Question Awning Maintenance

[Bob K4TAX]

The awning on our TT is showing some deterioration at the point where it is attached to the TT and the first 1/2 turn of the roll. No tears or rips at this point. I would like to apply something to the first 6" to 8" to protect the most exposed area when fully retracted. What's your experience and suggestion of methods and material to use?

 

[Bob K4TAX]

I tried using Aerospace 303 and other silicone-based chemicals to no advantage. If it were new, maybe so.

Therefore I'll take three approaches: (a) apply 2 coats of Flex Seal, (b) totally mess it up with something, and (c) just replace the dang thing.

 

[Neal]

My sunbrella boat cover lasted 5-7 years. I would imagine depending on exposure an awning isn't going to do much better. I expect it will have to be replaced at some time if used extensively, which mine is not. I'm in the coach more than out and only extend the awning during the brief times its needed due to winds, rain, etc. I don't know that treatments help other than make you feel like you're taking care of it.

 

[Bob K4TAX]

Thanks Neal. Yes, I'd expect 5 to 7 years. The area of concern is between the point attached to our TT and the awning roller. There is about 6" to 8" of the exposed area along the full length of the awning. The remainder of the awning is in good condition as it has very little sun and WX exposure. While we've owned it, I've kept it clean and applied a UV protectant. But still, there is the area of constant exposure.

 

[Scooterfan]

The "plastic covers" of some awning setups address this issue. Not sure if you can "add" one onto your setup. But certainly it's the sun damage you are noticing, so anything to keep the sun off will help. Blessings

 

[B52Bombardier1]

I think its the soaked in water that gets trapped inside the rolled up awning - causes mildew and rot. Not that I do it but simply rolling it out to let it dry periodically might go a long way towards its preservation.

Rick

 

[Bob K4TAX]

While trapped water when rolled up does contribute to mold and mildew, it is the area between the top of the roll and the point where the awning is attached to the trailer. In general, the awning is rolled such that water doesn't get inside. It is the 6" to 8" between the roll and the attachment point that is always exposed to the weather and sun. That is my area of concern.

 

[Jabber Jaw]

Before using "Flex Seal", I would suggest you do a lot of research! There are a lot of negative comments from "RV'ers", about it breaking down, no real "UV" protection, & actually not being waterproof!
Before potentially ruining it, I would research other products.
There is a very strong "tape" product that folks use in lieu of dicor sealant, "EternaBond", which is waterproof & flexible. That might be a solution!
Or replacement!
Good Luck!

 

[Scooterfan]

What I was referring to is this...

Or something along this line...Once rolled in the awning is protected from the sun. Just saying...

 

[Bob K4TAX]

Thanks. Looks nice but not an option for me.

 

[Bob K4TAX]

The deed is done!!!!!

I purchased a can of Flex Seal black liquid. The area covered was originally black in color. I used a 3" roller to apply two coats, a day apart to allow for drying, to the area where the awning material joins the roof {C channel} of our TT. I rolled it on for the length of the awning, ~16 ft, and a distance outward of about 10". Thus when the awning is rolled and secured, the exposed area of the material will be that area covered by Flex Seal. I made sure it won't lap back on itself, thus the 10" of coverage. I used Mineral Spirits to prepare and clean the area before applying Flex Seal.

There is evidence underneath the awning where the Flex Seal penetrated the fabric thus filling the spiderweb-like cracks. The pin holes are no more. All looks very good.

Now to see how this approach holds up over time. Sure was easy enough to do and the total cost was about $35 for material and rollers.

All of the documentation I found indicated this is a good solution. They did caution DO NOT USE the spray-on Flex Seal for this process.

F Y I - A ready-to-install replacement awning from Rec Pro is about $149 for the material fabricated and finished.

 

[Bob K4TAX]

Thanks to all that supplied suggestions.

I gave the awning edge at the trailer to the roller out about 12" where I rolled & brushed on two coats of Flex Seal. This was on June 14. I gave it a good inspection today. It looks and feels GREAT! I know this is a very short time for the evaluation of the results.

I hope it lasts a couple of more years at which time I likely won't need the awning or trailer.

 

[GeorgeD]

Before using "Flex Seal", I would suggest you do a lot of research! There are a lot of negative comments from "RV'ers", about it breaking down, no real "UV" protection, & actually not being waterproof!
Before potentially ruining it, I would research other products.
There is a very strong "tape" product that folks use in lieu of dicor sealant, "EternaBond", which is waterproof & flexible. That might be a solution!
Or replacement!
Good Luck!

I have this tape on my unit. It works well. Its very sticky and if it sticks to itself, cut that portion off. Have someone helppaid $100 for a 50 foot, six inch wide roll. But so far its worth its money.

 

[Bob K4TAX]

Before using "Flex Seal", I would suggest you do a lot of research! There are a lot of negative comments from "RV'ers", about it breaking down, no real "UV" protection, & actually not being waterproof!
Before potentially ruining it, I would research other products.
There is a very strong "tape" product that folks use in lieu of dicor sealant, "EternaBond", which is waterproof & flexible. That might be a solution!
Or replacement!
Good Luck!

I don't find that many of the comments are supported by actual data. The Flex Seal product is designed to be waterproof. My experience is in a residential setting, and I find that it is waterproof. And it states it does provide UV protection. Again, in a residential setting, I did not find any deterioration from UV and direct sunlight.

Clearly from my research, the statement DO NOT USE THE SPRAY for flexible surfaces. Perhaps that is the source of the negative comments.

As to EternaBond tape, I carry this for situations where physical repair such as torn roof material exists. Due to the weight and thickness of the tape, I would not want to use this on the awning.

I state my position based on my research of what I consider to be factual conditions and tests.

 

[Jabber Jaw]

I don't find that many of the comments are supported by actual data. The Flex Seal product is designed to be waterproof. My experience is in a residential setting, and I find that it is waterproof. And it states it does provide UV protection. Again, in a residential setting, I did not find any deterioration from UV and direct sunlight.

Clearly from my research, the statement DO NOT USE THE SPRAY for flexible surfaces. Perhaps that is the source of the negative comments.

As to EternaBond tape, I carry this for situations where physical repair such as torn roof material exists. Due to the weight and thickness of the tape, I would not want to use this on the awning.

I state my position based on my research of what I consider to be factual conditions and tests.

OPPS! Excuse me for offering a solution!