No Matter What Awning Fabric Material You Use
‘Fabric awning’ is the term used for a flexible canopy designed for shading windows, doors, patios, or decks. It is a perfect shelter made of solid and light fabrics which extend horizontally over the windows or doors. It can be technically called a type of exterior shade structure.
This article will guide you through the steps to clean your fabric awning.
Popular Types of Fabric Awnings
There are different types of fabric awnings. Below, we are discussing the most popular ones.
Cotton Canvas Awning
If you are a person who likes classic looks, then cotton canvas awning is a good choice.
It consists of natural materials. Therefore, it is more environmentally friendly than other materials. Cotton is an organic fiber that wears out over time. So, this type of awning requires coating with special waterproof agents.
Polyester Awning
A polyester awning is one of the most economical canvases and offers good value for money. It is resistant to weather conditions and chemicals, making it an ideal material for outdoor use. Due to its low thermal endurance, it is more suitable for cooler environments. In comparison with acrylic and micro-perforated awnings, polyester awnings are less durable.
Acrylic Awning
Acrylic fabric awnings are made from synthetic fibers and offer a higher quality than polyester. They provide excellent sun protection for sunny climates, making them perfect for the outdoors. Acrylic fabrics are more expensive than polyester, but it is a good investment. These awnings are also better suited for outdoor applications because they resist moisture and mildew.
Micro-Perforated Awning
These fabrics consist of polyester or fiberglass coated in PVC. The coating makes them durable, resistant to the Sun rays, and water-resistant. This fabric is ideal for commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools. It helps maintain the temperature inside your building.
Why Do You Need To Clean The Awning?
Awnings are often c. However, it’s essential to clean them regularly so that they can continue to look their best and function properly. When awnings are dirty and full of debris, they may leak or allow rainwater to pass through the material instead of repelling it. It can cause damage, such as rotting wood supports or rusting metal frames.
One has to keep the awning clean for the following reasons:
- Keep the awning canvas looking clean and new.
- Remove dirt, mold, mildew, algae, and other stains from the fabric.
- Restore its color and texture.
- Reduce the risk of fungal growth on the awning.
- Protect your home from damage from water leaks or wind-driven rain.
How Often Should You Clean Your Awning?
Awnings need cleaning once every three months, depending on their environmental exposure. In some areas, the fabric needs cleaning (at least) once a month. Cleaning your awning more often may be necessary if it has a lot of exposure, such as the one over your patio doors.
Fabric can become dirty over time, especially if it gets exposed to rain or other elements for extended periods.
Preparations Before Starting The Cleaning
Take the following steps before starting the cleaning process.
- Remove all furniture, vehicles, and other items from the area where you plan to lay the awning down.
- Put large rubber gloves on if you cannot hold the fabric awning with soapy or wet hands.
- Wear something protective on your hands if you do not have rubber gloves.
- You should also wear safety glasses when working with chemicals.
- Have your supplies ready before starting the cleaning steps.
What Supplies Do You Need To Clean An Awning?
- A bucket of water (cold or lukewarm)
- A mild laundry soap (liquid or powdered)
- A harsh stain-removing liquid (if required)
- A ladder (if necessary)
- A garden hose or spray bottle filled with water
- A stiff brush or soft scrubber
When cleaning any type of awning, it is essential to remember that the larger ones may require assistance from others. Read all care instructions before the cleaning process begins. It may prevent any damage to the fabric or frame of the item.
Steps To Clean An Awning
- Step 1: Use a broom or wipe cloth to sweep off dust and debris.
- Step 2: Put some water in the bucket.
- Step 3: Add an adequate amount of laundry soap or stain remover per your needs.
- Step 4: Wet the awning using a garden hose or spray bottle filled with water.
- Step 5: Spray bleach or use a stain remover on specific areas with stubborn stains. Wait for 10 minutes at least.
- Step 6: Soak a stiff brush in the solution you mixed in the bucket and scrub the canvas. Move your hand in circular motions.
- Step 7: Wash and rinse the awning with cold water until all soap residue is gone.
- Step 8: Repeat the same steps on the underside of your awning fabric.
- Step 9: Allow the canvas awning to dry naturally.
How To Clean Specific Stains
Latex Paint
Soap and water will get rid of tough stains. Spray the mixture on a soiled surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush.
Mildew and common fungus
Diluted bleach and dish soap mixed in water will remove mildew and common fungus. Spray the mixture on a soiled surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush.
Algae stain
Mix 2 tablespoons of color-safe bleach and 1 liter of warm water. Soak the stained area with this solution, then scrub it off with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush. You can also use a mixture of vinegar and water in a ratio of 30:70. This should also work on pet stains but if it doesn’t, you can visit your local pet store for an enzyme cleaner that will remove the odors.
Rust Stain
To remove Rust stains, use citric acid, vinegar, or oxalic acid with water.
Oil Paint
Paint solvent, grease remover, and rubbing alcohol can remove oil paint. You can spray the mixture on an oil-painted surface and scrub with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush.
Nail Paint
When removing nail paint, 100% acetone is the best choice. You can use a cotton ball or soft-bristled brush to apply the acetone to the nail paint. After that, wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Bird Drop
To clean bird poop from the awning, use a mixture of water and dish soap.
Wax and crayon stain
To remove wax and crayon stains, heat the stain with a hairdryer and wipe off the wax. Then, wash the awning with regular detergent.
Conclusion
Our tips will make your job easier, but don’t worry if it doesn’t come completely clean on the first pass after a lot of neglect. To keep your awning clean, you need to invest time and effort in doing it yourself at least twice a year.
It is essential to understand the best way to clean an awning is to follow a schedule. But, if you don’t have the time or need more expertise, you can always call an expert for service. They know precisely how to clean outdoor fabrics with a pressure washer and will give your awning a new look in no time.
Let us know what you think. Did we miss something? Do you have any tips or suggestions for cleaning an awning? We would love to hear from you in the comments section below. Awnings and Blinds is dedicated to helping you make the best of your home by providing advice on exterior design and landscaping. Visit our homepage for the latest posts on these topics.