Canvas awnings will last for many years if you take proper care of them. These awnings are made from the finest synthetic fabrics and you should only use water repellent and mildew resistant products when cleaning them. The material used in awnings, even the dome awnings, is mildew resistant, but that doesn't mean that you don't need to clean them. If dirt accumulates on canvas awnings, after a while it will become susceptible to mold and mildew.
Canvas awnings are custom made according to the measurements you provide to the retailer. Canvas dome awnings have a dome shape so that the water from the rain will run right off and not collect in the middle of the awning. The frame for dome awnings is made with powder coated aluminum tubing, which is what gives it the rounded shape. The hardware used for installation is galvanized steel making it rust and corrosion resistant.
You do have to wash the canvas awning material on a regular basis. You can use a mild soap on canvas awnings, but you do need to make sure that you rinse them off thoroughly. There are also special cleaners and disinfectants you can buy for canvas. The retailer from whom you purchase the canvas awning will be able to give you advice as to how to keep the awning clean and the best products to use. It is only easy to clean the underside of canvas dome awnings as well as conventional shaped awnings. Just use your broom to sweep off any bits of dust and dirt.
It is not advisable to install canvas awnings near trees and shrubs. This is because they may contain an acid that is harmful to the canvas awning material. If a defect occurs in the canvas because of your location, the warranty that comes with the awning will no longer be valid. You also have to check the condition of the awning frames. This is especially important with canvas dome awnings. These add to the grace and charm of your home, but if they become discoloured with rust, it can be very unsightly.
When you have canvas awnings, you have to be careful not to roll or unroll them in cold temperatures. This can cause cracks in the canvas. You also have to be careful not to drag the canvas awning material over rough surfaces, such as cement or rocks. Water pooling in pockets on the canvas can cause it to stretch, so after it rains you have to check the canvas awnings and get all the water off of them.