6 Tip to Choose the Best Fabric for your RV Awning

Looking for the best RV awning fabric? Or want a new fabric for your existing one?

Choosing the right fabric for your outdoor camping awning makes a significant difference in the functionality, longevity and aesthetic alignment of your awning. But with many fabric options available in the market, it’s sometimes daunting to pick the right one.

But, No Worries at all!

Sunshine Trail provides you with a comprehensive guide on tips to choose the best fabric for your RV awning. Additionally, we help you understand the durable awning fabric’s critical role in enhancing your outdoor experience.

So, let’s get started!

6 Tips to Choose the Best RV Awning Fabric

Here are some expert tips to help you select the right RV awning fabric for lasting enjoyment:

Tip #1: Consider the Perfect Awning Material for Your RV

Adding an awning to your camper or caravan expands your outdoor living area, protecting you from sun and rain. However, low-quality fabrics can ruin the experience by tearing and leaking after just one season. Thus, when choosing RV awning fabrics, the material plays a crucial role in determining durability, functionality, and overall performance.

Here are some key considerations for selecting the right material for your RV awning:

• Vinyl Awnings:

Vinyl awnings are a top choice for RV owners looking for durability and waterproof protection. This fabric option is renowned for its longevity and ability to shield against outdoor elements effectively. Additionally, it’s affordability is a significant advantage, making it accessible to a wide range of RV enthusiasts.

However, their durability and water resistance come with trade-offs. Vinyl awnings tend to be heavier than other fabric materials, affecting handling and installation. Additionally, they can absorb heat, needing ventilation in hot climates, and are prone to mildew in humidity, requiring regular maintenance.

• Acrylic Awnings:

Acrylic awnings are also best known for their durability, UV protection, and vibrant aesthetics. These fabrics excel in breathability, allowing for effective air circulation under the awning. With impressive UV resistance, they prevent color fading over time, ensuring that your RV maintains its attractive appearance even after prolonged sun exposure.

Moreover, they are mildew-resistant, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth, especially in humid conditions.

However, acrylic awnings offer lower water resistance compared to vinyl, so it’s crucial to consider weather conditions, especially in wet environments. Despite a slightly higher cost, their long-term durability and UV protection make them a valuable investment for RV owners.

• Canvas Awnings:

Canvas awnings are a timeless choice for RV enthusiasts, known for their natural, breathable characteristics. One of the key advantages of canvas awnings is their strength and durability. They provide reliable protection against the sun’s harsh rays and inclement weather, making them ideal for outdoor use.

Moreover, with proper treatment, canvas awnings can also be made water-resistant, enhancing their ability to withstand rain and moisture.

However, it’s important to note that canvas awnings may require more maintenance compared to other fabric materials. Regular cleaning and waterproofing treatments are essential to preserve their durability and appearance.

• Polyester Awnings:

Polyester awnings are a fantastic choice for those who need a blend of lightweight convenience and robust durability. These awnings are renowned for their strength and resistance to tearing, making them a reliable option for outdoor use.

Additionally, polyester awnings are often coated with UV-resistant and waterproof finishes, providing added protection against sun damage and moisture. While they may not have the same level of UV resistance and color retention as acrylic fabrics, proper maintenance and UV treatments can significantly improve their performance and longevity.

Moreover, they are known for their affordability, making them a budget-friendly option for RV owners who want a reliable and durable awning solution.

Tip #2: Select RV Awning Fabric that Withstands Outdoor Weather Conditions

• Check UV Protection (Vinyl Awnings):

RV awnings are often exposed to prolonged sunlight, making UV protection a vital factor. UV-resistant coatings or treatments on fabrics can significantly extend their lifespan by preventing fading and deterioration caused by harmful UV rays.

For those who frequently camp in sunny areas, vinyl fabric awnings are an excellent choice. Their durable woven material can withstand scorching rays and hot breezes, while the UV shield keeps colors vibrant even under intense sun exposure.

• Inspect Water Resistance (Acrylic Awnings):

Effective water resistance is essential for keeping you dry and comfortable during rainy days. Look for fabrics that are water-resistant or have waterproof coatings to prevent water from seeping through. Water-resistant fabrics are also easier to clean and maintain, contributing to the overall longevity of your awning.

In cooler climates or areas prone to rain and downpours, acrylic fabrics awnings are a top choice. These fabrics are made of durable woven material and feature water-resistant technology, making them ideal for damp climates and humid environments.

Tip #3: Select from the Right RV Awning Type / Option

When it comes to selecting the best RV awning fabric, choosing the right type is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Different types of RV awnings and mechanisms may have specific requirements or recommendations for the type of awning fabric that works best for your camper or caravan motorhome.

