RV Covers Buying Guide - Protect Your Investment

Investing in an RV is an exciting experience. An RV is a home away from home that allows you to travel anywhere you desire while having all the comfort and amenities of home. But an RV is a significant investment that requires considerable maintenance, and keeping it in excellent condition can be a challenge. One of the most important ways you can protect your RV is by purchasing a good quality RV cover to safeguard it from harsh climatic conditions and other elements that can damage your investment. In this guide, we will explore everything that you need to know before purchasing an RV cover.

Why Do You Need an RV Cover?

An RV is an expensive investment that can quickly lose value due to exposure to harsh weather, sunlight, wind, and rain. An RV cover provides excellent protection for your RV, preserving its value and extending its lifespan. Some of the important reasons why you need to invest in an RV cover are;

• Protection from UV rays: Exposure to sunlight can fade the paint and cause cracking on the roof and sidewalls of your RV. An RV cover protects against the sun's harmful rays, keeping your RV looking new for longer.
• Protection from Rain and Snow: Rain and snow can cause serious damage to your RV, leading to water leaks, mold, and mildew growth. An RV cover provides excellent protection against moisture damage, ensuring that your RV stays dry and in excellent condition.
• Protection from Wind: Strong winds can cause scratches and dings to your RV's exterior, and can even rip off parts of your RV, making it susceptible to further damage. An RV cover will protect against such damage, ensuring that your RV's exterior stays in excellent condition.
• Protection from Dust and Debris: When not in use, your RV can easily accumulate dust, dirt, and debris. An RV cover will prevent these elements from accumulating on your RV, reducing the amount of time and effort required for cleaning.
• Increased Resale Value: By protecting your RV with an RV cover, you can extend its lifespan and keep it in excellent condition, increasing its resale value when you are ready to sell it.

Types of RV Covers

There are different types of RV covers available in the market, and each type of cover caters to specific needs. The different types of RV covers available are:

Class A RV Covers

Class A RV covers are designed to cater to Class A motorhomes. They are typically large and provide excellent protection for your RV against harsh weather conditions. Class A RV covers are made from breathable materials that allow air to flow freely, preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Some Class A RV covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your RV's doors and windows without removing the cover completely.

Class B RV Covers

Class B RV covers are specifically designed for Class B motorhomes. They are generally smaller than Class A covers but still provide excellent protection against harsh climate conditions. These covers are made from lightweight materials that are easy to install and remove. Some Class B RV covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your RV's doors and windows without removing the cover completely.

Class C RV Covers

Class C RV covers are designed for Class C motorhomes. They are larger than Class B covers but are still lighter and easier to install than Class A covers. Class C RV covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your RV's doors and windows without removing the cover.

Travel Trailer Covers

Travel trailer covers are designed for travel trailers that are not attached to a vehicle. These covers provide excellent protection against harsh weather conditions and are typically made from durable materials that can withstand extremes of temperature and sunlight exposure. Some travel trailer covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your trailer's doors and windows without removing the cover.

Fifth-Wheel Trailer Covers

Fifth-wheel covers are designed specially to fit fifth-wheel trailers. These covers provide excellent protection against harsh weather conditions and are typically made from durable materials that can withstand extremes of temperature and sunlight exposure. Some fifth-wheel covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your trailer's doors and windows without removing the cover.

Popup Camper Covers

Popup camper covers are designed for popup campers, folding trailers, and truck campers. They provide excellent protection from weather conditions and are typically made from lightweight and breathable materials that are easy to install and remove. Some popup camper covers come with zippered panels that allow you to access your camper's doors and windows without removing the cover.

Factors to consider when choosing an RV cover

When choosing an RV cover, several factors must be considered to ensure that you get the right cover for your RV. Some of the important factors to consider are;

The Size of Your RV

The size of your RV is an essential factor to consider when choosing an RV cover. RV covers come in different sizes to fit specific RV types and sizes. Measure your RV's length, width, and height and choose an RV cover that fits your RV perfectly. A cover that is too small will not cover your RV entirely, while a cover that is too large will be difficult to fit and may even flap in the wind, causing damage to your RV's exterior.

Climate and Weather Conditions

The climate and weather conditions in your area are an essential factor to consider when choosing an RV cover. If you live in an area with high rainfall, choose a cover that provides excellent protection against moisture damage. If you live in an area with harsh sunlight, choose a cover that provides protection against UV rays.

The Material of the RV Cover

The material of the RV cover you choose is an essential factor to consider. Some of the most popular materials used in RV covers are;

• Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a lightweight and durable material that provides excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. Polypropylene RV covers are easy to install and remove, making them an ideal choice if you need to use your RV regularly.
• Polyester: Polyester RV covers are more expensive than polypropylene covers but provide superior protection against sunlight and rain. They are typically heavier and more durable, making them an ideal choice if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
• Canvas: Canvas RV covers are the most expensive but offer the highest level of protection against harsh weather conditions. Canvas covers are typically heavier and more durable than other RV covers, making them an ideal choice for extended periods of RV storage.

Breathability of the RV Cover

RV covers that are not breathable can cause the growth of mold and mildew, leading to moisture damage to your RV's interior. Choose an RV cover that is made from breathable material, allowing air to flow freely and preventing the growth of mold and mildew.

Additional Features

Some RV covers come with additional features that make them more convenient to use. Some of the additional features to look out for include;

• Zippered Panels: Covers with zippered panels allow you to access your RV's doors and windows without removing the cover completely, making them more convenient to use.
• Ventilation: Some RV covers come with ventilation panels that allow air to flow freely, preventing the growth of mold and mildew.
• Cinching Systems: Some RV covers come with cinching systems that allow you to make adjustments for a tighter fit, reducing the risk of wind damage to your RV's exterior.
• Cable Locks: Covers that come with cable locks enable you to secure your RV's exterior, preventing theft and vandalism.

Maintenance and Care for RV Covers

Proper maintenance and care for your RV cover will extend its lifespan and ensure that it provides adequate protection for your RV for years to come. Below are some tips on how to maintain and care for your RV cover;

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your RV cover regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean your RV cover, and avoid using abrasive cleaners.
• Proper Storage: Proper storage of your RV cover is crucial to extend its lifespan. Store your RV cover in a dry and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your RV cover for signs of wear and tear. Replace your RV cover if you notice any tears, rips, or holes, as they can compromise the cover's ability to protect your RV from harsh weather conditions.
• Properly Secure: Make sure you correctly secure your RV cover to prevent wind damage. Some RV covers come with cinching systems, allowing you to make adjustments for a tighter fit.

Conclusion

An RV cover is an essential investment for protecting your RV from harsh weather conditions and other elements that can damage your investment. When choosing an RV cover, consider the size of your RV, the climate and weather conditions in your area, the material of the cover, and any additional features that you might need. Proper maintenance and care for your RV cover will extend its lifespan and ensure that it provides adequate protection for your RV for years to come.