As winter approaches, many homeowners with outdoor awnings wonder whether they really need to be taken down during the colder months. After all, we want our outdoor spaces to be as protected and functional as possible, and keeping the awning up is the simplest solution. But is it the right choice? Here we weigh up the options to help homeowners decide whether they need to take an awning down during the colder months and how to care for it to ensure its longevity.
How Winter Weather Affects Awnings
Before deciding whether to take down an awning, consider how winter weather can affect it. During the winter months, temperatures can drop significantly, and severe weather like snow, rain, and strong winds can set in. These weather conditions can negatively impact awnings if they’re not properly maintained.
Snow and Ice Buildup
One of the biggest concerns in winter is snow, ice and frost. When left on an awning, this buildup can put unnecessary stress on the frame and fabric, leading to damage or even structural failure. Snow and ice are heavy, and they can cause sagging, which might result in the fabric tearing or the frame bending. If the awning is not designed to withstand heavy snowfall, it’s a good idea to remove the snow or even take the awning down to avoid any damage.
Wind and Storms
Strong winter winds can also cause damage. Even if an awning is built to stand up to some wind, strong gusts can cause significant damage. Wind can cause the main frame to move, potentially loosening or even bending the structure. The fabric can also stretch and tear if not properly secured.
Frost and Cold Temperatures
While frost doesn’t typically cause immediate damage to awnings, freezing temperatures can weaken the material over time. If the fabric becomes wet during rain and then freezes, it can lead to cracking and brittleness. Extreme cold can even cause the moving parts of the awning, such as mechanisms and joints, to freeze and become stiff, making it difficult or impossible to retract or extend the awning.
Should You Take Your Awning Down for Winter?
Now that we understand the risks, can an awning really stay up during winter? In most cases, the answer depends on a few factors:
The Type of Awning
The type of awning plays a big role in deciding whether it should be taken down in winter. For those with a retractable awning, it’s usually a good idea to retract it when not in use to avoid the build-up of snow, ice, or debris. This also prevents potential damage from wind, as a retracted awning is less likely to be affected by storms.
However, if an awning is a fixed canopy, it may be built to withstand the elements. It should still be inspected regularly, and snow or ice should be cleared. Even fixed awnings might benefit from being taken down or protected during harsh winter conditions, especially if there is frequent snow or very high winds.
The Quality and Durability of the Awning
Awnings made from high-quality materials, such as those designed by Cambridge Awnings, tend to be more resilient to winter weather. If an awning is built from durable materials like weather-resistant fabrics and sturdy frames, homeowners might not need to take it down every winter. However, it’s still vital to perform regular maintenance to ensure its longevity.
If an awning is older or made from lower-quality materials, it might be more prone to damage. In this case, taking it down or covering it with a protective tarp could be the best option to prevent any damage during winter storms.
Tips for Awning Care During Winter
Whether a homeowner chooses to take their awning down or leave it up during the winter, regular maintenance is key to keeping it in good condition. Here are some practical tips for caring for an awning during the colder months:
1. Keep it Clean
Snow, ice, and debris can accumulate on the awning, placing unnecessary strain on it. Regularly check the awning and remove any snow or ice that builds up, especially after heavy snowfalls. Use a soft broom or a snow rake to carefully remove snow without damaging the fabric.
If the awning is retractable, make sure it’s completely dry before retracting it to avoid moisture buildup. If moisture is left on the awning, it can freeze, potentially damaging both the fabric and the frame.
2. Check the Mechanisms
During the winter months, it’s essential to check the awning’s retractable mechanisms and moving parts. If any parts become stiff or frozen, avoid forcing the awning open or closed. Instead, gently clean and lubricate the parts, or use a de-icing solution to prevent the mechanisms from freezing.
3. Store When Necessary
If the winter conditions are particularly harsh, consider taking the awning down or retracting it if possible. This is especially important for awnings that are not designed to withstand heavy snow or strong winds. When storing an awning, ensure that it’s clean and dry before putting it away, and keep it in a dry, cool space where it won’t be exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.
Prepare Your Awnings for Winter
All in all, the decision to take a patio awning down depends on the type of awning, the quality of its materials, and the severity of the weather in your area. While it may not always be necessary to remove an awning completely, taking these precautions can help keep it in excellent condition.
If you’re unsure about the best way to care for your awning, or if you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor space, the experts at Cambridge Awnings are here to help. We pride ourselves on designing, installing and assisting homeowners to maintain their garden awnings across the Newmarket area. Give us a call today for more information on how to look after your garden awning this winter.