question on power awnings

wmoses wrote:

MM49 wrote:
If you tie them down the fabric will catch the wind and tear. When it is left to move it just folds up and lies on the roof.
MM49

If that is your reason I will take my chances tying the awning down.

There is a great deal of strength in material loaded in-plane that a lot of folks, engineers even, don't give credit for. If the awning material is not in good condition (e.g. the edge may have a small tear initiation site) then I agree the wind can catch that 'sail' and rip the awning. OTOH, if the awning is in good condition then the potential for failure is back with the supporting structure.

On my previous RV I had a manual awning which had a triangulated frame back to the side of the trailer - very stable and strong arrangement. That awning was in wind gusts of 25+ mph and had no ill effects. Probably could have withstood higher gusts too. It worked because the structure was well braced, tied down and stable. The electric awning l have now could not withstand the same wind buffeting, I am sure.

As for folding over and lying on the roof, I would have to wonder what condition the arms would be in after the event. I expect that there would be deformation in the arms which would not function as designed.

Unless you have some sort of proof of survivability after an over-the-roof event, I don't think that it is fair to simply dismiss the use of awning supports and tie-downs and to tell those who like to use them that they are 'wrong'.

You’re not very bright! The power awning has joint right below the shock absorber mount. The join will bend in high wind and the shock absorber will gently allow the fabric and beam to fold on to the roof. Mine has done that at least ten times, and it is a 20' awning. The new awnings are made of even lighter material that the manual ones. Tying them will guarantee damage to them.
MM49Awning Description