There’s no better way to experience the relaxing power of the natural world than to kick back under the protective shade of your Airstream’s awning. For more than 50 years, Airstream awnings have been custom built by Zip Dee in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, where they use high quality fabrics, stainless steel hardware, and aluminum support struts to create an awning unlike any other in the industry.
A Zip Dee awning on an Airstream will last for years, providing an excellent shield from the sun (and the occasional light rain shower) and creating an outdoor experience ideal for escaping the elements while still enjoying the outdoors.
What maintenance does my awning need?
To keep your awning functioning properly, you should routinely:
- Ensure all mounting brackets are tight.
- Check all pivot points for enlargements of holes or broken rivets.
- Check end caps for cracking and splitting.
- Check that the awning rail is tight against your Airstream and all screws are tight.
- Check the canopy for loose stitching and possible shrinkage or puckering.
- Clean and lubricate all tension knobs and pivot points. Use aerosol Silicone Lubricant, not WD-40 or grease, which can attract dirt and don't leave a lasting film.
How do I clean my Airstream’s awning fabric?
Airstream awnings are made with Sunbrella® fabric. Each month, hose off your awning fabric with clear water (no soap) to keep the material looking better, longer. This helps prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fibers and eliminates the need for more frequent deep cleaning.
The non-organic acrylic fibers don't support mildew fungus, but dirt can! If you don’t spray off your awning, pollen, seeds, leaves and even bird droppings on fabric can lead to mildew growth that can stain an awning fabric.
Every two or three years, a thorough cleaning is needed. Brush off the loose dirt, hose off the awning, then scrub the awning with a clean, soft bristle brush. You can use Zip Dee WashOut powder concentrate or a solution of 1 gallon of cold or lukewarm water with 1/4 cup natural soap. Do not use detergents or commercial awning cleaners.
For stubborn stains, add up to ½ cup of chlorine bleach. Allow the soap to soak in by rolling the awning closed for 10-15 minutes, then rinse very, very thoroughly. Allow to air dry.
How Do I Care For My Airstream Awning During Inclement Weather?
When you head out on a hike or go into town for shopping and supplies, we always recommend retracting your awning in case strong weather crops up while you’re away. Though your Airstream awning can withstand a light rain shower, strong winds and heavy rain can cause significant, costly damage to your awning, as well as to the body of your Airstream itself. Broken awning arms can poke, scrape, and scratch the exterior of your Airstream, so we highly recommend that any time you leave the campsite you retract your awning. Remember that stormy weather can crop up quickly even when the forecast looks clear.
A good rule of thumb is to retract your awning if it’s too windy for you to sit outside. If there is a light rain, you can leave it open but no water can pool on the awning fabric. If it does, lower one side to promote run off or close it completely.
The automatic extra strong awning comes with a Direct Response™ System wind sensor. The Direct Response™ System is an innovative wind sensor system that automatically activates the 12V motor and retracts the awning in strong winds, thus avoiding possible damage to the awning.