Are you ready to hit the road and explore the world in your precious RV? We know how precious it is because it is quite an investment and your home for the road. But let’s be real: the sun does not love your RV as much as you do. It can take a toll on your RV’s exterior and interior, ultimately making it look faded and cracked.
All of this will make your RV look worn out way sooner than you would like. But don’t worry. Let me tell you the best way to protect your RV from damage from the sun. (Drumroll, please.) It is by using RV covers! Let’s learn how you can keep your RV safe from the sun’s harsh rays by investing in the right RV cover.
Why the Sun can be your RV’s Worst Enemy?
In winter, the sun's rays can feel quite comforting. However, those UV rays can cause serious issues for your ride if you are not careful. Here’s how the comforting rays of the sun can turn into your RV’s worst enemy:
Fading and Chipping Paint
Have you ever noticed how your house’s exterior paint job starts looking a little dull after a few years? Well, the same thing happens with your RV. Over time, the vibrant colors fade, and the glossy finish turns dull, losing that fresh look.
Cracked and Dried Out Surfaces
The damage from sun exposure is not limited to just paint. It can affect those rubber seals around your windows and doors. It may also lead to cracking and drying of the plastic parts on your RV, which causes leaks all around. And trust me, leaks aren’t easy to deal with, especially when you are on the road or camping out in the wild.
Sun-Damaged Fabrics
If you’ve got cushions and curtains decorating your home, then you know how much sun exposure damages them. Fabric tends to get brittle and lose its color when bombarded with UV rays constantly. This means any fabric in your RV that is exposed to UV rays will become weaker and less durable. So, if you want to protect those cute and comfy cushions, a good RV cover is a must.
Weak Tires
RV tires are extremely heavy on the pocket. At the same time, all tires degrade and get damaged over time. The sun's rays will accelerate the process. A weak tire is a serious road hazard, putting you and everyone around you at risk.
Why Use an RV Cover for Sun Protection?
Right now that we know how the sun can wreck your RV, let’s discuss how just a simple RV cover can save the day:
- Shield from UV Rays: RV covers are your RV’s shield. It keeps the sun from causing harm, helps prevent your paint job from fading, and keeps your roof from cracking. Covers made with UV-resistant materials are a must-have if you want your RV to look fresh.
- Prevents Heat Build-Up: The cover reduces heat inside the RV, keeping interiors cooler and safer. No one wants to step foot in a super hot RV when they return from a day of outdoor adventures.
- Longer Life: A quality cover can extend the lifespan of your RV by keeping it safe from all sorts of dust and not just from the sun. This will save you some money on repairs and maintenance as well.
- Better Resale Value: An RV kept in good condition sells for more. Protecting it now pays off later. A well-maintained RV with minimal damage is worth more when it's time to upgrade or sell.
- Interior Protection: The harmful sun rays can fade and wear down your electronics and kitchen items inside your RV. Using a cover keeps the inside protected so that everything inside stays looking sharp.
How to Find the Best RV Cover for Sun Protection?
Not all covers are equal. To protect your RV well, you need the right one. Here’s what you need to know to find the best RV cover for sun protection:
UV Protection
A cover must block UV rays. Materials like Durapel or Tru-Weave are designed for this purpose. National RV Covers offers covers with Durapel UV inhibitor and an anti-microbial finish to make them UV resistant.
Breathable Material
Breathable fabrics are super important. A good cover allows air to flow, which prevents mold and mildew from forming. Look for covers that allow air to flow through them so your RV stays dry and fresh underneath.
Water Resistance
Your RV cover should also withstand rain, snow, and other weather elements. Waterproof or water-resistant materials ensure all-weather safety. A cover that’s waterproof or water-resistant is key. Look for RV covers that can handle more than just the sun.
Durability
Your cover needs to be tough. The last thing you want is for it to rip after one season. Look for strong fabrics with reinforced stitching. Durable covers handle wind and heavy use without tearing.
Snug Fit
A cover that’s too loose or too tight will just be a hassle. A cover that fits well stays in place. Loose covers flap in the wind and cause damage. Measure your RV and choose the right size. This ensures it fits like a glove and stays in place even on windy days.
Different Types of RV Covers Available in the Market
Different covers meet different needs. Sun protection matters year-round, but winter adds extra challenges. Snow and ice can cause damage, too. If you live in a region with harsh winters, you’ll want to consider the best RV covers for winter that offer more than just sun protection. Here’s a breakdown of different cover options:
Goldline Covers
If you’re looking for premium protection, Goldline covers are the way to go. These covers are made from Marinex marine-grade fabric. They offer top-tier protection from UV rays, rain, and other harsh weather. They’re super durable and breathable, so your RV stays safe and cool.
