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We firstly followed the instructions to the letter but not any longer. We have found that it is easier to start at one side and work along. This way it supports itself straight away. Starting from the middle as per the instructions we needed one of the kids to hold it to stop it falling over. We have also bought some tape to colour code the poles to make it easier in the future.

Hope this helps

Clare xx

With my old awning we used to start at the one side and work to the otherside, putting all poles in as we go.  With the present awning, we start in the middle and then do one side, then the other.  I really don't think it makes much difference.

Whichever method you use, Derek, I would put in what you call diagonal poles in as you go - don't leave them to the end IMHO.  Couple of more things, in addition to the points others have made.  If your awning has a little canopy at the front with extra poles, put these in last, but don't tighten all the poles and then realise you've forgot the canopy - now how many times have I done that?  I also take with me some step ladders (only 2 steps) and it makes life so much easier when trying to tighten the roof poles.

Think it was our awning that was the divorce in the bag!  Didnt help that OH is 6ft2 and Im 5ft1 and he'd be shouting "hold the bluddy thing up  woman!" and Id be shouting back "this is as far up as I get  mate, do you want me to stand on the effin table?"

We ended up getting a simpler one  as we dont use it to sleep in (the OR Compactalite) and now my awning method is this - "You pop the awning up and Ill make a cuppa" - and by the time Ive made the tea and opened the biscuits (about ten mins) its all done!

Simples!

Quote: Originally posted by Xantippe on 26/4/2010We managed to put up the second-hand awning for the first time, found out the poles with it were too long so the awning didn't actually touch the ground. So the first night we looked like the country cousins next to every else who seemed to have brand new caravans and £2000 awnings. After cutting the poles down we were ok EXCEPT, we didn't know whether we should put the hook on the side bars in the holes on the front T-bars or just hook them over. We never did get them tensioned properly although it didn't seem to matter. It would be nice to get it right the next time though. Any help appreciated.

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