Replacing an RV awning is a project you can do yourself if the awning is small and you have help, or you can hire a professional to handle it
An RV awning fails for different reasons — the fabric tears or fades, the motor stops working, or the frame bends. Before you decide whether to replace it yourself or hire someone, you need to know what type of awning you have, how much space it covers, and whether the frame is still usable. A manual awning (you crank it out by hand) is simpler to replace than a motorized one. A small awning over a window is a weekend project; a full-length awning along the side of your RV is a two-person job at minimum, and many people hire a professional because the weight and height make it risky to do alone.
The cost of a replacement awning varies widely depending on size and whether you buy the fabric only or the entire assembly. A manual awning fabric alone might cost $300 to $800; a motorized awning assembly can run $1,500 to $4,000 or more. Labor from an RV service center typically adds $500 to $1,500 to that cost. If you do the work yourself, you save the labor but you need the right tools — a drill, a socket set, a ladder tall enough to reach the roof safely, and sometimes a helper to hold the awning steady while you fasten it.
Key Takeaways
- Manual awnings are easier to replace than motorized ones, and you can often do a small manual awning yourself with a helper and basic tools.
- Measure your awning width and projection (how far it extends out) before ordering a replacement, because awnings are not one-size-fits-all.
- If only the fabric is torn or faded, you can replace just the fabric and reuse the frame and hardware, which costs less than a full replacement.
- Motorized awnings and full-length side awnings are safer and faster to install with professional help, especially if you are not comfortable working at height.
- Check your RV manual or contact the awning manufacturer to confirm which parts you need and whether your frame is compatible with replacement fabric.
Measure your awning before you order a replacement
The first step is to measure the awning you have so you order the right size. RV awnings are measured by width (the distance across the RV where the awning attaches) and projection (how far the awning extends out from the side of the RV). Write down both numbers in inches. You can find these measurements on the awning itself — they are often printed on a label on the frame or the motor housing — or in your RV manual under the specifications section.
If you cannot find the measurements, measure the width yourself by measuring the distance along the RV where the awning rail is attached, and measure the projection by extending the awning fully and measuring from the RV wall to the tip of the fabric. Take a photo of the label or your measurements so you have them when you contact a supplier or manufacturer.
Order the exact size your RV came with. Awnings that are too wide or too narrow will not fit the rail, and awnings with the wrong projection will not look right or may not retract properly. If your RV is an older model or a less common brand, you may need to call the awning manufacturer directly to confirm that a replacement is available.
Decide whether to replace just the fabric or the entire awning
If the frame and hardware are still in good condition but the fabric is torn, faded, or moldy, you can buy replacement fabric alone and reuse the existing frame. This is the cheapest option and works well if the frame is not bent or rusted. Replacement fabric typically costs $300 to $800 depending on size, compared to $1,500 to $4,000 for a full awning assembly.
To replace just the fabric, you remove the old fabric from the frame by unrolling the awning fully and unstitching or unclipping the fabric from the roller tube and the support arms. Then you attach the new fabric the same way. This is a straightforward job if you are comfortable with basic hand tools and have a helper to hold the fabric steady while you work.
If the frame is bent, the motor does not work, or the hardware is rusted or broken, you need to replace the entire awning. A full replacement takes longer and requires more tools, but it gives you a complete new system that should work reliably for years.
Remove the old awning step by step
Start by retracting the awning fully so it is flush against the RV. If it is motorized and the motor works, use the switch. If the motor is broken, you will need to manually retract it by hand or with a crank, which may require removing the motor first — check your manual for instructions.
Once the awning is retracted, locate all the bolts and fasteners that hold it to the RV. These are usually along the top rail where the awning attaches to the side of the RV. Use a socket wrench or drill to remove these bolts. Take a photo of the bolt pattern before you remove anything so you know where everything goes when you install the new awning. Keep the bolts in a labeled container so you do not lose them.
