awning: If your awning is faded or stained, it can make your RV look unappealing. Replacing the fabric can give your RV a fresh, new look.
The following table summarizes the signs that indicate the need for awning fabric replacement:
Sign Description Fading The awning fabric has lost its original color and looks dull or faded. Cracking The awning fabric has developed small cracks that may eventually lead to tears. Tearing The awning fabric has torn or ripped, which can allow water and debris to enter the RV. Difficult to open or close The awning is difficult to open or close, which may be due to a problem with the fabric. Leaking The awning leaks when it rains, which can damage the RV’s interior. Choosing the Right Fabric for Your RV Awning
Selecting the right fabric for your RV awning is crucial to ensuring its durability and effectiveness. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Fabric Type
The most common RV awning fabrics are:
Fabric Type Pros Cons Acrylic Durable, UV resistant, water repellent Expensive, can fade over time Vinyl Affordable, easy to clean, waterproof Not as breathable as acrylic, can crack in cold weather Polyester Lightweight, water resistant, wrinkle-resistant Not as durable as acrylic or vinyl, can stretch or tear Fabric Weight
Awning fabric weight is measured in ounces per square yard (oz./sq. yd.). The heavier the fabric, the more durable it will be. However, heavier fabrics are also more expensive and may be more difficult to handle. For most RV awnings, a fabric weight of 11-13 oz./sq. yd. is ideal.
Color
The color of your awning fabric will affect its heat absorption. Darker colors absorb more heat, which can make your RV interior warmer. Lighter colors reflect more heat, keeping your RV cooler. Choose a color that complements your RV’s exterior and provides the desired level of shade.
Removing the Old Awning Fabric
Before you can install the new fabric, you need to remove the old one. Here’s how:
- Safety first: Wear gloves and eye protection, and make sure the RV is parked on a level surface.
- Remove the tension arms: Locate the tension arms that hold the awning fabric in place. Use a wrench or socket to loosen the bolts that secure them, and then carefully remove the arms.
- Unroll the fabric: Once the tension arms are removed, you can unroll the fabric. Start from one end and gently roll it up, being careful not to tear or crease it.
- Detach the fabric from the roller tube: The fabric is likely attached to the roller tube by a series of screws or bolts. Locate these fasteners and remove them using a screwdriver or wrench. Once the fasteners are removed, the fabric can be slid off the roller tube.
Tool Needed Use Gloves Protect your hands from dirt and debris. Eye protection Safeguard your eyes from any flying particles. Wrench or socket Loosen and remove bolts. Screwdriver Remove screws that attach the fabric to the roller tube. Preparing the Awning Frame for New Fabric
Before installing new fabric on your RV awning, it’s essential to prepare the awning frame to ensure a secure and durable fit.
Removing the Old Fabric
Start by carefully removing the old fabric from the awning frame. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws or bolts that are holding the fabric in place. Once the screws are removed, gently pull the fabric away from the frame.
Cleaning the Awning Frame
After removing the old fabric, it’s important to clean the awning frame thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, grime, or debris that could interfere with the installation of the new fabric.
Use a mild detergent and water to wash the frame. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry before proceeding.
Inspecting the Awning Frame
Before installing the new fabric, inspect the awning frame for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, rust, or any other defects that could compromise the stability of the frame.
If you find any damage, it’s important to repair or replace the affected area before installing the new fabric.
Preparing the New Fabric
Once the awning frame is clean and undamaged, you can prepare the new fabric for installation.
Lay out the new fabric on a flat surface and identify the center point. Mark the center point on the fabric using a pen or chalk.
Installing the New Fabric
Now it’s time to install the new fabric on the awning frame. Start by aligning the center point of the fabric with the center point of the frame.
Secure the fabric to the frame by tightening the screws or bolts. Ensure the fabric is taut but not excessively stretched.
Work your way from the center point outwards, attaching the fabric to the frame until it is fully secured.
Installing the New Awning Fabric
6. Insert the new fabric into the awning roller.
- Align the leading edge of the new fabric with the front edge of the roller.
- Push the fabric into the guide on the front of the roller. Make sure the fabric is facing the correct direction.
- Continue inserting the fabric into the roller, pushing it into the guide along the way. Avoid twisting the fabric or causing any creases.
- Once the entire fabric is inserted, adjust the tension by rolling it out and rewinding it as needed.
7. Reinstall the awning arms and other hardware.
- Lift the awning arms back into place and secure them with the bolts and washers.
- Repeat for the other awning arm.
- Reinstall any other hardware that was removed, such as braces or support brackets.
8. Test the awning.
- Unfold the awning fully.
