How to get the best from your Driveaway Awning

In this guide, we're going to look at how to use a driveaway awning to sleep in, how to prevent condensation which can be linked to sleeping in a campervan awning, how to choose the size of your campervan awning in the first place and how to stop your sliding door ripping your awning.

When it comes to Campervan Awnings these are the most asked, so we hope this guide is useful, alongside our usual series of blogs on getting the most out of your Campervan awning. Here we’ve added tips and comments from experts alongside statistics from OLPRO customers giving you a real expert's view on these key questions.

If you’ve got your caravan awning already and want to start exploring check out this blog on great places to go: Best Adventure Sites in the UK: Thrilling Destinations for Every Explorer - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

The Benefits of Campervan Awnings

1. Extra Living Space

One of the main advantages of a campervan awning is the additional living space it provides. Whether you’re camping with family or friends, having extra room to move around can make your trip more enjoyable.

• Dining Area: Use your awning as a dining area, where you can enjoy meals without being cramped inside the campervan. A great camping table helps to utilise this space.
• Sleeping Quarters: Many awnings come with separate sleeping compartments, giving you more space for guests or family members. The Cocoon Breeze V2 - Cocoon Breeze® V2 Campervan Awning│OLPRO (olproshop.com) comes with a built-in bedroom for five people.
• Storage Space: Keep your camping gear, bikes, or outdoor equipment securely stored in the awning, freeing up space inside your campervan.

If you’re looking for great storage space alone then The Pod Kitchen and Storage tent is ideal - Pod Kitchen/Storage Tent - OLPRO (olproshop.com).

When asked 72% of those people buying a campervan awning used it as extra storage space as well as for something else. 70% used it as a dining area and 40% as a sleeping area.

Explore the range of spacious awnings at OLPROSHOP.com to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Our camping accessories expert, Chris Medakovic says ‘I believe that having an awning large enough to take as many outdoor camping chairs as you have people using the campervan and awning should give you enough room if you’re not looking to sleep in the awning.'

2. Weather Protection

A campervan awning offers excellent protection from the elements, making it easier to enjoy your trip regardless of the weather.

• Sun Protection: Awnings provide shade from the sun, creating a cool, comfortable area to relax during hot days.
• Rain Shelter: Stay dry under the shelter of your awning during rainy weather, allowing you to continue enjoying the outdoors.
• Wind Block: Awnings can act as a windbreak, making your campsite more comfortable and protecting your gear from the elements.

If you’re just looking for a windbreak then you can find them at Windbreak (olproshop.com)

Our camping experts asked people - why people found driveaway awnings great protection against the weather

40% said that they liked a canopy on the awning to protect them from the sun whilst they sat out.

84% of people who replied said that drive-away awnings were essential to protect them from the rain and 32% mentioned the wind and ensuring that it allowed to be out of the wind.

Check out OLPRO's durable, weather-resistant awnings at OLPROSHOP.com to ensure you're prepared for any weather conditions.

3. Versatility and Flexibility

Campervan awnings are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways depending on your needs.

• Driveaway Awnings: These allow you to detach the awning from your campervan and leave it in place while you explore the area. This flexibility is ideal for day trips without having to dismantle your entire setup.

All OLPRO Campervan awnings, the market leaders, allow you to drive-away from the vehicle and leave the awning standing.

Are OLPRO Awnings Any Good? - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

• Multi-Room Options: Many awnings offer modular designs with multiple rooms, allowing you to customise the space based on your camping setup.

Discover versatile driveaway awnings at OLPROSHOP.com that can easily adapt to your camping style.

Regardless of the campervan awning, if you want to know how easy they are to put up, read our blog - How to Put Up a Campervan Awning - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

4. Increased Comfort and Privacy

An awning provides a more comfortable camping experience by expanding your living space and offering a private area to relax.

• Private Space: Use the awning as a private retreat for reading, napping, or just enjoying some quiet time away from the main campervan area.
• Comfortable Environment: With large windows, ventilation panels, and ample space, awnings create a more comfortable environment to enjoy your camping trip.

5. Long-Term Investment

Investing in a high-quality campervan awning is a smart long-term investment that can enhance many trips to come.

• Durability: OLPRO awnings are made from high-quality materials designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring they last for years. You can see more about the technologies used by OLPRO at Technologies (olproshop.com)
• Value for Money: While the initial cost of a campervan awning might seem significant, the added space, comfort, and protection it provides make it a valuable addition to your camping gear.

