How to Protect an Awning in the Winter

With summer now firmly behind us, many of us will now be turning our attention to preparing our homes for winter. 

While an awning can still provide shelter throughout the winter if you’re willing to brave the colder temperatures, you may find that you don’t get as much use out of it. Therefore, this can be the ideal time to give your awning a bit of TLC to ensure it’s back in top condition for when the sunshine returns.

To help extend your awning’s lifespan, the team here at Shutter Spec Security has written this guide on how to protect it during the winter.

Retract the awning

Perhaps the best way to protect your awning during inclement weather is to invest in a retractable one. While most modern awnings are built to withstand the often unpredictable British weather, being constantly exposed to heavy wind and rain can lead to premature wear.

When not in use, a retractable awning can be neatly tucked away into a cassette to protect it from the elements. Here at Shutter Spec Security, our retractable awnings are equipped with Somfy motors, meaning you can effortlessly adjust the awning with just the touch of a button.

Dry it properly

If you are caught out by an unexpected shower and your awning gets wet, don’t just retract it into the cassette and forget about it; this can encourage mould growth and cause any metal components to rust. Instead, wait for the next sunny day and then open it again to allow it to fully dry.

Clean out debris

It’s all too easy for the autumn twigs and leaves to get caught in the awning cassette. Don’t allow these to get stuck in the mechanism and cause damage; instead, give the area a gentle brush to remove any debris.

Repair any damage

If you’ve noticed any wear and tear on your awnings – perhaps the frame has corroded away or the retractable mechanism has worn – then winter is an ideal time to carry out any repairs and get back in good shape for the summer. Here at Shutter Spec Security, we can assess the condition of your awning and repair any broken components, or replace it entirely if the damage is too severe.

Clean the awning

As your awning probably won’t be in such frequent use, winter is a great opportunity to clean it and remove any stains or mould. Gently wipe at the fabric with some warm, soapy water, paying close attention to any stains or areas of built-up dirt. Don’t use any harsh chemicals as this might end up causing further damage. 

As we’ve mentioned above, you should allow your awning to dry completely before you retract back into the cassette, so it might be best to leave this task to one of those rare warm winter days.

Treat the fabric

While most awnings are made from high-quality, weather-resistant fabric, there’s no harm in giving them a helping hand. You can apply special waterproof spray which will not only help to keep the fabric clean, but it will also refresh its waterproofing, provide an extra layer of protection and potentially increase the lifespan of your awning. For specific guidance on the right product for your particular awning, check the manufacturer’s guide or consult a professional.

If you’re looking for a high-quality awning in Oxford, Aylesbury, Thame, Reading, Newbury, Basingstoke or beyond, get in touch with the team at Shutter Spec Security today. We supply a wide range of durable products from some of the country’s leading manufacturers and with our help, your outdoor space will be transformed.