There are multiple methods for securing an awning to your RV, campervan or motorhome depending on your style of fixing.
Most of these include C rails, J rails and gutters primarily for diverting rainwater. However, most of these fixtures require additional attachments such as clamps, poles and bolts! Plus if you do not have rails installed on your RV, it can become a costly job to get them installed!
An alternative that most of our camping customers settle for is magnets! One of our customers approached us informing us that they had recently had a panel van converted into a campervan, and purchased an awning to go with it.
The cost to fit plastic rails to their RV would cost approximately $331, but our customer was in search of a more cost-efficient solution and decided to contact us to experiment with magnets! After contacting our experts they were advised to try N42 Neodymium Rectangular Magnet – 1-9/16 in. x 3/8 in. x 13/16 in. thick – 41.01lbs Pull.
Our customer simply threaded the magnets into the hem of the awning and then very simply attached this to the gutter part of the roof of his converted VW Transporter. They then used hook magnets to secure the flaps at the side. This is a more cost-efficient and quicker method, and also means there are no unsightly plastic strips.
Benefits of attaching an awning with magnets
- Easy to attach and detach.
- Your paintwork will be protected, as long as the magnets are securely inside the hem of the awning.
- Greater flexibility.
- They will stay in place when sewn into the hem and are more convenient for future use!
- No permanent and unsightly rails.
Side Notes
- Please make sure that the magnets are placed inside the hem of the material to help reduce the chance of scratching your vehicle!
- Make sure that the surface of you vehicle is clean & dry before apply the magnets.
We’d like to say a massive thank you to Trevor for sending us in his photos.
If you have a project you are working on, or need some advice our team would love to hear from you! Contact our experts on 800-917-0841 or email at sales@magnetexpert.com.