With the bolts removed, carefully lower the awning away from the RV. If it is a full-length side awning, this step requires at least two people — one to support the weight while the other removes the bolts. If you are doing this alone, use a jack or a helper to support the awning so it does not fall and injure you or damage the RV.
Once the awning is free, set it on a flat surface and inspect the frame for damage. If you are keeping the frame and replacing only the fabric, you can proceed to remove the fabric. If you are replacing the entire awning, set the old one aside for disposal or recycling.
Install the new awning or fabric
If you are installing new fabric on the existing frame, unroll the new fabric and align it with the roller tube and support arms. Attach the fabric to the roller tube by stitching it or clipping it according to the manufacturer's instructions — different awnings use different attachment methods. Then attach the fabric to the support arms the same way. Roll the awning up and down a few times to make sure the fabric is even and does not bunch or twist.
If you are installing a complete new awning, position it against the RV so the top rail aligns with the bolt holes. Use a level to make sure the awning is straight before you tighten the bolts. Insert the bolts through the rail and into the RV, then tighten them with a socket wrench. Tighten in a cross pattern (top left, bottom right, top right, bottom left) so the awning seats evenly. Do not over-tighten, which can crack the frame or strip the bolts.
If the awning is motorized, connect the motor to the power supply according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually means running a wire from the motor to a switch inside the RV or to the RV's 12-volt system. If you are not comfortable working with electrical connections, hire a professional for this step.
Once everything is bolted down and connected, test the awning by extending and retracting it several times. Listen for unusual sounds and watch for the fabric to roll evenly. If the fabric bunches or the awning does not extend smoothly, stop and check that all bolts are tight and the fabric is seated correctly.
When to hire a professional instead
Hire a professional if the awning is motorized and you are not comfortable with electrical work, if the awning is very large or heavy, if you do not have a helper, or if you are not comfortable working at height on a ladder. An RV service center or awning shop can remove the old awning and install the new one in a few hours, and they have the right equipment to do it safely.
Professional installation also comes with a warranty on the work, which means if something goes wrong in the first year, they will fix it at no charge. If you install it yourself and something breaks, you are responsible for fixing it. For a motorized awning or a full-length side awning, the peace of mind and safety of professional installation is often worth the cost.
Maintain your new awning so it lasts
Once your new awning is installed, keep it clean and dry to extend its life. Rinse the fabric with fresh water after camping in dusty or salty conditions, and let it dry completely before retracting it. Do not leave the awning extended in high winds or heavy rain, which can damage the fabric or bend the frame.
Check the bolts and fasteners every few months to make sure they are still tight. Vibration from driving can loosen them over time. Lubricate the roller tube and moving parts once a year with a silicone-based lubricant to keep everything moving smoothly. If you notice a tear or leak, patch it right away before it gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the fabric if the frame is bent?
No. If the frame is bent, the new fabric will not roll or extend evenly, and it may tear prematurely. You need to replace the entire awning or have the frame straightened by a professional, which is usually not worth the cost. Replace the whole unit instead.
How long does it take to replace an RV awning?
Replacing just the fabric on an existing frame takes two to four hours if you have a helper. Installing a complete new awning takes four to eight hours depending on size and whether it is motorized. A professional can usually finish in one to two hours because they have the right tools and experience.
Do I need special tools to replace an awning?
You need a socket wrench set, a drill, a ladder, and a level. For motorized awnings, you may also need a wire stripper and crimper if you are connecting the electrical wiring yourself. A helper is essential for large awnings because you need someone to hold the awning steady while you work.
What if my RV awning is a custom size?
Contact the awning manufacturer with your measurements and RV model year. Many manufacturers can make custom sizes, though it may take longer and cost more than a standard size. Some RV service centers also offer custom awnings or can modify a standard awning to fit your RV.
Can I use my RV while the awning is being replaced?
You can use the RV, but you cannot use the awning until it is fully installed and tested. If you are having it done professionally, ask how long it will take so you know when you can leave. If you are doing it yourself, plan to have the RV parked in one spot for at least a day.