 | Polypropylene Cover: $50-$300 |
|
 | Woven Polyester or Tyvek Cover: $300-$1,200+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| |
| For recreational vehicles stored outdoors, a cover can help keep out dirt and dust; block UV rays to keep the RV body from fading and cracking; reflect infrared rays to keep interior temperatures down; and protect against chemicals and other harmful substances in bird droppings or rain. Covers made from "breathable" fabric and vents are designed to keep out rainwater but allow moisture to escape from the stored RV, to limit the growth of mold or mildew. Covers are made for any size or shape of RV. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Covers designed to zip onto an RV start at $50 -$300 for a universal-fit polypropylene cover. For example, the Camco UltraGuard Pop-Up Covers for tent trailers are 46" high and 87" wide, and available in lengths between 6'-18', for $80 -$125. The Adco Polypropylene Class A RV Covers for motorhomes are 110" high and 102" wide, and for lengths of 20'-40' cost $165 -$280.
- Expect to pay $300 -$1,200 or more for a semi-custom or custom fit with layers of more durable materials such as woven polyester or Tyvek (nonwoven high-density polyethylene) plus reinforced seams and heavy-duty zippers or fasteners. These models may have vents to help prevent mold or mildew, or a zippered door area to allow access to the RV while the cover is in place. For example, ToyBoxCovers.com makes covers to fit the measurements of a specific RV for $500 -$1,100 for either a 20'-40' Custom Tyvek Class A Motorhome Cover or a 20'-40' Custom Tyvek Toyhauler Fifth-Wheel RV Trailer Cover. These come in white, tan or gray, with a one-piece roof (no seams) and a zippered door on the side or rear.
What should be included: | - The cover should come with all needed hardware or straps, and many include a storage bag.
- The RV must be clean and dry before the cover is put in place. Typically installation requires either walking on the roof of the RV to unroll the cover and drop down the sides or using ropes to pull the cover over the top and then a step ladder plus a broom or similar tool to guide the cover over protrusions like an A/C unit, awning, antenna mount, etc. The cover is then secured with straps, ties or buckles. It's possible for one person to put a cover on an RV, but it's easier with an assistant. On average, a mid-sized RV cover can be installed in about 15 minutes, according to RVCoversDirect.com. Manufacturer Adco provides a how-to video for installing an RV cover.
- It's important that the cover be properly secured, so it's not rubbing against sharp corners, which might cause a tear, and so it doesn't flap in the wind, which can cause scratches or other marks on the RV. An Ohio RV owner displays a photo of roofline rub marks caused by a flapping cover.
Additional costs: | - A patch kit with adhesive fabric to repair tears in the RV cover can cost $10 -$20.
- Separate tire covers (also called tire guards) can cost $20 -$50 or more for a set of two. For example, Adco Vinyl Tire Gards for 36"-39" diameter tires sell for $30 -$35 for a pair.
- An RV motorhome windshield cover can cost $30 -$100, depending on universal or custom fit, to offer protection around just the windshield area.
- Separate from a cover, an RV mask (also called an RV bra) fits over the nose or front end of a motorhome, acting as a shield against bug damage while driving. These can start at $30 -$60 but more typically cost $100 -$600, depending on whether it's a universal or custom fit.
Discounts: | - As a DIY option, an RV can be covered with a standard tarp held in place by bungee cords for $50 -$150, depending on the size of the RV and the type and thickness of the tarp. The tarp must be carefully secured to avoid rubbing damage to the RV, or having the tarp tear or blow away.
Shopping for an rv cover: | |
|
| |
Article updated January 2011 |
|
E-mail
Post