As summer begins to fade into autumn, your residential awning may begin to feel heavy and weighed down by debris. But why should you remove it instead of waiting for nature to handle it? Well there are some reasons that could surprise you!
DRY LEAVES
A pile of dry leaves can weigh as much as 25 pounds depending on the leaves. Dry leaves can cause a lot of problems with your awning such as tears and weakening the fabric. As leaves decay, they give off a chemical called nitrogen that can ruin your fabric awning. To help keep your fabric from weakening, stretching, and tearing, take a broom to remove these leaves from your awning. In addition to these problems, dry leaves can also entice critters and pests to make themselves at home on your awning. Squirrels, mice, rats, and bugs find leaves both appetizing as well as a good place to bury things during the fall. Removing these leaves will remove the temporary residence for these critters and help to keep your awning safe.
WET LEAVES
A bigger problem than dry leaves, wet leaves can do more damage. When it comes to wet leaves, the sooner you remove them from your awning, the better. Wet leaves pose the same risk as dry leaves when it comes to creating rips and tears in your awning, but they can also pose a fungal risk. Wet leaves can attract mold and mildew spores. These spores will take root under the wet leaves, spreading all over your awning. Not only does this ruin the integrity of your awning’s fabric, but it can also pose a health risk to anyone sitting under the awning.
TWIGS AND BRANCHES
In addition to small tree debris, your trees could drip branches and twigs on your awning that could cause rips as well as frame damage. The frame of your awning is not extremely sturdy and should never be used to support weight. If a heavy branch falls onto the awning, remove it right away to avoid damage. If you notice trees overhanging around your house, it is always best to prune them back so they will not harm your awning or your home.
As you are enjoying your home’s covered patio, look up and clear your awning of any debris that could harm your awning. If you notice any dirt or mildew on your awning, try cleaning it with a special awning cleaner. To avoid piles of leaves on your awning, retract it when not in use if you can. Performing these maintenance tips can help you avoid damage. For more information on a residential awning, contact Rocky Mount Awning today!
When you partner with us at Rocky Mount Awning & Tent Company, you’re not just buying or designing a sign for your business. You’re creating a partnership, and we will make sure your products stay as beautiful as they were when they were first installed. Contact Rocky Mount Awning & Tent Company today for all your awning, tent, and sign needs!