Maintaining your small van awning is essential to ensure it remains reliable trip after trip. At Rose Awnings, we fit a wide range of premium products—including products from Thule, Dometic and Isabella —and we’re committed to sharing expert maintenance advice. With regular care, you’ll avoid premature wear, unwanted repairs and costly replacements. Below, our specialists outline key tips to keep your awning performing at its best, drawing on industry guidance and manufacturer recommendations.
Regular Cleaning and Drying
Keeping fabric clean prevents mould, mildew and UV degradation. Follow this routine every few months or after particularly dusty or coastal outings:
- Brush off loose dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush.
- Mix a mild, non-abrasive soap with lukewarm water and gently scrub the canopy.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water, ensuring no soap residue remains.
- Fully extend and air-dry the awning before rolling it away; storing damp material invites mould growth.
Lubrication of Moving Parts
Metal arms, hinges and joints benefit from a light coating of silicone-based lubricant:
- Apply sparingly to pivot points, telescopic legs and attachment brackets.
- Operate the awning through a full extension and retraction cycle to distribute lubricant evenly.
- Wipe away excess spray to avoid attracting dust.
Using silicone dry-lube prevents corrosion and keeps mechanisms running smoothly, reducing strain on both frame and fabric.
Inspecting Fabric, Seams and Fixings
Early detection of damage saves time and money. Perform a thorough inspection monthly during the season:
- Check for small tears, loose stitching or pinhole leaks along seams.
- Look for signs of mould or mildew, especially on lower panels.
- Examine bolts, screws and fasteners for movement or corrosion.
Address minor issues immediately with repair kits—Thule Omnistor patch sets and Isabella repair tapes are available from Rose Awnings—to prevent small defects becoming larger failures.
Reproofing and Waterproofing
Over time, canopy coatings wear away, reducing water resistance and UV protection. To restore performance:
- Ensure the fabric is clean and completely dry.
- Spray a suitable reproofing agent—AquaTex for PVC/polyester canopies or Fabsil for acrylic fabrics.
- Apply evenly on the inside first, then the exterior, allowing adequate drying time out of direct sunlight.
- Repeat annual treatments to maintain waterproofing and inhibit future mould growth.
Securing in Inclement Weather
Heavy rain and high winds pose the greatest threat to awning integrity. Best practice includes:
- Fully retracting or securing the awning when wind speeds exceed 15 mph or during storms.
- Using tie-downs, storm straps and properly tensioned guy lines to stabilise the canopy in breezy conditions.
- Avoiding pooled water by angling support rafters and periodically clearing standing water from the fabric.
Proper Storage Techniques
How you store your awning between adventures is just as important as on-site care:
- Always pack away a completely dry awning to prevent mildew.
- Store in a cool, ventilated space; avoid sealed bags or tight zips.
- Loosely roll along original folds and stow poles separately after drying and lubricating.
Adhering to these steps prevents creases, odours and long-term material damage.
Seasonal Checks and Professional Servicing
Before the season starts—and at its close—carry out a full service:
- Tighten all fasteners and confirm roof-rail brackets remain firmly fixed.
- Replace worn components such as figure-8 clips or support feet.
- Consider booking a service appointment at our Poole centre, where Rose Awnings technicians can perform adjustments, alignment checks and in-depth inspections.
Regular professional servicing prolongs both the mechanical and fabric lifespan of your awning.
Ready to discover more ways to care for your canopy? Browse our full range of small van awnings from Thule, Dometic and Isabella, and find bespoke maintenance kits, cleaning products and fitting services at Rose Awnings.
