If you are planning to buy an RV for the first time or have already purchased one, it is essential to take steps to protect it. One way to do this is by investing in a steel RV carport. But why is it important to safeguard your RV? Let’s take a closer look at the details.
What If…You Don’t Cover Your RV?
Sun Damage: UV rays can wear out an RV’s external paint, seals, tires, and parts. Constant sunshine can cause the interior to heat up to 144 ℉.
Prevent Moisture: Changing seasons and weather fluctuations can lead to moisture build-up over the RV’s body and create humidity inside. This may lead to mold and mildew growth.
Snow Damage: Snow build-up on your motorhome can scratch paint and retain moisture. Moreover, melting water can sip into the interior, damaging the seating and bedding.
Increase RV Maintenance: Dust will settle on the motorhome surface daily, occasionally leaving behind a stain. So, cleaning will be a weekly task for you. In addition, debris, bird droppings on the roof, and dents will need timely repairs. All this will increase the cost of RV upkeep.
Not to mention, your RV’s resale value will also be affected. So, it is best to invest in metal RV shelters.
The Importance Of RV Steel Carport
Keep Dust & Debris At Bay
RV metal buildings keep motorhomes covered from direct dust accumulation. They also do not allow UV rays to fall on the surface, deteriorating paints and metal surfaces.
Protect From Pests
Pests like rodents may want to take shelter inside an RV. They may chew up the motorhome wire or soft hardware. Any wire malfunction can be dangerous, as you may end up incurring repair bills. Birds may nest or rest over the RV’s top. Over time, birds’ droppings can damage roofs and block vents.
An RV metal carport provides shade, roof, and cover for your RV without breaking your bank. The price of steel RV covers starts at $4,000. However, it can increase with the customization.
RV Steel Carports Weather Resistant
A certified steel carport is resistant to high-speed winds, seismic activities, and snow load over the roof. The industry standard is 14-gauge steel for frames and 26-gauge steel for panels and side walls. However, you can get more security with a 12-gauge steel frame and 24-gauge panels. The only downside is that it will slightly increase the overall cost.
Boost Motorhome Longevity
Since your RV is safe from daily wear and tear, you will spend less money on its upkeep and have a longer lifespan. So, install a steel cover and enjoy RVing!
How To Find the Right Motorhome Carport?
Local Laws
Any metal RV shelters must comply with the local building codes. Failure to do so can lead to a penalty or, worse, the removal of the entire structure. We suggest that after finalizing the design, you get a copy of the blueprint from your metal dealer and apply for a permit.
Once you secure the permit, order the steel RV carport and start the installation. Do not forget to check the setback rules.
Foundation
It is best to opt for a concrete slab as it is durable and can bear more load than conventional foundations. Once cured, concrete lasts long without much maintenance. The slab is generally 4 to 6 inches thick but can be up to 8 inches thick.
RV Size
What is the point of having RV steel buildings that do not fit any motorhome? Design your metal RV cover according to its size. Here are some of the RV sizes and their models. Have a look.
| Class A | Width: 8.6 ft. |
| Length: 15 ft. | |
| Height: 13 ft. | |
| Class B | Width: 8 ft. |
| Length: 20 ft. | |
| Height: 9 ft. | |
| Class C | Width: 8.4 ft. |
| Length: 25 ft. | |
| Height: 10 ft. | |
| Travel Trailer | Width: 8.5 ft. |
| Length: 25 ft. | |
| Height: 11 ft. | |
| Fifth Wheel | Width: 8.5 ft. |
| Length: 40 ft. | |
| Height: 13 ft. |
Measure the size of your RV across the widest part, fullest length, and height that covers up to ducts and antenna (if any). Then add at least 3 to 4 feet to each side of the width (to open & close doors comfortably). Finally, add 4 to 5 feet to length and height. Note that here, we are talking about the eave’s height.
Accessible
How easy is it to drive an RV in and out of the metal carport? Though RV metal carports are meant to shelter your vehicle when not in use, you may want to access them occasionally, for instance, to upgrade sheets and indoor fabric covers or to install new cooling or heating appliances.
Therefore, it would be nice if you could access your RV without much maneuvering. For this, choose a place on your lot that is open from all sides and has a wider driveway.
Roof Style
For an RV metal carport, we suggest installing corrugated, vertical metal roofing panels. They are easy to clean and require little maintenance.
Add-On For Steel RV Shelters
If you are installing a steel carport, we suggest covering the gable ends (front and back) and opting for partially covered side walls (3 to 9 ft. from the roof’s eave). You can even fully cover a carport from at most two sides.
RV metal buildings are large structures, so installing a gutter with a downspout attached to a water collection tank would be helpful. You can filter and reuse this water for cleaning the RV or watering your yard.
Upon Analyzing The Facts
We understand how important your RV is to you, so we want to remind you of the significance of protecting it. By investing in a steel RV carport, you can ensure that your motorhome stays protected.
