What to do if Your Awning is Rusting

There are many reasons to own an outdoor awning. These devices serve as an excellent source of shade, which can make your outdoor deck or patio retreat all the more enjoyable. They are also essential for protecting outdoor furniture from the elements, in particular the harmful UV rays emitted by sunlight. Although awnings are built to be durable and long-lasting (as they are often left out year-round), that does not mean problems aren’t going to happen. One issue that many awning owners find themselves facing is rusting. Often the result of prolonged exposure to rain, snow and ice and/or improper maintenance, rust is not something you want to see.

Although it may not pose immediate problems, over time the seams and frame keeping the awning in place will corrode and deteriorate. If left untreated, there will come a day when the fabric could develop holes and potentially collapse inward. To avoid any possible injuries to yourself, guests and your property, it is important to know what measures should be taken to treat and prevent the rusting issue. Also, being aware of the warning signs is necessary for taking proper action. After all, if you don’t know what to look for, how can you expect to fix the issue?

How to Deal with a Rusting Awning

• • Assess the damage; be sure to thoroughly inspect your awning for any and all rust that is present. This means paying close attention to all of the seams and frame. When you know the extent of the problem, you will be able to determine the proper next step.

 

• • Clean the awning; removing dirt, debris and overall buildup will help keep the device in good condition. These are the materials that likely contributed to the rusting in the first place, so it will be worth taking the time to get rid of them.

 

• • Wash the awning with mild soap and water; commercial cleaning chemicals often contain abrasive elements that can do more harm than good. Also, don’t apply heat to speed up the drying process, as this can cause the fabric to shrink and potentially tear.

 

• • Paint the rusted areas and apply a coat of sealant once a year to keep the metal frame from corroding. You may need to do this more often if you live in a harsher climate, especially if it is an area that tends to receive a lot of rain and snow.

 

• • Repair any damaged seams caused by rust as soon as possible. It is better to take care of the problem the moment it is noticed to avoid further issues. If you need assistance doing so, you can always hire an awning maintenance contractor to do the job. And if you think your awning is beyond repair, or you are ready for an updated model, call your local awning company to find out more about what your available options are.

 

For more information on how to repair your awning, or to discuss awning replacement options with a metro Phoenix awning expert, contact our knowledgable Mesa Awning staff today.