Whether you are living life on the road or weekending in your favorite park, your RV awning is a major player in how comfortable and enjoyable your outdoor space can be. When it starts to show signs of wear or stops performing the way you need it to, it might be time for an upgrade. When that time comes,
Carefree of Colorado has you covered with the best RV awning replacement fabric made for every type of adventure.
Why Replacing Your RV Awning Fabric Matters
Your RV awning takes a beating. From UV rays to blustery rainstorms, dust, and long hours on the road, awning fabric is constantly exposed to the elements. If your fabric is starting to fade, crack, or tear, it’s not just an eyesore, it’s a comfort and safety issue, too.
Replacing your awning fabric is one of the easiest ways to upgrade and keep your outdoor setup ready for the road.
What is the Best RV Awning Replacement Fabric For You?
There’s no single best fabric for every RV owner, but there is one that’s best for you. Choosing between vinyl and acrylic fabric is the big decision most RV owners face. Let’s break down the differences and benefits of both.
Vinyl vs Acrylic
Vinyl fabric is a popular choice for RVers who need waterproof protection and easy cleaning. It’s a laminated material that keeps moisture out, making it ideal for rainy regions or anyone who doesn’t want to worry about wet weather. Carefree vinyl fabrics come standard with
Vinyl Weatherguard, a heavy-duty wrap that shields your awning from road grime, UV rays, and pollutants when it’s rolled up.
On the flip side,
acrylic fabric offers a breathable, woven alternative. It lets air circulate to keep the area under your awning cooler, even in full sun. It dries quickly and resists fading thanks to woven-in patterns and colors. If you love the idea of creating a vibrant, shady oasis with serious airflow, acrylic might be your match.
Both fabric types are built to last, but your destination and travel style will help determine the best RV awning fabric replacement for your needs.
Comparing the Best RV Awning Fabric Replacement Options
Whether you’re all about comfort, durability, or sticking to a budget, there’s a Carefree fabric that fits your trip.
Best Overall RV Awning Fabric
Carefree
Premium Vinyl Fabrics offer unbeatable style, strength, and performance. They are crafted from 15 oz. antimicrobial vinyl and double stitched with Gore® Tenara® thread that stands up to UV rays, saltwater, chemicals, and just about anything else the road throws at you. You get serious longevity and a 10-year warranty to back it up.
Best for Durability and Harsh Weather
If you’re chasing storms or cruising through all four seasons, Acrylic Fabric with
Alumaguard, Uniguard, or Carefree proprietary FLXguard protection is your go-to. Alumaguard is an aluminum wrap that encloses your fabric roller assembly automatically as your awning is rolled up, keeping the woven fabric protected when not in use.
Best Budget-Friendly Option
Looking for quality without maxing out your road trip fund? Our Standard Vinyl Fabric with an included Vinyl Weatherguard offers great value and long-lasting protection without compromising on quality. It’s mildew-resistant, waterproof, and tough enough for regular travelers.
Best For UV and Heat Protection
If summer sun is your biggest challenge, Acrylic Fabric with FLXguard® offers high-end protection. FLXguard is a new, proprietary polymer developed and offered exclusively by Carefree that rolls up with your awning to protect it from the elements. FLXguard is flexible, lightweight, and robust. It gives your fabric the same protection as more expensive metal wraps at a fraction of the cost.
How to Choose the Right Replacement Awning
There are a few key factors to keep in mind before making a final decision.
Material Quality and Denier Rating
Carefree Premium Vinyl uses 1000 denier fabric for added strength and longevity. That’s over double the durability of some competing fabrics that use 400 denier fabric. Denier matters when you want your awning to stand up to years of adventures.
Weather Resistance and Mold Prevention
Vinyl is waterproof but not completely mildewproof. Acrylic breathes better, helping to prevent mildew when you’re in humid climates. If you frequently travel through the South or Pacific Northwest, that breathability could be a game changer.
Compatibility with Your RV and Roller Setup
Acrylic fabrics require FLXguard, Uniguard, or Alumaguard for proper installation. If your RV isn’t already outfitted for these protection systems, upgrading might be necessary. Vinyl, on the other hand, is more universally compatible and easier to retrofit.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Vinyl can be wiped clean and is generally lower maintenance. Acrylic fabric needs occasional brushing or rinsing to keep it fresh. Whichever you choose, proper protection while stored makes a major difference in how long your fabric lasts.
Protecting Your Awning from the Elements
Your awning works hard. Protecting it when it’s not in use is one of the smartest investments you can make. Carefree offers four
custom-fit protection systems so you can keep your awning in excellent condition and extend its life.
- Vinyl Weatherguard is the standard wrap for vinyl fabric.
- FLXguard delivers polymer-based protection that mimics the strength of metal.
- Uniguard features a single-piece aluminum cover shaped like your roller tube.
- Alumaguard is our top-of-the-line option with hinged aluminum slats for heavy-duty defense.
Find the Perfect Fit with Carefree
From breathable acrylic to waterproof vinyl, the best RV awning replacement fabric depends on where you’re headed and how you like to travel. Carefree makes it easy to upgrade with confidence. All of our fabrics are built for life on the road and backed by real protection, expert support, and bold style. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out canopy or customizing your dream setup, you’re just a few steps away from shade that keeps up with every adventure.
Ready to roll? Browse our collection or talk to a Carefree dealer today to find your perfect fabric fit.
RV Awning FAQ
What is the most durable RV awning fabric?
Our Premium Vinyl Fabric with Gore Tenara thread is the toughest option, offering outstanding durability in all conditions.
Can I replace my RV awning fabric myself?
Yes, many ShadePlus fabrics are designed for easy DIY replacement, especially our vinyl options. Acrylic may require some additional components.
Is vinyl or acrylic better for RV awnings?
Vinyl is better for waterproof protection and easy cleaning. Acrylic offers better airflow, cooling, and long-term fade resistance.
What is the best awning fabric for humid climates?
Acrylic fabric is the top choice thanks to its breathable design that helps prevent mildew.
