How to Care for Your Commercial Awning – Easy Maintenance Tips

Much like the exterior of your business premises, signage, or outdoor seating areas, commercial awnings require regular care to maintain their appearance and longevity. A well-maintained awning enhances your storefront’s appeal, provides essential shade, and reinforces your brand’s professional image.

At Awnings R Us, we specialize in installing and maintaining high-quality commercial awnings built to withstand Australian weather conditions. However, even the most durable awnings benefit from routine cleaning and care to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

If you’re responsible for a commercial awning, here’s how to keep it in top condition and protect your investment.

Why Regular Awning Maintenance Matters

Your commercial awning is exposed to the elements daily—sun, wind, rain, dust, pollution, and debris. Without proper care, dirt build-up, mould, and fabric deterioration can occur, impacting both appearance and functionality. Regular maintenance helps prevent permanent stains, structural issues, and costly replacements.

Maintaining Awning Frames and Hardware

The frame is just as important as the fabric. Whether made from aluminium or powder-coated steel, your awning’s hardware is designed for durability but still needs occasional cleaning to stay in excellent condition.

How to Clean the Awning Frame:

Wash the frame with warm water and a mild detergent.
Avoid strong chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or harsh solvents, as they may damage the protective coating.
Use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush to remove dirt and dust gently.
Rinse with clean water and dry with a cloth to prevent water spots and corrosion.

Regularly check brackets, bolts, and moving parts to ensure everything is secure and functioning smoothly. Tighten any loose screws and lubricate retractable awning mechanisms with a silicone-based spray at least once a year.

Caring for the Awning Fabric

Commercial awning fabrics are designed to resist dirt, mould, and fading, but they still require upkeep to stay clean and professional-looking.

Important Fabric Care Tips:

Never use a high-pressure washer, as it can weaken the fibres.
Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, or insect sprays.
Prevent stains by removing bird droppings, leaves, and dirt promptly.
Keep petrol, oil, and other solvents away from the awning.

How to Clean Your Awning Fabric:

For light stains and general dirt:

Brush off loose debris with a soft brush or broom.
Hose down the fabric with clean, cold water.

For stubborn stains:

Mix mild soap (like dishwashing liquid) with lukewarm water.
Gently scrub the fabric with a sponge or soft brush.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the awning to air dry completely.

Never retract or roll up a wet awning—this can lead to mould and mildew.

How Often Should You Clean Your Awning?

The cleaning frequency depends on location. High-traffic areas, industrial zones, and coastal regions require more frequent maintenance. As a general rule:

Rinse your awning every few months to remove surface dust and grime.
Conduct a deep clean with soap and water at least once a year.
Address heavy dirt, stains, or signs of mould as soon as possible.

Protecting Your Awning from Harsh Weather

Commercial awnings provide shade and light weather protection, but they’re not designed for extreme conditions. Retract your awning during storms, strong winds, or hail to prevent damage. For fixed awnings, consider securing or covering them in severe weather events.

Additional Maintenance Tips

Inspect your awning regularly for signs of damage, rust, or wear.
Ensure the awning dries fully before retracting to prevent mould.
Trim overhanging trees or plants to minimize debris and sap buildup.
Schedule professional maintenance or repairs when needed.

Keep Your Commercial Awning Looking Its Best

Your awning is a key part of your business’s exterior, providing shade, branding, and curb appeal. With regular care, you can extend its lifespan and maintain a polished, professional look.

For high-quality commercial awnings, expert installation, or maintenance advice, Awnings R Us is here to help. Contact our team for reliable, Australian-made awning solutions tailored to your business.