How to Change Awning Fabric

Awnings adorn businesses and homes.

Awnings on your home or business serve a dual purpose, as they provide shade and beauty. Most awnings are made of durable canvas or vinyl and, when cared for properly, last for many years. When your awnings fade in color or develop rips and tears from exposure to the elements, you can replace them with new awning fabric rather than taking them down altogether. Changing awning fabric on your home or business extends the life of the awnings for years.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Canvas or vinyl outdoor fabric
• Sewing machine
• Heavy-duty thread
• Scissors
• Rope

Instructions

1. 

   Measure awning fabric to determine how much new fabric you need.

   Measure the existing fabric in your awning before removing it. Determine the width of the fabric by measuring from the end of one side, across the top of the awning and down the other side.

2. Determine the length of the existing awning fabric by starting at the end against the building and measuring down to the front edge of the awning. Add 2 inches to allow for the extra fabric that gets tucked into the mounting channel.

3. 

   A sturdy pair of scissors cuts thick awning fabric.

   Cut the existing awning fabric off the frame but not from the mounting channel. Remove the rope from the awning and slide the fabric out of the mounting channel. Pay attention to how the rope is threaded through the frame and tied on the awning so you can replicate the process when you install the new awning fabric.

4. Prepare the canvas or vinyl outdoor fabric if the edges are not finished. Fold the side and front edges under a 1/2 inch then a 1/2 inch again, and sew them in place with your sewing machine or by hand using a straight stitch. If you must finish the edges be sure to add an additional inch to both sides and the front edge to accommodate for the hem.

5. Fold over the top edge of the fabric 1 inch to form a crease that makes it easier to slide the fabric into the mounting channel on the building. Slide the new awning fabric into the mounting channel and move it all the way through so the top edge of the awning is secure.

6. Thread the new rope through the frame the way it was placed with the old awning. Place the awning fabric over the frame to form the awning shape. Tie the new rope to secure the awning and keep it in place.

Tips & Warnings

• If it's your first time changing awning fabric, take pictures of how the rope is threaded through the frames and how the fabric is slid through the mounting channel so you have a visual guide to follow when replacing the fabric.

• Keeping your awning clean and free of mold and mildew keeps the fabric from weakening and tearing.

References

• Americana Building Products: Rainbo Awning Assembly and Instructions