Buying guide for best RV covers
There's nothing quite like hitting the open road and embarking on a family adventure in the comfort of your RV. When seasonal changes bring those rolling wheels to a standstill and daily obligations beckon, it's all too easy to forget that your pride and joy still needs care.
An RV cover provides essential protection from the elements and is a practical way to safeguard your investment year-round. However, not all RV covers are alike. With different sizes, shapes, and materials to choose from, finding the right RV cover can be a daunting task. If you're feeling a little lost, we've got you covered.
What does an RV cover do?
While patiently waiting for the next camping season to roll around, your RV will be at the mercy of Mother Nature's volatile moods. Scorching sun, pelting rain, blustering winds, and frigid snow are sure to take a toll sooner or later. Prolonged exposure to the elements can transform your once gleaming RV into a weather-beaten eyesore, and it might even cause serious damage. Covering your RV is a great way to keep it in tip-top shape between road trips.
The right RV cover can offer protection from the following:
UV rays: Over time, exposure to harmful UV rays can be devastating. As the sun beats down on your RV, paint begins to fade and, if left unchecked, could crack and peel. Not only is this unsightly, but without a protective layer the metal and plastic components underneath are placed at risk, too. Your dashboard, seats, and any other areas within the sun’s reach are susceptible to damage as well.
Acid rain: When acid rain dries, only the water evaporates, leaving the acids behind. This can result in stains, spots, and streaks that are difficult to remove. Moreover, once exposed to sunlight, the dried acids can cause lasting damage and even eventually eat through paint.
Wind: While the wind itself might not cause direct damage to your RV (unless, of course, it’s blown over), the particles it carries most certainly can. High-velocity winds can drive gravel, twigs, and other debris with enough force to scratch and scrape the exterior.
- Dust and dirt: Keeping your RV protected with a well-fitted cover can greatly reduce dust and dirt buildup. Aside from the sheer inconvenience of having to regularly wash your RV, larger particles can be abrasive and could damage the finish.
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RV cover features to consider
RV type
Identifying your RV’s body style and finding a cover that corresponds to it is the very first step in your selection process. RVs come in all shapes and sizes, and you’ll need to choose the right cover for yours. Although it sounds simple, this is vitally important. Needless to say, there’s a vast difference between a Class A motorhome cover and a campervan cover.
Cover size
For an RV cover to be effective, the fit should be snug and secure. Measuring your rig before purchasing a cover is key. For an accurate fit, measure the height, length, and width as outlined below.
Height: Starting at mid-wheel, measure the height to the top of the roof.
Length: Measure the length from bumper to bumper.
Width: Measure the width of both the rear bumper and the front windshield.
If your RV is even slightly larger than a particular cover size, it’s best to purchase one size up.
Don't overlook climate when choosing an RV cover. Some covers excel at deflecting UV rays but don’t hold up as well in wet conditions, and vice versa.
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Material
Most RV covers are made of polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene (typically marketed as Tyvek), or solution-dyed acrylic (like Sunbrella). The best type of material for your RV will be determined by your climate.
Polyester: Tightly woven polyester covers provide excellent UV protection, making them ideal for hot, dry climates. While polyester does offer some level of water resistance, there's a good chance that water will soak through untreated woven polyester. If you're considering purchasing a polyester RV cover and you live in a wet climate, make sure it has a waterproof coating.
Polypropylene: Rugged and durable, polypropylene is highly resistant to fatigue, cracking, and acid damage. Although polypropylene is naturally water resistant, it’s also breathable and prevents moisture from becoming trapped. However, polypropylene alone isn't completely waterproof, so it should be layered or coated to prevent moisture from seeping through.
Polyethylene:(Tyvek): Similar to polypropylene, polyethylene is strong and tear resistant. With a high-density, nonporous surface, polyethylene won't allow water to penetrate, but air is still able to pass through to prevent mildew growth. This is a great choice for wet and rainy conditions.
