A strong wind can be destructive for caravan trips. It is unpredictable so that campers must be ready in case it occurs. One of the main problems, when a damaging wind strikes, is a flapping awning that may ruin some parts of the fabric. Plus, it is very disturbing for everyone who has fallen asleep.
However, there are ways to fix a flappy awning that campers often struggle with. Read on to find out!
Two Solutions For Flappy Caravan Awnings
The following two terms may sound the same but differ in multiple functions. Each has to offer features that are most suitable for specific needs. Moreover, these two flappy awning solutions have their own advantages and downsides to watch on.
- Anti-Flap Kits
If you own a roll-out awning, then an anti-flap kit is the best choice. It is easy to install and very lightweight that does not demand a lot of workforce to be assembled. The kit is inclusive of mounting brackets for the installation process and often comes in a pair to suit the two sides of the awning.
Fix the brackets beside the in-built sail track and add a few holes to hold more accessories in the future. For example, is a hidden screen or a full-size annex wall.
Anti-flap devices are usually made of aluminum bars and are powder-coated to ensure durability. Each has a huge clamp on the edge of the fabric to hold the awning together. The bars must be in full depth to secure structural robustness and totally dismiss flapping.
Intermediate curve rafters will play a vital role in its overall setup. It has to include 1 or 2 curved rafters to fit under the awning roof and then push them up for a more reliable water run.
Here are the downsides of anti-flap kits to be aware of:
- It is possible to get the wrong size of anti-flap kits among the three sizes sold in the market.
- The awning set up and drilled holes can be unmatched if not done correctly.
- Anti-flap kits are not suitable for the DIY installation process. Many people who tried have failed. Internal mechanisms may be ruined if you drilled in the wrong place.
An anti-flip kit is best when it is hung on a cloth-type wall rather than on a rafter. It looks neater and eye-pleasing.
- DIY De-Flappers Kit
This one is cheaper than anti-flap kits and perfect for DIYers. De-flappers are designed to reduce awning flaps and are also quick to set up.
It best fits pop-up caravan awnings and is available in pairs to maximize stability. Most de-flappers can be suitable for all awnings and need no tool for assembly.
Unlike the first type of flappy awning solution, de-flappers are supported by a plastic clamp that fits well into the awning’s vinyl. And in the center is a velcro strap that has to be tightened up to the rafter for better security. Assembling de-flappers is a lot simpler than the prior solution.
This requires human strength to put tension in fitting the clamp and strap on the awning. It can be fully assembled within a few minutes and promises a great protection against strong winds. De-flappers are also great in protecting the awning’s fabric against bad weather conditions.
Its downside could be the strap that might get weak shortly. It therefore demands more expenses because of the frequent changing of strap. Additionally, de-flappers only minimize noisy winds but do not eliminate them.
Anti-Flap Kits versus De-Flappers – Which is a better choice?
Choosing between anti-flap kits and de-flappers will be based on your budget and particular needs. Both awning solutions guarantee the best remedy for strong winds but they differ in some factors, such as:
Price
Obviously, DIY solutions are less expensive. Their price has no huge gap depending on where you buy such an awning accessory. However, in the long run, de-flappers seem to be costlier because they are less sturdy than anti-flap kits.
Durability
Anti-flap kits are more durable when it comes to the materials used. It will last longer than de-flappers with its aluminum bars and bigger clamps to secure the awning fabric.
Easy to install
Either anti-flap kits or de-flappers are easy to assemble but the first option could demand extra strength. As mentioned earlier, de-flappers are good for DIYers that have limited tools for assembly.
Where to get anti-flap kits in Australia?
Anti flap kits Australia are one of the best bought awning accessories in today’s market, especially for roll-out awning owners. Many reliable sources may appear to your sight and so pick the one that guarantees a durable awning solution at a reasonable rate.
Companies that sell awning accessories are partnered with reputable suppliers across the world. This is to ensure buyers are getting the right product that will meet their requirements.
Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, fixing a flappy awning is among the popular issues caravan owners have to encounter. It can be dangerous to sleep in a caravan that lacks protection such as anti-flapping solutions. Thus, the market offers two options – anti-flap kits and de-flappers.
When you own a roll-out caravan, an anti-flap kit can serve its purpose perfectly. It is built with durable aluminum bars to eliminate the effects of strong winds. De-flappers , on the other hand, could be less sturdy but most suitable for pop-up awnings.
Buyers could select the type of awning solution that satisfies their budget and caravan type.
