Whether you use vinyl awnings for commercial establishments or residences, you may find them looking worn and faded. Vinyl awnings get exposed to the elements, which increases the chances of fading. However, instead of replacing the awnings, give them a makeover with a fresh coat of paint. Paint your vinyl awnings by following these steps.

Prepare to Paint the Awning

To paint the awning, gather:

• work gloves
• tarp, drop cloths, or plastic 
• bucket
• soft sponges
• garden hose (optional)
• liquid dish soap
• lacquer thinner 
• spray paint for vinyl 

Plan to paint during a three- to four-day dry spell and on days with little wind. Moisture can impact the drying time of materials.

Clean the Awning

If possible, remove the awning, and lay it on a flat, concrete work surface outdoors or in a garage. Spread drop cloths, tarp, or plastic over the floor where you are working to catch paint drips.

Make a cleaning solution from equal parts of dish washing liquid and water. Dip a sponge in the solution and scrub the entire awning surface, cleaning caked dirt with a bristle brush. 

Rinse the awning with a hose outside or pour a bucket of water over it to rinse, then let it dry. Clean the surface again with lacquer thinner and a clean cloth to remove grease and let it dry.

Paint the Awning

Inspect the awning for holes or cracks. To fix the crack or hole, mix equal parts of white toothpaste and water in a bowl, and use an emery board to spread the paste on the damaged area, and let the paste dry.

Epoxy paints are more effective for painting vinyl. Fortified acrylic paints are budget-friendly and give an even coat, but they may not last as long as epoxy. Buy enough paint to cover the awning. A typical spray can cover about seven feet.

It is best to apply spray paint outside to avoid inhaling the fumes. If you have to work inside, be certain to keep the area ventilated or wear a face mask. You may prefer to practice spray painting on cardboard. 

Hold the can six inches from the surface, and work in back and forth motions. Spraying too close can results in globs, while spraying too far away can result in too thin layers. 

Also, keep the can in constant motion to avoid runs. Spray two to four additional thin coats, letting each layer dry. Let the awning dry overnight, four twenty-four hours, or the time suggested by the paint manufacturer before you reinstall it. 

.If you want to give your awnings a makeover but don't want to paint them yourself, you can contact professional painters, such as http://www.americanbestpaintingmiami.net.