How to maintain folding arm awnings in Melbourne?

Melbourne is Australia’s undisputed style capital and home to some of the most unpredictable weather in the nation. In blisteringly hot Melbourne sun, traditionally, the only shade option for a building is an awning.

With the arrival of March signalling the onset of autumn, many Melbournians look ahead to cooler days when their awnings would have ‘resting’ period.

If you want your folding arm awnings to stay in the best possible shape, then here is the minimum care that is required to maintain them.

However, if your awning has speciality features, you might have to take further measures during the autumn and winter season.

• Installation of the awning as well as dismantling it must be carried out by an installer or someone who has sufficient technical knowledge/experience. Inexpert installation, maintenance or an incorrect operation of the awning can cause a danger or injury. Always study the manual beforehand.


• In the case of an electrically operated awning, check the local mains voltage and frequency. This will prevent the motor from burning out.


• Study manual for electric operation and the motor. The electric motor should be protected against overloading. Ensure it never opens or closes when not required, for example, when you are cleaning the awning. Ask your supplier for an explanation and/or additional instruction.


• However, test the motor at least once a month to discover maintenance problems if any, humidity escalates damage to the motor.


• Check the folding arms once a week, so that any rust or loose screws can be fixed straight away.


• Retractable or folding arm awnings should be rolled up before it becomes wet due to rain, fog, dew, snow or hail or if high winds or storms are anticipated. An automatic wind sensor can provide protection. It will roll the awning when the wind exceeds a preset level.


• However wind sensor, should be checked at least twice a year to ensure that the sensor paddle can rotate freely and is free from spider webs or vegetation etc.


• Before closing the awning dry it and remove deposits of organic matter (such as soil, grass cuttings, leaf litter, bird droppings, vehicle exhaust), attached to the fabric. This may damage the fabric.


• Do not close the awning too tightly, since this will put an unnecessary load on the gears and may cause damage.


• Awnings should never be left extended whilst the house is unattended. Any automatic controllers should be switched off.


• Occasional wash gets rid of nasty stains on your awnings and prevents the fabric from deteriorating.


• To remove dirt from the fabric, brush dry fabric with a soft brush. Do not use soaps, detergents, strong bleaches on the fabric. Never scrub the fabric.


• Moving components should be cleaned twice annually and lubricated with light oil.


• Under no circumstances should water be allowed to pool on the awning. Remove any mildew on the fabric.


• No other objects should be attached to, or hung from the awning to prevent it from any damage.

By keeping in mind the above information, you can enjoy your awnings for longer, putting that perfect finishing touch on your outside space.

Conclusion: In order to have best folding arm awnings, one can get in touch with Wynstan, a well known supplier of folding arm awnings in Melbourne.