Ways to Protect Your RV

Purchasing an RV is one of the most significant investments most people make. Since it will be your home away from home, your RV needs proper maintenance and protection. Depending on your budget, you can spend about US$15,000 to US$2.5 million, which means that you can even have a luxurious RV if you can afford it.

But whatever type of recreational vehicle you purchase, protecting your RV should be a priority. Regular repair and maintenance will keep the RV in good running condition. Likewise, it will extend the life of the vehicle.

Different ways to protect your RV

A recreational vehicle is sturdy, but it is made from lighter and flexible materials, which can suffer from damage and wear and tear every time you use it. Therefore, if you want the vehicle to last, you need to protect and maintain it.

1. Use the correct sealant

The RV roof is vulnerable, and it needs the most protection because it covers the rest of the vehicle. The roof of your RV can be made from fiberglass, aluminum, TPO, or EPDM rubber. Each type has its pros and cons and its limitations. The standard limitation among them is the seams since they should be flexible (to move with the vehicle). Thus, manufacturers use flexible sealants along joints. But sealants age, crack, and peel, leading to moisture seeping through the roof and damaging the RV’s interior.

2. RV roof cover

Aside from repairing the damage, you can use an RV roof cover. But you should purchase a roof cover that will protect it from the elements, repel moisture and prevent condensation. It should also be lightweight, rip-resistant, and easy to deploy when needed.

3. Washing and waxing

Your RV gets exposed to the elements when you go on a trip. It will also collect dust and debris, some of which can stick to the RV’s exterior surface. Mud and dirt can stick to your tires and the underside of the RV. It’s vital to give your RV a thorough washing after each trip, and the sooner you do this, the better. It is easier to remove dirt, grime, and bugs when they are still fresh. You can apply a wax coating on your RV, which will help protect the surface from UV rays. Ensure that you use wax recommended for RVs.

4. Clean the roof often

Dust, grime, moisture, leaves, and other stuff can collect on the roof of your RV. So before you store the RV:

• Ensure that you remove them.
• Sweep the top, use a leaf-blower to remove small items and dust, and wash the roof with the recommended solution.
• Allow the roof to dry before putting a cover on the RV.

5. Clean the awnings

Hose the awnings with water to remove grime and dirt. Do not scrub the awning material to protect the waterproof coating.

6. Use tire covers

If you only use the RV occasionally and store it in open space, you can protect the tires with tire covers to minimize the damaging effects of the sun. Prevent the covers from drawing more heat by choosing light-colored tire covers.

Protecting your RV means giving it regular maintenance and repair. Ensure that the RV is clean inside and out before you store them. If possible, keep the RV in an area with a roof to prevent constant exposure to the elements while not in use.