Awnings are a very common feature on millions of Australian homes from the tropical far north to the brisk southern shores of Tasmania. Awnings are ubiquitous because they provide shelter and shade in places around your home where you most need it: the exposed windows, your doors and around your outdoor living spaces. Awnings also come in all shapes and sizes from ones that extend quite a few metres out from the wall to ones that are less than a foot out. Regardless, all of them need regular care to stay looking great.

Hose Them Down

Every week or so you should give your awnings a good hose down to ensure that any dirt or mud is displaced. This technique is especially useful for larger awnings that you cannot reach easily. Dirt and mud can stick to the surface and eventually start scratching it. If these scratches turn into fissures, more water or more dirt could accumulate and your awnings will start corroding very quickly. This will lead to rips and tears far more quickly than if your awning was clean.

Reapply Protective Coating

Many awnings come with protective coatings on them to ensure they last more than a few weeks in the harsh elements of the Australian environment. However, these protective coatings will wear down over time, which is how most awnings start to fade and show signs of deterioration. Fabric protectors and rust guard are two options for your metal and fibrous awnings. Plastic awnings are less susceptible to this type of damage but they often have elements of fabric in them too (such as the trim and attachment points) so make sure to coat those. If you are confused about what coatings to use, call up an awnings expert to find out what's right for you.

Replace Broken Elements Immediately

Often awnings don't break all at once but rather in particular sections. Perhaps the support bar will get rusty or a section of fabric will get a bit mouldy in one corner. Do not put up with these minor problems because they are actually the warning signs of the entire awning beginning to capitulate. Attack them straight away and you may well save the whole awning. A replacement section of metal here, a new coat of paint there and the awning will be looking brand new. Get a contractor who knows awnings well to perform such service, as they will make sure the job is done thoroughly and will not be simply a surface-level fix.