Protecting slide-out awnings from snow load

Thank you everyone for your replies! I do have a propane service - installing on Monday. I'm happy about that. I've read stories about people having problems with awnings after a winter. So just for a bit of added insurance, so far I'm liking the idea of sliding an insulation panel between the slide and the awning. It def wouldn't hurt anything that I can think of and should even help to have the added insulation. Plus I still have two 4x8 sheets left over from the skirting! Win-win. I may even put a smaller version of the beach ball idea up there to save me from having to climb up and scrape snow off on a regular basis.

You guys are appreciated and this forum is da bomb!

Keepem' coming!