
Pop-up campers are a great way to experience nature while still enjoying home comforts. An awning is a crucial component to protect your camper from the elements and keep it in good condition. You can buy an awning, but they can be expensive and fragile. Making your own is a cost-effective way to add extra shade and protection to your camping experience. You will need fabric, poles, and hardware. Measure the area where you want to install the awning, cut the fabric to size, and attach it to the poles. You can also use a tarp instead of fabric, and PVC piping for the poles.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Purpose | Shield the camper from the weather and keep it in good condition |
Materials | Fabric, poles, and hardware |
Process | Measure the area, cut the fabric, attach it to the poles |
Cost | $30-$50 for a budget option, $600 for a store-bought version |
Benefits | Extra shade and protection, easy to set up, longer-lasting and more durable in high winds |
Tips | Measure the area, choose a waterproof and UV-resistant fabric, use heavy-duty grommets or snaps to attach, ensure it's securely attached, install poles or supports for stability |
What You'll Learn
Measure the area where you want to install the awning
Before you start making your pop-up camper awning, it is important to measure the area where you want to install it. This will ensure that you have enough fabric to cover the area and provide adequate shade and protection from the elements.
Take accurate measurements of the width and length of the area where you want the awning to extend from your camper. Consider how far you want the awning to protrude from the camper and whether you have the necessary fabric or tarp to cover this area. It is also important to ensure that the fabric you choose is durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant to withstand wind, rain, and sunlight.
Additionally, you will need to determine the height of the awning. Measure the height of your camper and decide how much clearance you want between the ground and the awning. This measurement will influence the length of the awning poles or supports.
If you are using an existing railing or mounting rail on your camper, measure the distance between the mounting points to ensure your awning fabric will fit securely within this space.
By taking these measurements, you can create a plan for your awning, ensuring it will fit your camper perfectly and provide the desired level of protection from the elements.
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Choose a fabric that is waterproof and UV-resistant
When making an awning for your pop-up camper, choosing the right fabric is essential to ensure durability and protection from the elements. Here are some key considerations when selecting a fabric that is both waterproof and UV-resistant:
Firstly, look for fabrics that are specifically designed for outdoor use and can withstand exposure to sunlight and rain. These fabrics are often made from materials such as acrylic, polyester, or vinyl (PVC). Acrylic fabrics, such as Outdura UV Marine/Awning fabric, are known for their durability and UV resistance, making them an excellent choice for awnings. Polyester is another popular choice, with options like Ottertex® offering waterproof and UV-resistant fabric that is easy to clean and highly durable.
Secondly, consider the weight and thickness of the fabric. Awning fabric should be relatively heavy-duty to provide adequate protection from the sun and rain. Look for fabrics with a denier of 600 or higher, as this indicates a thicker and more durable fabric. The thickness of the fabric is also important, with options ranging from 0.40 to 0.57 millimetres. A thicker fabric will generally provide better protection and durability.
Thirdly, ensure that the fabric is treated to be waterproof and UV-resistant. Some fabrics are inherently waterproof, while others may require additional treatment. For example, the Ottertex® Waterproof Canvas fabric is treated to be waterproof and features a PVC backing for added protection. Similarly, look for fabrics that are specifically marketed as UV-resistant or UV-protected. This treatment will help prevent fading and discolouration caused by prolonged sun exposure.
Finally, consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Look for fabrics that are easy to clean and care for, as your awning will likely get dirty over time. Mould and mildew resistance are also important factors to consider, especially if your pop-up camper is frequently used in humid or wet environments.
By considering these factors, you can choose a fabric that is both waterproof and UV-resistant, ensuring your pop-up camper awning provides the necessary protection and durability for your outdoor adventures.
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Use heavy-duty grommets or snaps to attach the awning
When making a pop-up camper awning, it's important to use heavy-duty grommets or snaps to attach the awning to your camper. This will ensure that the awning is securely attached and won't come loose in strong winds. There are a few ways to do this.
One way is to use a paracord and a plastic rod fitted together, as suggested by a Pinterest user. You can also use bungee cords, such as the Hyper Tough 10 Pack Canopy Tie Bungees, which come with a plastic ball to hold the tarp in place. If you're using a tarp with grommets, make sure the ball is large enough so that it won't fit through the grommets. You can also cut the bungee cord to the desired length if it's too long.
Another option is to use steel rods that fit into the track of the awning. You can slip these onto the bungee cords and then attach them to the grommets on the tarp. This will provide extra strength against strong winds. Make sure you have enough grommets on your tarp to securely attach it to the camper.
Additionally, you can use a PVC pipe to connect the awning poles. Drill holes through the ends of the pipe to fit the pins from the awning poles. This will provide a sturdy and secure connection for your awning.
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Secure the awning so it won't come loose in strong winds
To ensure that your awning doesn't come loose in strong winds, you can use a combination of clamps and a tie-down kit. Awning clamps are attached to the mounting rack and help to reduce the flapping or whipping action of the fabric, minimising the risk of the fabric tearing away. A tie-down kit, on the other hand, helps to secure the awning to the ground. Using both of these methods together will provide better stability and increase the awning's tolerance to high-speed winds.
Additionally, you can use de-flapper clamps to increase the awning's stability and reduce the noise of flapping. These clamps are not meant for very high winds but can provide extra support on breezy days. Stabilizer kits are also useful in windy conditions as they come with spiral stakes and pull tension straps, allowing you to anchor the awning firmly to the ground.
For extra security, you can also use ratchet straps and spiral dog stakes to secure the awning. This method has been proven effective even in strong storms.
When travelling, make sure the awning is carefully secured and doesn't hang loosely on the side of the camper. Clamps or bungee straps can be used if needed.
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Install poles or supports at each end for stability
To install poles or supports at each end of your awning for extra stability, you can use awning poles or PVC pipes. If you're using poles, you can attach them to the ground using stakes. If you're using PVC pipes, you can attach them to the top of your camper using hanging clips.
For example, if you have awning poles with sharp pins, you can drill holes through the ends of a PVC pipe to allow the pins from the poles to fit. This will create a stable structure that supports your awning.
Another option is to use bungee cords to secure the poles or supports to the camper. You can also use paracords to provide additional stability and prevent the awning from swaying in the wind.
It's important to consider the wind conditions in your area when choosing the type of poles or supports and the method of attachment. For instance, if you anticipate high winds, you may need to use stronger materials and more secure attachment methods.
Additionally, you can reinforce the stability of your awning by adding a centre support. This can be done by placing a piece of wood on top of the ratchet straps in the centre of the awning, which helps to prevent water pooling by allowing rain to run down the sides of the tarp.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need fabric, poles, and hardware.
Measure the area where you want to install the awning, cut the fabric to size, and attach it to the poles with hardware.
You can use a large tarp instead of awning fabric, and you can use paracord and bungee cords to attach the tarp to the camper.
DIY awnings can be more sturdy and durable than store-bought awnings, and they can be customized to your specific needs.