Can You Leave an Air Awning Up All Year?

Jan 14, 2025

Ever wondered if you could skip the seasonal setup-takedown dance with your caravan air awnings? While technically possible, keeping them up year-round isn't recommended due to weather damage risks. But before you start packing yours away, stick around – we'll explore smart ways to maximise their lifespan and when year-round setup might actually work.

Leaving Air Awnings Up Year-Round

The great debate among caravan enthusiasts often centres around their awnings. Should they stay up or come down? For many owners, the convenience of a permanent setup is tempting. Yet the decision requires careful thought beyond just the ease of use.

A caravan awning next to a caravan with autumnal leaves and trees behind it

Just imagine returning to your caravan after winter, only to find your beloved awning damaged beyond repair. This scenario plays out more often than one might think.

Generally Not Recommended

Leading manufacturers consistently advise against year-round installation. While modern air awnings boast impressive durability, they weren't designed for constant exposure to the elements.

The materials used in air awnings need periodic breaks from environmental stress. Much like taking rest days between workouts, these breaks help maintain the integrity of the fabric and structural components.

Think of an air awning as a high-performance athlete. Even the strongest competitors need recovery time to maintain peak performance.

Risk of Damage from Weather

British weather poses particular challenges for permanent awning installations. The seemingly endless cycle of rain, sun, and wind creates a perfect storm of potential problems.

A winter caravan air awning connected to a caravan with a white background

Summer sunshine might feel wonderful during a holiday, but it's relentless on awning materials. UV rays gradually break down the fabric's protective coatings, leading to:

Colour fading that makes the awning look tired and worn
Material weakening, particularly at stress points
Deterioration of water-resistant properties
Increased brittleness in plastic components
Weakening of seams and attachment points

Winter brings its own set of challenges. Snow accumulation adds unexpected weight stress. Freezing temperatures can make the material brittle. Frost cycles cause repeated expansion and contraction, potentially weakening crucial components.

Strong winds present perhaps the most immediate threat. Even properly tensioned awnings can suffer damage during gusty conditions. The constant movement stresses attachment points and can lead to tears in the fabric.

Potential for Mould and Mildew

Moisture presents a sneaky threat to permanent awning installations. British weather's characteristic dampness creates perfect conditions for unwanted growth.

Mould and mildew don't just appear overnight. They develop gradually in the following conditions:

Prolonged exposure to moisture
Poor air circulation
Organic matter accumulation on the fabric
Consistent shade coverage
Temperature fluctuations

These unwanted guests do more than create unsightly spots. They actively degrade the awning material, creating weak points that can lead to tears. The damage often starts before it becomes visible to the naked eye.

Once established, mould and mildew prove particularly difficult to remove. They can penetrate deep into the fabric fibres, resisting even specialist cleaning products.

Alternatives to Leaving it Up

Smart caravan owners know that protecting their investment sometimes means making less convenient choices. Fortunately, several practical alternatives exist for managing air awnings during extended periods.

Disassembling and Storing Properly

Proper storage represents the gold standard for awning care. This approach requires more effort initially but pays dividends in longevity.

The storage process should follow a systematic approach:

Initial Cleaning:

Remove loose dirt and debris
Clean with appropriate products
Pay special attention to corners and crevices
Allow thorough drying time
Check for damage while cleaning

Storage Environment:

Choose a dry, well-ventilated space
Maintain consistent temperature when possible
Keep away from direct sunlight
Protect from pests
Ensure adequate space to avoid creasing

Regular Maintenance Checks:

Monthly inspections for moisture
Checking for pest activity
Monitoring storage conditions
Addressing any developing issues
Repositioning if necessary to prevent permanent creases

Using a Winter Cover

Winter covers offer a practical compromise between full dismantling and complete exposure. These protective layers add an extra defence against harsh weather conditions.

Selecting an appropriate cover matters significantly. Quality covers should:

Fit properly without excessive loose material
Allow some air circulation to prevent condensation
Resist UV damage
Withstand winter weather conditions
Include secure attachment points

Installation technique plays a crucial role in cover effectiveness:

Remove any debris before covering
Ensure the awning is completely dry
Secure all attachment points properly
Check tension regularly
Monitor for water pooling

This approach offers several advantages:

Reduced setup time when the season begins
Protection against the harshest elements
Easier maintenance checks
Extended awning lifespan
Better value for money in the long term

Professional maintenance services often recommend this middle-ground approach. It balances convenience with protection, particularly for owners who use their caravans regularly throughout the year.

Regular monitoring remains essential even with a winter cover in place. Monthly checks help catch potential issues before they develop into significant problems.

The investment in proper awning care, whether through careful storage or quality winter covers, typically pays for itself many times over. Replacing a damaged awning costs significantly more than implementing proper care procedures.

Remember: an air awning represents a significant investment in comfort and convenience. Protecting that investment through appropriate care measures helps ensure years of reliable service.

Other content you might like: