Maintenance

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, window awnings can reduce solar heat by as much as 65% when placed on the south side of your home, and up to 77% when placed on the west end. This is why so many customers enjoy energy savings of up to 60% when they install an awning in their home. But if you want to let the sunshine and warmth in during the winter, you can store your awning away for the season. Weather Armor Awning, located in Lewis Center, Ohio, offers retractable awnings that are quick and easy to set up and store. To protect your awning from damages resulting from strong winds, snow, ice, and colder temperatures, you will need to winterize them before storing. If done correctly, a quick winter prep routine will ensure that your awnings are fresh and ready to use when spring comes around. Follow these simple steps to get your awning ready for the winter.

• Brush any dirt, debris, or leaves off of your awning. Start from the top and work your way down.
• Hose the awning off to get rid of any leftover dirt and debris. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove tough stains and dirt spots.
• To get rid of stubborn stains, dissolve a mild soap in a bucket of warm water. Dip a brush in the warm, soapy water and use it to scrub your awning. To keep your brush soft, make sure that you continue to dip it in the soapy water as needed. Rinse thoroughly after with a hose.
• Allow the awning to air out until it is completely dry. Avoid rolling it up when it is still damp; this will encourage mildew and mold growth.
• If your awning has a hanging valance, remove it. You can follow the same steps above to clean the valance.

Completely retract the awning. Check for any loose or hanging fabric which might tear or flap while your awning is stored away. Tie or tuck the fabric out of the way for extra protection.