Trailer Awnings
 

I've been researching awnings for my new trailer. I've found that most of the trailers I've seen in the paddocks have the old classic A&E Systems awnings. However, A&E Systems is no longer and the name was purchased by Dometic.

My concern is that the older A&E Systems awnings look like they are over-built, rock-solid and still going strong all these years later. The new Dometic produced units have been redesigned and don't look as robust (admittedly, this opinion is only via the info I've gleened via the web).

Has anyone purchased a Dometic unit? Or how about the other major manufacturer, Carefree?

Can you suggest a brand and model for me?

Consider Arrow Awnings:

http://www.arrowawnings.com/awnings.html

Yes, I'm familiar with the company. They make wonderful, high-quality trailer accessories like folding tables, hanging tool drawers, etc. I had assumed from the awnings I saw on their web site, that those awnings were for the professional teams. I've watched a few teams put up/take down the huge awnings that span an entire 60' trailer. It takes a crew of guys half an hour to do it. I'm looking for the speed and simplicity of a one-man job! By all means, let me know if I'm off base here.

Bump! Still in need of input on buying an awning for the trailer.

For speed & simplicity, one of these (electric) might be an option:
http://www.goldrushinc.com/accessories/accessories
No personal experience with the product but their other stuff is high quality.

Someone here from Canada that sells trailers recommended the Dometic 2-Step model. He recommended keeping it at 19' or under so you don't need the extra center support. Also, he recommended the acrylic fabric.

Scott

I am also in the hunt for an awning. My local RV dealer (PPL Homes) recommended Carefree of Colorado. It is a bit windy in this world and I wanted one that could stand up to most of the conditions down here, they come either electric or manual.

That was me! Just got back from vacation.

I'd put the same thing on a trailer now if it were for my own use. Easy to use. Much easier to use than the traditional hardware but only a few bucks more.

Get the aluminum weathershield as well. Should be available in silver, black and white hardware.

The 2 step has a couple of gas struts that allow the awning to move a bit in the wind. This is important. If there is a strong sustained wind put your awning away or you'll be buying a new one.

We sell lots of awnings and fabrics after windstorms.

Can you please specify the model number? I've looked at the Dometic web site, but I'm not clear as to which model you suggest.

I went through the due diligence of options for my 28' Tag... A good one that extends from the side will cost ~ $1600 - $2k. Problem is that they are still at risk of becoming a pretzel in bad weather... Sometimes more so than a good EZ-Up that can be anchored.

For that $$ I choose to just look at good EZ-Ups. for much less $$

However, I also looked at similar set-ups to the arrow awnings. They are very robust and very nice; but they take ~ 40 min to put up and go for $5k+
See Pic below.

Ah, thanks. I got caught up by their model numbers (9000, 8500, etc).

Can one person put up/take down a 10 x 15' Ez-Up by themselves?

Mine is 10x10 or 12x12 and i have done it myself. Easy.

I didn't like the idea of an awning breaking off my trailer - would be nice to have but i skipped it.