A homeowner has option to choose from a wide variety of residential awnings. But each awning is effective in preventing harsh sunlight from entering into the homes. At the same time, an awning can further enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. But the awning remains outside, and has to combat harsh weather conditions. So often they become dirty. You can always restore the original look and feel of the awning by cleaning them at least twice a year. It is also a good idea to take the awning down to easily clean the harder-to-reach areas.
Brush the Dirt and Debris Off: The awning needs to be washed thoroughly using a solution. But you must use a brush to remove the loose dirt and debris. The brushing off will prevent the dirt from getting soaked into the awning fabric during the washing process. You can rub the areas of the fabric that are affected by dirt and debris using a broom or a soft cleaning brush available at the local janitorial supply shops. However, you need to ensure that dirt is removed from the underneath and top of the awning. If you have not taken the awning down, use a ladder to brush off the hard-to-reach areas.
Scrub the Awning: While choosing a solution to wash the awning, you must ensure that the product does not use any harsh ingredients that can stain or fade the awning fabric. You can also consider using hot water to remove the stains easily. The washing solution can be made by mixing 2 oz. of the dish washing liquid for each gallon of water. You can start the washing process by scrubbing the awning through a brush dipped into the solution. However, a harder brush needs to be used to remove tough stains.
Rinse the Awning: After scrubbing the awning, you have to soak these completely using a garden hose. While soaking, you must pay specific attention to the undersides and corners of the waning. If traces of detergent are left behind, there are chances that the awning many get streaked or discoloured. So you need to ensure that all traces of the detergent are taken off the awning fabric. It is also important to check the awning thoroughly, and ensure that the soap is removed completely. After rinsing the awning, you also have to look for signs of dirt. If you identify any dirt, the area needs to be scrubbed again.
Cleaning Metal Awnings: Many users find it easier to clean the metal awning in comparison to the fabric awning. You can use a quality emulsifying detergent to clean the metal awning properly. However, the detergent needs to be applied using a pressure washer. Most of the dirt and grime will be removed from the awning by the high-speed spray. After using the pressure washer, allow it a few minutes to set. Use the pressure washer again with plain water to rinse the awning thoroughly. Once the awning becomes dry, you can add a finishing coat by rubbing wax.
It is also a good idea to clean awnings according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Also, you can read several online articles and blogs to decide the best way to clean your awnings.