How To Attach An Annex To A Caravan
As passionate caravan enthusiasts ourselves, we at Aussie Traveller understand the desire to maximise comfort and space on your adventures. That's where caravan annexes come in! Caravan annexes, or annexe walls as they are sometimes called, are essentially enclosed extensions that attach to your existing caravan awning. They transform your awning into a functional living area, offering numerous benefits such as increased living space, privacy and security, and enhanced comfort against the elements.
We offer a wide variety of high-quality caravan annexes and expert advice to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. We also provide a step-by-step guide on annexe installation, ensuring your annex is a safe and valuable addition to your caravan adventures.
So, explore further, relax in style, and increase your living space with a caravan annex from Aussie Traveller today.
Understanding Which Caravan Annexe Works Best For You
Just like when shopping for your caravan, understanding which caravan annexe works best for you involves considering a handful of factors; your desired coverage, ease of setup, and compatibility with your caravan and awning.
Full Annexes
A full caravan annexe offers the most comprehensive living space, encompassing the entire area around the caravan. It includes walls, a roof, and often a floor, providing complete protection from the weather elements like rain and sun, and creating a separate room with windows and doors for ventilation and access. Securing the annexe involves attaching it to the caravan awning channel and using poles, pegs, and ropes for stability.
Annex Walls or Wall Kits
Caravan annex wall kits embrace a modular approach, allowing you to personalise your coverage. These individual wall panels attach to either the sail track of your awning or directly to the caravan wall. This flexibility lets you create a half annex by attaching side walls to one side of your caravan or a full annex by combining side walls and an end wall. This modularity makes them popular choices for their versatility and ease of setup.
Sun Screen End Walls
Designed primarily for shade and insect protection, sun mesh screens offer a practical alternative to complete enclosure. Made from breathable mesh fabric, they allow air circulation while blocking sunlight and insects. These screens conveniently attach to the awning channel or caravan wall, similar to other annex walls. This ease of setup makes them ideal for hot climates and areas with a lot of bugs, providing comfort on your caravan adventures without extending fully to the ground like traditional awnings.
Step-By-Step Guide: How To Attach An Annexe for Caravans
In this guide, we'll explain how to best assemble and install your annexe. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions specific to your annex model for the most accurate setup guidance.
Step 1: Choose The Right Location
Select a flat and level area close to your caravan for easy attachment and ensure the ground is clear of any debris or sharp objects that could damage the annex.
Step 2: Unpack and Lay Out The Annexe
Lay out the annex fabric on the ground adjacent to your caravan and move the annex around according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the door aligns with your caravan's entrance.
Step 3: Attach The Annex Walls To the Caravan
Locate the attachment points on your caravan. These are usually found along the awning rail or at designated points near the caravan body. Begin attaching the annex to the caravan by:
- Sliding the annexe bead or strip into the sail tracks of the awning rail.
- Attaching the annex to the designated points on the caravan body, often using press studs or velcro strips.
Finally, secure the annex to the ground using support poles, ladder straps and pegs, and tighten any cam buckles provided, ensuring the annex is taut and stable.
Step 4: Extend the Annexe
Once you've unpacked your annexe, it's time to set up the poles.
- Following the manufacturer's instructions, assemble the poles. Then, lift and extend the annexe fabric, making sure it's taut and smooth to avoid wrinkles.
- Carefully insert the poles into their designated sleeves or attachment points along the edges of the annexe.
This ensures a sturdy structure that will stand up to the elements during your caravan adventures.
Secure Your Annexe with an Anti-Flap Kit
One of the best things you could do for your caravan is shield your annex from the wind and secure your comfort with an anti-flap kit.
An anti-flap kit is an essential accessory for caravan owners because:
- It Protects Awnings From Damage: In windy conditions, awnings can flap uncontrollably, causing tears and rips. The anti-flap kit helps to stabilise the awning, preventing this damage and extending its lifespan.
- It Improves Comfort and Enjoyment: The constant flapping of an awning can be noisy and disruptive, making it difficult to relax or sleep. An anti-flap kit significantly reduces noise and flapping, creating a more peaceful and enjoyable outdoor experience.
- Enhances Awning Functionality: By keeping the awning stable, an anti-flap kit allows for easier attachment of annexes, sunscreens, and other accessories, maximising the versatility and functionality of your setup.
Maintaining Your Annexe Walls
To maintain your annex walls, regularly inspect them for any signs of wear, tears, or damage. Clean them with mild soap and water as needed, and store them properly when not in use to prevent deterioration.
