Whether it is on a building or a recreational vehicle, having tree sap on your awning can be a nuisance. Those sticky amber blobs baked into the fabric are hard to miss, and sap can be stubborn stuff. The wrong methods may strip the water-resistant coating, and it is important to know how to remove tree sap from an awning safely before attempting it.

Whether you are cleaning one of your home awnings or a camper canopy, Van Nuys Awning Co.’s tips below should help.

Why Tree Sap Can Be Tough on Awning Fabric

Sap starts soft and turns glassy as it dries. Once it hardens, it grips the weave of the awning fabric, making it difficult to deal with.

Heat can make the problem worse. When the sap softens, it soaks deeper into the awning’s fibers and sets again as it cools. Knowing how to remove tree sap from an awning before the stain has months to cure is helpful, and it is easier if you start early.

Essentials To Gather Before Cleaning an Awning

Tree sap removal works best when you catch the mess as soon as possible. Round up the following items before you start:

Mild soap solution: If the manufacturer permits it, dish soap diluted in warm water may lift fresh sap, but it can affect some fabrics or protective finishes.
Rubbing alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol can dissolve hardened sap that soap leaves behind.
Soft-bristle brush: Gentle bristles work into the weave without fraying the threads.
Plastic scraper: A dull edge can lift the softened sap without slicing the fabric.
Dry towels: You’ll need these to wipe down everything after a good rinse.

Skip the bleach or acetone, as these tend to fade color and melt the stitching, and be sure to check the manufacturer’s care instructions first.

A Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Tree Sap Off an Awning

Test any cleaner on a hidden corner first. Then, follow these steps for getting tree sap out of the awning material:

Soften the sap: Lay a warm, damp cloth over the sap for 5 to 10 minutes.
Lift the bulk: Scrape under it and peel upward.
Wash the area: Scrub in small circles with soapy water, as tolerated.
Spot-treat what’s left: Dab an appropriate cleaner on a rag, blot the remaining film, and then flush the fabric with clean water.

An RV or caravan awning of acrylic canvas might also need a reproofing spray after cleaning to restore its water repellency.

Has the fabric gone brittle or the stain set? Comparing different retractable awning options may make more sense than weeks of scrubbing.

Help Shade Stay Beautiful With Van Nuys Awning Co.

Knowing how to remove tree sap from an awning is easy, and when cleaning is not enough, we can help you re-cover or repair the worn fabric. For solutions to common retractable awning problems or to explore possible design options for homes and businesses, call Van Nuys Awning Co. at (805) 500-2360. We provide expert service across Los Angeles County, Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and San Luis Obispo County.