Awnings endure constant exposure to the elements and may sometimes need repairing. Most types of awning repair can be easily accomplished by following a few simple tips. Some of the best tips include making the repair as soon as possible and cleaning the material thoroughly before beginning. Measure the size of the damaged area to determine the appropriate type of repair material Use patches for large areas and tape or adhesive for smaller holes and tears.
It is important to make the awning repair as soon as a problem has been discovered to prevent any further damage. A small hole or rip in the material can become much larger in windy conditions. The added weight of rain or snow may also worsen the damage if left unattended. Repairing a small area with tape or adhesive is relatively simple compared to larger tears. If the damaged area becomes too large, a complete replacement of the fabric may be required.
Clean the material thoroughly with the appropriate solution and allow it to dry before beginning the awning repair. Tapes, adhesives, and patches do not bond well to soiled fabric. Repairs made to a clean awning typically last much longer. Awnings located under trees may require special chemicals to remove sticky sap residue. Be careful when cleaning the torn area to avoid causing any further damage.
Before beginning the actual awning repair, measure the damaged area to determine what type of material to use. If the tear is longer than 3 feet (91 cm), the entire fabric will probably need to be professionally sewn or replaced. Small areas can be repaired using clear repair tape or adhesive. Larger holes and tears usually require the use of a patch. Patches are available for most single color awnings; striped material may be more difficult to match.
When choosing an awning repair patch, make certain that it will cover the entire area with a small amount of overlap. It is best to repair an awning at ground level whenever possible. Keep the material stretched tightly during the repair to prevent the patch from pulling away in the future. Awning repair kits typically contain all the materials needed for the job and are available at many hardware stores and recreational vehicle supply centers. A tent repair kit may also be used if a suitable color is available.
A small awning repair can usually be made with repair tape or adhesive. Use scissors to trim any loose thread from the area to avoid future problems. Clear repair tape is almost invisible when applied. Apply the tape to both sides of the awning for best results. Clear adhesive preserves the color of the awning and should always be applied to the bottom of the fabric.