Let’s explore the options and considerations for each type:

1. Patio Awnings

They are the best RV awnings that offer versatility, supporting various types of fabrics, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Popular fabrics for patio awnings include vinyl and acrylic awnings. Here’s a breakdown of each:

• Vinyl Awnings – Known for their water resistance and durability, they are a popular choice for patio awnings. They are easy to clean and made to survive in harsh weather conditions which makes them best for outdoor use.
• Acrylic Awnings – Offer excellent UV resistance and color retention, making them perfect for sunny climates. They are also breathable and mildew-resistant, ensuring a comfortable and fresh environment under your patio awning.

2. Fixed Awnings

RV fixed awnings, also known as permanent or stationary awnings, provide a semi-permanent shade solution for the RV. When choosing an awning fabric for fixed RV awnings, durability and weather resistance are crucial factors. Popular awning materials for fixed awnings include:

• Acrylic Fabric – Known for their UV resistance, color retention, and breathability, making them an excellent choice for fixed awnings.
• Polyester Awnings – Lightweight yet durable, offering good weather resistance and easy maintenance for fixed awnings.
• Vinyl Awnings – Suitable for fixed installations, providing durability and water resistance for long-lasting performance.

3. Metal Awnings

RV metal awnings typically have a durable metal frame structure, and the choice of fabric can vary based on personal preferences. Popular options for metal awnings include acrylic and polyester fabrics, depending on the desired level of UV resistance and durability.

4. Slide Out Awnings

RV slide-out awnings are designed to protect the slide-out section of an RV from the elements, including debris, water, and UV rays.

The best material for slide-out awnings typically includes durable, weather-resistant fabrics such as vinyl or acrylic materials. These fabrics offer excellent protection and durability to keep your RV interior safe and comfortable.

Tip #4: Evaluate Durability – A Crucial Factor

Durable fabric can withstand frequent use, scratches, and exposure to outdoor elements without compromising its appearance or functionality.

Here are some essential guidelines to help you evaluate the durability of RV awning fabrics:

• Check the Fabric’s Denier Rating: Higher denier fabrics are more durable. Aim for a higher rating for longevity.
• Look for Strong Edges and Seams: Higher denier fabrics are more durable. Aim for a higher rating for longevity.
• Consider Usage Frequency and Wear and Tear: Choose a fabric that can be used frequently without wearing out quickly.
• Assess Resistance to Outdoor Elements: Look for UV-resistant, water-repellent, and mold-resistant properties for durability against outdoor conditions.
• Prioritize Longevity and Cost-Efficiency: Investing in a durable fabric upfront can save money in the long run by reducing replacements and maintenance costs.

Tip #5: Choose the Right Size for Your RV Awning Fabric

Choosing the right size of fabric for your RV awning is crucial to ensure a perfect fit and optimal functionality. Here are some essential steps to help you select the correct size for your replacement roll-out awning fabric:

• Measure overall awning size – the post-to-post distance for your awning size. This measurement will give you the width of the fabric needed to cover your entire awning area.
• Measure the existing awning fabric length – parallel to your RV. Note that the standard extension length is approximately 8ft (about 2.4m). If your awning fabric projection (spline to the first spline on the roller) is between 2.0-2.1m, your awning is considered a 7ft extension instead of the standard 8ft.

Choose the right fabric size based on your awning’s extension length. If your awning has a 7ft extension, opt for the 7ft version of the fabric instead of the 8ft version to ensure a proper fit.

Tip # 6: Get Fabric That Allows Easy Installation and Adjustment

Lastly, opt for fabric that allows for easy installation and adjustment on your RV awning. Easy installation and adjustment not only simplify the setup process but also ensures a secure and snug fit for your awning.

Some fabrics come with pre-installed grommets or attachment points, making the installation process hassle-free. These grommets or attachment points align with the awning’s frame, allowing you to quickly secure the fabric without the need for complex tools or techniques.

Moreover, choose fabric that offers flexibility for adjustment. This flexibility allows you to fine-tune the tension and alignment of the fabric, ensuring a smooth and wrinkle-free appearance. Proper tension also prevents potential issues such as sagging or flapping, especially in windy conditions.

Conclusion:

Choosing RV awning fabrics is a crucial decision that impacts your outdoor experience. From considering the perfect awning material for your RV to evaluating durability and selecting the right size, each tip plays a vital role in ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your awning fabric.

Whether you opt for vinyl, acrylic, canvas, or polyester awning fabric, prioritize durability, weather resistance, and ease of use for lasting enjoyment during your RV adventures. With the right outdoor camping awning, you can create a comfortable and stylish outdoor living space that enhances your overall camping experience.

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