Happy Canada Day!
Awnings protect your home or commercial space from getting the brunt of the elements. But, just as they protect your property, they also need to be protected themselves. While they’re out there being sentinels for your windows, they collect dirt, dust and debris and they can easily get pretty dirty.
But, never fear!
You can clean your awnings, which will keep them looking better and make them last longer. Items like dust, pollution, pollen, leaves and bird droppings can make your awnings gross. With a little regular maintenance, though, you’ll be able to keep ahead of the grime.
Make cleaning your awnings a regular annual or semi-annual occurrence and you’ll be able to protect their finish and extend their lives.
Let’s take a look at some cleaning tips for awnings.
Rinsing
It’s crucial to give your awnings a regular rinse, but if you see bird droppings, you should rinse those off as soon as possible. That’s because the chemicals in their droppings can discolour the material of the awning.
Both fabric and metal awnings need to be washed regularly. We recommend at least once per year, and twice is even better. You’ll likely be able to use a garden hose for rinsing, but you may have to climb up a ladder to reach the uppermost portion of the awning.
If there are trees near the awning, they’ll require more frequent rinsing, as trees and bugs, etc will drop even more stuff onto them.
Rinsing your awnings will prevent dirt from getting “baked” onto them in the hot summer months. You can even rinse them once per month from May to September to prevent grime from forming a crust on them.
Washing
If rinsing your awnings doesn’t quite do the trick, you will have to use a soap solution on them and scrub them. Use mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush so you don’t damage the waterproof coating or the fabric itself.
If you have metal awnings, you can use a wand style brush similar to what you would use to wash your car. Use a mild detergent with metal awnings, too.
Debris
Sticks, twigs, pollen and various other debris can get deposited on your louvered awnings, especially if you have nearby trees. Try to get this debris off as quickly as possible so it does not damage your awnings. You may have to cut branches of nearby trees if they look like they might damage your awnings.
Dirt
If mild soap or detergent cannot get rid of especially gummy buildup on your awnings, you may have to get a little bit more creative with your washing. Soak an especially dirty area with a specialized fabric cleaner for 10 or 15 minutes and then gently brush it before rinsing. For aluminum awnings, use vinegar or a household stove top cleaner to remove buildup.
It’s a good idea to avoid grilling near your awnings, as the grease and soot from barbecuing can collect on awnings making them especially grimy.
Pressure washing awnings is technically possible, but not recommended, as it can scar them if it’s not done properly.
Vinyl awnings will require scrubbing with the proper cleanser.
We would be delighted to answer any questions you have about the proper cleaning and maintenance of your awnings. Please call us if you have any questions or if you’re ready to put some awnings or shutters onto your home or commercial space.