Get to know your awning
July 28th, 2009 by Alex Jeffery
What are Awnings?
An awning is a shelter held up by framed structure and that is attached onto the side of the caravan, motorhome or recreational vehicle (RV) to provide an additional living quarters and storage space. They are often a cost effective way of increasing the space available, however it can be tempting to cram in extra luggage and overload the vehicle, beware.
Types of Awnings
There are 3 types of awnings; caravan awnings, porch awnings and sun canopies. Caravan awnings are used as an extra room next beside the caravan. The porch awning is smaller than other awnings and is generally easier to put up. The sun canopies serves as a small sun shelter.
What size Awning do I need?
First, measure your caravan and ensure that the van is level. To find your first measurement, dimension ‘a’, take a flexible tape or cord and starting at ground level pass the tape measure as near to the centre of the channeling gap as possible and then back to ground level. Then, at the widest point of the caravan where the tape should drop directly to the ground measure this as ‘b’. Note that modern are not designed to follow the underside contours of the channeling.
It is recommended that you fit and get familiar with your awning prior to going on your main holiday. This may seem obvious to most caravanners, however it has been known for people to go off abroad without even opening the packaging. Apart from ensuring the correct size and all items have been packed, you need time to fit the awning properly without any rush and hurry as this may damage the equipment.
How to store your awning
The framework should always be stored unassembled. Inspect them for signs of mildew (a fungus which attacks fabrics only when stored in a damp or wet condition) whenever the awning has been packed in a hurry without complete drying beforehand. If you are forced to pack an awning wet then do get it out on the frame as soon as possible.
At Sureterm Direct our caravan insurance, rv insurance and motorhome insurance includes cover for awnings. If you would like a great insurance quote, give the Sureterm team a call FREE on 0800 999 2030.