Low-quality vinyl caravan awnings, constantly exposed to the elements, do not tend to last for very long. Aussie sun, wind, and sudden storms can really take their toll on cheaper materials. However, Xtend Outdoors' replacement RV vinyl awnings are made for durability and protection, manufactured from high-quality fabrics that stand up to our harsh climate. Our RV awnings are custom-made to the size you need, and they're available in various styles to enhance the aesthetic of your RV, caravan, or motorhome.
Our replacement vinyls are manufactured and assembled in Australia and made of PVC, a fabric that is particularly effective in fluctuating climates. Also, you get an industry-leading exceptional warranty period with your RV replacement awnings from Xtend Outdoors.
If you need a whole new awning or need to replace RV awning parts, have broken RV awning legs, a roller tube, an awning arm, or you need an entire awning replaced, call us on 1300 783 766 or send us an online enquiry today.
Xtend Outdoors Awning Replacement
Replacing the vinyl can be done in two ways – either replacing only the vinyl or the roll and vinyl together. You may save some money by just replacing the vinyl. The job may look fairly simple, but removing the old vinyl and replacing it with new vinyl correctly and in the right position can be very challenging. A wonky installation means your awning won't roll smoothly, and you might end up with water pooling or fabric sagging.
Don't stress, our expert team at Xtend Outdoors can install your replacement vinyl, so you don't have to lift a finger. We've fitted thousands of replacement vinyls on rollout awnings across Australia, from the Top End to Tasmania. Our replacement vinyls are suitable for most brands of roll-out awnings. They block out the harsh Australian sun and rain, and they're made from RipStop or Premium 4-layer vinyl, available in various colours to suit any style. Our vinyls are UV-stabilised specifically for Australian conditions – we're talking 40+ degree summers and everything in between.
Replace RV Awning Fabric - DIY
If you're a handyperson and want to replace your caravan awning yourself, here is a typical process and some tips. We would however, still suggest having our expert team install your vinyl so that you get the perfect fit. Getting the tension right is critical – too loose and it'll flap in the wind, too tight and you risk damaging the mechanism.
Step-by-Step Rollout Awning Replacement Process
Remove the old awning
This can be done by unrolling the awning and releasing the tension from the RV awning roller tubes. Then, remove the awning fabric from the awning tube and awning arm. Important: Make sure someone's holding the roller tube – it can spring back once tension is released and cause injury.
Inspect the RV awning hardware
Make sure that the awning hardware and brackets are in good condition and that all the fasteners and brackets are secure. If any of the hardware is damaged, it should be replaced. Check for rust, loose rivets, or bent arms. Now's the perfect time to sort out any issues before installing your new vinyl. While you've got everything apart, it's also worth checking your awning accessories like tie-down straps and rafters.
Measure the awning opening
This will help you to determine the correct size of the replacement RV awning fabric. Measure twice, order once – getting the wrong size means delays and frustration when you're ready to hit the road.
Purchase replacement awning fabric
To make sure the replacement fabric is of high quality and is compatible with your awning hardware, you can purchase premium quality, UV-resistant replacement fabric from Xtend Outdoors. Our team can help you choose between RipStop and Premium 4-layer vinyl based on your travel style. Browse our full range of roll-out awning accessories while you're at it.
Attach the replacement awning fabric to the roller tube
This can be done by threading the awning fabric's stitched-in cord, also known as the spline, into the roller tube's sail track. Take your time here – rushing this step is where most DIY jobs go wrong. The spline needs to sit evenly in the track, otherwise you'll get bunching.
Attach the roller tube to the awning arms
This can be done using the bolts or screws that come with your awning arms. Double-check everything's aligned before tightening – misalignment causes uneven wear.
Adjust the awning tension
Once the roller tube is attached to the awning arms, adjust the tension using the adjustment screws that come with your awning hardware. The fabric should be taut but not so tight that it is overstretched. The tension should be firm enough that there's no sagging, but you should still be able to press the fabric down about 2-3cm with your hand.
Secure the awning to the caravan
The vinyl should slide into the sail track on your caravan or RV. Brackets and fasteners will also come with your awning hardware. Make sure the vinyl is centered and tracking straight – any angle will cause problems when you roll it up.
Why Choose Xtend Outdoors for Your Awning Replacement?
At Xtend Outdoors, we're not just suppliers – we're fellow caravanners who understand what you need on the road. Here's what sets us apart:
-
Australian-made vinyls built for local conditions
-
Custom sizing for perfect fit on any brand
-
Expert installation available across most of Australia
-
Mobile fitting service – we come to you
-
Industry-leading warranty on all our replacement vinyls
-
Huge range of colours to match your van's style
-
RipStop and Premium 4-layer options for different budgets and needs
Tips for replacing a damaged caravan awning:
-
If you are replacing the awning fabric yourself, you will need a second person to assist you. Solo installations are risky – these things are heavy and awkward.
-
Be sure to follow the instructions that come with your awning hardware. Each brand has slight differences, so read the manual even if you've done this before.
-
Check the awning tension regularly and adjust it as needed. Fabric can stretch over time, especially after exposure to heat.
-
Retract and pack down the awning whenever it is not in use, in heavy rain or any weather conditions. Aussie storms can come up quickly – even a small gust can damage an extended awning.
-
If you are replacing the awning fabric only, be sure to purchase fabric that is compatible with your awning's hardware and style. Not all vinyls fit all tracks – check with our team if you're unsure.
-
If you are replacing the awning roller as well, be sure to purchase a roller that is the same length and diameter as your old roller. Mismatched rollers won't wind evenly and can stress the fabric.
-
If you are not comfortable replacing the awning yourself, you can take it to Xtend Outdoors or call for the mobile team to come to you. No shame in getting the pros to do it – a proper installation will last years longer.
Common Awning Problems & Quick Fixes
Before replacing your entire awning, check if these common issues can be fixed:
-
Fabric tearing at edges: Often just needs re-stitching or reinforcement patches
-
Won't retract smoothly: Usually a tension or alignment issue
-
Sagging in middle: Check your rafter supports – you might just need awning rafters rather than a full replacement
-
Fading or discoloration: Purely cosmetic, but if it bothers you, a new vinyl will brighten up your whole van
If you're experiencing any of these issues, chat with our team before ordering – we can often save you money with a simpler solution.
Reach Out to Xtend Outdoors Today
Xtend Outdoors offers onsite fitting services in most locations throughout Australia, and we also have a mobile service team that are experienced in RV awning replacements and installation. We're happy to come to you whether your van's at home, in storage, or at your favorite caravan park. We are happy to travel to your location to measure, quote, and fit our RV awning products whether your van is in a storage centre, a house or a caravan park.
Shop online now, or visit us in our showroom at 19 Palmetto Street, Chevallum QLD, where you can choose from our amazing range of replacement vinyl awnings, RV awning repair parts, caravan awning accessories and more. See and feel the quality difference in person. To chat with a team member, call us on 1300 783 766 to find what you're looking for or find our contact details
