Awning Rail and Roof Accessory Care for Mars Caravans – Inspection Guide

Part 6a. Awning Rail & Roof Accessories – Inspection & Care

Awning Rail & Roof Accessories – Inspection & Care

This article is part of our Mars Caravan Body & Seals Care series. For the full overview, see "Mars Caravan Body & Seals Care – Exterior Maintenance Overview".

Your awning rail and roof-mounted accessories (such as solar panels, antennas and roof racks) are all fixed through the body and roof of your Mars caravan. Keeping them clean and checking them regularly helps prevent leaks and damage.

1. Awning Rail – Cleaning and Inspection

  • Wash the area around the awning rail with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.
  • Remove built-up dirt, dust and old lubricant from the rail channel.
  • Rinse thoroughly so no gritty residue remains in the track.

Visually inspect:

  • The joint where the rail meets the body – look for cracked or lifting sealant.
  • Any fasteners along the rail for looseness or missing screws.
  • Signs of movement or distortion in the rail itself.

A clean awning rail makes it easier to slide awning fabric or walls in and out and reduces wear on the material.

2. Lubricants and What to Avoid

  • If using lubricant in the awning rail, choose a product recommended for awning tracks (often a dry silicone or similar).
  • Use sparingly – too much wet, sticky product can attract dust and grit.
  • Avoid petroleum-based products that may affect rubber or certain plastics nearby.

3. Roof Accessories – What to Check

From a safe vantage point (ground or ladder where appropriate), visually inspect:

  • Solar panel mounts – brackets, screws and wiring entry points.
  • TV antennas or satellite dishes.
  • Roof racks, storage boxes or other mounts.
  • Roof vents and hatches.

Look for:

  • Loose or missing fasteners.
  • Cracked or lifting sealant at the base of mounts and fittings.
  • Obvious physical damage from branches or impacts.

4. Safety When Inspecting the Roof

  • Only stand on the roof if:
    • Your caravan is designed for roof access, and
    • You are confident it is safe to do so.
  • If using a ladder:
    • Set it on stable, level ground.
    • Do not overreach – move the ladder instead.

If you are not comfortable accessing the roof area, use binoculars from the ground for a basic visual check and let a service centre perform close-up inspections during your annual service.

5. When to Seek Professional Help

Contact Mars support or a caravan repairer if you notice:

  • Sealant that is cracked, missing or lifting around roof fittings.
  • Signs of water staining inside below any roof accessory.
  • Loose or damaged mounts that could allow water entry or become unsafe while travelling.

Take photos before any work is done, particularly if your van is within its warranty period.

Summary

Awning rails and roof accessories are key potential entry points for water if not maintained. Keep them clean, look for loose fasteners and cracked sealant, and act early if you see anything suspicious. Simple regular checks will help keep your Mars caravan watertight and your awning and roof gear working as intended.