Natural Methods To Care For Your Retractable Canvas Patio Awning
Your new canvas is designed to withstand years of exposure to harsh elements like rain, sun and snow without much interference from you. However, cleaning your canvas awning on a regular basis will help you keep the awning in tip-top shape.
Sweep Down the Awning As-Needed
A build-up of leaves will trap moisture on your awning, which can lead to staining and mildew. To prevent this from happening, sweep of your canvas awning with a long-handled natural-bristle brush on an as needed basis. When you do this, sweep the underside of the awning with a standard house broom as well, to remove the dirt on the underside of the awning.
Wash Down the Awning with Water
Remove dirt and grit from the awning once annually with a strong jet of water from a hose. The the awning must be allowed to fully dry before it can be retracted into a folding position. Do not fold the awning without allowing it to fully dry first, because this could prevent the awning from drying and cause the awning to grow mold or mildew. To further protect your awning from mold or mildew, wait until a low-humidity time of year to conduct this type of maintenance.
Use Vinegar to Treat Stains and Mildew
Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that will treat stains, kill bacteria and stop the spread of mold or mildew on a surface. To treat your canvas awning's stains or to stop the spread of moss, mold or mildew, use a solution of equal parts vinegar and water.
Fill a spray bottle with the solution and spray the affected area. Leave the vinegar on the stain or mildew for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a natural, stiff-bristled brush. Wash down the affected area with warm water, and then repeat the process if the stain persists. Again, allow the canvas to dry fully before retracting it into a folding position.
Control Conditions Around the Awning
In some climates, mold or moss growth is a regularly occurring problem that affects outdoor structures like vinyl siding, asphalt roofing and canvas awnings. If your canvas awning develops a persistent mold or mildew growth, increase the regular exposure your awning gets to direct sunlight. Trim trees or bushes in the area that could be throwing your canvas awning into shade.
Using these natural care methods, you should be able to care for your canvas awning without use of harsh chemical cleaners. For more information about how you can care for your canvas awning, speak with the customer care representative from the company (such as Lehman Awning Co) that sold you the unit. He or she will be able to answer your questions.
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