Does anybody have information on how to build (DIY) an awning for an RV?
Question:I'm looking for plans (and list of materials) necessary to build a side awning for my 19' Travel Trailer. Thank you.
Answers:
It would actually be better to just buy one
the materials needed
the special sewing machine that can sew the very thick material
the time
the energy
the metal, pins, rods, poles
and NO warranty if it falls apart in the first few years
This is just fyi-I had a friend who'd built such an awning for his Winnebago and he immediately got into a bit of a problem with local building code enforcement officials-in California. Seems they desired a perrmit/full plans since he'd built a 'permanent structure'. Whenever he applied, they flatly denied it based on property line encroachment laws. It was the old catch 22.
His (brilliant) reaction was to jack up each corner (it was a lightweight structure) and incorporate a large caster with hard rubber tire on each corner of the awning, which could be swung into place as needed.
This made his structure 'portable' and therefore not subject to their jurisdiction. They left him alone after this.
I think he used mainly square tube iron for framing, and redwood lattice panels secured with Liquid Nails for siding.
Check your local building codes for potential of similar problems, I think the wheels may be a quick/easy way to overcome harsh legalities.
Good Luck!
I pretty much agree with Mopar.
By the time you purchase the fittings (which are basically replacements for factory made) the telescoping aluminum poles, or roll up fixturing, then the awning material, the likelyhood is that you'd expend more energy and $$$ in the effort.
A simple way would be to measure a size you want, IE: 4x8 sheet of heavy vinyl sheet stock, or canvas/Duck Cloth, to lay over a frame, a galvanized or aluminum "Piano Hinge" and aluminum support poles that can either be folded flat against the trailer with the awning, or disconnected and put inside for travel.
Not exactly pretty, but functional.
Steven Wolf
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