Many campers find themselves on the fence about whether or not to use one when it comes to RV covers. After all, there are specific pros and cons of RV covers, whether you want to use it for short-term or long-term storage.
Are RV covers worth it? Let’s discuss their benefits and potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not one is suitable for your RV.
What Is an RV Cover?
Before exploring the pros and cons of RV covers, let’s find out what they actually are and their standard functions.
An RV cover is necessary because it protects from the sun, wind, and rain. It’s also great for keeping your trailer clean and free of dirt and debris. It’s a high-quality tarp that covers the entire rig, from the top to the ground.
Different types of RV covers are available on the market, so choosing one that’s right for your trailer is essential.
When choosing a cover, consider the climate you’ll be camping in. If you’re expecting hot weather, you’ll want a cover made of a lighter material, so it doesn’t get too hot inside the trailer. On the other hand, if you’re expecting cold weather, you’ll want a thicker, heavier cover.
Also, consider the size of your RV when choosing a cover. You don’t want a cover that’s too big or too small. It won’t fit properly if it’s too big and could blow away in the wind. If it’s too small, it won’t provide enough coverage.
You need to choose between an RV roof cover vs full cover. A full cover is suitable for storing the RV, but a roof cover is an option when you are camping and need something for sun or rain protection.
The Pros and Cons of RV Covers
You may need to put your trailer under a cover for many reasons. It comes in handy when you want to store it for a while without paying for garage rent. Do RV covers work? Let’s find out by exploring its advantages and downsides:
The Pros of an RV Cover
The good features should come first, right? Using an RV cover can give your rig multiple protective features.
Protection from Scorching Sun
A cover can provide UV protection since the sun can damage the RV exterior, causing it to fade and crack over time. By protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays, the cover will keep the RV looking new for years to come.
Bad Weather Protection
Another great benefit of an RV cover is that it protects from the weather. A cover will protect your trailer from the elements, including rain, snow, or wind. It’s essential if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions.
If the cover is high-quality, it will keep the moisture from building up and leaking inside. Also, it would be enough to keep your trailer safe in pretty rough conditions, like strong winds and hailstorms.
Keeps the Trailer Clean
Dirt and debris accumulate on a sitting RV unbelievably fast. Even if you keep it in the open idle for a few days, it will get dirty in no time.
A cover will keep the dust and dirt off your RV, making it easier to clean and maintain. Also, you will spend less on washing and waxing the exterior after long-term or short-term storage.
Increases the RV’s Resale Value
Resale value is a strong point when you weigh the pros and cons of RV covers. A well-maintained RV will always be worth more than one that has not been taken care of. The cover will help keep your RV in good condition, making it worth more when you sell it.
Cheaper than a Storage Facility
An indoor storage facility will cost from $120 to over $250 a month. That’s far more expensive than a cover that costs anywhere between less than $100 and over $350.
If you purchase a good cover, you can use it for years whenever you want. It will save you more money than keeping the trailer in a rented facility.
Deters Thieves
An RV cover can also protect from vandalism. If your RV is parked in a public place, it’s more likely to be vandalized. The cover will deter vandals because they always look for easy targets.
The Cons of an RV Cover
RV covers can be a great way to protect your investment from the elements. But, like anything, there are some downsides that you should be aware of before you purchase one. Here are the cons of using an RV cover:
Too Much Work
Covering and uncovering large RVs can be difficult. Finding a cover that fits well can be challenging, and then you have to wrestle with it to get it on and off.
If you use your RV regularly, you’ll constantly put the cover on and take it off, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Adds to the Maintenance Task
It depends on how you look into the matter. In addition to cleaning and caring for your camper, you’ll have to ensure the cover is in good condition. It means checking for holes, tears, and weather damage.
However, a cover also protects the RV from getting dirty, removing some tasks from your upkeep list.
Short Service Life
You need to think about the durability when considering the pros and cons of RV covers. The cover may wear out quickly if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Quick wear means frequent repair and replacement, which can be costly.
Some expensive covers also tear or get damaged within a year. So, do your homework before making a buying decision. Always buy from a renowned brand that offers a couple of years of warranty.
Can Cause Problems in Winter
Should I cover my RV in the winter? You can only if the winter is mild in your area. If it snows intensely, it’ll be better to store the trailer in a garage.
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, your cover may become frozen to the trailer. It can make it difficult or impossible to remove, which could be a serious problem if you need to get to your RV in an emergency.
You will have to shovel the snow off of your RV cover. Otherwise, you won’t be able to remove it.
Unsuitable for Windy Conditions
Do RV covers cause damage? Many people ask this question because there are horror stories about covers doing more damage than good.
Covers can cause damage in windy conditions. If your cover is not securely fastened, high winds can make it flap against the trailer. Continuous rubbing can damage the RV exterior and the cover itself.
Think about these pros and cons of RV covers before buying one. It could be a budget-friendly option if you can tackle the downsides.
