Fitted roll out awning for caravans advice please

billyandbobby replied on 11/10/2020 20:47

Posted on 11/10/2020 20:47

Hi all, just returned to a caravan after trying motorhoming for the third time. One thing we did love about the motorhome was the wind out canopy awning that was up in a minute or so. We don’t really need an enclosed awning and like the idea of adding a roll out canopy to our new caravan. I have come across a few comments about potentially damaging the side of the caravan and not clearing awning lights etc. Really like the Thule Omnistore 1200. Can anyone give advice from using one of these on their caravan please?

eurortraveller replied on 13/10/2020 12:10

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:10

It sounds like work to me.  I just sit in the sun when it's shining , and then go inside when it's raining. 

SteveL replied on 13/10/2020 12:27

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:10 by eurortraveller

It sounds like work to me.  I just sit in the sun when it's shining , and then go inside when it's raining. 

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:27

That's fine if you just want to sit, although personally not a fan of sitting in the sun. However, they are very good for BBQing under when the weather is a little uncertain.😀

replied on 13/10/2020 12:36

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:10 by eurortraveller

It sounds like work to me.  I just sit in the sun when it's shining , and then go inside when it's raining. 

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:36

The user and all related content has been Deleted User

DSB replied on 13/10/2020 19:02

Posted on 13/10/2020 12:27 by SteveL

That's fine if you just want to sit, although personally not a fan of sitting in the sun. However, they are very good for BBQing under when the weather is a little uncertain.😀

Posted on 13/10/2020 19:02

.....we tend to find the canopy useful for keeping the outside stuff under a little bit of cover.  Although most of our outside equipment is basically waterproof, I much prefer the protection that the canopy offers.

David

billyandbobby replied on 13/10/2020 20:10

Posted on 13/10/2020 20:10

Thanks for all the replies and photos. Harrib0 I also have Swift (Elegance) so suspect I would have the light covered at least partly. Not over fussed about limiting light output as long as didn’t damage the fitting - won’t be moving the fitting while the body warranty is in place. I hadn’t thought about water pooling so that is something else to consider. I’m pleased so many have used this type of canopy, or similar, without damage to the van or awning rail.

ABM replied on 13/10/2020 23:09

Posted on 13/10/2020 23:09

Depending on the style, B & B, you could always ensure that one leg ( of the awning you muppet  undecided ) is lowered a little to allow excess water to run off the roof   --  well I do with mine smile

replied on 14/10/2020 10:15

Posted on 13/10/2020 20:10 by billyandbobby

Thanks for all the replies and photos. Harrib0 I also have Swift (Elegance) so suspect I would have the light covered at least partly. Not over fussed about limiting light output as long as didn’t damage the fitting - won’t be moving the fitting while the body warranty is in place. I hadn’t thought about water pooling so that is something else to consider. I’m pleased so many have used this type of canopy, or similar, without damage to the van or awning rail.

Posted on 14/10/2020 10:15

The user and all related content has been Deleted User

commeyras replied on 14/10/2020 10:39

Posted on 14/10/2020 10:39

 Re HarribO's post.  We have a Fiamma Coverstore and I can put it out and away single handed.  I do similar to his method but without second person (my OH has arthritis and is only 4ft 10in so she gets my beer ready!) After unwinding I just pull out one leg/arm (from awning!!) then set leg to lowest position, arm to caravan extended but at lowest tension; then same with other side.  Then simply adjust both sides to height and tension and peg out a couple of guys, and yes it is essential one side slightly lower.  This all takes just a few minutes.   Putting away is reverse procedure.  It is a little heavy rolling up but I can still manage at 76.  I have the centre pole but never use it.  The only other comment I would make is that they are not very wind tolerant; I have the 'Storm Guys'  which give extra security but still take it down in very strong winds; luckily a rare event when/where we go.cool

harrib0 replied on 14/10/2020 11:25

Posted on 14/10/2020 10:39 by commeyras

 Re HarribO's post.  We have a Fiamma Coverstore and I can put it out and away single handed.  I do similar to his method but without second person (my OH has arthritis and is only 4ft 10in so she gets my beer ready!) After unwinding I just pull out one leg/arm (from awning!!) then set leg to lowest position, arm to caravan extended but at lowest tension; then same with other side.  Then simply adjust both sides to height and tension and peg out a couple of guys, and yes it is essential one side slightly lower.  This all takes just a few minutes.   Putting away is reverse procedure.  It is a little heavy rolling up but I can still manage at 76.  I have the centre pole but never use it.  The only other comment I would make is that they are not very wind tolerant; I have the 'Storm Guys'  which give extra security but still take it down in very strong winds; luckily a rare event when/where we go.cool

Posted on 14/10/2020 11:25

Ah, you seem to have the knack that I don't!

I tried that method and it was like something out of a comedy sketch, similar method to you but moving across to the other side something on the previous side would drop/fall over etc.

It must have provided great entertainment for the rest of the site, right up to the point I walked off in a huff laughing

Very valid point about wind speed, I use these to stop it flapping

Clamps

But anything other that a "moderate " breeze I would take it down.

commeyras replied on 14/10/2020 12:06

Posted on 14/10/2020 12:06

Back to OP.  I have used mine for years and whilst it does cover the awning light when in it's bag it has not damaged it nor has it made any marks on my caravan; the Fiamma has pads built into the bag.  If you get one that slides into the awning rail remember to get the 'lugs' that hold it in position on the rail - you need 2,  one either end of the bag.  We do most of our touring in warmer climates so I usually fit my Fiamma to the caravan before our first trip and remove it for the winter.

near Malvern Hills Club Campsite Member photo by Andrew Cole

Book a late escape

There's still availability at many popular UK Club campsites - find your perfect pitch today for a last minute trip!

Book now
Woman sitting in camping chair by Wastwater in the Lake District with her two dogs and picnic blanket

Follow us on Facebook

Follow the Caravan and Motorhome Club via our official Facebook page for latest news, holiday ideas, events, activities and special offers.

Photo of Wast Water, Lake District by Sue Peace
Visit Facebook