Preparing Your Sun Awnings for Winter
As fall days begin, we look toward winter, which will soon be upon Lewiston, ID. Shorter days and a temperature drop indicate it’s time to consider how snow and ice affect your sun awnings. Whether fixed or retractable, a little care now will protect your investment, letting you enjoy it once more in the spring and helping it last for years.
At The Blind Guy Lewiston, our team has outfitted homes with retractable awnings and outdoor shades for decades. We’ve compiled our top tips for preparing your sun awnings for the winter months.
1. Inspect the Awning and Repair Issues Before the First Freeze
Before winter sets in, take time to inspect your awnings for any signs of damage. Look closely for small tears in the fabric, loose stitches, bent support arms, missing or loose bolts, and rust on any metal hardware. Even minor problems can worsen once snow builds up or freezing and thawing cycles begin.
Attending to small issues now may cost less and take less time than dealing with a major repair or replacement once winter damage sets in.
2. Clean Thoroughly and Let It Dry
Over time, dirt, pollen, leaves, and other debris build up on your awning’s fabric. When left alone, that buildup traps moisture and creates the ideal mildew or mold growth environment.
To prevent this, clean the fabric with a soft brush with bristles to help get into the grooves, mild soap, and warm water. Be sure to avoid any rough-bristled brushes, as they can damage the fabric.
Rinse thoroughly and let air dry completely before retracting or covering the awning. Putting away a damp awning can lead to mildew growth, stains, and other long-term damage.
3. Add a Protective Winter Cover
We recommend using a custom-fit winter cover or an awning boot if your awning system allows. This cover protects the fabric from snow, ice, dirt, pests, and UV rays.
It also keeps out moisture and slows down the wear when you’re not using the awning.
4. Consider Going for a Retractable Awning
If you’re relying on fixed awnings year-round, winter can be tough on it. A retractable awning offers the flexibility to enjoy shade in the summer while safely tucking it away before harsh Idaho snow and winds.
At The Blind Guy Lewiston, we’re big fans of premier retractable awning brands like Sunesta® and Insolroll®. Thanks to their durable fabrics and expert construction, these options can withstand the elements. They also boast a gorgeous appeal with hundreds of colors and textures that complement many home exterior styles.
Shop Durable Retractable Awnings Near Lewiston, ID
If you’re not a fan of regular maintenance to keep up your awning, or if you’ve never had an awning before, our team of local experts at The Blind Guy Lewiston is here to help! For years, we’ve been assisting homeowners in finding the perfect retractable awning to breathe new life into their backyard.
Schedule your in-home consultation online or call (208) 792-1021, and let our designers help you find retractable awnings near Lewiston, ID. The Blind Guy Lewiston is locally owned and operated. We’re proud to serve Lewiston, including Moscow, ID, Clarkston, Pullman, Colfax, Palouse, WA, and the surrounding communities.
