Make sure you look after them so they stand the test of time.
Do
- Always roll up or retract awnings in high winds and storms – the leverage exerted can strain fittings and mountings.
- Avoid rolling up awnings when wet.
- Keep your awnings clean. To remove dirt, brush dry fabric with a soft bristle brush and vacuum off any debris. Occasional hosing may remove dust and some ingrained dirt.
- Remove any mildew as it appears on the fabric. (although the blind factory awning fabric is mildew and rot resistant, it can grow on accumulated dirt). Mildew removers are primarily bleach based and manufacturer’s instructions must be followed.
- Keep vines and shrubs away from the fabric as they may contain acids that are harmful to the fabric.
- Always use your awning fully extended and periodically adjust awnings to their fullest extension if they have been in use partly retracted for any length of time.
Don’t
- Leave awnings down in forecast strong winds.
- Drag your fabric across any abrasive surface.
- Mow lawns, or clean gutters etc. Near awnings when they are extended.
- Allow water to stagnate on fabric as this will cause pocketing and possible stretching.
- Allow leaves and dirt to remain on your awnings as they main cause staining.
- Use insect spray near or on the fabric as this may cause staining or affect the water repellence of the fabric.
- Scrub the fabric or wash with a harsh solution.
- Force your awnings when lowering or raising.
- Fold or roll the fabric in cold temperatures or when damp or wet as this may cause mould or mildew to grow and result in staining.
- Have fires or bbqs beneath or around the awning.
To personally discuss your needs for made-to-measure external awnings, simply call us on 13 blinds (13 25 46), or request a quote.
(please note ‘The Blind Factory’ are unable to install external blinds on a second storey.)