Sustainability (olproshop.com) is key to OLPRO and runs throughout all of our ranges now. As a leading outdoor brand on sustainability, it is one of the reasons to buy OLPRO.

How to get the best from your Driveaway Awning

Why Choose OLPRO for Your Campervan Awning?

At OLPROSHOP.com, we offer a wide range of high-quality campervan awnings designed to meet the needs of every camper. Here’s why OLPRO awnings are worth considering:

• Innovative Designs: OLPRO awnings feature innovative designs that make them easy to set up, durable, and versatile.
• Exceptional Customer Service: We are committed to providing excellent customer service, helping you find the perfect awning for your campervan.
• Exclusive Offers: Shop directly at OLPROSHOP.com to take advantage of exclusive deals, discounts, and bundles.

When planning your camping or campervan adventure, one of the most crucial factors to consider is whether your gear can withstand the elements. OLPRO, a trusted British brand, is well-known for its high-quality tents and awnings. But are OLPRO tents and awnings waterproof? Let’s dive into the details to answer this important question. For more information and to purchase OLPRO products, https://olproshop.com/

Understanding Waterproof Ratings

Waterproof ratings are a key indicator of how well a tent or awning can resist water. This rating is typically measured in millimetres (mm) and is referred to as the hydrostatic head. The higher the number, the more waterproof the material. OLPRO tents and awnings are designed with high hydrostatic head ratings to ensure maximum protection against rain and moisture.

Our camping expert, Lisa Walton, with over 35 years of tent design experience said ‘the national standard for waterproof ratings is only 1,500 HH so almost all tents will claim to be waterproof but with driving rain, as we see a lot of in the UK, you do need a higher rating. That’s why all OLPRO tents and campervan awnings are 5,000 Hydrostatic Head. We’ve also introduced AQUABARRIER™ on zips, something else that no other brand has, to protect that potential weak area for rain – the zips.’

OLPRO Tents: Built for British Weather

OLPRO tents are specifically designed to withstand the unpredictable British weather. With a hydrostatic head rating of at least 5000mm, OLPRO tents offer excellent water resistance. This means you can camp confidently, knowing that your tent will keep you dry even during heavy downpours. The high-quality polyester fabric, combined with durable stitching and waterproof coatings, ensures that OLPRO tents are both waterproof and durable.

If you ever need to repair or maintain your campervan awning or tent we’ve put together a great list of hints and tips - Repairs & Maintenance (olproshop.com)

Key Features of OLPRO Tents:

- OLTECH® REPRO Fabric: OLPRO's eco-friendly OLTECH® REPRO fabric *is made from recycled plastic bottles, offering sustainability without compromising on performance. This fabric is highly durable and weather-resistant, providing excellent protection against rain.

*OLTECH® REPRO Fabric is available on selected OLPRO tents.

- AQUABARRIER™ Technology: OLPRO's proprietary AQUABARRIER™ Technology *adds an extra layer of waterproof coating, enhancing the tent's ability to repel water and keep you dry in any weather conditions.

*AQUABARRIER™ Technology Fabric is available on selected OLPRO tents.

- Sealed Seams: All OLPRO tents feature sealed seams, preventing water from seeping through the stitching. This ensures that your tent remains completely waterproof, even during prolonged exposure to rain.

OLPRO Awnings: Reliable Shelter for Your Campervan

OLPRO awnings are designed with the same attention to detail and quality as their tents. Whether you’re using an awning for extra living space, storage, or shelter, you can trust OLPRO awnings to keep you dry and comfortable. With a high hydrostatic head rating and advanced waterproofing technologies, OLPRO awnings are built to withstand the elements.

Key Features of OLPRO Awnings:

- **Durable Materials**: OLPRO awnings are made from robust materials that can handle harsh weather conditions. The strong, waterproof fabric ensures that your awning remains intact and functional, even during heavy rain.

- AQUABARRIER™ Technology: Similar to their tents, OLPRO awnings also feature AQUABARRIER™ Technology. This waterproof coating enhances the fabric's water resistance, providing reliable protection against rain and moisture.

- Secure Seams: The seams on OLPRO awnings are securely sealed to prevent water ingress. This attention to detail ensures that your awning stays dry and comfortable, no matter the weather.

