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How to Measure for RV Slide Out Awnings: The Ultimate Guide
There are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing an RV slide out awning. Make sure you get the perfect fit for your rig, and that’s not always easy to do without some guidance. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, so you can be confident in your purchase. We’ll also share some tips on what to look for when making your selection. Let’s get started!
The difference between fabric and awning
There are two different types of awnings that you can install on your RV: fabric awnings and aluminum awnings. Fabric awnings are made from, well, fabric! They’re less expensive than aluminum awnings, but they’re also not as durable. Aluminum awnings are more expensive, but they’ll last longer.
If you’ve decided to go with an aluminum awning, great!
Measure the RV slide out’s width. To do so, simply measure the width at the point where the awning will be installed from the inside of the slide out. Next, measure the height. [1]
What is a slide-out flange?
This is a metal or plastic ring that is installed around the outer edge. The purpose of the flange is to provide support and stability.
Most RV slide outs are equipped with a manual crank. Some newer models may have an electric motor that does this automatically.
In order to properly measure, you’ll need to know the following dimensions:
- The width of the RV slide out (measured from one end to the other)
- The height of it (measured from top to bottom)
- The distance from the ground to the bottom
- The distance from to the center of the RV (this is important for determining where to place the awning arms)
Once you have these dimensions, you can begin shopping for a new one. There are many different brands and styles to choose from. [2]
Things You Need to Know When Measuring
There are a few things you need to keep in mind. To begin, you must first estimate the RV’s size for determining the awning size. Take into account the weather. If it is going to be windy, you will need a larger awning. Finally, you need to decide on the style of awning you want. There are many different styles and colors to choose from.
Let’s get started! Firstly measure the length of your RV. You will need to measure from the front of the RV to the back. This will give you the length of the awning you need. Next, you need to measure the width of your RV. You will need to measure from one side of the RV to the other. This will give you the width of the awning you need.
There are many different places you can buy awnings. You can buy them online, at an RV dealership, or at a local store. Ensure you take your time and find the perfect awning. [3]
How to Measure an RV Slide-Out Awning
Firstly, measure the width, from one end to the other. Ensure to write down this measurement so you don’t forget it later!
Next, measure the height.
1. Locate the slide-out flange
It is a metal strip that runs along the edge. It is typically about 2 inches wide and is located on the top, front, and back of the slide out.
Take four measurements:
- The width.
- The distance from the RV’s center to the front edge.
- The distance from the RV’s center to the back edge.
- The height.
2. Measure edge to edge
Simply measure from the outermost edge of one arm to the outermost edge of the other arm. This will give you the full width of the awning.
Remember, most awnings are designed to fit snugly against your RV, ensure that you have an accurate measurement before ordering your awning. You can always trim down an oversize awning, but you can’t make a too-small awning fit.
3. Match the fabric width to your measurement
Most RV slide out awnings are made with a 16-18 foot wide fabric. This means that the total width of the awning, including the arms and hardware, will be slightly less than 16 feet.
When you’re ready to order your new awning, simply match your measurement to the closest size available. If you’re between two sizes, the safest approach is to go for a larger one. This will give you more coverage and protection from the elements.
4. Verify the extension distance
The extension distance is how far out from the RV the awning will extend when it’s fully extended. Most awnings have an extension distance of 12-14 feet.
5. Choose the color
Now that you’ve taken all of the necessary measurements, it’s time to choose your awning color. Awnings are available in a variety of colors, so take some time to browse through our selection. [4]
Measuring For Mounting Hardware
Now that you know how to measure your awning, it’s time to start thinking about where you want to mount it. Most slide outs will have some sort of mounting hardware already in place, but if not, you’ll need to install some before you can put up your awning.
When deciding where to hang your awning, keep the following factors in mind:
- Make sure the area is strong enough to support the weight of the awning and any wind or rain that might blow against it.
- Choose an area that gets plenty of sun during the day so you can enjoy your new space to the fullest.
- Avoid putting the awning too close to trees or other obstacles that could block the sun or cause damage to the awning.
Slide out awnings are a great way to add extra living space to your RV, but they need to be properly installed in order to function correctly.
FAQ
How is an RV awning measured?
You can find this measurement in your RV’s owner manual or by measuring the width of the slide out from the outside edge of the trim on one side to the outside edge of the trim on the other side.
Next, you will need to determine how far out from the side of your RV you would like your awning to extend. For most people, an extension of between 18 and 24 inches is ideal. However, if you are planning to use your awning for shade, you may want to extend it further out to provide more coverage. Once you have determined your desired extension, you can add two inches to this measurement to account for the overhang on either side of the slide out. This will give you your total awning extension. [5]
How do you measure to replace an RV awning?
You need to know the width of your RV’s slide out, as well as the distance from the edge of the slide out to the center of the RV. You also need to know the height.
To find the width, simply measure from one end to the other. To find the distance from the edge of your slide out to the center of your RV, measure from the edge of your slide out to where it meets in the center with your RV’s main body. To find the height, measure from top to bottom.
Once you have these measurements, you can begin shopping for a new RV awning. Be sure to take your time and find an awning, as well as one that you like the look of. There are many different styles and colors of RV awnings available, so you’re sure to find one that you love.
How do you measure a slide?
To measure a slide, you will need to take three measurements: the width, the projection, and the height.
Width: Measure the width of the slide at the widest point. This is usually where the awning arms are located.
Projection: Measure from the center of the slide to the front edge of the awning fabric. This will give you an idea of how far out the awning will project when it is extended.
Height: Measure from the ground to the highest point on the slide. This will ensure that your awning will be tall enough to provide protection from rain or sun. [6]
How do you measure a slide topper for replacement fabric?
Before you start measuring for your new slide topper, there are a few things you should know:
- The width of your RV’s slides
- The height of your RV’s slides (measure from the top of the slide to the ground)
- The type of brackets that are currently being used to hold up your RV’s slide topper. There are two main types: Z-brackets and J-brackets. You’ll need to know which type you have so that you can order the correct replacement brackets with your new fabric.
To measure for your new fabric, you’ll need a tape measure and someone to help you hold one end of the tape measure while you stretch it out along the length of the slide. Measure from the outside edge of one side of the slide to the outside edge of the other side. Then, measure from the top of the slide to the ground. Be sure to take note of which measurements are for width and which are for height!
Useful Video: How to Measure for an RV Slide Out Awning
Conclusion
Now that you know how to measure RV slide out awnings, you can get started on choosing the perfect one for your home on wheels. Be sure to take into account the size of your slide out, the weather conditions in your area, and your personal style when making your selection. With so many great options on the market, there’s sure to be an awning that’s perfect for you and your RV. Thanks for reading!
References:
- https://www.herculite.com/blog/awning-fabrics-comparison-what-s-right-for-you
- https://store.lci1.com/blog/how-to-measure-an-rv-slide-out-awning
- https://prek-math-te.stanford.edu/measurement-data/what-children-know-and-need-know-about-measurement-and-estimation
- https://store.lci1.com/blog/how-to-measure-an-rv-slide-out-awning
- https://thecampingnerd.com/how-to-measure-and-replace-rv-awning-fabric/
- https://homeguides.sfgate.com/determine-drawer-slide-sizes-26170.html