FAQ

Vintage pole and rope awnings were used almost universally from the 1940s into the 1970s. They are installed only when in use, and are taken down and stored when travelling. Our awnings are very easy to install - the caravan edge of the awning is mounted by simply sliding one edge of the awning through the existing sail track on your caravan. A sail track is a C-shaped aluminium extrusion running the length of the van on the passenger side above the door. If you do not currently have a sail track attached, you can buy this at almost any aluminium supplier. In the past, the awning edge had a rope sewn into its hem to give it the profile that would hold in the C-shaped rail. Nowadays, a PVC tape called a keder track is sewn into the seam. Extremely strong and flexible, it is designed to slide smoothly into the sail track and bends and curves with ease!

You will need to measure your sail track to determine the exact width for your van - this can vary from van to van due to differences in the curvature of the roof and the length of the sail track originally installed. To work out your ideal awning size, pick your start and finish points and measure along the sail track, following the centre of the channel. Don’t go too far around the curves as this will affect the tensioning when you add your poles. If you would like assistance with how to measure your van, just get in touch and we will be happy to help!

Standard projection is 2.5 metres, which allows plenty of room for your table and chairs and other items to be protected from the weather.

Our awnings are designed to be water-resistant to 1500mm. Sail track awnings by their nature are not designed for heavy rainfall and extreme winds, but can withstand light to moderate rain. In the event of rain, make sure that the awning is angled properly to allow water to drain off. We also strongly recommend the use of roof rafters and spreader bars to provide maximum tension on your awning.

Pegs, poles and ropes are not included in the sale. They are available at any good camping or caravan store, or you can also find a limited range on our website.

Unfortunately not; to make a fully enclosed annex we would require having your van onsite to get the best fit, and as an online-only business we currently don't have the capacity for these types of projects.

Unfortunately not; as every manufacturer differs in their product specifications we are unable to provide replacement covers for roll out awnings. We suggest contacting the manufacturer of your awning to determine what alternatives are available.

Average turnaround is approximately 3-4 weeks, however this is highly dependent on the time of year and how many orders are ahead of you. Please contact us for an up-to-date estimate. We do not offer a “rush service” for an additional fee - all orders are equally important, and are completed in order of when the deposit was paid. However, if you require your awning by a certain date please contact us to discuss your needs and we will do our best to assist you.

We are an online retail business and don't have a showroom or shop floor, but if you contact us, we're confident we can answer all your questions, giving you guidance and greater comfort to purchase online. We are also happy to send out sample packs so that you can check out some colours in person before making a decision!

At The Awning Store, we offer awnings with compatible side walls to provide added protection and privacy. To attach a side wall to your awning set up, first, identify the correct side wall that matches the dimensions of your awning and height of your van. You will also need roof rafter poles to help support both the body of the awning and the side wall. Once you have the appropriate side wall, carefully align it with the awning and secure it in place around the roof rafter pole using the provided hook and loop fasteners. Once the top is secure, peg out the bottom of the wall using the supplied eyelets. You can change the angle of the wall depending on the weather conditions and desired amount of space required.

Keeping your retro caravan awning clean is essential to maintain its beauty and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips to help you clean your awning with ease: 1. Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge and mild detergent to scrub the awning. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric or cause discoloration. 2. Rinse the awning thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer to remove all the soap residue. 3. Allow the awning to air dry completely before folding it up. Avoid storing the awning when it is damp to prevent mold and mildew growth. 4. If you notice any stubborn stains or marks, you can use a specialized awning cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to remove them. Remember to clean your retro caravan awning regularly, especially after prolonged use or exposure to dirt, dust, and other environmental factors. This will help keep your awning in top condition and extend its lifespan. If you have any further questions about awning care or maintenance, please don't hesitate to contact us at hello@theawningstore.com.au

There is no easy answer to this one! Our climate in Australia is notoriously extreme. The life expectancy of your awning really depends on how much it is used, what climate it is used in, how well the awning is maintained (i.e. cleaned, re-waterproofed as required, packed away bone dry). If your awning is used for a few weeks every few months, or set up for just one or two days at a time, your awning will last much longer than someone who is using it for permanent travelling. Just be sure to always pitch the awning well, pack away dry and clean as required.