With winter almost over, it's time to begin preparing your outdoor spaces for spring. A retractable awning is a perfect addition for many homes, but after installing one, you want to ensure you get the most from your investment. General care can do wonders, so make sure to use the following tips.

How to Care for a Retractable Awning

1. Clean Regularly

To ensure the fabric stays strong and the color doesn't fade, clean your awning. Use a garden hose to clear light debris, and if there are dirt stains or mildew, remove them with a brush and mild soap.

Also, check the hardware. If debris is trapped in the rolling mechanism or collected around the latches attaching the awning to your home, it can make it difficult to move the awning smoothly.

2. Handle With Care

Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines when opening and closing your retractable awning. Pulling too hard could pop it off the tracking or damage the retraction system. If you have trouble, recheck the tracking for debris or lubricate the parts, especially if there's a squeaking sound.

3. Keep Wildlife & Foliage Away

Creeping vegetation and tree branches can tear through the awning fabric. In high winds, they may also knock the awning loose, so schedule a tree trimming as part of your spring maintenance plan.

You'll want to look out for wildlife, as birds, yellow jackets, hornets, and wasps love to nest where awnings and home exteriors meet. Invest in a netting product to cover these areas discreetly.

4. Dry the Surface

When water collects on your awning, it'll eventually result in mildew, mold, and fading. Insects may also breed in pooled water, and parts in the retraction system could corrode and rust. Retract your awning before rain arrives or, if it rains while your awning is out, make sure it dries in the sun before closing it.

Spring is the perfect season to add a retractable awning to your home, so contact the team at Patio Solutions. Based in East Rochester, NY, these professionals have offered home improvements ranging from window awnings to patio roof covers and sunrooms since 1982. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (585) 385-9999 to schedule a consultation.