If you ever need to look to repair your tent or driveaway awning visit our repair and maintenance page: Repairs & Maintenance (olproshop.com)

Customer Testimonials

Many satisfied customers have praised OLPRO tents and awnings for their excellent waterproof capabilities. Reviews often highlight the reliability of OLPRO products in keeping campers dry and comfortable, even in challenging weather conditions. This positive feedback is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

You can see about our brand ambassadors - 2024 Ambassadors (olproshop.com) – here who test and review all OLPRO products.

Where to Buy OLPRO Tents and Awnings

If you’re looking to invest in a waterproof tent or awning, visit www.olproshop.com The official OLPRO website offers a wide range of tents, awnings, and camping accessories designed to meet your needs. With detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and exceptional customer service, https://olproshop.com/ is your go-to source for all OLPRO products.

Drive-away awnings are a fantastic addition to any campervan setup, providing extra space and flexibility during your camping adventures. But can you sleep in a drive-away awning? Do people buy them to sleep in and How do people use Campervan awnings to sleep in?

We asked our customers and 40% of all customers use their Campervan Awning to sleep in. For many people, it was extra space for their children but for some, it was where they used the campervan to cook, eat and sit in but the driveaway awning was like an attached tent.

Why Sleep in a Drive-away Awning?

1. Extra Space

One of the primary reasons to sleep in a drive-away awning is the extra space it provides. Campervans can feel cramped, especially when travelling with family or friends. A drive-away awning allows you to extend your living area, giving everyone more room to spread out and relax. When we spoke to Campervan Awning expert, Gareth Walton he said 'Sleeping in a Campervan can very often mean having to move things around in a small space or set up a bed where having an awning means you can have a bed set up all the time.'

At OLPRO we attend a variety of festivals and having sleeping space for everyone is important. Larger awnings like the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2 Campervan Awning offer this.

2. Privacy

If you’re camping with a group, sleeping in a drive-away awning can offer a bit more privacy. Many drive-away awnings, such as the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2 Campervan Awning, come with separate sleeping compartments, making them ideal for families or groups of friends who want to maintain a sense of personal space.

3. Comfort

Modern drive-away awnings are designed with comfort in mind. With features like built-in groundsheets, ventilation, and even insulation options, awnings like the OLPRO Hive Poled Campervan Awning can provide a comfortable and cosy sleeping environment, comparable to sleeping inside your campervan.

What to Consider When Sleeping in a Drive-Away Awning

1. Weather Protection

When sleeping in a drive-away awning, it’s essential to consider the weather. OLPRO’s drive-away awnings are made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable even in adverse conditions. For added protection, consider an awning with a higher hydrostatic head rating, such as the OLPRO Loopo Breeze V2 Campervan Awning, which offers excellent waterproofing.

2. Groundsheet and Flooring

A good groundsheet is crucial for comfort and protection when sleeping in a drive-away awning. It helps insulate against the cold ground and keeps moisture and insects at bay. All OLPRO drive-away awnings come with built-in or detachable groundsheets, offering you a clean and dry surface to sleep on. Sewn-in groundsheets also keep out the bugs.

100% of people we surveyed said they preferred a sewn-in groundsheet and wouldn’t buy a tent or awning without one to keep the bugs out.

3. Ventilation

Proper ventilation is key to a good night's sleep, preventing condensation and ensuring a steady flow of fresh air. OLPRO’s drive-away awnings are designed with ventilation panels and mesh windows to keep the interior airy and comfortable. This is particularly important during warmer months when temperatures inside the awning can rise.

Condensation is one of the biggest enemies of camping, whether it be in a tent or a campervan awning.

What causes Condensation when camping?

Condensation is a scientific process where water vapour changes state and becomes liquid. It's the opposite process of evaporation. In tents, condensation occurs when the warm air inside a tent hits the colder tent fabric. Warm air temperature inside of a tent can be caused by people, heaters and a lack of ventilation. It's important to know that condensation is massively increased by the presence of people - so the more people that are with you, the more likely you are to encounter condensation. Just one person will produce up to one pint of condensation per night.

So, sleeping In awning is fine but be aware of the need for ventilation.

If you have an OLPRO Breeze tent or campervan awning, one of the inflatable ones, air will circulate in the beams. If the outside air is much colder than inside your tent or awning then the cooling of the air in the beams is fast. The warm, humid air inside your tent or awning will condensate onto the area of the beam. The moisture will appear as water droplets on the beams and can create pools of water around the base of the beam, which can often be mistaken as leaking. This can be hard to identify as the condensation will occur on the outside of the plastic inner beam that sits inside of the black casing. This will slowly trickle down to the bottom of the casing where it will drip out of the bottom, around the base of the beam.

