What you need to know before ordering replacement fabric

RV awning fabric wears out from sun, wind, and weather — usually after five to ten years, though it depends on how often you use it and where you store the RV. When the fabric tears, fades badly, or no longer retracts smoothly, replacement is simpler than most people think. You do not need to replace the entire awning structure; you only replace the fabric itself, which typically costs between $300 and $800 depending on your awning size and the fabric grade you choose.

The first step is identifying your awning model and measuring the fabric dimensions. Your awning manufacturer's name and model number are usually printed on a metal plate attached to the awning arm or roller tube. Write these down before you contact anyone. You will also need the width of the awning when fully extended and the projection (how far it extends from the RV). These measurements are often listed in your RV manual or on the awning itself.

You have three main routes: order fabric from the original awning manufacturer, buy from an aftermarket RV parts supplier, or hire a professional to handle the removal and installation. Each has different costs and timelines, and your choice depends on your comfort level with hands-on work and your budget.

Key Takeaways

  • Replacement fabric costs between $300 and $800 and lasts five to ten years depending on sun exposure and storage habits.
  • You need your awning's manufacturer name, model number, width, and projection measurement before ordering — this information is on the awning itself or in your RV manual.
  • Fabric-only replacement is much cheaper than replacing the entire awning structure, which can cost $1,500 to $3,000 or more.
  • Professional installation adds $200 to $500 to the cost but eliminates the risk of damaging the roller tube or arms during removal.
  • Aftermarket fabric is usually less expensive than manufacturer fabric but may have a shorter warranty or different color matching.

Finding your awning size and model number

The model number is your most important piece of information. Look for a metal plate or sticker on the awning arm, the roller tube (the horizontal bar the fabric rolls around), or the mounting bracket where the awning attaches to the RV. The plate usually shows the manufacturer name — common brands include Dometic, Carefree, Lippert, and A&E — along with a model or serial number.

If you cannot find a plate, check your RV's original paperwork or contact your RV manufacturer with your RV's VIN (vehicle identification number). They can tell you which awning was installed at the factory. Write down everything you find: the brand, the model number, and any other identifying information on the plate.

Next, measure the awning width (the distance across the front of the RV where the awning mounts) and the projection (how far the fabric extends when fully open). These are usually printed on the awning itself or in your RV manual. If you cannot find them, measure the roller tube length and the distance from the RV wall to the front edge of the awning when it is fully extended. Take photos of the awning from the front and side to show the supplier.

Ordering fabric from the manufacturer versus aftermarket suppliers

Ordering directly from the original manufacturer — Dometic, Carefree, Lippert, or A&E — guarantees an exact match in size and usually in color, though some older colors may no longer be available. Manufacturer fabric typically comes with a warranty of three to five years and is usually higher quality. The downside is cost: manufacturer fabric runs $400 to $800 before installation, and lead times can be two to four weeks.

Aftermarket suppliers like Camping World, Amazon, eBay, and specialty RV parts websites often stock fabric at lower prices — sometimes $250 to $500 — and ship faster, often within a week. The trade-off is that aftermarket fabric may not match your original color exactly, the warranty is often shorter (one to two years), and you have less recourse if the fabric does not fit properly. Read the return policy carefully before ordering, because some aftermarket sellers do not accept returns on fabric once it ships.

Before ordering from any source, confirm the exact measurements and model number with the supplier. Send them photos if they ask. A wrong order is expensive to fix, so spending an extra day confirming details is worth it.

Removing the old fabric yourself

If you decide to remove the fabric yourself, the process is straightforward but requires care not to damage the roller tube or arms. Start by fully retracting the awning and securing it so it cannot accidentally extend. Most awnings have a manual crank or an electric motor; make sure the power is off if it is electric.

The fabric is usually held to the roller tube by a long seam or by a series of fasteners (screws, rivets, or bolts) along the top edge. Look closely at how the old fabric attaches — take photos before you start so you remember the configuration. If it is sewn, you will need to carefully cut or unsew the seam. If it is bolted, use a socket wrench or drill to remove the fasteners, keeping them in a labeled container so you do not lose them.

Once the top edge is free, carefully unroll the fabric from the tube and set it aside. Check the roller tube for damage, rust, or bent spots. If the tube is damaged, you may need to replace the entire awning, not just the fabric. If it looks good, clean it with a dry cloth to remove dirt and debris before installing the new fabric.

