Living in the hot Arizona sun, I definitely need to protect my RV from the hot sun. The rubber roof on an RV lasts somewhere between 10-15 years depending on how well it is protected and cared for. Repairs to your roof can cost somewhere between $8,000 to $12,000 depending on how much of the plywood under-layment must be replaced. Taking a few minutes to cover your vehicle when it is not in use is time well spent and money saved.
Although RV covers can be somewhat costly to purchase, in the log run, they actually save you a substantial amount of money. Not only can they protect your roof from sun damage but they can also help maintain your resale value and keep your coach in good condition. RV covers can help protect your vehicle and prevent the hot sun from facing and cracking not only the outside of your RV but also the furniture and fixtures inside your RV. RV’s which are sealed up, like cars, can reach over 180 degrees inside on a day with an outside temperature of only 98 degrees. This can cause laminates, seals and plastics to dry up and warp. Tires can also be damaged from harsh sun and weather. A good strategy is to place your RV on rubber mats and buy tire covers to place on your tires when your vehicle is not in use. I was recently able to keep my tires in good shape for over 5 years by ensuring that I kept them covered when my RV was not in use. These small steps can save you lots of money and keep your RV in tip top shape.