If you have been using your RV awning for a considerable amount of time, then you should consider replacing the fabric. It is important to inspect the awning when you are preparing for your RV road trip. As wear and tear happen to it, the fabric will start to lose the luster it had when you first purchased it. Thankfully, replacing your RV awning is a relatively easy job if you know what you are doing. Here are the steps that will help you replace your RV awning with a fresh one.
How much does it cost to replace RV awning fabric?
Replacing your awning fabric can cost anywhere from $200 – $1400. The reason that this price gap is so large is because of the variety of materials on the market. Many fabrics differ in quality, with some being more heavy-duty than others. If you want a durable and mildew-resistant fabric, then you are going to need to invest more into your purchase. With that being said, you should be able to get usage out of a thinner fabric for a while as long as you are not camping in extreme conditions.
How do I replace the awning on my RV?
- Loosening the Bolts
Multiple bolts are holding your RV arms in place. Depending on the model of your RV, you are going to run into different-sized bolts as well. This means that you are going to want to inspect these so you can get the proper-sized tools to take them off. These bolts exist on the top and bottom of your awning’s arms along with residing in the fabric channel. Thoroughly inspect your setup and make sure that you get every screw off before moving to your next step.
- Removing the Awning
Lift up the awning and walk it away from your RV. If deemed necessary, you should cut any pre-existing sealant that is holding your fabric to the rig.
- Removing the Arm
Go back to the side of your RV that does not include the extending/retracting lever. Check for a hole located in the end cap and insert a screwdriver to activate the spring locking mechanism. Take out the bolt that is keeping the arm connected to the bracelet, and then remove the arm from the roller.
- Releasing the Tension
To release the tension, you will need a bracket on the roller and will have to rotate it in place. Take a hold of the bracket and rotate it forward so you can return the lever to the retracted position. Rotate it slowly and unroll the spring all the way.
- Remove the Cap
Remove the bolts that are holding your end cap in place and set the cap aside for later use.
- Unroll the Fabric
Unroll the fabric and keep in mind that there are two sections to the RV awning fabric. There is the main section and the decorative valance, so make sure that you do not get this confused when putting in your new material.
- Replace the Fabric
Next, you want to place your new fabric back into the roller. Keep in mind the difference between the main fabric and the valence fabric as you do this. This part of the job is much easier if you have two people, so do not hesitate to ask for help.
- Reverse the Steps
Next, you want to reverse the steps that took you here in the first place. Should everything be done properly, your RV awning should be ready to go. Make sure that everything is screwed in tight as well.
- Double Check Everything
Before you start driving your RV again, you should double-check your awning to make sure that it is working properly. Having it malfunction on a trip is enough to ruin your camping experience, so test it a few times beforehand.
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