Hello Robert,
Condensation is the natural effect of warm moist air coming into contact with colder surface.
The only real solution is to improve the ventilation through the awning and to minimise the activities that will put moisture into the air inside the awning.
I have said it before but it is often not realised that all flames produces condensation, so any open flames even BBQ's will add to the problem. In many caravans the fridge vents into the awning, so if you are using gas, then that will add to the condensation issue. If you can, use mains electric for the fridge as this will eliminate one virtually constant flame. Just as an aside, and LPG flame will produce almost as much water vapour when it is burnt as the weight of gas used.
Avoid leaving the caravan windows and door open into the awning when cooking, as the moist air will find its way into the space and condense as described. And don't forget that humans and pets also breath out a lot of moisture, so bear that in mind.
You have probably had condensation previously, but because the roof may have been canvas, the water droplets will wick into the fabric and be evaporated from the top side as the wind blows over the awning. I have noticed this with tents, The modern nylons are wonderfully waterproof, and keep the rain out, but equally the keep the condensation in. The older canvas type tent material would always dry quicker than the modern ones.
The biggest thing is to ventilate.
One solution is to minimise the sources of moisture, don't burn open flames (cabinet heaters or BBQ's) in the awning. keep the caravan door shut on cool evenings so the exhaust from the cooker dose not contribute. In some caravans the fridge flues into the awning, so
practical as it woel require a massive heatinput to the awnig to do it..
The only solutions are to make sure the surface is not too cold, or to make sure the moist air can ventilate properly.
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