While bucking a strong headwind on Wyoming’s Interstate 80, my trailer’s awning billowed out, resulting in a $100 awning-repair bill. After reviewing the $40-$50 awning locks on the market, I devised an effective, cheaper solution—a $3 gate latch from the local hardware store. With the extended latch pin positioned in the end-cap hole, I drilled four holes in the awning arm and mounted the latch with four 1⁄8 × 1⁄2-inch screws. When the latch is in the closed position, the awning roller can’t turn, so the awning stays tightly shut. A short twist-tie prevents the latch from opening accidentally.
