New eco-friendly awnings introduced by Dometic at the NEC Show
In the bustling world of caravan enthusiasts, the latest event has been a sight to behold, with a plethora of new models making their debut on dealer forecourts. Among the eye-catching displays, one caravan that stood out was the Laura Ashley Campod.
However, the real star of the show was Dometic's new range of 33 caravan awnings. The company has revamped its awnings, replacing the Weathershield Pro fabric used for the past nine years with the new Weathershield Tour material. This upgrade comes with several improvements, including hooks for easier removal for washing, upgraded panoramic windows for more light, and a slide track that is easier to open and close.
The new awnings also boast a rippost weave in the fabric, designed to be more durable, and the 330D ripstop polyester fabric used in the new Weathershield Tour material is dope-dyed, using a process that reduces water usage by 80%. Furthermore, the Residence AIR Tour and Club Air Tour DA awnings come with a three-sided canopy over the door for rain protection.
The Hobby Beachy range was also introduced to visitors, with spec added for the UK. This range comes in a brighter color with matching air poles, valves, and connectors. The curtains in the new awnings have softer fabric with better daylight shielding, making them a welcome addition for those seeking comfort and privacy.
Peter Baber, the Reviews Editor of Practical Motorhome and our website, has been meticulously reviewing motorhomes for over a decade. His first caravan reviews date back to the early 1990s. Twice shortlisted for a Caravan Writers Guild award, Peter has a keen eye for detail and a passion for the industry.
When not working, Peter enjoys trying to write novels, cooking, throwing the odd pot, and has just taken up tennis. He is an avid motorhome traveller, mostly local to where he lives in West Yorkshire, but also across France.
To ensure a proper fit for a caravan awning, it is crucial to focus on the awning rail length, the height from the ground to the awning rail, and the awning rail diameter. Measuring these dimensions correctly will help you get a snug, secure awning that fits your caravan properly and avoids damage or frustration.
Here's a simple guide to measuring:
- Measure Awning Rail Length: Measure the full length of your caravan's awning rail, where the awning will attach. This determines the width of the awning.
- Measure Height from Ground to Rail: Measure the height from the ground up to the awning rail to ensure the awning fits well vertically and attaches securely.
- Check Awning Rail Diameter: Measure the diameter of the bead or rail edge where the awning clips or slides in. Make sure the gap in the awning rail is slightly wider for a proper fit.
- Choose Extension/Depth: Decide how far you want the awning to extend out from the caravan, usually 8 or 9 feet. The more depth, the more shaded/living space, but it should balance with the caravan size and aesthetics.
- Double Check Fit: After ordering, once you receive the awning, try fitting it to confirm the size matches. Some awning sellers offer guarantees or options for slight adjustments or returns if the fit is not right.
In summary, accurate measurements of length and height of the awning rail plus checking rail diameter are critical to getting a snug, secure awning that fits your caravan properly and avoids damage or frustration.
- According to Peter Baber, the Reviews Editor of Practical Motorhome, the new Dometic Weathershield Tour awnings have garnered positive reviews, making them a desirable addition for caravan enthusiasts seeking improved outdoor-living and home-and-garden spaces in their lifestyle.
- As one delves into home-and-garden magazines or online review sites, it's evident that caravan owners are keenly interested in the latest caravan reviews for awnings that cater to their lifestyle preferences, like easy-to-remove hooks, brighter colors, and better daylight shielding in the Hobby Beachy range.
