Answers to Frequently Asked Awning Questions

Monday, September 29, 2014

Picture Illustrations of the Set Up of an Arched Vintage Trailer Awning by Kristi with Shock Poles


A customer requested a 9' rail length awning that extended out from the trailer 8'. This was my first attempt at making a shock pole awning in this larger size, that wasn't a square shape either.

Be careful, because the shock poles are long and will be under tension.

After sliding the awning into the awning rail,
 from underneath, insert the shock poles into the reinforced pockets in each corner. Swing the shock poles upward, then
slide the shock poles until they cross in the center and lift the awning fabric.

Extend your adjustable height tent poles.
Insert the tent pole tips into the corner grommets.
The shock poles are shown in the correct position on the underside of the awning.
This image shows the incorrect shock pole positioning.
Slide the poles until they cross in the precise sweet spot arching the awning fabric upward.
Tie the  shock poles together with the braid strapto keep them from slipping out of position.
For extra strength a Velcro Strap is a good idea
Over the years, I decided that the center grommet was not necessary. The largest arched awning I make now is 8'x8'.

Side view of an arched vintage trailer awning with shock poles for lift
The pockets are hidden in the facings on the underside of the awning, so the awning can be used as a traditional flat awning if so desired.
There are several ways to take the arched awning down. The shock poles are under tension, so be careful when swinging them downward to remove from the pockets.
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