adding an awning?

[hamilton]

Hello Gang.
one of the new guys here.
I have an 80's model Sunlite pop-up with the scissors type "Easy Up" lift system.
I want to add an awning but am unsure where to mount some eyelets or such to the roof.
Anybody ever done something similar?
Or should i just go for a free standing awning?
also would like to here from any pop-up owners in the Cincinnati Area!!!!!!!!!!!!

[zamboni]

I have an 80's model Sunlite pop-up with the scissors type "Easy Up" lift system.
I want to add an awning but am unsure where to mount some eyelets or such to the roof.

I'm not familiar with the camper -- does it have a channel (or rail) along the roof?  This is what most awnings slide into, and looks like this:


If so, then you can get one of many awnings to slide into that.  I personally really like the Carefree of Colorado awnings (had one on my first popup, much better than the Coleman supplied one on my second pup).


If your camper does not have the channel, they can be purchased and you can install it.  Merely ensure you do not damage the siding because you'll probably need to screw it in every XX inches (and lots of silicon behind it to help hold it and seal it).  You can buy it online at places like this:
http://www.larrydennis.com/marine/tubing/default.asp

[tlhdoc]

Welcome to PUT!  To add an awning to your roof, you will need to add an awning rail to the side of the roof.  I would contact the manufacturer on how to attach the awning.  A free standing awning can be moved to what ever spot you want, but you have to pack it.  

[ScouterMom]

many campers come with that awning rail whether they have the awning or not. Even my old  '73 starcraft has it - it's actually part of the corner roof molding on the door side on most starcrafts I've seen.

what that channel does is hold the corded hem of the canvas awning - they sew a rope right into the hem and it then slides into that channel, giving you an unbroken attachment point all along the entire length of the camper.  it also channels water down the canvas, and NOT between the awning and the camper - so you don't get drips down your neck as you step out of your camper - a really nice, simple idea.

here's one someone made from an old free-standing one - not bad!



Laura

[hamilton]

Thanks to all for your feedback.
My pop-up doesnt have the channel for an awning ,maybe I'll look into one of those.
it has an "easy-up" lift system with the scissors arms,which work just fine.
I'll have to measure and see if the channel can be mounted there without interfering with the arms.
I have seen the mods where some have made their own awnings from drop cloths and am pretty good with needle work thanks to my Dear Departed Grandma Hingsbergen, years ago.........
She taught us boys , 5 of us, to sew because she said one days we'd need to know how.
Grandma's are ALWAYS RIGHT!
Thanks again Gang.This site is Awesome!
I hope to take my pup up to Michigan this October to go salmon fishing .
anybody else ?

[ScouterMom]

Grandma is right - sewing is a skill EVERYONE should have - for at least the basics!

I would hesitate to put additional holes in a roof for any reason, unless absolutely necessary.  (I've seen too many rotted roofs! )  

Some ideas might be to mount a magnetic strip, or velcro strip across the roof top to attach the canopy - especially if you use something lighter than the heavy canvas used on our older PUP's .

Or you could get one of those pop-up screen houses and make an extension piece to bridge the gap between the camper roof and the shelter.  that way you could use the screen room / awning independently OR attached to the PUP.

the nice thing about them is that they don't usually need all the guy ropes and stakes that make a tripping hazard on the older style screen room / awnings that have staked-out poles. Just make sure their roofline is tall enough to clear your camper's door when it opens.

laura

[hamilton]

Thanks Scoutermom, i appreciate the words of encouragement.
My nephew just became an Eagle Scout lasy summer and he is happy in college now at Miami of Ohio.
I think i am goin to look for a stand alone awning so i dont have to put any holes in the roof.
just sealed the roof top yesterday in anticipation of RAIN.
Been 3-4 weeks again since any in Cincy area. my grass is brown as s%*t, but the tomatoes are still coming in fat and juicy.
Thanks again to all. great group here.