Should You Leave Your Awning Out All Year? Seasonal Care Guide
Awnings are a brilliant addition to any home, offering shade in summer, shelter from light rain, and an inviting outdoor space. But as the UK weather shifts from sunny afternoons to autumn downpours and winter frost, many homeowners wonder: should you leave your awning out all year, or should you retract and store it for winter?
The answer depends on the type of awning you have, the materials used, and how well you maintain it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the seasonal care needed to keep your awning in top shape year-round.
1. Seasonal Awning Care: How to Protect It Year-Round
Awnings are built to last, but seasonal care is essential to keep them looking great and functioning properly. Here’s a breakdown of how to care for your awning in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring: Preparing Your Awning for Warmer Weather
🌱 Inspect the fabric for any mildew, stains, or dirt buildup from winter.
🧼 Clean the awning using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid pressure washers!
🔧 Check moving parts – Test the motor (if motorized) and ensure arms and joints move smoothly.
🛠 Tighten any loose fittings to ensure stability after months of inactivity.
Summer: Regular Maintenance for Peak Usage
☀ Retract the awning when not in use to prevent unnecessary sun exposure.
🧽 Clean it regularly to remove dust, pollen, or bird droppings.
🌬 Watch for sudden weather changes – Strong gusts or downpours can damage extended awnings.
🛠 Lubricate moving parts to keep operation smooth.
Autumn: Preparing for Harsher Weather
🍂 Remove fallen leaves and debris, as damp organic matter can lead to mould growth.
💦 Apply a waterproofing treatment to ensure rain beads off instead of soaking in.
🔧 Check for signs of wear before winter – frayed edges or loose bolts should be fixed now.
Winter: Protecting Your Awning from the Elements
❄ Fully retract your awning if you’re not using it.
🛡 Use a winter cover to protect it from moisture, dirt, and frost.
🌬 Set wind sensors if you have a motorized model – they’ll retract the awning in strong winds.
📦 If removable, store in a dry place – this prevents damage from extreme cold and damp.
💡 Verdict: If you use your awning year-round, proper seasonal care is essential to keep it in top condition.
2. Do Different Awning Types Need Different Winter Care?
Yes! The way you store or protect your awning depends on its type.
✔ Full-Cassette Awnings – Best for year-round use. The fabric and mechanism are completely enclosed when retracted, offering the highest protection from the elements.
✔ Semi-Cassette Awnings – Provide some protection but leave part of the fabric exposed. Use a protective winter cover to reduce wear and tear.
✔ Open Awnings – No built-in protection, so these should be fully retracted and covered, or removed and stored indoors during winter.
💡 Tip: If your awning is fixed and exposed, consider adding a protective cover or housing unit to shield it from winter weather.
3. What Happens If You Don’t Winter-Proof Your Awning?
Neglecting your awning during colder months can lead to long-term damage, such as:
🚫 Mould & Mildew Growth – Trapped moisture can cause stains and odours. 🚫 Fabric Fading & Cracking – UV rays and frost can weaken fabric over time. 🚫 Mechanical Failures – Water freezing in joints can cause metal components to seize up. 🚫 Wind Damage – Sudden winter storms can tear awning fabric or damage supports.
💡 Verdict: A few simple maintenance steps can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future!
4. FAQs: Seasonal Awning Care
Q: Can I use my awning in winter?
A: Yes, but only if it’s designed for year-round use. Full-cassette awnings with heating and LED lighting can create a warm, sheltered outdoor space even in cooler months.
Q: How do I stop my awning fabric from going mouldy in winter?
A: Make sure the fabric is completely dry before retracting and use a breathable cover to prevent trapped moisture.
Q: Will wind damage my awning if I leave it open?
A: High winds can tear fabric and damage support arms, so always retract the awning in strong winds and set wind sensors if available.
At GDCG, we supply and install high-quality, weather-resistant Markilux awnings built for UK conditions. We also provide expert maintenance services to keep your awning in top shape year after year.
📞 Need advice on winter awning care? Get in touch today or come down to our showroom in Grantham and take a look at the range of awnings and fabrics we have on show!