- Check that it extends and retracts smoothly.
- Ensure that the fabric is taut and evenly distributed.
With careful attention to detail and the use of the right tools, you can successfully install new awning fabric on your RV and enjoy a fresh and functional shade solution.
Securing and Finishing the Awning Fabric
7. Finishing Touches
Once the awning fabric is securely attached to the frame, it’s time to finish the edges to prevent fraying and enhance the overall appearance. Here are the steps involved:
a. Heat or Stitch the Edges
To prevent the fabric from raveling, you can either heat-seal the edges with a heat gun or sew them down with a double-needle sewing machine. Heat-sealing creates a strong and waterproof bond, while stitching provides a more traditional and durable finish.
b. Reinforce the Corners
The corners are where the fabric is most prone to wear and tear. Reinforce them by sewing on extra fabric or using corner brackets designed for awning repairs.
c. Seal the Fabric
To protect the fabric from water damage, you can apply a water-repellent or UV-resistant coating. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and drying time.
d. Prevent Gutter Leaks
If the awning has a gutter, ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent water from seeping into the fabric. Clean the gutter and apply a sealant along the seams or use a gutter sealant tape.
e. Check for Proper Drainage
Make sure the awning fabric is installed with a slight slope to allow water to drain off effectively. Inspect the awning for any wrinkles or pooling water, and adjust the tension if necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
8. Awning Fabric Not Rolling In or Out Smoothly
**Possible Causes:**
- Fabric caught on something
- Obstruction in awning roller tube
- Faulty awning motor
- Misaligned awning arms
- Wind or other external forces
Troubleshooting Steps:
Symptom Possible Causes Solutions Fabric rolls in or out slowly or unevenly Obstruction in roller tube or misaligned arms Clean roller tube and check arm alignment Fabric jams or gets stuck Fabric caught or faulty motor Inspect fabric for obstructions and check motor function Awning won’t move at all Faulty motor or electrical issue Check motor connections and call a technician if necessary Awning moves in opposite direction Reversed polarity Check wire connections and switch polarity if needed Awning fabric billows or flaps in wind Loose or damaged fabric or arms Tighten fabric and check arm brackets for damage Tips:
- Clean the awning regularly to prevent dirt and debris buildup.
- Inspect the awning before each use and make any necessary adjustments.
- Retract the awning during strong winds or inclement weather to avoid damage.
- Have the awning serviced by a qualified technician periodically to ensure proper operation.
- Remove the old fabric. First, you will need to remove the old fabric. To do this, simply unroll the awning and remove the screws that hold the fabric in place. Once the screws are removed, you can unroll the fabric and remove it from the awning.
- Clean the awning. Once the old fabric is removed, you will need to clean the awning. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the awning. To clean the awning, simply use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth. Rinse the awning thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
- Install the new fabric. Once the awning is clean, you can install the new fabric. To do this, simply roll out the new fabric and align it with the awning. Secure the fabric in place with the screws that you removed earlier. Once the fabric is secure, you can roll up the awning and store it away.
Professional Awnings Installation
Professional awning installers provide expert advice and services to ensure a seamless and efficient awning installation. They possess the necessary skills, tools, and experience to handle various awning types and configurations.
10. Post-Installation Inspection and Adjustments
After installation, professional installers conduct a thorough inspection to check for proper alignment, tautness, and overall functionality. They also make any necessary adjustments, such as adjusting tension or leveling the awning, to ensure optimal performance and durability.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps involved in professional awning installation:
Step Description 1 Site assessment and awning selection 2 Materials preparation and cutting 3 Frame assembly and mounting 4 Fabric attachment and tensioning 5 Hardware installation and reinforcement 6 Electrical wiring and connection 7 Retraction system setup 8 Control system installation 9 Awning extension and retraction testing 10 Post-installation inspection and adjustments How To Change RV Awning Fabric
If your RV awning fabric is starting to show its age, you may be wondering how to replace it. The good news is that it is a relatively easy and inexpensive project that you can do yourself. Here are the steps on how to change RV awning fabric:
People Also Ask About How To Change RV Awning Fabric
How much does it cost to replace RV awning fabric?
The cost to replace RV awning fabric will vary depending on the size of the awning and the type of fabric you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a new awning fabric.
Can you replace RV awning fabric yourself?
Yes, you can replace RV awning fabric yourself. It is a relatively easy and inexpensive project that can be completed in a few hours.
How often should you replace RV awning fabric?
The frequency with which you should replace RV awning fabric will depend on how often you use your RV and the climate in which you live. However, most experts recommend replacing RV awning fabric every 5 to 7 years.