On evenings when there is a lot of moisture in the air and the temperature has dropped off, it's important to make sure you don't have anything around the bases of the beams. We've tested hundreds of tents and awnings where our customers have believed it was leaking, and it was in fact down to condensation on beams. So please look through the ways to avoid condensation below and you'll have a much drier camping trip.

On days and evenings where there is a substantial temperature drop, it can be challenging to prevent tent condensation forming. Rainy conditions can also increase the chances of condensation occurring, often leading to the appearance of a leaking tent. Rain water on the outside of the tent, or rain water evaporating off the outer surface of your tent can cause the temperature of the fabric to decrease, leading to more rapid condensation as the air inside the tent comes into contact with it.

Condensation│Camping Tips & Tricks (olproshop.com)

What can you do to prevent condensation?

As a starting point, make sure that you've located all of the ventilation points on your tent in order to guarantee good air circulation. If the weather is good enough, leave your doors and windows open whenever possible and make sure they aren't being obstructed by sleeping bags, chairs and other furniture.

When it starts raining, try to avoid closing everything up as that will only help to increase condensation - If possible, leave a vent partially open to still regulate air flow and reduce condensation build-up time. Make sure if you have anything wet, that you don't store it inside the tent as that adds more moisture into the equation. Store wet coats, boots, swimming costumes and towels away from your canvas.

Heating the air inside of your tent will only increase the humidity. So ideally, you should keep yourself warm by wearing the right clothes and packing high-quality sleeping bags. Do not cook inside of the tent, not only is this dangerous as you are at a dangerous risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, but it will also add moisture to the air.

Make sure you pitch in the right place, You'll save yourself a lot of problems by simply pitching in an area which receives a natural breeze. Make sure you don't pitch anywhere close to water either, as rivers and lakes will also increase the humidity of air within your tent.

The best thing to do if you do experience condensation is to wipe the walls down with a towel or cloth to remove the condensation from the tent fabric. Dry up any pools of water with a towel and remove all wet items from the tent so that they can dry properly. It's important to remove as much moisture as possible so that it isn't circulated back into the air. And again, make sure you ventilate your tent. It's important to let in all the good air!

Condensation is very often confused as leaking tent or awning. Tents and awnings will only ever leak through the seam which will be sealed over any point that’s stitched on a tent. You can see it as a thin tape on the stitching. It could be that the seal has broken or split. Even a small gap will let in a lot of water. If you find water in your tent and there is no broken seal then it will be condensation.

Daniel Walton, Camping and Campervan Awning expert, confirmed – 95% of incidents where there is water in a tent or in a campervan awning isn’t the campervan awning leaking it is condensation. It is hard to comprehend how much water comes from condensation but it’s actually very difficult for a tent to leak and when it does the source of the leak is very obvious. If a tent or awning is leaking you will see the point at which water is coming through and it will be on a seam. Otherwise that water on the floor is going to be condensation.

If you want to know more about being safe read our blog on ‘ Are Tents safe to sleep in? ‘ Are Tents Safe to Sleep In? - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

4. Sleeping Arrangements

Consider your sleeping arrangements when using a drive-away awning. Some awnings, like the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2 Campervan Awning, offer multiple sleeping compartments, making it easy to accommodate different members of your camping party. You can also enhance your comfort with airbeds, sleeping pads, or camp beds that fit easily within the awning.

Recommended OLPRO Drive Away Awnings for Sleeping

If you’re considering sleeping in a drive-away awning, here are a few top-rated options available at olproshop.com:

• OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2 Driveaway Awning: This spacious awning features multiple rooms, making it ideal for families or groups. The separate sleeping compartments provide privacy and comfort.
• OLPRO Loopo Breeze V2 Driveaway Awning: A compact yet versatile awning perfect for couples or small families. Its high-quality materials ensure you stay warm and dry throughout the night.

You can see all poled campervan awnings at Buy Poled Campervan Awnings Online | UK Delivery | OLPRO (olproshop.com).

These are campervan awnings that come with fibreglass poles. For campervan awnings with inflatable poles check Inflatable Campervan Awning (olproshop.com).

For a wide selection of high-quality drive-away awnings and camping accessories, visit olproshop.com. Discover why OLPRO is a trusted name in the camping community and enhance your outdoor adventures with our reliable and innovative products. Happy camping!

Installing an awning on your camper can significantly enhance your camping experience by providing extra living space and shelter from the elements. However, many camper owners wonder, 'How much does it cost to install an awning on a campervan?'

