Last Updated on March 11, 2023
Cleaning a fiberglass awning can be a difficult task. Not only do you have to worry about getting the dirt and dust off of it, but you also need to make sure that you don’t damage the surface in the process.
In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to clean fiberglass awnings safely and effectively.
What are Fiberglass Awnings?
Fiberglass awnings are an alternative to aluminum and wooden awnings. These structures connect to the side of your house, and they provide shelter from sunlight and rain for you or your guests. They can be vinyl or fiberglass, which is usually considered more durable. And since they cover such a large area on the side of your house, you can choose from a wide variety of colors and styles to match the home’s overall look.
What are They Used for?
Fiberglass awnings are commonly used on commercial buildings, but they are becoming more common in homes as well. They are helpful in sitting outside or extending the outdoor living space of your home without having to worry about the weather.
How to Clean Fiberglass Awnings : Easy Ways
Below you will find some tips on how to clean a fiberglass awning:
1. Wet the Surface with Clean Water
Before using any cleaners, you should wet the surface with cool or warm water. This will help make it easier to remove dirt and dust in the process.
2. Clean with White Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and Baking soda are two common household ingredients that are easy to use when cleaning your awning. For example, you can mix baking soda with water in a spray bottle and then spray the mixture on the surface of your fiberglass awning.
3. Use a Mild Soap Solution
When cleaning your fiberglass awning, you can use a small amount of dish soap in some water. Be sure to use mild dish soap, as it will be less likely to damage the surface of your fiberglass awning.
4. Use a Broom with Soft Bristles
Brooms are essential for the best RV awning cleaner because they can reach all of the ridges without damaging them. For example, a broom with soft bristles should get rid of dirt and dust without scratching the fiberglass surface.
5. Clean from Top to Bottom
The best way to clean an awning window is to start at the top and work your way down. This will allow you to reach all areas of the awning with ease, and you can make sure that it is spotless.
6. Rinse the Surface with Water
After cleaning the awning, you should rinse off any leftover cleaner with clean water. This will help avoid leaving unwanted residue on the surface of the fiberglass awning once you are finished.
The above tips will assist you in cleaning fiberglass awnings. No matter what type of awning you have, these techniques should be able to help make the cleaning process much easier.
What are the Benefits of Cleaning Your Fiberglass Awning?
There are numerous benefits to cleaning your fiberglass awning, including:
1. It Looks New Again
Cleaning your fiberglass awning will help restore its new appearance. Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring that you have a solid and attractive awning for many years to come.
2. It Protects You from The Elements
Having an unattractive, dirty awning means that it won’t be able to do a good job protecting you from the elements. It is important to regularly clean your awning, which will allow it to function properly for years to come.
3. You can Extend Your Outdoor Living Space
By cleaning your fiberglass awning, you can create an outdoor area where you can relax with family and friends without worrying about getting wet or overheating. In order to prevent dust from entering your house, you can use an awning like this.
4. It can Increase Your Home Value
Taking care of outdoor features like an awning material will help you get more for your money when selling your house later on down the road by having clean and attractive features, such as a well-maintained awning.
5. It is Easier to Clean and Maintain
Regularly cleaning your awning makes it much easier to maintain, which means you won’t have to make as many repairs in the long run. By investing time and effort into regularly cleaning this type of awning, you can save even more money in the long run.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning an Awning
There are several common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your awning. They include:
1. Using a Wire Brush
If you have a fiberglass awning, then using a wire brush should be avoided because it can damage the material’s surface. Wiping or brushing with water is the best way to clean this type of awning.
2. Overusing Chemicals
Using too many harsh chemicals will strip away any protective coating on your awning and lead to problems down the road. One or two cleaner applications should be enough in most cases, but you should test it first in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire product.
3. Forgetting to Rinse With Water
It is essential to use clean water when cleaning your fiberglass awning, and the best way is to avoid leaving behind residue after you are finished with your project. Using mild dish soap and then rinsing thoroughly will help you get rid of all of the chemicals from the cleaning process.
4. Avoiding Regular Maintenance
If you have a fiberglass awning in your home, it is important to clean it regularly to avoid problems in the future. If properly maintained, this type of awning will last for several years and provide you with protection from the elements when needed most.
5. Using Pressure Washers
If you do not own a power washer, then you should avoid using one when cleaning your fiberglass awning. Using this type of equipment can cause damage to the surface of your awning, which may lead to problems in the future.
FAQ’s
1. Does Bleach Harm Fiberglass?
Bleach does not harm fiberglass when it is used sparingly, but you should avoid using it regularly because it can eventually lead to problems with your awning.
2. Which Awning Material Is Best?
Fiberglass awnings are the best type of awning because they last longer and protect you from the elements for many years to come. Aluminum awnings often need constriction repairs, whereas vinyl is easily torn and doesn’t give off heat very well.
3. Does Regular Maintenance Extend The Life Of My Awning?
Regularly cleaning your awning means that you won’t have to make as many repairs in the future. You can save even more money down the road by regularly taking care of this type of outdoor product, which will provide installation benefits like reduced strain and wear.
Conclusion
Cleaning your fiberglass awning is a simple task that is relatively easy. By following the tips we have provided, you should be able to get your awning looking new again in no time. Not only will this make your home more attractive, but it will also help protect you from the elements. Additionally, regularly cleaning and maintaining your awning can increase its lifespan and save you money in the long run.