To Awn or Not To Awn

LaunchnRetrieve wrote:
I think my mechanism is fine, so it might be just the fabric that needs replacing. Still, Camping World was talking approx 1,000 to replace fabric. The mechanism work required in order to replace the fabric was why I sought someone else to do it. The videos I found suggested a huge mechanism involvement to just change fabric.

I lost my awning on the highway in a bad windstorm. All hardware, arms everything totally destroyed beyond any salvage.

Insurance is replacing the entire awning complete with all hardware, arms, everything. I got 2 quotes locally here in Calgary. I forget the exact figures but it was something around 1685 from one place and 1780 from another including all labor and materials.

So I think 1000 for just the fabric is a real ripoff.

This summer my awning collected too much water one storm. Even had deflappers on, maybe part of problem. The weight bent the tube, so now the roller flops as it goes out or comes in. Still can use though, just a reminder of pulling it in during storms. I also realized my awning may be too long, which could have caused the pooling. I like to use it, though, and will need to buy a new one someday. Don't like the cost, and may substitute the EZ up rooms instead.

We were in your same position this summer. I'm sooooo glad we didn't ditch the awning.

So glad I posted this question! Such great responses. And some great ideas. I think my mechanism is fine, so it might be just the fabric that needs replacing. Still, Camping World was talking approx 1,000 to replace fabric. The mechanism work required in order to replace the fabric was why I sought someone else to do it. The videos I found suggested a huge mechanism involvement to just change fabric. I'll research that again. Will also look for a mobile service. If I can afford the repair I definitely want to have an awning. If not I think I can live without. As to resell value, it's a 2003 so it's resell value is already rock bottom even though it's in great condition. Thanks for the responses. Very helpful.

The spring in mine is broken, so it has to be rolled up by hand on a ladder. The cost of replacement was prohibitive last year, but I plan to get it replaced really soon. Awn.

I don't miss having one unless it's raining and then I go to my friends trailer and use his. In the rockies the wind picks up every afternoon so it would have to be rolled up before we leave camp. It depends on if you sit around all day or go out and do things.

We always use the awning, and on our PUP it is a manual setup. Putting up the awning is just part of the whole setup process!

If its just the fabric call a mobile repair guy and he can have it replaced in minutes for you.

If you RV in the warmer states you will find out real quick just how much an awning keeps your TT cooler.

Johno02 wrote:
I like our manual awning, mostly because I can stake it down, and reduce the risk of wind damage. If we are going to stay for a few days, I usually detach the legs from the side, and place them upright on the ground. With firmly attached straps, we can survive most normal weather. Still watch the weather reports, and pull it in if doubtful.

I miss those days of having an awning that is useful. That strong triangle formed when the legs are attached to the trailer allow it to be used in less than perfect weather. When in carport mode, you still have metal "rafters" holding the roller in place.

Out 27 foot awning is still attached to the trailer and we use it often but not under all circumstances. When making a quick over night stop over we OFTEN don't bother deploying it however if we're planning on lazying around in one place for at least a full day we prefer using the awning. Even then though, if there is adequate shade we don't necessarily deploy it but when shade is minimal, wouldn't be without one. Lots of variables.