Improve Your Caravan or Motorhome with a Caravan Awning

Although caravans and motorhomes can give a great sense of freedom to their owners, sometimes they can be a little cramped, especially if a number of people are staying in them. There are various solutions to this problem, but the most practical and effective is to use a caravan awning.

Caravan awnings are structures made of materials such as acrylic or PVC-coated polyester supported by a frame made of aluminium, carbon fibre or zinc-coated steel poles. Designed to be lightweight and portable, with practice they can be easily set up, giving extra living space on the outside of the caravan or motorhome. In the most basic models this can mean a simple roof giving shade and some protection from the elements, while more elaborate models can give an extra room with a door, windows and even a carpet.

Some higher-end models, designed to be more hard-wearing, will have additional features. Ropes and cables attached to the awning are fixed into pegs into the ground to provide extra stability, while heat-reflective roof sheets provide additional protection against harsh direct sunlight. Additionally, a storm-belt system can help protect the awning and users in the event of unusually high winds.
Before purchasing an awning, it is important to consider a number of factors that will have a direct bearing on your choice, as failing to do so can mean an awning that fits incorrectly or is unsuitable for the use intended. First the caravan the awning will be fitted to must be measured correctly: if it is not, the awning may not fit and either provide insufficient protection or be useless. Secondly, the environment in which the awning will be used and also the frequency of use must be considered. Will the awning be used occasionally in relatively clement weather, or will it be used often and be exposed to a range of temperatures and weather conditions? If the latter, it is clear a more resilient, well constructed and therefore expensive awning must be bought. Thirdly, the area where the awning will be pitched must be examined. Is the ground firm or soft? If the caravan to which the awning will be affixed is in a caravan park, is there enough space for a large awning to be erected, or will a smaller model have to be selected?

Lastly, when actually purchasing an awning, there are a few things for the buyer to watch out for. Does the awning dealer have a solid knowledge of his product, or does he rely on product brochures? Does he try to push for a big sale with many superfluous extras, or does he listen carefully to the buyer's requirements and tailor his advice accordingly? Does the dealer have a good reputation for after-sales service? Consideration of these points will help the buyer in selecting a reliable dealer and therefore decrease the chance of purchasing an unsuitable awning.

Awnings can be an extremely useful purchase for the caravanner or motorhome owner, allowing valuable extra living space to be utilised. As long as commonsense and information available on sites such as ‘Caravan Awnings' is heeded, an awning can be selected and purchased that will give pleasure for many years to come.