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How To Replace Awning Fabric

By Marta - SunSetter Technical Specialist

Posted March 12, 2025


How To Replace Awning Fabric


SunSetter retractable awnings are built to last. The frame, brackets, bars, and arm clamps are made with high-quality aluminum with a baked-on enamel finish that never rusts or needs painting. And the fabrics used to construct the awnings are world class, providing years of reliable performance.

Those durable fabrics can wear out over time. No fabric lasts forever, particularly fabrics constantly exposed to the elements. Luckily, SunSetter awnings are designed so that the fabric can be easily replaced.

Many SunSetter owners aren’t aware their awning fabric can be replaced. Being able to replace your awning fabric can save you money and allow you to get more years of performance from your metal arms, bars, brackets and other hardware. Even if your fabric isn't worn, you might just want to replace your fabric because you’d like a different look or color. With over 100 fabric options, it’s easy to find a color or pattern that’s right for you. And removing and replacing your fabric is quite easy.

All it takes to change your awning fabric is:

  • You
  • A helper
  • Phillips Screwdriver
  • Ladder
Got those items? Let’s get started.


A Simple Process

The process begins by contacting SunSetter to order your new awning fabric. Call 1-800-876-2340 to get things started.

1. Open the awning and unplug if your awning is motorized. If you have an aluminum hood, remove the hood end plate opposite the side of the motor or gear assembly.

2. Use the manual crank to unroll the fabric to reveal the fabric slot in the roller bar.

3. Remove the two or three screws from the end plate of the front bar.

4. With your helper, pull the fabric out of both the roller bar and the front bar at the same time.

5. Once the fabric is removed, the new fabric can be inserted into the roller bar and front bar at the same time. This is best done in small steps, alternating from one bar to the other.

6. After the fabric is completely inserted, put the front bar end plate back on and if you have a hood, put the hood end plate back on as well.

7. Use the manual crank to slowly roll the fabric onto the roller bar—the fabric should roll over the top onto the roller bar. If your awning is motorized, plug it in and test for proper operation.

Those are the basic steps. You can find the complete details for changing your manual, motorized and motorized PRO awning fabric here. 

If you’re replacing the fabric on a Platinum Plus semi-cassette awning, you’ll also need a 6mm Allen wrench to execute a few additional steps. You can find complete Platinum Plus semi-cassette awning fabric replacement instructions here.