When it comes to enhancing your caravanning experience, an awning can be a fantastic addition, providing extra living space, protection from the elements, and a place to store your gear. With so many options on the market, choosing the right awning can seem overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate through the different types, considerations, materials, and how to size your awning correctly for your caravan.
Types of Caravan Awnings
Full Awnings: A full awning is designed to fit the entire length of your caravan, offering the maximum amount of additional living space. They attach directly to the caravan's rail and enclose the area completely, creating a sheltered space that is great for use as an outdoor lounge or additional sleeping quarters.
Porch Awnings: Porch awnings are smaller and cover just part of the caravan's side. They're easier to set up than full awnings and are ideal for short trips where you may not need the full extension of space. They're also great for wet-weather days, offering a dry area right outside your door for shoes and coats.
Inflatable Awnings: These innovative awnings have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use. Rather than using metal poles, inflatable awnings are equipped with air beams, making them quicker and simpler to erect. They are often lighter and easier to transport, although they may not be as sturdy in high winds as traditional poled awnings.
Canopy Awnings: A simple, lightweight option, canopy awnings are essentially a roof that extends out from your caravan. While they don’t offer full enclosure or protection from the sides, they provide shade and can be used as a shelter during sunny days or light showers.
Drive-Away Awnings: These are commonly used with campervans or motorhomes but can be adapted for caravans. Drive-away awnings are free-standing and allow you to detach your vehicle from the awning without dismantling it. They are especially handy for those who want to drive off for the day without the hassle of taking down the awning.
Key Considerations When Choosing an Awning
Before investing in an awning, there are a few important factors to consider:
Purpose: Think about how you’ll use the awning. If you want extra living space for long holidays, a full awning might be best. For short trips, a porch or inflatable awning could be more convenient.
Ease of Assembly: If you're not confident with setting up complex structures, an inflatable or porch awning may suit you better than a full awning, which can take longer to assemble.
Weather Resistance: For trips in areas prone to heavy rain or strong winds, choose a more robust design with durable fabrics and strong poles or beams.
Storage Space: Keep in mind that larger awnings will take up more room in your caravan or tow vehicle when packed away.
Awning Materials and Frames
The quality of an awning depends greatly on the materials used. Here are some important features to look for:
Fabric
Most modern awnings are made from polyester, acrylic, or PVC-coated materials.
Polyester is lightweight, quick-drying, and resistant to UV damage, making it a popular choice.
Acrylic fabrics are breathable and offer excellent durability, which is ideal for longer holidays or use in hot climates.
PVC coatings provide full waterproofing but can feel heavy and bulky. It is typically used for the roof or walls of awnings intended for all-weather use.
Frames
The frame provides the structure and stability for your awning. The most common frame types are aluminium, steel, fibreglass, and carbon fibre.
Aluminium frames are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them a solid choice for regular use.
Steel frames are stronger and better suited for adverse weather conditions, but they can be heavier and more prone to rust if not properly maintained.
Fibreglass poles are durable and lightweight, often found in smaller or inflatable awnings for easy handling.
Carbon Fibre frames are exceptionally strong yet incredibly lightweight. They offer excellent rigidity and weather resistance, making them ideal for high-performance or premium awnings. Although more expensive, carbon fibre provides superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to other materials.
How to Size an Awning for Your Caravan
The correct awning size is crucial to ensure a good fit and optimal use. Awning sizes are measured in terms of the awning rail length or ground-to-ground measurement. To find the right size for your caravan:
Measure the distance from the ground, up one side of your caravan, across the awning rail, and back down to the ground on the other side. This is your 'A-measurement,' which manufacturers use to specify awning sizes.
Ensure the awning you choose matches your caravan’s A-measurement to prevent any fitting issues.
It’s always a good idea to double-check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific caravan make and model to avoid any misfits.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure your awning remains in good condition for years to come, regular care is essential:
Cleaning: Wipe down the fabric regularly to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. Use a mild soap solution if necessary, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the waterproofing.
Drying: Always pack away your awning dry. If you're forced to pack it wet due to weather, make sure you unpack and air it as soon as possible to avoid mould and mildew.
Sealing and Repairs: Check the seams and zips regularly for wear and tear. Reseal any weak spots with a waterproofing solution and carry a repair kit on your travels for minor fixes. Many awnings come with repair patches or tapes for easy on-the-go mending.
Storage: Store your awning in a cool, dry place during the off-season. Use breathable storage bags to prevent condensation, which can lead to mildew growth.
Additional Features to Consider
Ventilation: Good ventilation prevents condensation inside the awning. Look for awnings with built-in ventilation panels or windows that can be opened for airflow.
Windows and Curtains: Many awnings come with large, clear windows for plenty of light, with optional curtains for privacy. Consider whether you'd prefer panoramic views or the option to block out light and heat.
Compatibility with Accessories: Some awnings are compatible with additional annexes, sleeping pods, or organisers that can expand your space and functionality further. Ensure your chosen awning has the right connections or fittings for these add-ons.
Conclusion
Choosing the right awning for your caravan can significantly enhance your caravanning experience. By carefully considering the types of awnings, materials, frame quality, and sizing, you’ll be better equipped to select one that meets your needs. Additionally, looking after your awning with proper maintenance will ensure it lasts for many seasons. Whether you're after extra living space or simply a bit of protection from the elements, the right awning can make all the difference to your outdoor adventures.
Happy caravanning!
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