Solution-dyed acrylic (Sunbrella): These fabrics are made with UV-resistant dyes and provide superior protection from sun damage. Solution-dyed acrylic RV covers typically have a waterproof coating, making them a good option for all-weather use.
Layers
Although most RV covers are made of materials that are naturally weather resistant, covers with additional layers will provide the highest level of protection. Single-layer covers can offer moderate protection from the elements, but these might not be the best solution for outdoor storage in harsher climates.
Additional features
The following features add a little to the cost of the cover but deliver extra protection and convenience.
Additional weatherproofing: RV covers can range from bare-bones varieties that do little more than keep off the dust to covers that are virtually impenetrable. Aside from multiple layers of fabric, a UV or waterproof finish will further shield your RV from the damaging effects of the sun and ensure that water doesn’t soak through the fabric.
Air vents: A well-ventilated RV cover will allow wind to pass through, preventing billowing that could potentially cause tears in the fabric. Billowing may even loosen buckles, which can end up whipping against your RV in strong winds. Ventilation also provides breathability, allowing moisture to escape.
- Zippered door panels: While not essential, having zippered door panels will enable easy access even when your RV is covered. Not only is this convenient but it also makes monitoring interior conditions that much easier.
Did you know?
RV tires are just as susceptible to UV damage as the rest of the vehicle. Purchasing separate tire covers will help make sure that your rig is protected from top to bottom.
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RV cover prices
Typical prices for RV covers range from around $50 to over $500. While it might be tempting to purchase a cheaper cover, these are almost always lacking in durability and generally don't provide adequate protection from harsh outdoor conditions.
A well-made RV cover that offers additional layers of protection and weatherproofing is a worthwhile investment if you want an option that's capable of safeguarding your rig for years to come.
For your safety
Regardless of the level of waterproofing your RV cover provides, it's best not to leave water or snow standing on top of it for too long.
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Tips
Make sure your RV is clean before you cover it. Dust and dirt can be abrasive, especially beneath a shifting cover. Additionally, if your cover doesn't fit or you notice a flaw during installation, you'll be left with a dirty cover that most manufacturers will refuse to exchange.
Take extra care with sharp edges and protrusions. Even the toughest cover might rip if pulled over sharp edges. It's wise to add a layer of padding over areas like awning mounts and solar panel corners before getting started.
Use a ladder if possible. If your RV’s size allows for it, use a ladder rather than climbing onto the roof. Enlist the help of a friend or family member if necessary.
Take care when walking on the roof of a covered RV. Sometimes you have to climb up onto the roof of an RV to install a cover. Take care not to trip on solar panels or step on vents.
- Don't walk on the roof once your RV is covered: RV covers can be extremely slippery. While this is great for repelling water, it doesn't make for sure footing. Always start at one end, pulling the cover behind you as you go.
FAQ
Q. Can I use a regular tarp instead of an RV cover?
A. Although not uncommon, covering your RV with a tarp generally isn't a good idea. A tarp might provide minimal water and UV protection, but because most tarps tend to be abrasive, this will often come at the cost of your RV’s bodywork. Completely covering your RV with a tarp can also restrict airflow, encouraging mildew growth. When it comes to taking care of your RV, it’s best to use a cover specifically designed for the purpose.
Q. Will an RV cover keep pests out?
A. While a good cover can certainly dissuade wildlife from taking up residence in your RV, unfortunately there is no guarantee that determined critters and insects won’t find their way in. Purchasing a cover with a zippered door will make it easier to occasionally check for unwelcome guests.
Q. How should I store my RV cover when it's not in use?
A. First and foremost, ensure that your RV cover is dry before storing it. Any trace of moisture could result in mold or mildew taking hold. Most RV covers come neatly folded in stuff sacks. However, getting your cover back into the stuff sack for storage can be frustrating, if not impossible. When it comes to fuss-free RV cover storage, we find that a large trash can works best. Simply fold your cover and place it in the trash can along with any accessories until you're ready to use it again.