Installing new fabric on the roller tube

Installing new fabric is the reverse of removal, but it requires precision so the fabric is straight and evenly tensioned. Lay the new fabric out flat and align the top edge with the roller tube, making sure it is centered and not twisted. If the fabric is sewn to the tube, you will need a heavy-duty sewing machine or a professional seamstress; many RV shops offer this service for $100 to $200. If the fabric is bolted, line up the bolt holes and insert fasteners, tightening them evenly so the fabric does not bunch or wrinkle.

As you find the fabric, periodically roll the awning partway out to check that the fabric is feeding smoothly and staying centered. If it starts to pull to one side, stop and adjust before continuing. Once the top edge is fully secured, check that the bottom edge (the valance, if your awning has one) is straight and properly aligned.

Test the awning by extending and retracting it several times. The fabric should move smoothly without catching or binding. If it does not, stop and check for twisted fabric or misaligned fasteners. Do not force it, because you can tear the new fabric or damage the roller tube.

Hiring a professional to replace the fabric

Many RV repair shops and awning specialists offer fabric replacement as a service. The cost is usually $200 to $500 for labor, on top of the fabric cost, so total out-of-pocket is $500 to $1,300. The advantage is that a professional has the right tools, knows how to avoid common mistakes, and can often match colors or source hard-to-find fabric. Most shops can complete the job in one to three days.

To find a shop near you, search online for "RV awning repair" or "awning fabric replacement" plus your city name. Call ahead and ask whether they stock fabric or if you need to order it first. Some shops prefer you to order the fabric yourself and bring it in; others will order it for you and add a markup. Ask about their warranty on the installation and whether they inspect the roller tube and arms for damage while they have the awning apart.

If you are handy and have time, doing it yourself saves money. If you are uncomfortable with the work or do not have the right tools, paying a professional is worth the cost to avoid damaging an expensive component.

Choosing fabric grade and color

RV awning fabric comes in different grades, usually labeled as standard, premium, or heavy-duty. Standard fabric is the least expensive and adequate for occasional use in mild climates. Premium fabric is thicker, resists fading better, and lasts longer — usually worth the extra $50 to $150 if you use your awning frequently or live in a sunny area. Heavy-duty fabric is the most durable and expensive, designed for full-time RVers or harsh climates.

Color choice affects both appearance and heat absorption. Light colors (white, cream, tan) reflect more sun and keep the area under the awning cooler, but they show dirt and stains more easily. Dark colors (gray, blue, burgundy) hide dirt but absorb more heat. Most people choose a color that matches their RV or their existing awning, but you can pick any color available from your supplier.

Some fabric is treated with UV protection or mildew resistance. These treatments add to the cost but extend the fabric's life, especially if you store your RV in a damp climate or leave the awning extended for long periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does replacement fabric last?

Most RV awning fabric lasts five to ten years depending on sun exposure, climate, and how often you use it. Fabric in sunny, hot climates fades and weakens faster. Storing your RV with the awning retracted and covering the awning when parked for long periods extends fabric life by several years.

Can I patch a torn awning instead of replacing the whole fabric?

Small tears (under two inches) can be patched with a fabric repair kit from an RV supplier, which costs $10 to $30. Larger tears or multiple tears usually mean the fabric is near the end of its life, and replacement is more cost-effective than patching. If the fabric is already faded or worn, patching one spot will look mismatched.

What if my awning model is discontinued?

Aftermarket suppliers often stock universal fabric sizes that fit multiple brands and models. Measure your awning carefully and contact a supplier like Camping World or an online RV parts site to find a compatible option. You may need to have the fabric custom-sewn to fit, which adds $100 to $200 to the cost.

Do I need to remove the awning from the RV to replace the fabric?

No. The fabric can be replaced while the awning is still mounted to the RV. You only need to retract it fully and find it so it cannot move. Removing the entire awning is a separate, much larger job that is rarely necessary for fabric replacement alone.

What should I do if the roller tube is bent or rusted?

A bent or severely rusted roller tube cannot be repaired and usually means replacing the entire awning, which costs $1,500 to $3,000 or more. If the damage is minor surface rust, it can sometimes be cleaned and treated. Have a professional inspect it before you order new fabric, because installing fabric on a damaged tube will not solve the problem.