Deck awnings have become increasingly popular as we become more aware of the harm that the sun may cause to us. We also have the technology now to make deck awnings extremely convenient with just the touch of a button on a remote control retractable awning. However, the awning material can easily get dirty considering its outside. This guide will discuss what you need to know when its awning cleaning time.
Mildew is the first situation we need to handle in the awning cleaning process. Mildew is unpleasant on the eyes and it can cause an unpleasant odor as well. The mildew buildup is usually the end result of pollen sitting in a dark and damp area. In order to prevent mildew from building up, each week you should take a few moments to hose down the awning. This is the first step in your awning cleaning process and really simple! It’s just a matter of getting out there and doing it. Once you hose down the awning, make sure it’s able to dry out before you roll it back up. It’s best to do on a nice clear and sunny day so it completely dries out. I’d also recommend using some detergent on the deck awning occasionally throughout the summer, but make sure it’s not on the harsh side. A harsh detergent can damage the material, especially the waterproofing on the deck awning. If you can handle this part of your awning cleaning duties, you’ll keep it looking nice and new!
There’s nothing worse than looking up at a deck awning and noticing all the stains from underneath the awning. These stains are usually caused bird droppings as well as some other factors. Penetrating oils are a great way to solve this problem and are a must use when you’re doing your awning cleaning. This doesn’t need to be done weekly, but you should apply a spray of oil such as WD-40 to the surrounding area. Once you have rubbed the stain out, follow up with a rinse of water. If there are any stains still remaining, then you can apply a mild detergent to the effected area. Again, it’s so important to be certain you’re not damaging the deck awning materials by over-using the detergent.
Many people opt to use a power washer when they’re doing their awning cleaning. Save the power washer for your car! They’re too powerful for the materials of your deck awning. The strong pressure from the power washer will damage and weaken the fabric by caushing the weaves to slowly open up. Before you know it, you’ll have holes in the awning fabric. So when it’s time for your weekly awning cleaning, leave the power washer in the garage.
A retractable deck awning is one of the handiest additions to any home. They’re not too expensive, they can easily be installed and as long as you follow these simple awning cleaning steps, they’ll last a very long time. It’s a very simple process, but it’s just a matter of applying the three simple steps mentioned above!