Awning Fabric Replacement

[butterbean]

Hello all, I have a 2010 Cougar Xlite 26BHS and it's time to replace the awning fabric. I've been looking on the internet and found all different types and price ranges. Just wondering if anyone has any experience with awning fabric? Also, should I spend the extra money for the fabric with the aluminum cover built in to to top? Any help would be appreciated!

[JimQ]

Hi Butterbean and welcome to this awesome forum! If it were me, I would bring it to a repair faculty and have them do it. There are videos on YouTube on how to replace the fabric but you really have to use caution when handling the tension on the roller. There will be others chiming in shortly with their opinions. Good luck with your choice on the best approach for the replacement.

[chuckster57]

Is your awning manual or electric? Metal wrap is not worth it IMO unless your in HIGH SUN area. If your looking for the same fabric, just fully extend the awning and look for the tag on the fabric. If your changing fabric you will need to know the length.

[butterbean]

Just to clarify, I am planning on having a shop install it for me, just wondering how picky to be with the replacement fabric. I've found it everywhere from $150 to $500 for a 16 foot awning.

[butterbean]

Chuckster, I thought the length was pretty standard. I know the width is measured from bar to bar and it is 16. Is 7 years pretty good for awning fabric or did mine wear out prematurely? Unfortunately the trailer sat in storage for most of this year due to family injuries and it seemed to adversely affect the awning fabric since it never got rolled out to dry out or anything. Just though the metal covering might help preservit the fabric better.

[chuckster57]

I don't think I would buy the cheapest fabric, but I wouldn't buy the most expensive one either. Look at warranty, and if there are any reviews on-line. Popular alternative I'm seeing is Vinyl wrap, much lighter, can't chip and supposed to be fade resistant.

Length is arm to arm, width is "standard". I know it may seem goofy, but that's how they are measured.

[butterbean]

Chuckster, thanks for the clarification. I think I know what I'm looking for now. Most of what I'm seeing out there now seems to be vinyl so I should be good to go. Thanks again!!