Goldline covers also feature heavy-duty 7 oz. true loom-woven polyester, constructed with 600 x 300 denier filament polyester yarns and a 99-thread count, making them exceptionally strong and long-lasting compared to standard covers.
Expedition Covers
Need something tough that can handle all kinds of weather? Expedition covers are perfect for that. Known for reinforced corners, these covers are great for tough conditions. Expedition RV covers now come with a Marinex Marine Grade Waterproof Roof made from woven boat cover fabric. This upgrade means better performance and a longer life for your RV cover.
It beats out those plastic Tyvek tops in terms of breathability and lasting power. Every RV owner knows moisture can be a major issue, and the Marinex roof controls it. It protects against rain, dirt, UV rays, and heat while letting trapped moisture escape. That’s something plastic or heavily coated covers just don’t do as well. This keeps your RV from getting that moldy, musty smell you want to avoid.
Seasons Covers
If you are looking for something on a budget, the Seasons covers offer solid protection as well. These RV covers are built to protect your motorhome, trailer, or camper without breaking the bank. The Seasons RV Cover gives you many of the same features you'd find on pricier models but at a much better price.
Another plus is the zippers around the cover. They let you get in and out of your RV Top Cover without removing the entire cover. It's a solid choice for an entry-level cover with quality protection.
Steps to Install Your RV Cover
Getting your cover installed correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Installing a cover is simple if you follow these steps:
- Measure your RV: Always measure your RV before you pick out a cover. Length, width, and height are important to get the perfect fit. Most brands, like National RV Covers, provide a sizing guide to make this easy.
- Clean Your RV: Before covering, wash and dry your RV. Dirt trapped under a cover can cause scratches (and nobody likes scratches).
- Secure the cover: Once you’ve got your cover and cleaned your RV, use the straps and fasteners that come with it to secure it. They should be tightened enough to prevent movement but not so much so that they strain the material. This will help keep the cover in place and prevent it from flying off during strong winds.
- Check for Vents: Make sure the cover has vents or other breathable features to let air flow through and prevent moisture from getting trapped under the covers, which can lead to mold.
Keeping Your RV Safe Year-Round
A good RV cover offers more than just protection from UV rays. It keeps your RV safe from all types of weather. The best RV covers protect your RV year-round. In summer, a cover blocks UV rays and helps keep your RV cool. It keeps snow and ice off your RV during winter.
The right cover also prevents dirt, dust, and debris from piling up when your RV is in storage, ensuring it's clean and ready for use. Whether you're searching for the best RV covers for winter or just need protection from the sun, a good cover will keep your RV in great shape no matter the season.
Tips To Protect Your RV from Sun Damage
Apart from going for an RV cover, it is important to take some precautionary steps as well. Here are some simple and effective tips:
- Use UV-Resistant Products: Consider using UV-resistant spray on your RV's exterior surfaces, especially for rubber seals and vinyl parts. These sprays help protect against sun exposure and prevent cracking and fading.
- Park in the Shade: We understand that it's not possible to drive around under the shade at all times. However, do try to park in the shade whenever possible. It’s an easy way to reduce direct exposure to the sun. Plus, it’ll keep the interior a little cooler.
- Wash it Regularly: Sun damage isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. Dirt and dust can make things worse. Wash your RV regularly to keep it clean and protect its surfaces. A clean RV is also less likely to suffer from stains or other damage caused by accumulated dirt.
- Condition Rubber and Vinyl: The sun can dry out rubber and vinyl parts, making them brittle and cracked. Keep them in good shape by using a conditioner or protectant. This helps prevent wear and keeps your RV looking solid.
These simple steps, paired with the right RV cover, will help your RV stay safe from the sun’s harsh rays and keep it looking great for the long haul.
Wrapping Up
Using RV covers to block these rays is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment. Covers made from high-quality materials, like Durapel and Tru-Weave, offer excellent protection against UV damage. Along with that, keeping your RV out of direct sunlight when possible can also help preserve its appearance.
It’s not just the sun that covers protects your RV. Rain, snow, dirt, and dust can all cause wear and tear. It’s all about taking simple measures that protect your RV over time. With the right cover and a little care, you can keep your RV looking great for years, whether you’re using it for trips or planning to sell it down the line.