RVs are an extension of your travel life and, sometimes, of your everyday life. RV awnings, however, are a literal extension of your trusty vehicle and can be a fantastic addition to your long-distance trips. They provide shaded outdoor areas perfect for outdoor picnics and dinners. They also protect your RVs side window from overexposure to direct sunlight, keeping the interior cooler longer.
Apart from installations, fixing an RV awning is a problem we come across often at Coach Specialists. Because they are consistently used, especially during the hotter, summer months, awnings see a lot of wear and tear. Fixing RV awnings requires significant know-how and effort. While some are able to make minor repairs themselves, most cases would require total replacement. Trusting professional technicians with this job will save you troubles (and costs) in the long run.
RV Awning Installation Cost in Dallas, TX
The cost to install a new RV retractable awning varies depending on the type of material and the retracting mechanism you want to use. However, these two parts are the essential cost drivers, costing several hundred dollars each.
Most motorhomes and RVs come with awnings already installed. However, if yours doesn’t have one, we recommend the models usually equipped with the type of RV you own. Further, always check with retailers or manufacturers regarding the awning type that best fits your motorhome. Consider these factors since they significantly impact the RV awning installation cost in Dallas, TX.
RV Awning Replacement Cost by Material Type
The cost to install a new awning or replacement will vary depending on the material you will use. Here are the most common materials used to install a new sheet or for RV awning repairs and replacement:
- Acrylic Awnings: This is one of the most affordable materials for your RV, so you’ll find it installed in many motorhomes today. Its surface is solution-dyed, making it incredibly water-resistant (but not waterproof). This awning material tends to dry quickly due to its breathable fabric.
- Vinyl Awnings: Vinyl awnings look and feel similar to acrylic awnings, but they offer a lot more. This type of fabric provides more ultraviolet (UV) protection than acrylic surfaces and tends to be more durable. There are only two downsides to vinyl: greater cost and heat retention.
- Other Industrial Fabrics: The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) allows several different fabrics that can be used for RV awnings. Each fabric type will impact the RV awning installation cost in Dallas, TX. Examples of approved materials include painted polyester, vinyl-laminated polyester, painted cotton, vinyl-coated polyester and acrylic-coated polyester. You also have to consider the weather conditions in your area since some of these industrial fabrics are lightweight and can be torn or blown away by strong winds.
RV Retractable Awning and Fixed Type Models
The cost of camper awnings repair will also vary depending on the awning you have installed. Your RV can have fixed and retractable awnings depending on where the sheets have been installed. For example, you’ll find fixed awnings installed above windows and doors, providing continuous cover from the elements. The cost to replace an RV awning of this type is lower since it won’t have as much hardware as retractable models.
Retractable RV awnings, on the other hand, come in two types: manual and motorized. Manual retractables can be slid out when you pull them on the side, creating a canopy. Motorized awnings can be deployed via a switch or remote. However, these models are more costly since you’ll have to cover the cost of the motor and frames. In addition, apart from the extra cost, motorized awnings aren’t recommended for very small RVs due to the added weight.
Replacing Awning Parts
How much you will pay for your RV awnings to be replaced is determined by several factors:
Fabric Replacements
The typical cost of fabric repair ranges from $350 to $1,000. Depending on the severity of damage to your awning, you may only need to replace certain areas of the awning to save some money. Vinyl is a sturdy material but will need replacing if ripped or loose. It should also be replaced if it doesn’t do its job in providing cover to windows or sitting areas.
Retractable Arms
Retractable replacement RV awning arms are what hold the RV awnings and retract them manually. If a retractable arm is damaged, it can cost anywhere up to $300 and as low as $75. The larger an RV is, the larger the awning. Larger RV awnings will require a more extensive (and often more expensive) fix.
Worm gears, which help retract arms and the awnings, usually require replacing if they cannot move the canopy. Replacing those gear will run you between $100 and $400.
Replacing a Motor
Motors are going to be one of the most expensive features of a retractable awning to fix or replace. A motor can cost anywhere between $200 and $700. There are issues with retractable awning motors that can be solved with a quick fix. However, if you are experiencing more problems with your motor, there is a good chance it will need to be replaced. If it is necessary to purchase a new motor, some brands will include retractable arms in the price.
Fixing RV Awnings
Now that we’ve talked a little about the cost of replacing RV awnings, let’s talk about the cost of fixing parts. Sometimes these issues only require a little handy work to get you well on your way to enjoying the open road.
Electrical Issues During RV Awning Repairs and Replacement
Before worrying about a potential issue affecting the motor controlling the awning, think again – there could be an issue with the electrical system. Hiring an electrician can cost anywhere from $70 to $300, depending on the extent of the damage. Usually, the cause of the issue is a blown fuse or a short in the system keeping the awning from retracting successfully.
Other Common Problems
Most of the problems we see with RV awnings are snags or tears that cause leaks. There are quick fixes, like patches, that can run from $100 or more. These costs typically include labor and supplies. Stains are another common problem with RV canopies. These can easily be resolved with power washing, costing around $100.
Why You Should Trust the Professionals
One thing we see at Coach is damage made worse by RVers trying to fix something by themselves. While there are DIY repairs that can save you a few bucks, there are some that simply should be left to the professionals.
Here are reasons to trust professional technicians:
- Advanced knowledge in damaged areas
- Ability to repair damage completely
- Bad DIY work can cause further expenses. Professional work can save you more money in the long run
- Technicians know how to match paint colors, fabrics, and other features perfectly to maintain a proper aesthetic
Do you need assistance with your RV awnings? Let Coach know! We help you identify the problems with your vehicle and guide you every step of the way. Reach out today.