Is your retractable awning in need of repair? Find out the most common problems so you can fix them in this guide.
If your patio awning needs to be repaired, you don’t have time to panic. Creating a plan, setting up a budget, and paying for proper assistance is the general way to fix it. Most repairs are cheaper than replacing the full awning. Here are some ways to fix the most common problems.
Loose Frame Parts
If your awning is starting to lean on one side, chances are one of its frame pieces is loose. This happens over time especially if you’ve used wood instead of aluminum to create the frame. Depending on where the loose part is located, this can be a very simple fix.
First, inspect all component frames for sturdiness. If you discover a loose piece, use a drill and some wooden screws to tighten it back to place. Make sure that all of the frame pieces are supported by studs.
Retractable Awnings
If you have a retractable awning that needs repair, it can be more complicated. For motorized awnings that don’t work, you’ll have to take a look at the motor. Motors in automatic awnings tend to break and will need professional assistance to fix it. Even if it means replacing the awning, it’s worth the money having a professional handle it for you.
Also, the awning’s sensors can go out quickly. Usually, sensors can be replaced on your own. However, there’s not much you can do with dead sensors. Search for the location of the dead sensor and remove it from the awning.
You’ll have to install the new sensor in the same manner as the previous one. Look at the retractable awning manufacturers guide for replacement help as awnings differ from brand to brand.
Rips and Tears
If you’ve had your awning for a few years, or it’s sitting under a tree, you might notice some rips and tears that need repair. This isn’t a difficult repair job if you repair the awning early. If you continue to let the tears stay without repairing it, the problem can become more difficult and will require a full replacement instead.
You can find patches at your local awning retailer to help repair small tears. If you are unable to find tape or patch for your awning, it’s still possible to fix it. You’ll need to get some form of waterproof adhesive.
Trim any hanging threads, and use the glue on the lower side of the awning to seal up the rip. Clamp the tear together, so the glue holds the new patch together. Alternatively, you can use bundle clips or a clothespin if the tear is small enough. Most of the time, you don’t have to replace the awning’s fabric over a small tear.
Conclusion
It’s usually cheaper to repair your awning than replace it. Checking up on your awning will reduce the number of repairs for it, but repairing it early can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road.
Do you have any additional tips on replacing your retractable awnings?
Tell us in the comments below.