How to Fix a Sagging Awning

by Brenda Priddy

Trinette Reed/Photodisc/Getty Images

Pull-out awnings are included with many recreational vehicles. The awnings are designed to provide shade near the RV when the vehicle is parked. Over time, most awnings will start to sag due to age and the weight of water on the awning. You can fix most sagging awnings by readjusting the screws where the awning attaches to the mounting bracket. However, if you have extended the awning as much as possible and the fabric still sags, you may need to purchase a stabilizer for the awning to keep it from sagging.

Tightening the Awning

Step 1

Pull the awning away from the roller using both hands. Have a friend hold the awning tight.

Step 2

Feed a hex screw though the side edges of the awning. Turn the screw into the mounting bracket with a ratchet so that the awning sits tightly in place.

Step 3

Screw the other side of the awning in place using a second hex screw. When the fabric starts to sag again, extend the fabric out an extra 1 or 2 inches a time to keep it tight.

Adding a Stabilizer

Step 1

Cut a length of PVC pipe slightly smaller than the width of the awning. Cut four PVC sections, each about 5 inches long.

Step 2

Connect the two T joints to the end of the long PVC section. Connect the elbow joints to either side of the T joints. Connect the small legs to the end of each elbow joint. Position the legs so they point down.

Step 3

Fit the stabilizer between the two sections of the awning. This will add support and an angle to the awning so that water can run off without distorting the awning. The stabilizer will also prevent the awning from flapping in the wind.

References

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