DIY Dometic Awning Fabric Replacement: A Complete Guide

Looking to replace your worn-out Dometic awning fabric but not sure where to start? You’re about to discover exactly how to tackle this project yourself, saving money while restoring your RV’s outdoor living space to its former glory. From selecting the right fabric to reattaching everything properly, this guide walks you through every step of the process.

What Makes Dometic Awning Fabric Unique

Dometic awnings use specialized fabrics designed specifically for the harsh conditions RVs face on the road. Understanding these fabrics helps you make the right replacement choice.

Dometic’s premium option is their Weathershield™ Rest line—made from 100% polypropylene that’s dope-dyed for exceptional UV resistance. These fabrics deliver impressive waterproofing (200 L/m²/hr) while remaining easy to clean and maintain.

The primary advantages of genuine Dometic fabrics include:

• Pre-sized cuts that match your exact model
• Integrated bead cords properly sized for Dometic tracks
• Specialized UV treatments that extend lifespan
• Weather resistance formulated for mobile applications

Choosing the Right Replacement Fabric

When selecting new awning fabric, you need to balance durability, appearance, and budget.

Fabric Types and Performance

The most popular choices for Dometic awning replacement are:

1. Genuine Dometic fabric – Perfect match for your existing system, available through Camping World and authorized dealers
2. Heavy-duty vinyl – More budget-friendly with excellent water resistance, available from suppliers like ShadeProNet
3. Solution-dyed acrylic – Superior fade resistance but slightly more permeable to water

Whichever you choose, make sure it’s compatible with your specific Dometic model. RV Awning Smart specializes in Dometic-compatible replacements if you’re looking for alternatives.

Measuring for Your New Awning Fabric

Getting the measurements right is crucial for a proper fit.

1. Extend your awning completely
2. Measure from center of left end cap to center of right end cap
3. Add 1″ to this measurement for proper tensioning
4. Measure the projection (how far it extends out from your RV)
5. Note the model number from your existing awning if visible

Most Dometic awnings come in standard widths from 10′ to 21′, but always verify your specific measurements.

Tools You’ll Need for Replacement

Gather these tools before starting your project:

• Cordless drill with 4.76mm and 5.56mm bits
• Tape measure and utility knife
• Masking tape (to protect edges)
• Straight pick or locking pin
• Vice grips and pop rivet tool
• 3/16″ pop rivets
• Hex head screws (#14-10 × 2½” and 1¾”)
• TEK screws (#6 × 7/16″)
• Silicone spray lubricant
• Marine-grade sealant
• Two 8-foot stepladders
• Helper (this is definitely a two-person job)

For protecting your fabric from sharp door edges, consider a door roller kit as an additional investment.

Removing the Old Awning Fabric

Follow these steps carefully to remove your old fabric without damaging the hardware:

Step 1: Lock the Spring Tension

The torsion spring in your Dometic awning is under significant tension. Before doing anything else:

1. Extend the awning about 12 inches
2. Locate the small hole in the left end cap
3. Insert a straight pick or locking pin through this hole to secure the spring
4. Verify the spring is locked before proceeding

This prevents the spring from suddenly unwinding, which could cause injury or damage.

Step 2: Remove the Right End Cap

With the spring secured:

1. Use your drill to remove the rivets holding the right end cap in place
2. Carefully pull the end cap and spring assembly away from the roller tube
3. Set these parts aside in a safe place where you won’t lose small components

Step 3: Detach and Unroll the Old Fabric

Now you can safely remove the old fabric:

1. Slowly unroll the fabric completely from the roller tube
2. Identify both the “A” track (awning) and “V” track (valance) on your RV
3. Gently slide the fabric’s bead cords out of both tracks
4. Have a helper support the roller tube while you work

According to Panther RV Products, this step requires patience to avoid damaging the tracks or remaining hardware.

Step 4: Disconnect the Awning Arms

To fully remove the roller tube:

1. Remove the bolts connecting the awning arms to the roller tube
2. Carefully lower the roller tube away from the arms
3. Place the tube on a clean surface to avoid damage

Installing Your New Dometic Awning Fabric

With the old fabric removed, it’s time to install the new one.