Factors That Affect the Cost of Using a Camper Awning

The cost of using an awning on your camper can vary widely depending on several factors:

1. Type of Awning

The type of awning you choose will significantly impact the overall cost:

70% of people now use a driveaway awning when looking to create extra space on their campervan. 28% will use a rollout awning and there is a cross-over where some people will use both. In fact, it is possible to fit a campervan to a rollout awning and so use both. Only 2% of people now use a fixed awning.

The main reason is that people want to be able to drive-away from their awning and so freestanding awnings are the most popular. Many people will also buy a canopy such as Campervan Sun Shades & Canopies (olproshop.com)

• Roll-Out Awnings: These are typically more expensive due to their size and mechanical components. Prices for roll-out awnings can range from £400 to £1,200 or more.
• Driveaway Awnings: These awnings are versatile and can be detached and left at the campsite while you explore with your camper. They usually cost between £300 and £800. Explore options like the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2 Driveaway Awning or the OLPRO Loopo Breeze V2 Driveaway Awning at olproshop.com.
• Fitted Awnings: Permanent awnings that attach directly to your campervan can vary in price depending on size and features, typically ranging from £500 to £1,500.

2. Size of the Awning

Of course, the size of the awning will also affect the cost. Larger awnings require more materials and time to install, increasing both the purchase price and installation costs.

• Small Awnings: Ideal for solo travellers or couples, these cost less and are easier to install.
• Large Awnings: Family-sized or group awnings provide more space but come at a higher cost.

3. Additional Accessories

Additional accessories, such as groundsheets, storm straps, or driveaway kits, can add to the overall cost but also enhance the functionality and durability of your awning.

• Footprint Groundsheets: These provide extra comfort and protection and typically cost between £30 and £50.
• Campervan Carpets: Essential comfort underfoot, these cost around £50.
• Driveaway Kits: These make it easier to detach your awning from your camper and cost around £20. See www.olproshop.com for campervan driveaway kits.

On the best things about buying from OLPRO is that you are buying direct from the brand and so are not paying any extra costs.

You can find the full range of campervan awnings at Campervan Awnings (olproshop.com).

So, if you’ve decided which awning and if you’re going to use it to sleep in then why should you choose the market-leading brand of Campervan Awnings – OLPRO?  OLPRO are the UK’s leading brand for campervan awnings, trusted since 2011 and deigned in the UK.

Are OLPRO Awnings Any Good? - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

Why Choose OLPRO Awnings?

OLPRO is a leading name in the camping industry, known for offering high-quality, durable, and easy-to-use awnings. Here’s why you should consider buying your awning from OLPRO:

• Wide Range of Products: OLPRO offers a variety of awnings to suit different campervans and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a compact option like the OLPRO Loopo Breeze V2 or a spacious model like the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze V2, you’ll find it at olproshop.com.
• Durability and Weather Resistance: OLPRO awnings are made from high-quality materials that withstand various weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting use.
• Customer Support: OLPRO provides excellent customer support, including detailed installation guides and videos to help you set up your awning correctly.

The cost of installing an awning on your camper can vary depending on several factors, including the type of awning, size, installation method, and additional accessories. By choosing a high-quality awning from olproshop.com, you can ensure a great investment in your camping experience.

A sagging campervan awning can be a real nuisance, detracting from your camping experience and potentially causing damage over time. Ensuring your awning stays taut and secure is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Below, we’ll share some effective tips on how to prevent your campervan awning from sagging. For high-quality awnings and camping accessories, visit https://www.olproshop.com

Why Does an Awning Sag?

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why awnings sag. Common causes include:

- Improper Setup: Incorrectly setting up your awning can lead to uneven tension and sagging.

How to Put Up a Campervan Awning - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

- Weather Conditions: Rain, wind, and snow can weigh down the fabric, causing it to sag.

- Wear and Tear: Over time, the materials and components of the awning can wear out, leading to sagging.

Repairs & Maintenance (olproshop.com)

- Insufficient Support: Lack of adequate poles, guy lines, or pegs can result in an unstable awning.

Tips to Prevent Awning Sagging

1. Proper Setup

Setting up your awning correctly from the start is crucial.

- Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup. OLPRO awnings come with detailed guides to help you set up correctly. Check YOUTUBE for our videos too.

