f you own an RV it probably came equipped with a patio awning, an addition that undoubtedly makes lounging outside much more pleasant. Patio awnings provide shade — and protection from the rain — when going in and out of your RV. Unfortunately, time, the sun and the wind (without a system to retract automatically) will eventually combine to destroy the majority of awning fabrics, especially the section that’s exposed constantly to the sun when retracted.
Some might argue that acrylic fabric will last longer than vinyl, but the fact remains that at some point all awning fabric replacement may be necessary, especially when the RV is used frequently or full time. Complete awnings can be an expensive proposition, but if the hardware is still in good shape you can replace the fabric at a much-reduced cost — and end up with an awning that looks good as new. In some cases the roller tube assembly will also have to be replaced, but adding that cost is still lower than the amount of cash needed to replace the entire awning.
On this particular type awning, the hardware has a powerful gas strut on either end of the hardware to assist the motor when extending and retracting. This can present a serious problem if the fabric should tear and come apart, causing an uncontrolled extension of the hardware and possible damage to the RV. Luckily, there were no springs or torsion assemblies to deal with on this model awning, so the process was a little easier. Nonetheless, the process of changing the fabric when you’re dealing with multiple joints in the hardware can be dangerous and should be done with caution, following the proscribed procedures precisely.
The people who founded Tough Top Awnings 12 years ago are no strangers to RVing. They banked heavily on their experiences while hanging out in areas where the wind was constant and, at times, very strong. Numerous failures with the factory awning fabric prompted these frustrated owners to develop stronger material. Not only is the result a fabric that can withstand big winds for sustained periods of time, but the company concentrated on the stitching securing the polychord — which holds the fabric in the roller tube and rail mounted to the sidewall — attached to the front and back of the fabric. Here, marine grade thread—the same stuff used on boat sails — offers superior strength. When you consider the brute force sails must endure, the wind affecting patio awnings pales by comparison. This is a key point, because the stitching here is vulnerable and, frankly, a weak point on many awning fabrics, especially when the fabric is pushed by strong winds over time. The company is so confident in the quality of its fabric that is warrants it for five years, no questions asked.
Tough Top’s fabric is industrial grade, therefore it’s on the stiff side, which makes it a little more difficult to work with. The vinyl is pre-stretched and the valance is sewn for a one-piece design; the fabric is also UV- and mildew-resistant.
toughtopawnings.com