Reasons to replace RV awning fabric include fraying, tearing, sagging, or faded coloring. For this procedure, it’s important to note that the awning fabric length differs from the total awning length. You’ll need a new roll of awning fabric that matches your awning’s existing fabric length.
How To Replace Awning Fabric on an RV
After consulting your owner’s manual for fabric recommendations and replacement instructions, follow these steps to complete an RV awning fabric replacement on most RVs:
Partially Extend the Awning and Secure the Head Assemblies
Extend your RV awning roughly 12 inches. Using zip ties, attach the head assemblies on both awning arms to the vertical assembly on the side of your RV. Then remove the polycord screw on both ends of the awning assembly. These screws are located roughly one inch from the awning fabric.
Remove the Roll Tube
You’ll need a partner for this step, as maneuvering an awning roll tube can be heavy and awkward. The roll tube should easily detach from the head assembly on both ends. However, to remove it completely, you’ll need to feed the awning fabric through the awning rail.
This requires moving the roll tube safely toward the front or rear of your RV as you slide the fixed side of the awning out of the rail. Two (or even three) people should help with this process, and you should set the roll tube on a clean, level surface once it’s removed.
Remove the Old Awning Fabric
To get rid of your old RV awning fabric, you’ll need to remove one end cap from the roller tube. You can choose either one, but you only need to remove one before you proceed. To do so, remove the three screws holding the end cap.
Technician Tip: Some models utilize rivets, which must be drilled out. If this is the case, assemble with new pop rivets.
With the cap removed, unroll the tube to extend the old fabric completely. Again, it’s best to have a partner help with this step.
With the fabric rolled out, remove the polycord screws attaching the fabric to the roll tube (on both ends). To remove the fabric, one person should hold the awning fabric while the other pulls the roller tube away.
Technician Tip: Many times, the polycord will be wrapped or folded over the end of the tube, and the end cap of the motor or torsion assembly will be installed over it. In these cases, both end caps must be removed.
Prep for New Fabric Installation
Congratulations! You’re almost ready to install your new RV awning fabric. Your old fabric should be disposed of according to local waste disposal regulations, but consider whether you can cut and repurpose certain sections that are still in good condition.
Lubricate the fabric track with silicone spray to prep for a new fabric installation. Roll out your new fabric and thoroughly inspect it for tears or rips before installation. It’s easier to send it back for a replacement now than after you proceed with the full installation.
Install the New RV Awning Fabric
When ready to install, find the polycord on the end with the valance. This will be the fabric end installed into the awning tube first. Ensure that the bottom of the awning fabric faces the roll tube to install it correctly.
With the valance ends and the bottom identified, feed the polycord on the valance end through the roll tube track until it is centered on the tube. Attach it to the polycord on both ends using the original screws.
Technician Tip: Most new awning assemblies don’t utilize screws on the awning tube to center the fabric since they fold the polycord into the tube ends. Upon reassembly, the choice is yours.
Now, roll the fabric completely onto the tube as tightly as possible. Ensure it does not telescope out on either end. If the fabric isn’t tight and in line as you roll, it’s better to unroll and restart.
Replace the Roll Tube End Cap
Now, you can replace the three screws you removed to secure the end cap that keeps the awning on the roll tube.
Technician Tip: Setting the roller tube assembly atop two fully extended jack stands padded with shop towels makes this step smooth and easy. It also minimizes the chances of damaging the new fabric.
To prepare for the next step, find a flathead screwdriver and slightly open the awning rail on the side of your RV. This will make it easier to slide the new RV awning fabric into the rail as you reinstall the roll tube.
Reinstall the Roll Tube and Ensure the Fabric is Centered
Use your silicone spray to lubricate the awning rail (just like you did with the roll tube track). Get a helper on either end of the roll tube to take the weight as you slide the polycord tube into the awning rail until the tube is located between the head assemblies.
Reinstall the roll tube into the head assemblies. Before replacing the polycord screws, it’s a good time to operate your awning (extension and retraction) to ensure the fabric is centered on the roll. Remove the zip ties holding the head assemblies before operating your awning.
Replace Polycord Screws and Enjoy!
Now you can replace the polycord screws on both ends of the awning rail, and you’re ready to start enjoying your new RV awning.
With your new awning fabric installed, shade has returned to your RV’s outdoor patio. Here are a few more resources to help you design and decorate your ideal RV outdoor living space:
- How To Replace Awning on RV
- 10 Outdoor & RV Patio Ideas
- Guide to RV Patio Mats & Outdoor Rugs
- Charming Patio Lighting Ideas for RVs
Do you have any questions about how to replace RV awning fabric? Let us know in the comments below.
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