Awning Maintenance & Hurricane Preparation
Maintenance...
- For optimum appearance and performance, fabric should be cleaned on a regular basis before substances such as dirt, roof particles, leaves, bird droppings, etc. are allowed to accumulate on and become embedded in or on the fabric or streak the valances. We recommend no less than 6 months-1 year.
- Clean with a soft brush, and hose down fabric.
- We recommend Apco Fabric Wash or Mild Natural soap.
- Hand wash with soft brushes or pads.
- Do not use detergents as they will strip the finish!
- Do not use pressure cleaning! Pressure cleaning will invalidate your fabric warranty. It may or will damage the cover, heat sealed or sewn seams and stitching.
- Call Miami Awning Company for recommendations regarding cleaning, for other maintenance needs, for removal of fabric, or replacement of canvas. 305-576-2029
- In cases where the cover is taken down and stored, it should be cleaned prior to removing fabric.
In the event of a hurricane warning...
We do not recommend taking down your awning unless there is a hurricane warning with the probability of winds over 90 miles per hour, in general. Removing your awning should only be done if it is imminent that a storm is actually coming your way. Should that be the case, we recommend cutting all the ropes, which can be done above the grommets (brass eyelets). The rope will need to be replaced so don't be concerned about saving it. If your awning is attached to your home or building, after you cut the ropes, roll it up to the top of the frame, where it meets the wall. Tie it down around the ends and middle areas where you rolled it up and also tie it to the frame.
If you have a freestanding awning, cut the ropes same as above, and roll the awning up, if possible, while it is on the frame or pull it to the ground and fold and roll it up. Store in garage.
If we do get a hurricane, failure to take these steps may result in damage to the awning frame and possible damage to your building.
Please do not remove your awning unless your area is under Hurricane Warning and it is imminent that a hurricane is headed your way! After a storm, re-installation of awnings and canopies will begin, starting with priority for our hotel and business customers, so they can re-open. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, or for further advice.
