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Awnings are an investment in your comfort, so it’s important to protect yours from damage. You probably know about rain and sun deterioration, but what about humidity? Moisture in the air can impact your awning in many unexpected ways.
What Does High Humidity Mean?
For many Texans, summer evokes images of sticky skin and a feeling of sizzling, moist air. High humidity is something that’s felt more than seen. Towns throughout central Texas have a subtropical climate due to our relative closeness to the Gulf Coast, so humidity is a familiar acquaintance.
Relative humidity is a term you should know if you want to understand the warm air’s impact on your home. While absolute humidity tracks the amount of total moisture in the air, relative humidity is expressed in a percentage and takes temperature into account.
For example, let’s say we have a hot day, but the relative humidity is 0% — the air outside will feel a bit cooler. If the relative humidity is 100%, that summer day will feel substantially hotter.
Can Humidity Levels Damage Your Awning?
Humidity levels can take a toll on your awning if you’re not careful. Here are some ways warm, moist air can lead to awning damage:
- Mold and mildew: Moisture leads to harmful mold and mildew growth, which can be hard to eliminate.
- Fabric damage: Water in the air can break down your awning fabric’s fibers, leaving it vulnerable to rips and tears.
- Staining: The awning’s fabric can fade or stain if moisture remains for an extended time.
- Insects: Pooled water or moist fabrics are breeding grounds for mosquitos and other pests.
- Frame damage: Too much moisture can rust the awning’s frame.
Protect Your Awning From High Humidity
If you live in an area with high humidity, check your awning regularly. If you see fabric discoloration, rust on the frame, or signs of mold and mildew, give it a good cleaning. Your awning installer can help you find effective cleaning products to do the job right.
It’s also a good idea to roll out your awning on sunny days a few times a month to dry out the fabric and frame.
Enjoy Year-Round Comfort With an Awning From Shading Texas
Shading Texas provides homeowners in Austin, San Antonio and throughout central Texas with outstanding shade options. If high humidity has taken a toll on your existing awning and you need a new one, we have you covered. Contact us today to learn more.
Matt Pierce has been working in the solar shade industry for over 15 years, providing sun protection in the extremes of Alaska and Texas. His dedicated team at Shading Texas will get your the sun solutions you need to enjoy your patios and homes for years to come by blocking out bugs, sun, wind, and rain!