Outdoor awnings add comfort, shade and curb appeal to your home or business, but they also require regular maintenance to stay looking their best. Over time, dirt, mildew and debris builds up, leading many people to wonder if they should pressure wash their fabric awning. While it may seem like a quick and cost-saving solution, using pressure washing equipment can actually harm your awning. Here are some of the risks of using a pressure washer on an awning and proper cleaning tips to help extend the life of your fabric awning.

Why You Should Avoid Pressure Washing Your Awning

It’s tempting to use a pressure washer for tough stains, but doing so can damage delicate awning material in several ways. A high-pressure water can weaken awning fabric fibers, which can lead to stretching or tears. This is especially true for canvas or acrylic fabrics, which are designed to be durable in intense Floridian weather but not withstand highly extreme and localized pressure cleaning.

Additionally, pressure washing your awning can strip away its critical protective coatings. Many awnings are treated to resist UV rays and mildew buildup. Pressure washing an awning can remove such coatings, leaving awning materials more vulnerable to sun and moisture damage. In some cases, a pressure washer can force water into seams and frames, leading to hard-to-clean mold growth or costly structural repairs.

Proper Steps to Clean an Outdoor Awning

Instead of risking damage with a pressure washer, follow these effective awning cleaning steps:

1. Remove Loose Debris: Start by brushing off dirt, leaves and dust using a soft-bristle brush or broom. This prevents debris from embedding deeper into the fabric during cleaning.
2. Rinse Gently with Water: Use a garden hose with low pressure to wet the awning. Avoid any high-powered spray that could damage the fibers.
3. Apply a Mild Cleaning Solution: Mix water with a gentle soap or awning cleaner. Apply it evenly across the surface using a sponge or soft brush.
4. Scrub Lightly: Gently scrub problem areas, focusing on stains or mildew spots. Avoid aggressive scrubbing that could wear down the awning material.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse away all soap residue with clean water. Leftover soap can attract dirt and lead to faster buildup.
6. Allow to Air Dry: Let the awning dry completely before retracting or folding it. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

Routine maintenance goes a long way in preserving your awning’s appearance and durability. Regular cleaning, proper drying and avoiding harsh methods like pressure washing will keep your awning in great shape.

Get Long-Lasting Awnings from Universal Awning & Sign

For high-quality, affordable and durable awnings, visit Universal Awning & Sign. As Central Florida’s premier custom awning and sign manufacturers and installers, we offer a wide selection of patio covers that are built to last in Florida’s harsh environment and perform at a high level for years to come. To learn more about our awning options, give us a call today at 407-328-7781.