Should You Cover an RV at All?

Protecting your RV against the forces of nature is crucial to maintain the vehicle's good condition. Most owners without indoor storage on or off their property leave their RVs outside -- making it susceptible to the extremes brought by off-season weather.

Although there are climate-controlled facilities that rent spaces for RV storage, they could be expensive sometimes, especially if there are specialties required. What you need is a solution that would keep your RV away from the elements, and one of which is the use of covers.

To understand the importance of using RV covers, let's discuss what happens if you leave your RV unprotected.

Unprotected RVs are prone to damage caused by the UV rays. High heat build-up on the surface could cause seal damage. Further, it could lead to drying, cracking, fading, and oxidizing. Worst case scenario, the sun's heat could push the RV's rubber roofs to shrink.

It could also skyrocket the interior's temperature up to 144-degrees Fahrenheit. With such temperature, the trim, paint, graphics, and other contents of your RV could deteriorate.

During snow or cold weather, moisture fights its way into the crevices. If left untreated, they can turn into rust or mold. And when the snow starts to melt, water will form on top of the roof that could cause a backup.

Take Note: All types of weather could bring detrimental effects to your RV. Some could lead to leakage, while others force deterioration to sip in quickly.

Now, let's see what the advantages of using an RV Cover are.

  • Helps to repel UV rays and protect your RV from seal damage.
  • It keeps both interior and exterior at a safe temperature (approx. up to 81-degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Prevents dirt and debris from infiltrating your RV.
  • It prevents rust and mold build-up.
  • Free from leaks caused by rain, snow, and sleet.
  • Fewer washing, waxing, and treatments required.
  • And, lastly, you preserved your RV's resale value.

Not that you know what will happen to your RV if left unprotected, let's refer back to your question. Should you cover an RV at all? The answer is: Most definitely!

RVs cost a fortune. Hence, it is essential to protect it at all means. Investing in a good-quality RV cover can be a worthwhile investment, and could make a massive difference in keeping your vehicle in good condition. Aside from that, you're keeping yourself away from spending too much on repairs.

Choosing an RV Cover

There are tons of RV Covers available, both online and physical stores. But, in choosing the perfect RV Cover that could last longer, go for covers that provide all-climate protection. Check if the product has water-repellent properties to make it effective in keeping your RV safe during high moisture climate.

Next, make sure it's lightweight and has sturdy fabrics. Of course, you'll be covering a vehicle with an average length of 33 feet. It should be light for easy placement, and the materials should be tough enough to withstand varying climates.

Carla Arbuckle
Carla Arbuckle

Carla is a staff writer for Fishing.org and Shooting.org. She is an avid outdoors enthusiast and photographer. She can be found most weekends fishing and exploring the wilderness.