Step 1: Prepare the Awning Rails

Before inserting the new fabric:

1. Clean both the “A” and “V” tracks thoroughly
2. Use a small file to smooth any rough edges at the track openings
3. Cover the edges with masking tape to prevent fabric snags
4. Apply silicone spray along the entire length of both tracks

Step 2: Insert the New Fabric

This is definitely a multi-person job:

1. Position your helpers so one feeds the fabric while another pulls it through
2. Starting at one end, feed the bead cord of the new fabric into the awning rail
3. Work slowly and evenly to avoid bunching or stretching
4. Once started, pull the fabric through the entire length of the track

I recommend having three people for this step: one feeding, one guiding the middle, and one pulling.

Step 3: Reassemble the Roller Tube

With the fabric attached to your RV:

1. Slide the roller tube onto the new fabric’s roller cord
2. Reinstall the right spring and end cap using new pop rivets
3. Re-tension the spring by counting turns to match the original tension (typically 7-9 turns)
4. Remove the locking pin from the left end cap to transfer tension to the system

Step 4: Reinstall Arms and Brackets

To complete the installation:

1. Secure the top mounting brackets either over or below the awning rail
2. Install the bottom brackets at the correct height
3. Install stop bolts with approximately 12.7mm clearance for travel safety
4. Center the fabric and tube symmetrically on your RV
5. Test by cycling the awning fully open and closed several times

Maintaining Your New Awning Fabric

To maximize the lifespan of your new Dometic awning fabric:

• Clean regularly with mild soap and water to prevent mildew
• Never store wet – always allow fabric to dry completely before retracting
• Lubricate tracks with silicone spray twice yearly
• Inspect spring tension annually, adjusting if necessary
• Retract during storms or when leaving your RV unattended
• Use door roller kits to prevent fabric snags from sharp door edges

According to Dometic’s official guidelines, proper maintenance can double the lifespan of your awning fabric.

What You’ll Spend on Replacement

The cost to replace your Dometic awning fabric varies based on several factors:

Most RV owners spend between $200-$700 for fabric replacement, with the average DIY project costing around $350 for a standard-sized awning.

If you’re replacing the entire awning system with hardware, expect to spend between $1,500-$4,000 for professional installation, or $800-$1,500 for a DIY kit.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with careful installation, you might encounter some issues:

Fabric bunching when retracting:

• Ensure fabric is perfectly centered on the roller tube
• Check for proper spring tension on both sides

Water pooling on extended awning:

• Adjust arm height to create proper drainage slope
• Consider aftermarket support poles for heavy rain

Fabric sliding in track:

• Secure with additional TEK screws at the ends
• Apply marine sealant at track endpoints

Creaking or binding when extending:

• Lubricate all moving parts with silicone spray
• Check brackets for proper alignment

Is DIY Right for You?

While replacing Dometic awning fabric is certainly doable as a DIY project, consider these factors before deciding:

DIY is ideal if you:

• Have mechanical experience
• Own the necessary tools
• Have 1-2 helpers available
• Are comfortable working with tension springs
• Want to save $120-$240 in labor costs

Consider professional installation if you:

• Are unsure about working with tension springs
• Have a particularly large or complex awning
• Lack access to proper tools or assistance
• Want the security of a professional warranty

Professional installation usually takes 2-3 hours, while DIY projects might require 4-6 hours for beginners.

Getting the Most Value from Your New Awning Fabric

To ensure your investment lasts:

1. Choose quality over price – Higher-grade fabrics last significantly longer
2. Consider climate needs – Select UV-resistant fabrics for sunny regions, waterproof options for rainy areas
3. Install proper accessories – De-flapper clamps and support poles protect during use
4. Clean seasonally – Regular maintenance prevents dirt and organic matter from degrading the fabric

With proper selection, installation and care, your new Dometic awning fabric should provide 7-10 years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment in your RV lifestyle.