Protecting Your RV Investment with the Right Storage

For RV owners, our beloved recreational vehicles represent some of our most cherished investments. The memories made on epic family road trips or weekends spent creating cozy camping hideaways in the woods stay with us for decades.

Yet the same harsh outdoor elements that enable unforgettable journeys, taking RVs climbing rocky backcountry trails and winding along stunning shorelines also pose risks of accelerated weathering damage, costly repairs and deteriorating conditions when motorhomes or camper trailers face extended uncovered exposure in home storage.

Finding secure enclosed shelter customized to properly house prized RVs helps dedicated travelers extend enjoyment mile after mile for years longer through protection that preserves asset value, saves on pricey repairs and keeps rigs ready for the next lakeside weekend the moment adventure calls.

This guide explores the impacts of leaving RV investments continually exposed, with tips for identifying protective storage as well as the merits and considerations when planning specialized on-site RV garaging. By learning to properly safeguard recreational vehicles of all sizes and budgets from external threats, owners keep cherished rigs in optimal shape for maximizing memories on the open road.

The Risks of Exposing RVs to the Elements

Recreational vehicles left continuously exposed to outdoor conditions face accelerated exterior wear and tear, along with increased risks of internal issues over time. Consider:

Sunlight and UV Exposure - An unprotected RV withstands continuous UV radiation which can fade paint, graphics, and exterior surfaces while deteriorating rubber seals. Over months or years, surface chalking, cracking, peeling and other degradation emerges.

Temperature Extremes – Summer heat bakes interiors, straining insulation effectiveness. Certain appliances may warp or malfunction if repeatedly subject to extreme heat. Come winter, cold risks cracked tanks/pipes plus refrigerator efficiency losses if vehicles aren't properly winterized. 

Precipitation - Frequent rainstorms or snow buildup strains the integrity of roof sealants. Leaks can emerge inside walls, slide-outs, and storage bays, causing interior water damage or electrical shorts if left unchecked. Weight from heavy accumulated snow also risks dented panels.

Physical Damage - Unprotected RVs risk dings, scratches and crushed panels from windstorm debris, falling tree limb,s or car doors in an adjoining parking space. Rodents may gnaw wires or nest in out-of-sight compartments.

Dirt Accumulation – Grit, tree sap, bird droppings and road grime will dingy exteriors over time despite best efforts to routinely wash RVs after trips. This accelerated dirtiness hastens erosion and corrosion issues.

Reasons to Invest in Dedicated RV Storage

Given the risks of exposing motorhomes and camper trailers to the whims of Mother Nature year-round, securing protected storage delivers considerable upside:

Preserve Asset Value - Maintaining exterior finishes better retains resale value after years of enjoyment, should you trade in or sell your RV one day. Keeping components functional also prevents costly repairs from weather-related breakdowns.

Save on Maintenance – Storing RVs indoors or under covered shelters like carports suitable for an RV helps owners avoid frequent repainting/refinishing to correct sun damage. It also eliminates frequent caulking/resealing to fix leaks and associated water damage. Less grime accumulation also means less frequent power washing.

Maintain Optimal Condition - Consistent temperature and moisture control prevent mildew buildup in cabinets or upholstery that can lead to permanent odours. Keeping ceiling panels watertight ensures original laminates or wood trims don’t warp or deteriorate prematurely.

Enable Quick Getaways – The convenience of keeping RVs continually hooked up to power, filled with water and pre-packed for the next adventure means you can quickly hit the road whenever adventure calls without time-consuming prep.

Gain Peace of Mind – Perhaps most importantly, safeguarding your prized RV asset from risks beyond your control grants comfort knowing it stays protected no matter what the weather brings.

Key Considerations for RV Storage Selections

If you’ve resolved to find protected storage this year, smart choices center on:

Type of Storage – Key options include indoor storage facilities, outdoor storage yards with covered options or installing detached garages/carports suitable for an RV on your residential property. Each approach carries pros and cons.

Size Requirements – Measure your actual RV's length, width and clearance heights, accounting for factors like raised TV antennas. This ensures facilities can accommodate your specific model’s footprint plus room to maneuver.

Security Provisions – Look for gated yards with code access, security cameras, night lighting, and staff on-site to prevent unauthorized access and deter crimes of opportunity.

Site Condition – Seek storage locations with effective drainage, gravel or paved surfaces, and perimeter fences to contain blowing debris that could otherwise damage your RV's finish.

Special Needs – If you require occasional access to hook up to power, fill tank,s or load gear between trips, confirm policies allow reasonable access or even offer full-service capabilities like holding tank pumping.

Dedicated On-Site RV Garaging Offers Prime Protection

For RVers who use their vehicles frequently or require complete control over access, investing in permanent RV garaging on your residential property makes solid sense. Benefits abound:

Customization – Detached RV garages allow personalized dimensions tailored to your exact RV length. Optimize height clearances and choose garage door widths facilitating drive-through access even for the widest coaches.

Convenience – Enjoy the ultimate convenience of keeping RVs continually prepped for travel while benefiting from direct home access to electricity, water and waste removal hookups.

Security – Onsite structures put RV storage visibility under your complete control with customized access provisions as needed. Integrate surveillance cameras, alarms and monitoring to match home systems.

Affordability – While upfront installation costs more than third-party rental storage, the long-term expense may prove cheaper than indefinite monthly rental fees depending on local rates and use patterns.

Versatility - Detached garaging adds flexible covered space adaptable for myriad other uses like hosting parties, workspace expansions or storing seasonal equipment.

Building RV Carports and Garages

Thankfully with modular construction, building specialty garaging tailored to secure and protect treasured RVs doesn’t require elaborate construction skills. Complete pre-engineered structures like those from Eagle Buildings arrive with everything needed for straightforward assembly.

Their detached RV carports and garages feature:

• Durable hot-dipped galvanized steel framework with weather-resistant 29-gauge steel roofing and siding panels

• Extra-wide customization suitable for the largest RV models

• Available installation services for a turnkey setup

• Competitive pricing well below traditional construction costs

• Limited lifetime warranty backs structural integrity

By leveraging durable pre-engineered structures for sheltering prized recreational investments, RVers gain reliable long-term protection, enhanced resale value preservation and great peace of mind benefitting every journey for years to come.

The next trip awaits...once you get your RV properly stored and prepped for the open road again!

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