10 Ways to Cover RV Roof: Shield Your Camper from Harsh Weather
Protect your RV from harsh weather with the right cover: shield against UV rays, rain, snow, and dirt to maintain its condition and prevent damage.
Traveling in an RV is a great way to see the world, but keeping your home on wheels protected from the elements is an important part of maintaining your investment.
When not in use, an RV parked outdoors can be exposed to harmful UV rays, rain, wind, and dirt, causing it to deteriorate over time.
However, with the right roof cover, you can keep your RV in top condition, ready for your next adventure.
A well-chosen RV roof cover serves multiple purposes.
Hey hey – real quick! Don’t forget to subscribe to get our best content 🙂
Besides providing a physical barrier against dust, dirt, rain, snow, and UV rays, it also helps maintain the vehicle’s temperature by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat build-up.
It further protects the rooftop accessories such as AC units, satellites, and horns.
Most importantly, a breathable cover prevents moisture build-up, thereby eliminating the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
Using a Pergola as an RV Roof Cover
If your RV spends most of its time parked in your home’s driveway, a pergola could be an interesting and aesthetically pleasing option for a roof cover.
A pergola is an outdoor structure typically made of wood, metal, or vinyl, with a slatted or lattice roof.
It can provide shade and protect your RV from direct sunlight, reducing the risk of UV damage. However, it may not offer much protection against rain or snow.
The Benefits of a Pergola Cover
One of the main advantages of a pergola cover is its aesthetic appeal. It can enhance the look of your outdoor space while providing functional benefits like shade and UV protection.
Since pergolas are usually freestanding structures, they don’t require any attachment to your RV, allowing you easy access to your vehicle at all times.
Moreover, with some climbing plants, you can create a beautiful green canopy that provides additional shade and cools the area underneath.
How to Install a Pergola Cover
Installing a pergola requires some construction skills, but it’s a project that can be completed over a weekend.
You’ll need posts to support the structure, beams for the roof, and slats or lattices for the top. After marking the location for the posts, dig holes, place the posts, and secure them with concrete.
Once the concrete has dried, attach the beams to the posts and add the slats or lattice on top. Remember to ensure the structure is sturdy and stable before parking your RV beneath it.
Polypropylene Fabric Covers
Protect your travel trailer in style with the Summates RV Cover. Made of durable 4-layer polypropylene fabric in gray or beige, fits most sizes 30-33 feet.
Polypropylene fabric covers are one of the most common types of RV roof covers due to their numerous advantages.
They are specifically designed to withstand the outdoor elements, offering superior protection against rain, snow, dust, UV rays, and even bird droppings.
What is Polypropylene Fabric?
Polypropylene is a type of plastic that’s molded into a flexible fabric. It’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to ripping and tearing, making it an ideal material for outdoor covers.
More importantly, it’s breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate instead of getting trapped underneath the cover, thus preventing mold and mildew growth.
Advantages of Polypropylene Covers
Aside from their durability and breathability, polypropylene covers are also easy to install. They often come with built-in grommets and bungee straps for a secure fit.
Plus, they’re usually designed to fit over various RV accessories, adding to their versatility.
When it comes to cleaning, most polypropylene covers can be simply hosed off and left to air dry, making maintenance a breeze.
Regular Waxing and Maintenance
While using a roof cover is essential, regular waxing and maintenance of your RV’s exterior go a long way in preserving its appearance and longevity.
Regularly cleaning and applying a high-quality wax can protect the paint and sealant on your RV’s roof, preventing premature aging and damage.
Importance of Regular RV Waxing
Waxing forms a protective layer on the surface of the RV, shielding it from damaging UV rays, bird droppings, sap, and other pollutants.
It also gives the RV a glossy finish, enhancing its overall look. Additionally, a well-maintained RV can fetch a higher resale value if you ever decide to sell it.
How to Properly Wax Your RV
To wax your RV, start by washing the roof thoroughly with a mild soap to remove any dirt or grime. Once it’s clean and dry, apply a high-quality RV wax in a circular motion using a soft cloth or a power buffer.
Allow the wax to dry to a haze, then buff it out using a clean, soft cloth. Repeat this process until you’ve covered the entire roof.
Installation of Outdoor Covers
When your RV is parked outdoors for extended periods, an outdoor cover can provide the necessary protection against the elements.
These covers come in various sizes and materials, so you can choose one that best suits your RV’s size and your local weather conditions.
The Pros and Cons of Outdoor Covers
Outdoor covers, particularly those made of polypropylene fabric, offer excellent protection against sun, rain, wind, and dirt.
They’re also breathable, preventing moisture build-up and subsequent mold growth. On the downside, they can be bulky and require some effort to install and remove.
Some low-quality covers can also scratch or rub against the RV’s exterior, causing damage over time.
Steps to Installing Outdoor Covers
Start by measuring your RV to ensure you get the right size cover. Then, clean your RV to prevent any dirt or debris from scratching the surface under the cover.
Begin installing the cover from the roof, and gradually work your way down, securing it with the straps or ties provided. Make sure the cover is snug but not too tight, as this could cause tension and potential damage.
Investing in Theft-Proof Covers
An often-overlooked benefit of RV covers is their ability to deter theft. A covered RV is less tempting to potential thieves as it requires more effort to access.
By investing in a lockable cover, you can add an extra layer of security to your vehicle.
Why Consider Theft-Proof Covers
Apart from providing weather protection, theft-proof covers also offer peace of mind, especially when your RV is parked in a public or less secure area.
