Awning cleaning is less impacted by poor weather and there are many companies that do much of their awning cleaning in the winter. The cost of the awning lends itself to regular cleaning; extending the life span of awnings will save your customer money. Awning cleaning is a great add-on business offering the same repeat cleaning cycle as cleaning windows. Awning cleaning is performed for several reasons, appearance, enhanced longevity, UV protection and restoration of luster.

When performing the cleaning, it is important to choose a detergent that is meant for awnings. Awning cleaning detergents are tested to be color safe, won't dissolve any glues or inks in the fabric and do not leave a residue. Avoid abrasive or gritty cleaners or power washing as lettering can be blown off, the fabric or vinyl could be stretched and puckered and dirt and stains can be pushed deeper into the surface.

There are generally two types of awning materials, canvas and vinyl. Awning-cleaning professionals perform two basic services, cleaning and preservation.

Cleaning is approached the same way for all awnings. This is a gentle wash process using a hand brush or a pole system with an automated delivery of cleaner (DEMA injector, shown). If this is the first time you have cleaned the awning spot test any graphics or lettering to see if they are color safe, sometimes the sign letters are placed on by painters using latex paint.

Washing: Clean with anything that generates bubbles like a sponges or soft bristle brushes. A nylon bristle brush is usually best and a tufted end brush can soften the impact of the brush on the material.

Wash from the bottom up, this avoids the phenomena known as clean streaks Overlap your scrubbing strokes to help eliminate brush strokes.

For dirty spot areas, those that need specific cleaning attention you can use a cotton towel and white 3M scrub pad. A Doodle Bug (shown) attachment on a pole will help with reaching tough areas. Be careful when using a ladder around the awning, the ladder can quickly abrade or rip the material stretched over the frame.

Preservation and Rejuvenation
Once the awning is clean you can preserve or seal the surface. It is recommended to perform this at least once per year, twice is better. Fabric and vinyl materials require different preservation and sealing chemicals.Using a vinyl protectant on a fabric awning can cause the awning to leak rainwater; so is important to know the protectant is intended for your awning type.

Fabric Protectants: Often moisture and stain repellant capabi