How to Choose and Maintain Your Roll-Out Manual RV Awning

How to Choose and Maintain Your Roll-Out Manual RV Awning

With the increasing popularity of RV camping and outdoor living, roll-out manual RV awnings, as important equipment for providing shade, rain protection, and a comfortable camping experience, are attracting increasing users’ attention. However, many people often misunderstand and doubt during the selection and usage process. This blog will guide you to fully understand how to choose the right roll-out manual RV awning and provide practical maintenance tips to help extend its service life.

Product composition and features

A manual RV awning mainly consists of two core components.

Frame

Material: High-quality aluminum alloy

Features: Lightweight, sturdy, rust-proof, and corrosion-resistant

Structure: It includes rafters, support arms, mounting brackets, and a crank handle

Design: Simple mechanical structure. Users can manually open/retract it without the need for electricity.

Fabric

Material: Vinyl 450g/sqm

Features:Features: 100% waterproof and UV-resistant, tested temperature range:-20°C to 60°C

Product Features

Durability: The high-quality aluminum alloy structure resists aging and rust, even when used outdoors for a long time.

Wind resistance: The frame is stable and suitable for moderate wind conditions (often used in off-road RV)

High adaptability: Available in various sizes and styles, compatible with multiple recreational vehicles and light trailers

Simple operation: No electricity is required. Manual crank or pull-rod structure, suitable for DIY users

Low maintenance cost: Simple structure, easy replacement of components, and convenient maintenance

Suitable for both RV and residential use: Not only ideal for RVs, but also perfect for patios, mobile shops, and other outdoor scenarios

Comparison of Different RV Awning Brands

Dimension	Dometic A&E 8500	Lippert Solera 1000 series	Carefree Fiesta	Awnlux W5600
Frame	Aluminum alloy frame with outdoor powder coating. The roller tube is relatively thin and prone to bending. Wind resistance is moderate.	Aluminum alloy frame with outdoor electrostatic powder coating. The roller tube is moderately thick. Wind resistance is moderate.	Aluminum alloy frame with outdoor powder coating. Equipped with a Flex anti-sway system, offering strong wind resistance.	High-quality aluminum alloy with outdoor electrostatic powder coating. Reinforced roller tube, sturdy and durable with strong wind resistance.
Fabric	450g/sqm vinyl 100% waterproof	450g/sqm vinyl 100% waterproof	450g/sqm vinyl 100% waterproof	450g/sqm vinyl 100% waterproof
Price	Relatively high	Relatively high	Very high	Moderate price
Lifespan	Average	Average	Relatively long	Relatively long

When choosing the RV awning, one should take into account the budget, RV structure, frequency of use, and preferences for installation and maintenance. For most RV owners, Awnlux offers an ideal balance solution, combining practicality, economy, and convenience, and is trustworthy.

How to choose the right size for a roll-out manual RV awning

When choosing or replacing an awning for your RV, correct size measurement is essential. Whether you are installing an awning for the first time or replacing the awning fabric, understanding the standard measurement method can help you choose a more suitable product.

Taking Awnlux as an example, this brand uses the industry-standard measurement method, which is compatible with most RV awning systems in Europe and North America.

How to choose the right size roll-out caravan manual awning

Choose the right width

When confirming the size of a roll-out trailer manual awning, the awning width is measured from the center of one arm to the center of the other arm (see the diagram below). The actual total width of the product corresponds to the total width(upper) in the diagram below. Before purchasing an RV awning, you need to carefully confirm the corresponding size to ensure that there is enough space for installation. When installing the caravan awning and support arms, make sure to avoid all windows, doors, lights, cabins, etc.

How to choose a right size of replacement fabric

Since the frame of an RV awning is usually very durable, it can last a long time without issues. However, the fabric may need to be replaced more frequently due to personal preferences or wear and tear. Replacing the fabric can change your mood too.

Due to the different designs of the roll-out RV awning, the replacement fabric sizes may not be universal between brands. Therefore, when purchasing replacement fabric separately, it's important to confirm both the awning brand and the original fabric dimensions.

Awnlux fabrics are compatible with all major roll-out RV awning brands on the market, which is an excellent choice. Below are a few ways to ensure you choose the correct size of replacement fabric:

Measure the existing fabric, measure the width and extension length of your current fabric directly. This is the most accurate method.