These covers typically feature zippered panels that can be locked together, preventing unauthorized access to the vehicle.
Top Rated Theft-Proof Covers in the Market
When shopping for theft-proof covers, consider options like the RV polypropylene waterproof rooftop, known for its durability and easy installation.
It has reinforced corner guards and a 1200 denier count material, promising tear resistance and flexibility.
Another option is the RV trailer rooftop cover, made from heavy-duty tarpaulin material that provides both UV and water resistance.
Snow-Resistant Covers
If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, investing in a snow-resistant cover for your RV can save you a lot of trouble.
These covers are designed to withstand the weight of snow and prevent it from accumulating on the roof of your RV, where it could potentially cause damage.
Importance of Snow-Resistant Covers
Snow accumulation on your RV’s roof can lead to several problems, including roof leaks and structural damage due to the weight of the snow.
Snow can also freeze around vents and other rooftop fixtures, causing them to crack. A snow-resistant cover helps keep your RV dry and prevents these issues.
Best Picks for Snow-Resistant Covers
When looking for snow-resistant covers, consider models like the RV Rooftop Cover with its heavy-duty tarp material or the RV Trailer Rooftop Cover with built-in grommets for sturdy installation.
Both these options offer excellent protection against snow, rain, and UV rays.
UV-Resistant Covers
Constant exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage to your RV, leading to fading, cracking, and peeling of the exterior paint.
It can also degrade the sealants that protect your RV from water leaks. Therefore, a UV-resistant cover is an essential investment for any RV owner.
Why UV-Resistant Covers are Essential
UV-resistant covers protect your RV not just from direct sunlight but also from indirect UV radiation that can still cause harm. By reflecting these harmful rays, the cover helps maintain the appearance of the RV and protects it from premature aging, thus preserving its value.
The Best UV-Resistant Covers Available
Some of the best UV-resistant covers include the RV Rooftop Cover and the RV Tarp Waterproof Roof Top.
Both these covers are not only UV-resistant but also waterproof and easy to install, making them excellent all-rounders for protecting your RV.
Water Intrusion-Resistant Covers
Rainwater or melting snow can lead to water intrusion, which can cause extensive damage to your RV. Water intrusion-resistant covers are therefore necessary to protect your vehicle from moisture damage.
The Need for Water Intrusion-Resistant Covers
Water intrusion can lead to a host of problems in your RV, including rust, mold, mildew, and even electrical issues.
Furthermore, if water gets into your insulation, it can drastically reduce its effectiveness, leading to higher energy costs.
A good quality water intrusion-resistant cover helps prevent these issues by keeping your RV dry.
Recommended Water Intrusion-Resistant Covers
For solid protection against water intrusion, consider the RV Rooftop Cover or the RV Tarp Waterproof Roof Top.
Both these covers are made from durable materials that resist tearing and are fully waterproof, ensuring your RV stays dry in all weather conditions.
Custom Fitted Covers
While standard RV covers may fit most models, a custom-fitted cover ensures perfect coverage for your specific RV model, providing optimal protection.
Benefits of Custom-Fitted Covers
Custom-fitted covers provide a snug fit for your RV, eliminating loose areas that might flap in the wind and cause damage.
They also ensure every part of your RV is adequately protected, including the corners and edges that might otherwise be exposed.
How to Get Your RV Custom Fitted
To get a custom-fitted cover, you’ll need to provide the exact dimensions of your RV, including its length, width, and height, along with any additional fixtures like air conditioners, ladders, or vents.
Many companies offer custom fitting services, ensuring a perfect fit for your specific RV model.
Mold and Mildew Resistant Covers
An important feature to look for in an RV cover is its resistance to mold and mildew.
These fungi thrive in damp environments and can cause unpleasant odors, health issues, and damage to your RV’s interior and exterior.
Why You Should Consider Mold and Mildew Resistant Covers Mold and mildew can be a serious problem for RV owners, as they not only cause damage but also pose health risks.
Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems, while mildew can stain and deteriorate surfaces.
By choosing a mold and mildew-resistant cover, you can prevent these issues and ensure a healthy and safe environment inside your RV.
Top Mold and Mildew Resistant Covers
Some top-rated mold and mildew-resistant covers include the RV Rooftop Cover and the RV Trailer Rooftop Cover.
These covers are made from breathable materials like polypropylene fabric, allowing moisture to evaporate quickly and preventing mold and mildew growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cover my RV roof?
Yes, it is highly recommended to cover your RV roof when it’s not in use. A good quality RV roof cover provides protection against UV rays, rain, snow, and other outdoor elements that can cause damage over time.
It also helps maintain the temperature inside your RV and prevents mold and mildew growth.
Are RV covers good or bad?
RV covers are generally beneficial for protecting your vehicle from the elements.
However, it’s important to choose a high-quality cover that fits properly and is made from breathable, waterproof, and durable materials.
Improperly fitted covers or covers made from non-breathable materials can trap moisture and cause more harm than good.
What is the best material for an RV cover?
Polypropylene fabric is considered one of the best materials for RV covers.
It is rip-resistant, waterproof, and breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate and preventing mold and mildew growth.
Other materials like tarpaulin and vinyl can also provide good protection, but polypropylene fabric is highly recommended due to its superior properties.
What is the average cost for an RV cover?
The cost of an RV cover can vary depending on the size, material, and brand. On average, a high-quality RV cover can range from $200 to $800. Custom-fitted covers may be more expensive.
