Your RV was likely an expensive investment and an important part of your leisurely travel, so it only makes sense to ensure it is protected from the elements, and it is just as important to take care of your RV when it’s not in use as it is when you’re out on the open road.
When not stored properly, RVs become vulnerable to deterioration caused by sunlight, hail, wind, and dust, resulting in the RV showing signs of aging quickly and requiring additional maintenance. Further, fading paint and cracked rubber and vinyl take a toll on your investment in terms of resale value, since the exterior appearance is the first thing potential buyers notice.
Renting a storage space for your RV can be not only costly, but inconvenient. The good new is you can build an affordable custom metal shelter for your RV right on your property. Here are some things to consider when designing your shelter:
Size – When it comes to RV shelters, size matters. Our shelters start at 12’ wide, which will provide adequate cover for most motorhomes. However, to allow room for slide-outs or extra space around the RV, we recommend going with a unit that is 18’ wide or larger. Standard RV shelters are available in widths of 12, 18, 20, 22, and 24 feet. If you’re looking for even more space or to store more than one RV, triple-wide carport units are available in standard widths of 26, 28, and 30 feet. Extra wide custom RV shelters can be built up to 40’ wide.
In addition to width, you will need to factor in the length and height of your RV when designing your structure. We recommend adding a few feet to the length measurement of your RV to ensure maximum protection in the front and back. When measuring the height of your RV, remember to include the AC unit at the top to ensure plenty of clearance. RV covers are available from 6 to 16 feet in height.
When designing your shelter, it’s also a good idea to keep in mind your plans for the future. Do you plan to purchase a larger RV at some point? If so, it might be worth building larger now, to ensure your future RV is covered.
Roof and Siding – There are different roofing options available, but the vertical roof style is recommended, as the panels run up and down, allowing for easier run-off. Vertical siding adds extra framing to the structure, and additional protection to the sides of the RV. Roll-up doors, allowing for full enclosure of your RV, are also available.
Steel Frame – 14-gauge steel frames are standard on our RV shelters, with an option to upgrade to 12-gauge framing. The 12-gauge metal framing is thicker and stronger than the 14-gauge.
Certification – Adding a certification package adds extra bracing and anchoring to the RV cover and certifies the structure to sustain winds up to 140 mph.
If you have additional questions or are ready to start designing the perfect home for your RV, contact us today for more information.
