Whether you take your RV out on the road or keep it in outdoor storage, you expose it to sunlight’s damaging UV rays. These rays cause exterior paint to fade, rubber fitments to dry out, and vinyl decals to crack. Unfortunately for you, the RV owner, your vehicle’s compromised facade results in its depreciation.
Most Common Mistakes RV Owners Make
In the motorhome industry, there’s a long list of common mistakes RV owners make, including the following examples:
- Buying the wrong make and model for their needs
- Not taking an RV driver class or learning from a pro
- Not buying motorhome insurance. In fact worst mistake is not checking all deals so try comparing touring caravan insurance quotes from different brokers before buying.
- Ignoring the manufacturer’s weight limits
Another common mistake is an RV owner’s failure to provide some form of protection, such as an inflatable car cover, for their vehicle’s exterior.
How To Keep Your RV Exterior Looking New
From where to park to when to clean, the following five tips can help you keep your RV looking like it just rolled off the factory floor.
1. Park Under A Shelter
Parking your RV under a shelter or roof provides short-term protection from the sun’s UV rays. A car or RV port is a popular solution for driveway storage or parking. Many RV owners erect or build their port in a place that gives them maximum room for maneuvering and parking the vehicle and cleaning and organizing it.
2. Rent an Indoor Storage Facility
A step up from driveway storage is an indoor storage facility. While it’s typically a more expensive option than home storage, an indoor facility protects your RV’s exterior from sunlight, moisture and temperature changes.
3. Invest in a Car Cover
A car cover is one of the most affordable solutions for storing your RV in your driveway. Noah car covers, for example, provide all-weather custom-fit protection for your vehicle. Available in a medium-weight breathable multi-layer material, these versatile covers feature a soft inner layer and are UV-, water- and dust-resistant. When you buy a custom-fit cover for your RV, you’re investing in its long-term value.
4. Clean the Exterior Before Storage
Wash and wax your RV’s exterior before you cover or store it. Even if you have a car cover with the softest inner layer possible, dirt and other debris pose a threat to your RV’s exterior. Washing removes abrasive elements such as pollen, sand or soil, and waxing seals the outer layer. The slightest scratch can devalue your vehicle, so it’s worth putting the time into preparing your RV’s exterior before storage.
5. Clean Slide Outs and Seals
Along the lines of washing and waxing your RV, make sure to clean its slide outs and seals, too. It’s easy for dirt to build up around the seals, which results in abrasion and discoloration. Also, lubricate the slider mechanisms and window seals for their health and continued performance.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to keeping your RV exterior looking like new. Browse auto care websites for the car or trailer storage cover and accessories you need for your vehicle.
