How to Paint Vinyl Awnings

Nothing compares to a fresh coat of paint to restore the tired or worn appearance of a cherished object. This may be especially true of vinyl awnings, which may suffer the ravages of cold, heat, rain, snow and especially the sun. With a couple cans of spray paint created specifically to adhere to vinyl, you can completely change your weathered awnings in a few hours — and the results might amaze you. Consider not just repainting your awnings, but covering them in another color to give your house a fresh, updated appearance that is sure to turn heads.

Mix a 50-50 solution of mild dish soap and warm water in a skillet. Wash the awnings thoroughly with a soft sponge, eliminating all traces of dirt, grime, tree sap and other residue. Use a bristle brush only on the most stubborn stains. Cleaning ensures the paint bonds into the awnings.

Rinse the awnings with clean, cool water, using a hose. Let the awnings dry thoroughly.

Distribute the wash, dry awnings on a drop cloth in a covered place, such as a garage, and keep the door shut. This marginally protected area reduces the aggravation of debris or wind and gives ventilation as possible work.

Inspect the awnings carefully for any seriously worn areas, or those that threaten to crack open. For these areas, combine a 50-50 solution of white toothpaste and water in a small bowl and spread a thin layer on the delicate areas of the awnings. Let the answer dry, then smooth it carefully with an emery board.

Wear a face mask and conduct a brief practice painting session on a small section of vinyl that is inconspicuous to the naked eye. Even in the event that you have worked with spray paint it’s important to observe how this specially formulated paint spreads and”catches” the vinyl.

Follow the directions on the can concerning positioning it a proper distance in the awnings; spraying too close to the awnings creates paint globs, while spraying too far away might result in a thin, jagged coating. Generally, you must aim for a distance of 6 inches.

Spray a thin layer of paint onto the awnings in a slow and steady back-and-forth motion. Maintain the paint flowing from the can as far as possible because frequent stops and starts can result in runs and paint blobs.

Let the paint dry thoroughly between coats, so being sure to follow the directions on the can and resisting the urge to rush the process. Between four and two coatings ought to provide ample coverage so that your awnings look almost brand new .

Permit the paint to cure thoroughly before hanging the awnings and subjecting them to the outside elements.

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