Refer to the awning size/model, select a compatible fabric based on your awning's size. For example, with Awnlux roll-out manual caravan awnings: replacement fabric width = awning width - 10 inches.

Trouble shooting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is it difficult to install a roll-out manual RV awning? Do you need professional tools?

A: Generally, the installation is relatively simple and can usually be completed with the cooperation of two people. Basic tools such as electric drills and screwdrivers are needed. Please read the manual carefully or watch the installation video before installation.

The following video shows the awning installation steps, for your reference:

Q2: Can awnings be installed on any RV or wall?

A: Most awnings are suitable for flat vertical installation surfaces, such as RVS, campers, or outdoor walls. Before installation, please confirm whether the length of the awning canopy, the installation space, and the fixed structure are suitable. Be sure to avoid all obstacles such as doors and Windows.

Q3: Can side curtains or fences be installed?

A: Most awnings support the installation of side curtains, fence fabrics, middle struts, clips, windbreak belts, etc., to enhance the practicality and stability of the awnings.

Q4: What should I do if the awning gets stuck when unfolded or retracted?

A: Please check if there are any gears stuck, loose connecting parts, or abnormal spring tension in the locking mechanism on the right side of the scroll. Using a lubricant on key parts will bring back smoother movement.

Q5: What could be the problem if the fabric doesn't curl up tightly or has severe wrinkles when rolled up?

A: A non-vertical setup or a loose spring might be causing the issue. It is recommended to readjust the installation points or re-apply the torque.

Q6: Is it safe to use an awning in rainy or windy conditions?

The main function of an awning is as follows: Although the awning is designed to withstand slight wind and rain, it is recommended to retract it in time before bad weather (such as strong winds, heavy rain, or snowfall) arrives to prevent damage.

Daily maintenance and care suggestions

Skeleton maintenance

Regularly rinse the arm passage with a hose to prevent dust and debris from causing the arm passage not to slide smoothly. If available, lightly apply some dry silicone spray to the track for best results.

Regularly clean the arms. This is the best way to keep the canopy arms and brackets running smoothly.

After thoroughly cleaning and drying the arm, open the arm lock and then spray dry lubricant to prevent adhesion and locking.

In addition, in response to adverse weather conditions, it is recommended to promptly refold the awning canopy and use the following accessories to enhance its wind resistance and stability:

Fence link bar: Enhance the overall structure of the awning canopy and improve its wind resistance.

Central support: Prevents the middle part of the awning from sagging and avoids damage caused by water accumulation.

De-Flapper: Secure the edges of the fabric to prevent tearing in strong winds.

Fabric maintenance

After each camping trip, thoroughly wash the awning cloth with a soft brush and warm water to remove dirt and insect corpses.

Please note

When cleaning fabrics, only use natural soap and water. Never use detergent, old-fashioned cleaners, or any alkaline, granular or abrasive cleaners. Let it air dry naturally. Avoid rolling up the awning while the fabric is still wet.

Upgraded features of Awnlux awnings

Unique sail track design:

It has two channels for fabric and LED lights, making the installation of LED lights more convenient.

Strong compatibility

Compatible with various types of recreational vehicles, and can provide services such as customized arms and fabrics

Summary:

By understanding the structural composition, core features, brand differences, and size selection methods of awnings, we can make a more scientific choice based on our own needs and budget. At the same time, regular maintenance is equally important. It is the key to extending the service life of the awning and ensuring a good experience.

If you are looking for a reliable manual self-rolling awning, the Awnlux W5600 is a model well worth considering. Whether you are a novice in RVS or an experienced camping enthusiast, Awnlux can offer cost-effective, robust, easy-to-operate, and maintain shading solutions to help you set off with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor life.

To help users get started quickly, Awnlux offers a wealth of video tutorials covering installation, usage, accessory installation, and maintenance methods. Users can easily obtain learning resources on our YouTube channel.

https://www.youtube.com/@awnluxrvawning1619

In addition, you can also visit our website https://awnluxpro.com/ to view the various canopies and purchase matching hooks, center support, De-Flapper, and other accessories to create your ideal outdoor space.