How to Put Away Your Awnings for Winter

Storing awnings over winter protects them against harsh weather so they look their best in spring and summer.

Awnings are desirable because they provide shade over windows, porches and patios, but the fabric weathers easily if not cared for properly. If you leave an awning up for the winter, it will be susceptible to the cold weather and precipitation. The awning may even rip if heavy snow or ice gathers on it. The best option to maintain an awning is to put it away for the winter -- if it's cold outside, you probably won't be using it anyway. There are different ways to put away awnings, depending on if they are in a fixed position or retractable.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• String or tape

Instructions

1. Clean any debris off of the awning.

2. Check that the awning is thoroughly dry so it doesn't grow mold or mildew while in storage.

3. Roll up retractable awnings completely so that they are tight against the house; tie up or tuck away any loose pieces of cloth if they don't roll in properly. Store retractable awnings in place on the side of the house once you retract them. If your awnings have support poles, store them indoors.

4. Remove the overhanging valance from retractable awnings, if desired, and store them in a box in a dry place for winter. Not all retractable awnings have a valance and some homeowners prefer to keep the valance intact for winter.

5. Take down the awning if it is not retractable; this usually involves unscrewing mounting brackets to free the awning from its position.

6. Remove any metal or wooden rods from the fabric portion of the awning; awnings will often use a stiff rod to hold the shape. You can wrap the rods together with string or tape so you don't lose any.

7. Wash and dry the fabric in your washer and dryer, following the care instructions on the label; wash them at least once per year. Fold the clean, dry fabric piece of the awning.

8. Place the awning fabric and hardware together in a box and store in a cool, dry place over winter.

9. Hang the awning back in place when the danger of snow and ice has passed.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the instructions for your awning to use as a reference for removing your particular type of awning.

References

• A to Z Awnings: Frequently Asked Questions
• Awning Info: Types of Awnings-- A Variety of Shapes, Sizes and Styles
• Durasol Awnings: FAQ