Motorhome Awning: Maintenance, Cleaning & Common Repairs

What This Is

A well-maintained awning extends its life significantly and ensures it performs when you need it. This guide covers seasonal maintenance and common repairs.

Tools & Parts Required

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Extend the awning fully on a dry day. Inspect the fabric for tears, mould spots, and seam separation. Check the arms for smooth operation and any bent or cracked components. Inspect the roller tube for straightness.

2. 2

   Apply a proprietary awning cleaner (Fiamma Clean or Dometic Awning Cleaner) diluted as directed. Work in sections with a soft brush. Do not use household detergents — they strip the waterproofing. Rinse thoroughly. For mould spots, use a specialist mould remover first.

3. 3

   Once clean and dry, apply a fabric reproofing spray (Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof or similar). Apply evenly and allow to dry completely before rolling up. This restores the DWR finish that prevents water pooling.

4. 4

   Apply silicone spray (never WD-40 on plastic components) to all pivot points on the arms, the winding handle mechanism, and the roller tube end caps. Work the mechanism through its full range of motion several times.

5. 5

   The awning fabric should be taut when extended, without sagging. Most awnings have a tension adjustment on the roller tube — consult your awning manual. Incorrect tension causes the fabric to flap in wind and accelerates wear.

6. 6

   Small tears up to 50mm can be repaired with awning repair tape applied to both sides of the tear. For larger tears or seam separation, a professional awning repair service will give a more durable result.

7. 7

   Never store an awning wet or damp — mould will destroy the fabric over winter. If the awning gets wet, extend it at home and allow to dry completely before rolling up for storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When to Call a Professional