[folivier]

All of that is true Adrian, plus they will flap in the wind. Not bad in the front but can be a bit noisy in the bedroom.
One thing though if you forget to unlatch the awning you'll probably damage the siding on the coach and possibly break the awning arm.
If you're still getting water intrusion at the top of the slide when it is open try this: at night shine a light from inside above the valence and see if you can see light outside. There is a hanger bar in the middle of the slide on the inside behind the valence that may not be engaging. When the slide extends just before fully extended you should see the valence rise up slightly. If it does then the hanger bar is engaging properly. If not, then Newell can adjust it.