RV Carports and RV Shelters: What RV Owners Should Know Before Buying

Keeping an RV in pristine condition requires considerable time and money. These vehicles are far more expensive than ordinary cars or trucks, and they demand much more upkeep. This is why so many folks have turned to RV carports and shelters to protect their investments from the elements.

If left exposed during the off-season, Recreational vehicles and motorhomes can begin to deteriorate and show signs of wear. Harsh UV rays penetrate clear coats, fade paint, and dry out important rubber and plastic components. And before you know it, the value of your RV has plummeted.

So, if you want to know more about protecting your RV and keeping it looking great year-round, keep reading! Below, we'll cover everything you need to know before buying your RV carport!

Options for Covering Your Motorhome

Luckily, there are several options out there when it comes to securing your recreational vehicles from the outside environment. Let’s take a look at just a few choices you’ll have.

1. RV Garages

An RV garage might be just your speed if you’re looking for a fully enclosed building to keep your RV safe and dry. These structures are fully customizable and can be outfitted with custom roll-up doors, windows, and everything you'd need to keep your vehicles shiny and new.

2. RV Carports

An RV carport is another excellent choice to keep your recreational vehicles looking their best. They’re well-suited for regions with minimal rain and snowfall.

3. RV Storage Rentals

Another option might be to purchase a rental space. This is a standard method of keeping your vehicles safe, but monthly rentals can prove to be exceedingly expensive.

4. Fabric RV Covers

A fabric RV cover is a quick option that can keep your vehicle covered in a pinch. However, fabric and vinyl covers are only temporary solutions and can tear or deteriorate over time. Moisture and pests can still cause enormous damage to your vehicle if left unattended.

Read More: Spring Maintenance Tips to Keep Your RV Carport Looking Nice and New

Important Things to Keep in Mind When Planning a Metal RV Carport Project

When undertaking any building project, it pays to perform your due diligence. The plans you undertake now will only make the construction process smoother in the end. Here are some critical things you'll need to consider.

1. What Size Metal Carport Do I Need for My RV?

How large is your recreational vehicle? You'll need to have close estimates of your RV's size. This will help you determine your structure's appropriate width, length, and height.

2. What Roof System Is Best for My RV Carport?

When you purchase a carport or metal building, you’ll have the choice between several roofing options. These options include:

a) Regular Roofs

A regular roof features rounded edges, a shallow roof pitch, and horizontal paneling. It’s a great economical option that works well in mild environments.

b) A-Frame Roofs

An A-frame roof will look more like the roof you’d find on a traditional home, with overhanging awnings, a sharper roof peak, and horizontal paneling. A-frame designs are a fantastic mid-range choice designed to handle high winds.

c) Vertical Roofs

Vertical roofs are known as one of the longest-lasting options. They combine the best aspects of the a-frame design with vertical paneling. These vertical panels allow rain, snowfall, and debris to easily slide away from your building, keeping it in better condition for longer.

3. Do I Need Additional Customization Options?

Metal RV covers provide an unrivaled level of customizability, giving you full control over almost every aspect of your structure. You’ll be able to choose your building’s size, footprint, framing thickness, color options, trim, wainscoting, and more.

4. What Foundation Type Will I Need?

RV covers will typically have one of several foundation types. These foundations will depend on your needs, soil type, and several other factors. In most cases, you'll choose between dirt or gravel, asphalt, or concrete pad foundations. For larger structures, you'll likely want to choose concrete.

5. What Permits Will I Require?

Most localities will require you to secure a permanent building permit before beginning construction on any structure. As such, you’ll want to work closely with local building officials to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and permits. Failure to secure these can result in significant fines and penalties.

The Wide-Ranging Benefits of Metal RV Carports

Purchasing metal carports provides you with a wide range of advantages. Some of these benefits include:

• Protection from the Elements

Rain and snow carry with them tons of moisture. This same moisture can cause parts of your RV to rust and deteriorate. But with an enclosed structure, your vehicles will remain safe and dry.

• Shelter from Weather

High winds, heavy rain, and deep snow accumulation can all wreak havoc on unprepared vehicles. A metal RV cover, however, will keep your vehicle in superb condition, no matter how wicked the weather becomes.

• Protection from Pests

During the winter months, rodents are known to seek warmth indoors. Unfortunately, if your vehicle is not adequately secured, these pests can chew through wiring, damage components, and cause massive issues with your RV.

• Easy Year-Round Access

Keeping your recreational vehicles safe in an enclosed structure will provide easy access should you need to use it. Simply load up, and go!

Probuilt Steel Buildings Is Your First Choice for All Your RV Carport Needs

No matter where you call home, you can trust Probuilt Steel Buildings to offer an extensive array of metal buildings for any purpose. Our structures are strong, long-lasting, and built to take on the heaviest duties. Whether it's equipment buildings or RV carport kits, we have the skills to deliver lasting results.

We're proud to make owning a structure easy and affordable on any budget with flexible financing options and a rent-to-own program that puts you in control! So, if you’re ready to protect your RV, motorhome, or bus, give Probuilt Steel Buildings a call at (877) 754-1818. We’ll be happy to assist you in planning and designing the metal building of your dreams!