An awning is an architectural fabric projection that normally extends just like the roof area. They are installed over a deck, a door or even a window. They act as barricaders to bad weather mostly the scorching sunrays and rain while some people install them as outdoor patios. Mobile home awnings are available in a variety of designs, models and colors that make your mobile home little bit recreational and gorgeous. They also add a decorative touch to your home. Actually, an awning is a composed of a lightweight frame structure that a cover is attached to it. The canopy is supported by the building it is attached to while it is supported on the outer end by at least one or more stanchions. The common types of awnings available for mobile homes are discussed below.
Awning Types
Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings offers great flexibility since you can fold or roll them up when not in use. There two types of these awnings: the motorized and the manual retractable awnings. For the motorized, with a push of a button, a ample, cool and relaxing haven sprouts up. With the manual ones, you have to install them manually.
These awnings are advantageous in that they are user-friendly, they can easily be removed in the case of extreme bad weather which can damage them and in fact, the remote controlled ones feature one or more wind and sun sensors that provides closing and opening of awnings from inside and outside and allows them to retract automatically when no one is at home.
Freestanding Awnings
Also called unattached/portable, these awnings have a fabric stretched onto a frame and on either end, attached to two poles. They are similar to canopies (roof-like structures those you can place tables and other things under) only that canopies are featured by four stands. Freestanding awnings are not different from extended shades.
Stationery/Fixed Awnings
These type of awnings are permanently installed to a fixed position, which makes them ideal for your mobile home’s windows, entryways, carports, patios, decks and balconies. The awnings are usually customized to fit your door’s or window’s shape (concave, traditional straight-top awnings, dome and convex) and bump outs.
Unlike the retractable awnings, they give the homeowners the power of creativity in shape, design and size. Another benefit associated with these types of awnings is that they require less maintenance since they have no moving parts.
Talking of maintenance, there are special ways that are used to clean, repair and install mobile home awnings regardless of the type. There are also specified tools involves in various maintenance processes
General Maintenance of Mobile Home Awnings – Cleaning & Repairs
Although a professional can accomplish cleaning using a pressure washer, you can do it yourself, as it is a very simple task. All you need to start with is a ladder, a long-handled brush, soap and water. The ladder will help you reach the top of the awning while the long-handled brush sweeps off any fallen debris.
Over time the debris accumulate and pools of water are retained in the hollows. Using a soft wire brush, you can efficiently scrub the valance to remove any weather stains. Remember to use a gentle soap so that you don’t bleach since chlorine can make your awning rot down with time. This is a very simple job, and you can always do it once you see collection of debris. Removing plants around the awning may be optional. For repairs, simple repairs may be a DIY project but if complex, solicit help from a professional.
Installing Mobile Home Awnings
Consider the following 4 steps while installing your mobile home awning. You may need a hammer, screwdriver and an assistant.
1. Prepare the site of installation: Commencing by carrying inspection of the site of installation by checking the frame (door, window and patio) frames stability because it might be loose or cracked and check the status of its structural stability. Check for the frame rot and any other damage and if it actually in poor condition consider replacing it or otherwise clean and smoothen the area and advance to the next step.
2. Fix the Brackets: Having done with the frame status, install supporting top brackets at the top corners of the frame. First, use a tape measure, a level and a pencil to mark the area where you will attach the brackets and make screw holes using a driller. Join the brackets to the frame by fastening the screws through the door, patio or window trim. You may require additional support by adding more brackets over the window, door or patio depending on the size and shape of the awning.
3. Assemble the Arms and Create the Awning Frame: You are halfway the installation process where you have to connect the bracing units to the end of each top bracket. It is along the length of the awning where the stringers will be hanging. Then, attach the return arms followed by affixing one end of the arms to the wall and join the free end of the return arm to the bracing units. It automatically fits in at end of each unit. Now, the framework of the awning is ready, move to the last step.
4. Place the Roofing: Regardless of the type of roofing material, simply place the material in between the stringers. Start at the top and stretch the roofing material down. Once you have completely covered the length of the frame, secure them in place at the bottom. Your awning is now perfectly installed and ready to use.
Uninstalling Mobile Home Awnings
Just as it is stepwise process installing the awnings, and so does the uninstallation process. The tools required are the same as those in installation but you can have a cherry picket when uninstalling the awning.
1. Determine the Purpose of Uninstalling the Awning: If the awning is dilapidated and you are intending to demolish it, then you don’t have to care too much of the materials, you concern is the impending harm it poses to your family and guests. But if you are just repairing it, then you might consider an approach that keeps the materials in good shape.
2. Removing Arms and Screws: Take care when repairing retractables according to the manufacturer’s manual as they can pop up any time since they are spring loaded. Remove the arms carefully, unscrew all screws, and have someone hold for you the other end so that the side you are removing the screws don’t collapse.
3. Bracing the Permanent Awning: It is advisable to brace the awning if you wish to preserve it. It can be damaged whether you remove all of it or at one end. You can rent a cherry picker where you will attach it with nylon rope and bungee cords. The cherry holds the awning in place as you repair.
4. Remove the Roofing: Do the final unscrewing of the awning from where it is attached to the house and have two or more people assist you bring down the roof slowly.
Awnings are excellent shelters and an additional beauty to any mobile home. Many people are going for them, especially the canvas ones because of their associated flexibility, durability and easy maintenance. Remember to keep your awning in good condition so that it services you for long.
