Get your customized awning by calling Van Nuys Awning Co. at (818) 782-8607 today!
For optimal results, avoid pressure washing awnings without adequate experience. A pressure washer puts out high-pressure water that may tear or damage the awning material. While specific materials may prove more durable, pressure washing will destroy fabric, strip paint, and dent metal unless professionally performed.
Consider washing your Custom residential awnings by Van Nuys Awning Co. with a scrubbing brush, low or no water pressure, and an appropriate cleaning solution. For more tips on washing an awning, continue reading.
How Often Should I Wash My Awning?
Wash your awning twice a year, before and after summer. Homeowners use their residential awnings the most during the summer months. During that time, they become dirty with the following contaminants:
- Dirt and debris
- Pollution
- Pests
- Spider webs
- Mold, mildew, and algae
These contaminants will damage the fabric over time by weakening the fabric, creating challenging stains, and changing the fabric’s color.
Awning Cleaning Steps
Because pressure washing awnings cause damage unless professionally performed, awning professionals recommend hand washing your canvas with the following:
- A gentle fabric detergent and water
- Spray bottle or garden hose
- A stiff fabric brush
- Broom
- Bucket
Begin by sweeping all chunks of dirt and debris from the awning, leaving only residues and stains. Using your garden hose or spray bottle, dampen the fabric thoroughly. Spread soapy water with your bucket, and gently scrub the material in circles.
Clean sections of the fabric at a time to prevent soap from drying on your awning. Thoroughly rinse the soap out of your material and allow it to dry completely. Ensure you clean both sides of the awning.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Awning
Why clean your awning? Maintaining a clean environment has multiple benefits and enhances your enjoyment of your property. A clean window awning coupled with energy-efficient window options will improve your home’s energy efficiency by protecting the UV-blocking fabric.
With routine awning cleaning, you’ll lessen your health risks, maintain your curb appeal, and prevent pest infestations. Dirty awnings pose a serious health hazard, as they can breed bacteria and viruses and provide a home to mold, mildew, and algae.
Removing Stains
A gentle laundry detergent works wonders for general dirtiness but proves ineffective against specific stains. We’ll review a few different solutions to use for specific problems in the following:
- Mold and Mildew: For optimal results, use diluted bleach and dish detergent
- Rust: Vinegar and water can eliminate rust stains
- Algae: Hydrogen peroxide or diluted vinegar destroys algae
- Tree sap stains: Rubbing alcohol, ammonia, or stain removers may remove tree and leaf stains
Contact a Professional
If you must pressure wash an awning, request professional assistance. Expert awning cleaners understand the unique fabric requirements and can remove stains thoroughly and safely. Cleaning your awning will extend its lifespan, prevent wear and tear, and ensure it remains attractive for years to come.
Do you have more questions on how to clean your awning? Contact Van Nuys Awning Co. for more information on pressure washing awnings at (818) 782-8607 today!
