What do you put on the floor of a caravan awning?
What flooring do I need for my awning, what are the best options.
New caravan owner and those setting up their first caravan awning often ask the same question, “What do I put on the floor of my awning?”.
The right flooring can transform your outdoor space into a comfortable, practical, and stylish extension of your caravan. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options for caravan awning flooring, tailored for UK caravan enthusiasts.
1. Why Is Awning Flooring Important?
Caravan awnings are a fantastic way to maximise your outdoor living space, providing shelter and comfort while you enjoy the great British countryside. However, the ground beneath your awning will differ on different sites and pitches. There can be a huge variation depending on whether you have a seasonal pitch, or a touring pitch which can often be uneven, damp, or muddy—especially in the UK’s unpredictable weather. The right flooring not only protects your awning but also creates a clean, dry, and cosy area for relaxing, dining, or entertaining.
2. Top Options for Caravan Awning Flooring
Interlocking Floor Tiles
Often overlooked, but inexpensive foam type floor tiles are a perfect foundation for most pitches. They offer a more versatile and customisable solution, providing an easy to fit, lightweight floor covering. Made from durable materials like PVC or foam, these tiles are easy to assemble and provide a sturdy, level surface. They’re particularly useful for uneven ground and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Plus, they’re easy to clean and store. Using interlocking floor tiles either on their own or as a base for additional floor coverings is ideal.
*Snippet* Interlocking floor tiles are a DIY-friendly option for creating a level and stylish awning floor.
Breathable Groundsheets
Breathable groundsheets are a popular choice among UK caravan owners. Unlike traditional groundsheets, these allow air and moisture to pass through, protecting the grass and often mandatory on touring pitches. They’re perfect for the UK’s damp climate, ensuring the inside of your awning stays dry and comfortable. Look for heavy-duty, UV-resistant options for durability. Breathable groundsheets when used on their own offer an excellent solution and are often tailored to fit perfectly within your awning. Simply unroll and peg down with mushroom groundsheet pegs. When used with interlocking foam tiles, they add a real luxury, soft under foot awning living space. Hard-wearing, easy to clean, and simple to store (often supplied with their own storage bag), breathable awning groundsheets are the most popular choice for seasoned caravanners.
*Pro Tip* Pair your breathable groundsheet with interlocking tiles underneath and an awning carpet for added comfort and insulation.
Outdoor Rubber Backed Rugs
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable solution, outdoor rugs can add a touch of style to your awning. While not as durable as other options, they’re perfect for short stays or fair-weather camping. Look for weather-resistant rugs that are easy to shake out or hose down. Often used on top of either foam tiles or breathable groundsheets, these add a real home from home feel to your camping experience. Although not made to fit the entire awning floor area, they are stylish and very popular, especially with porch awnings, sun canopies, and driveaway campervan awning.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Awning Flooring
- Durability: Opt for materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic, UV exposure, and varying weather conditions.
- Portability: Choose lightweight and easy-to-store options if you frequently move your caravan.
- Comfort: Consider the comfort level, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in your awning.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for flooring that’s easy to clean and maintain, particularly if you have pets or children.
- Safety: Ensure your flooring has anti-slip properties to prevent accidents, especially in wet conditions.
4. Final Thoughts
Choosing the right flooring for your caravan awning can make a world of difference to your camping experience. Whether you opt for a breathable groundsheet, a cosy awning carpet, or versatile interlocking tiles, the key is to find a solution that suits your needs and the UK’s unique climate. Using a combination of tiles, breathable groundsheet and outdoor carpets makes an ordinary camping pitch into a real home away from home.
As a new caravan owner, investing in quality awning flooring will not only enhance your comfort but also protect your awning and extend its lifespan. So, take the time to explore your options and create a space that feels perfect for you. Happy caravanning!