The Importance Of Awning Cleaning and Service

A Homeowner’s Guide To Our Cleaning And Maintenance Services

Awnings are more than just a stylish addition to your home—they’re a practical investment that protects your outdoor space from the elements. Over time, however, if you don’t clean and maintain your awning correctly, it can develop stains or get damaged.

Regular awning cleaning and service are essential in preserving longevity and keeping awnings fresh and attractive. Cleaning also helps to maintain an awning’s structural integrity, ensuring it continues to function effectively and lasts longer.

At Pacific Awnings, we understand the critical importance of proper maintenance and offer annual awning care to keep your awnings pristine. Join us as we explore the benefits of regular awning maintenance and outline the ins and outs of our expert care.

Understanding Your Awning

Awnings come in various types, each designed to suit different needs and settings, whether commercial or residential.

Fabric awnings are often made from materials like acrylic, polyester, or canvas and are famous for their versatility and aesthetic appeal, making them a favourite for residential patios and decks.
Metal awnings are durable and commonly used in commercial settings like storefronts and office buildings because they can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Retractable awnings provide flexibility, allowing users to extend or retract them as needed. This makes them ideal for homes and businesses requiring adaptable shading solutions.
Fixed awnings are permanently installed and offer consistent protection, often seen over windows, doors, and entryways.

Tips for Protecting Your Awning

Establish a regular maintenance schedule – Inspect and clean your awnings at least twice a year to prevent the buildup of dirt, mould, and mildew, which can deteriorate the material over time. Make a habit of looking for rips, tears, or stains.

Avoid harsh chemicals – Using the wrong cleaners or chemicals on your awning can cause irreparable damage and corrosion.

Consider seasonal adjustments – Retract or cover your awnings in the winter to protect them from snow and ice. Retractable patio awnings must NOT be left out in heavy rain or snowfall under any circumstances. Snow is hefty, and accumulation on the awning will damage it and may cause it to break or pull away from the wall. Clean them more frequently in the summer to combat increased exposure to sunlight and pollen. In addition, pay attention to any fading that could happen in direct sunlight, and retract the awning if you’re not using it.

Rainfall – The acrylic fabric on your awning has been coated with a water and stain-repellant, making your awning water-resistant. However, if you plan to use your awning during a day with rainfall, ensure it has enough of a pitch to allow the water to run off. Otherwise, rainwater can accumulate, and the fabric can stretch. Rain load will also damage the frame and arms. If rainwater has pooled, use a soft broom or your hand to move the water off the awning as soon as possible. Only use your awning in the rain while you are present so that you can monitor it to prevent any damage.

Maintaining the Integrity of Your Awning Frame

Wind warnings – In the event of gusty or constantly strong winds (over 32 km per hour/20 mph), lateral arm patio awnings must be retracted/rolled up to avoid damage to the arms and the fabric. Wind damage is not covered under warranty.

Consider the mechanical components – If you have a retractable awning, ensure your manual crank or motor works correctly. Contact Pacific Awnings immediately if you notice any issues with its performance.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions – To avoid damaging the product, always follow the guidelines and instructions from the awning manufacturer.

*Did you know? High-quality retractable awnings like those at Pacific Awnings can last 20-25 years or longer if well-maintained!

When It’s Time to Call Us

We recommend you call us once a year to have your awning inspected and serviced to ensure it lasts for many years. While you can clean your awning with water yourself to rinse off any dirt or debris, we recommend you leave all other services to us. Please see details about our annual awning maintenance service.

Our Top-Notch Awning Maintenance

We recommend an annual maintenance check-up for all awnings, which ensures that your awning stays in perfect working order and helps to void any warranty issues. For $150 + GST, we inspect, lubricate, and adjust the following:

Fabric Spline Check: We inspect the fabric spline to ensure it is secure and does not come from the idle end.
Joint and Housing Inspection: We carefully examine all joints, housings, and idle end pulleys/caps on the Marcesa beam for wear and tear.
Spline Replacement: If needed, we assess the spline on the front profile and recommend a replacement to maintain fabric tension.
Fabric Alignment: To prevent uneven wear, we verify that the fabric is centred correctly on the roller tube.
Mounting Brackets Check: We inspect the mounting brackets to ensure your awning is securely attached.
Tear and Damage Inspection: We look for any tears or damage in the fabric that might require repair.
Remote Batteries: If necessary, we check and replace the remote batteries to keep your system responsive.
Dirt and Mould Inspection: We assess the fabric for excessive dirt and mould, advising on appropriate cleaning solutions if needed.
Level Check: We ensure your awning is level for optimal performance.
Motor Limits Adjustment: We adjust the motor limits to maintain proper operation.
Wind Sensor Maintenance: We inspect the wind sensor batteries and contacts for corrosion to ensure they function correctly.
Spring Tension and Crank Inspection: We check the spring tension in the arms and ensure the crank gear loop is in good condition, with the pin correctly positioned.

By addressing these key areas, we ensure your awning continues to provide shade and protection while looking its best.

Pacific Awnings Offers Comprehensive Awning Service!

For top-notch awning installation, cleaning, and maintenance, look no further than Pacific Awnings. We are leaders on Vancouver Island for awnings, patio covers, retractable screens, and rolldown shutters.

With our expertise and dedication to quality, we can ensure your awnings not only enhance the beauty of your property but also stand the test of time. Our professional team uses the best materials and techniques tailored to your awning needs. We promise to deliver exceptional results.

Don’t let dirt, damage, or improper maintenance compromise your awnings. Contact Pacific Awnings today at our Victoria or Nanaimo locations and experience the difference that comes with choosing the best in the business for all your awning needs!