Your awnings improve your curb appeal and keep your home efficiently comfortable in the warmer seasons, but you won’t be using them in winter. If you don’t prepare them for the season, the fabric may get damaged or the entire assembly could come crashing down. Winterize your awning with the guide below, and you can expect it to be in the same great condition when you pull it out again in the spring.

Winter Fabric Awning Care Guide

1. Clean It

This is the perfect opportunity to clean all the dust, debris, and grime that the fabric has attracted over the past year. Brush off everything that you can by using a broom, working from the top down. Mix some mild dish soap with warm water, and hose off the awning. Use a soft-bristled brush and the soap mixture to get rid of tougher stains.

2. Let It Dry

The fabric needs to completely dry before you put it away for the season. Any moisture in it will turn into mold and mildew growth during the winter, which may destroy the fabric. Preferably, it will have a full day in the sun. Check the shaded areas or corners of the fabric for any dampness to ensure it’s completely dry.

3. Retract or Remove It

If your awning is a retractable one, then retract it completely and place the cover over it. There should be no loose fabric that hangs exposed out of the cover. If it’s not retractable, remove the awning from the frame, fold it, and place it in a protected place, such as a storage unit or a garage.

Alumaroll Awning & Window Co. installs durable awnings that can withstand the winter weather of Rochester, NY. Their deck covers and awnings come in a wide assortment of sizes, colors, and configurations so you can find the right one for your home. If you want something different, they’ll custom-make one for you. Visit their website to browse their services or call (585) 544-2110 to get started with a free quote.