- Even Tension: Ensure the fabric is evenly tensioned on all sides to prevent sagging. All awnings are made the same so if you look inside the floor should be flat with no creases. If there are big creases then it hasn’t been tensioned properly.

- Check Angles: Adjust the angle of the awning to allow water to run off rather than pool on the fabric.

2. Use High-Quality Accessories

Using the right accessories can make a significant difference in preventing sagging.

- Strong Poles: Use high-quality, durable poles that provide adequate support. All poles supplied with OLPRO tents and awnings are good quality but most tents and awnings also come with a spare – just in case.

- Guy Lines and Pegs: Ensure all guy lines are properly tensioned and pegged into the ground securely. OLPRO offers a range of robust accessories to help keep your awning taut.

A case of hard ground pegs may be just what you need - Case of 20 Hard Ground Pegs and Peg Puller (olproshop.com)

3. Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your awning and prevent sagging.

- Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your awning for signs of wear and tear, such as holes, tears, or weak spots.

- Clean Properly: Clean your awning according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent material degradation.

4. Weatherproofing

Taking steps to weatherproof your awning can prevent sagging due to adverse weather conditions. If you need to re-proof your tent or campervan awning then we recommend OLPROOF - OLPROOF Premium Re-proofer 1 Litre (olproshop.com)

- Rain Protection: Ensure your awning is angled correctly to allow rainwater to run off. You can also use a waterproofing spray to add an extra layer of protection if you’ve used your tent or awning for some time.

Are OLPRO Tents and Awnings Waterproof? - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

- Wind Stability: Use all guy lines and storm straps to stabilise your awning in windy conditions.

- Snow Removal: If camping in snowy conditions, which seems less common than ever these days in the UK, regularly remove snow build up from your awning to prevent sagging.

How to Stop Campervan Awnings from Sagging - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

One common concern among campervan owners is the risk of a sliding door catching and ripping their awning. This can be a frustrating and costly issue, especially if it damages your awning during a trip.

Why Does the Sliding Door Rip the Awning?

Sliding doors on campervans can sometimes catch on the fabric of an awning, especially if the awning is not set up correctly or if the door is opened too forcefully. This issue is more common with driveaway awnings that connect directly to the side of the campervan, where the door’s edge might snag the fabric.

You’ve got to always remember that campervan awnings are universal products and made to fit a number of campervan types so it’s usual that the door will go past the side tunnel of the awning but you can make sure it doesn’t snag on it.

With all OLPRO awnings, they come with straps to tighten and loosen the campervan awning on the side of the campervan and keys to use these.

Tips to Prevent Your Awning from Ripping

Correct Awning Setup

Ensuring that your awning is set up correctly is the first step in preventing damage.

Positioning: When setting up your awning, make sure it is properly aligned with your campervans sliding door. The connection should be taut, but not overly tight, to avoid fabric strain. When you want to open the door (or close it) you can loosen the fabric using the strap.

Height Adjustment: If your awning allows for height adjustment, set it at a level that minimises the contact between the door and the fabric.

For more on how to pitch a campervan awning: How to Put Up a Campervan Awning - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

Use a Driveaway Kit

A driveaway kit can help create a better connection between your campervan and the awning, reducing the risk of the door catching on the fabric as it keeps it a little further away from the van.

Figure-of-Eight Channel: Using a figure-of-eight channel and keder strip helps maintain a secure attachment that is less likely to move or shift when the door is opened.

Flexible Attachment: The driveaway kit allows the awning to flex slightly, reducing tension on the fabric when the door is in use.

Gentle Opening: Encourage gentle opening and closing of the sliding door to minimise the risk of it catching on the awning.

For more on how to attach an awning to a campervan: How Do Awnings Attach to a Campervan? - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

Regular Maintenance and Checks

Regularly inspecting and maintaining both your awning and sliding door can prevent potential issues.

Check Tension: Regularly check the tension of your awning to ensure it’s not too tight, as this can increase the likelihood of tears.

Why Choose OLPRO Awnings?

OLPRO is a trusted name in the camping community, known for its durable and innovative products. Here’s why you should consider OLPRO awnings:

Durability: OLPRO awnings are made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials that can withstand wear and tear, including contact with sliding doors. You can loosen the tunnel as needed and tighten it back onto the door once it’s open.

Innovative Design: OLPRO awnings feature thoughtful designs that minimise the risk of damage from campervan doors.

Wide Range of Accessories: OLPRO offers a variety of accessories, such as driveaway kits and protective strips, to help keep your awning in top condition.

Shop the OLPRO range today.