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How to Clean and Maintain Your Awnings
Gentle, not aggressive
Soft brush and mild soap only. A pressure washer shreds awning fabric and strips the coating off metal — if anything, a low-pressure soft-wash. Aggressive cleaning is how a good awning gets ruined.
Mildew is the Florida enemy
Our humidity grows mildew on awnings fast. Treat it early with the right cleaner, rinse well, and — this part matters — let the awning dry fully before retracting, because trapped moisture breeds mold.
Check the hardware
Look over the arms, bolts and brackets; tighten what’s loose, lubricate moving parts, and catch rust before it spreads. A retractable that binds is usually a hardware fix.
Before the storm
Retract or remove retractable awnings ahead of high wind, and give fixed awnings a hardware check. We can fold awning care into storm prep, or clean and service them for you.
Frequently asked
Can I pressure wash my awnings?
No — high pressure tears fabric and strips metal coatings. Use a soft brush and mild soap, or a low-pressure soft-wash.
How do I get mildew off an awning?
Treat it with a mild cleaner made for the fabric, rinse, and dry fully before retracting so it doesn’t come right back.
How often should awnings be cleaned?
A couple of times a year in Florida, plus before storm season — humidity and salt air work fast.
What should I do with awnings before a hurricane?
Retract or remove retractable awnings ahead of high wind and check the hardware on fixed ones.