Too Much Sun!

[timandsusan]

My 7 year old awning has cracked laminate on the awning--it is the white part that is exposed to the sun when it is rolled up. I have used RV Awning Repair tape on it--it is clear--I will see how long it holds up. Any other suggestions? or how long before the awning needs to be replaced?

[dieselguy]

I'd venture to guess 8 - 10 years is about the upper lifespan of awning material. Depends on whether you have any covered storage during your owwnership of the rig. Aerospace 303 will help if you start using it from day one ... once frayed it will not. There is an outfit in Trailer Life magazine that sells a PVC like split tube advertised to extend the life of any awning. Replacing the awning fabric when it comes to it isn't all that hard nor that expensive. Two people and two ladders is a must.

[1retired06]

Once the cracking starts, it has been our experience that there is not much you can do.

[H. John Kohl]

Replaced mine last December 5 years use.

[HOOK]

You probably know already, you can just replace the fabric . There are some better fabrics out there. Also available to roll up into an aluminum housing that extends the life.

[RRman]

I used 6" wide Eternabond to fixe the first few small delaminations, removing the loose "plastic" top laminated surface and putting the Eternabond on the woven material underneath. That was over a year ago.
I've since had to Eternabond tape almost that entire exposed top / exposed surface due to continued delaminations. Will probably get a new awning on next visit to RV repair shop later this year as even the scalloped edge on the roller when open is starting to tear a little.

At least I postponed replacement expense over a year...

[kdeiss]

We are in the 10th year still looking good! Replaced the slide awnings 5 years ago

[Illini Trekker]

I too use 303 protectant with 8 years of not being coved I'm surprised on cracking or much fade! I've cleared the awning once a year and coat with 303 a couple of times a year. In fact did the roof and the rolled up portion of the awning today. I wish it could have helped with the faded and pealing decals!

[timandsusan]

OK, I figured that replacement was next. I may just bite the bullet and do it! Heading to the shop in a few weeks.

[richfaa]

6 years on our 06 3400 but it was out a lot in hot sun. Just replaced the fabric .Was not all that expensive.