So you’re an avid RVer looking to enhance your camping experience. You love sitting outside under the awning, but the bugs and sun are really putting a damper on things. It’s time to invest in an RV awning shade screen. But with so many options out thеrе,  how do you choosе?

Wеll,  you’vе comе to thе right placе. We’re going to walk you through the different types of shade cloths for RV awnings so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for maximum sun protection, insect control, privacy, or a little of everything, this guide will help you determine the ideal shade cloth based on the level of coverage, material, and price point you want. By the end of this, you’ll be chilling in the shade and keeping the creepy crawlies out. Ready to find your new favorite RV accessory? Let’s dive in!

What Is an RV Awning Shade Screen?

An RV awning shade screen is a mesh curtain you attach to your recreational vehicle’s awning to block sunlight while still allowing air flow. 

When the summer sun is beating down, an awning shade screen lets you enjoy the outdoors without baking. The breathable mesh material blocks up to 90% of UV rays so you can relax in the shade, but it’s still breezy and not stifling like a vinyl awning cover.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an RV awning shade screen:

1. Size – Make sure to measure your exact awning dimensions and get a screen that is specifically designed for that size. Shade screens come in standard RV awning widths, typically 8 to 22 feet wide.
2. Material – The most popular options are polyester or vinyl-coated polyester mesh. Polyester is very durable and breathable. Vinyl coating provides extra water resistance and UV protection.
3. Attachment method – Shade screens either wrap around the awning roller tube or attach to the awning rail or arms. Wrap-around styles are often easiest to put up and take down. Rail/arm attachments typically provide the most coverage.
4. Additional features – Some shade screens have extra benefits like privacy flaps, storage pockets, guylines for extra stability in wind, or the ability to open in sections.
5. Price – You can pay $50-$500 or more for an RV awning shade screen depending on the size, material, and features. Shop around at RV parts stores or websites to find good deals.

With the right awning shade screen, you can enjoy chillin’ in the shade and the breeze on even the hottest of days. Now that’s the kind of RV living we can get behind!

Benefits of Using an Awning Shade Screen on Your RV

An awning shade screen offers some great benefits for RV owners.

Protection from the Elements

A shade screen protects your awning from sun damage, rain, and wind. Without a screen, your awning fabric and hardware can deteriorate quickly from exposure. A screen blocks up to 90% of UV rays to prevent fading, and it shields from rain and wind to prevent tearing or structural damage.

More Comfortable Living Space

A shade screen creates a more livable space under your awning. It blocks sunlight and heat to keep the area cooler, allowing you to enjoy sitting outside your RV during the day. You can leave doors and windows open without worrying about bugs getting in. Privacy screens also block the view from the outside so you can keep doors open.

pest control

Screens keep annoying insects at bay so you can relax without swatting flies or mosquitos. Pet screens have a tighter mesh to prevent even the smallest bugs from getting through. You’ll appreciate how much more you use your awning space without pesky insects buzzing around.

Flexibility

Shade screens roll up and down quickly so you can adjust as needed. On cool or rainy days, just roll it down for protection. When the sun comes out or it gets too warm, roll it up to let the breeze flow through. You get the benefits of an awning with the flexibility of adjusting the amount of coverage.

Investing in an awning shade screen allows you to get the most out of your RV awning and create an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for years to come. With the right shade screen, your awning becomes a more functional and comfortable area for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying life on the road.

Choosing the Best Shade Cloth Material for RV Awning Screens

When choosing an RV awning screen, the material is one of the most important factors to consider. The material will determine how much shade, privacy, and protection from the elements the screen provides. The three most common materials for RV awning screens are:

Polyethylene

Polyethylene, like Poly-Tex, is an inexpensive, lightweight material that provides basic protection from sun and light rain. It allows some light and visibility through, but does not provide total privacy. Polyethylene is a good budget-friendly option if you only need occasional use or light protection.

Vinyl

Vinyl or PVC material is more durable and weather-resistant than polyethylene. It provides better sun protection and privacy, but still allows some light through. Vinyl RV awning screens can last 5-10 years and are a good mid-range option for most RV owners. Popular brands of vinyl screens include Sun Guard and ADCO.

Acrylic

For the best protection, acrylic canvas is the premium choice. Acrylic screens block 95-98% of UV radiation for maximum shade and privacy. They are also highly durable and resistant to mold, mildew, and fading. Acrylic screens typically last 10-15 years, but they tend to be the most expensive type of RV awning screen. Popular acrylic screen brands are Carefree Mirage and Lippert Solera.

In the end, you need to weigh the options and determine how much you want to invest based on your needs. An occasional weekend camper may be fine with an inexpensive polyethylene screen, while a long-term road warrior would benefit more from the durability of an acrylic canvas screen. Choose what’s right for how and how long you use your RV.

Conclusion

So there you have it, an overview of the best RV awning shade cloth options currently available. As you’vе lеarnеd,  shadе cloth comеs in a variеty of dеnsitiеs to suit diffеrеnt nееds.  Thе highеr thе dеnsity,  thе lеss light and hеat will pass through.  For most RVers, an 80% shade cloth strikes a good balance, blocking enough sun and heat while still allowing some natural light in. Of course, your needs may vary depending on where you camp and the climate.

The most important thing is choosing a high-quality, durable shade cloth that will last you many enjoyable trips to come. With the right shade cloth installed, you’ll be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the great outdoors in comfort under your RV awning. Your cooler, shaded oasis awaits! Now get out there and start making more memories in your home on wheels. The open road is calling your name!