The key to successfully winterizing your travel trailer involves more than just a simple cover. Choosing the right cover, preparing your trailer properly, and understanding the environmental factors at play are crucial for protecting your investment from the harsh realities of winter.
Understanding the Need for Winter Travel Trailer Covers
Leaving your travel trailer exposed to the elements throughout winter is a recipe for disaster. Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, ice buildup, and relentless UV rays can wreak havoc on your trailer’s exterior, plumbing, and interior. Cracking paint, leaks, mold growth, and structural damage are just a few potential consequences. A high-quality winter cover, when used correctly in conjunction with proper winterization procedures, provides a crucial barrier against these threats, extending the life of your RV and preserving its value.
Why a Simple Tarp Won’t Cut It
While a cheap tarp might seem like a quick and affordable solution, it’s far from ideal. Tarps are often not breathable, trapping moisture and leading to mold and mildew growth. They also tend to flap in the wind, causing abrasion and potential damage to your trailer’s finish. Furthermore, tarps lack the tailored fit necessary to provide effective protection against the elements, leaving vulnerable areas exposed.
Investing in the Right Kind of Cover
A dedicated RV winter cover is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of winter. These covers are typically made from durable, breathable materials that allow moisture to escape while preventing water penetration. They also feature reinforced corners, adjustable straps, and zippered access panels for easy entry and maintenance. Look for covers with UV protection to prevent sun damage and fading.
Preparing Your Travel Trailer Before Covering
Simply throwing a cover over your trailer won’t guarantee winter protection. Thorough preparation is essential to prevent issues from developing under the cover. This is where the meticulous art of winterization comes into play.
The Importance of Winterization
Winterization refers to the process of preparing your travel trailer’s plumbing system to withstand freezing temperatures. This typically involves draining all water lines, adding RV antifreeze to the plumbing system, and emptying the water heater. Failure to winterize properly can result in burst pipes, damaged fixtures, and costly repairs. Consult your owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions for your model.
Cleaning and Inspecting Your Trailer
Before covering your travel trailer, give it a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, debris, or bird droppings from the exterior surfaces. Inspect the roof, windows, and seams for any signs of damage or leaks. Repair any issues before covering to prevent water from seeping in and causing further problems. Applying a UV protectant to rubber seals and tires can help prevent them from drying out and cracking during the winter months.
Stabilizing and Protecting the Undercarriage
Use RV stabilizers to support the weight of your trailer and prevent the tires from bearing the full load throughout the winter. This will help prevent tire damage and ensure the trailer remains level. Consider placing blocks of wood under the tires to lift them off the ground and further protect them from the cold. Ensure proper ventilation underneath the trailer to prevent moisture buildup.
Covering Your Travel Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve prepared your trailer, you’re ready to install the winter cover. This process should be done carefully to ensure a snug and secure fit.
Choosing the Right Size Cover
Measure your travel trailer accurately before purchasing a cover. Be sure to include any accessories, such as ladders or spare tire covers, in your measurements. Choosing the correct size is crucial for a proper fit, ensuring maximum protection. A cover that is too small will be difficult to install and may tear, while a cover that is too large will be loose and prone to flapping in the wind.
Installing the Cover Correctly
Carefully unfold the cover and position it on top of your travel trailer. Most covers have labels indicating the front and rear. Begin by securing the cover at the top and then working your way down the sides. Use the adjustable straps and buckles to tighten the cover and ensure a snug fit. Pay close attention to the corners and edges, making sure they are securely fastened.
Maintaining Ventilation
While you want to protect your travel trailer from the elements, it’s also important to maintain proper ventilation. Most RV covers have zippered vents or other openings that allow air to circulate. These vents help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth. Be sure to keep these vents open unless extreme weather conditions warrant closing them temporarily.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Travel Trailer Covers
Here are 12 frequently asked questions to help you navigate the complexities of winterizing and covering your travel trailer:
- How often should I inspect my travel trailer cover during the winter?
- Ideally, you should inspect your cover monthly, especially after heavy snowfall or strong winds. Check for tears, damage, or areas where the cover has come loose. Repair any issues promptly to maintain the integrity of the cover.
- Can I use a regular car cover on my travel trailer?
- No. Car covers are not designed for the size and shape of travel trailers. They are also typically not made from breathable materials, which can lead to moisture buildup and damage.
- What type of material is best for a winter travel trailer cover?
- Breathable and water-resistant materials like polypropylene or Tyvek are excellent choices. These materials allow moisture to escape while preventing water penetration. Look for covers that are also UV-resistant.
- Is it necessary to winterize my travel trailer if I live in a mild climate?
- Even in mild climates, freezing temperatures can occur. It’s generally recommended to winterize your plumbing system if temperatures are expected to drop below freezing for an extended period. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
- How do I prevent rodents from entering my travel trailer during the winter?
- Seal any potential entry points, such as gaps around pipes or vents. Use steel wool or expanding foam to fill these gaps. You can also place rodent repellents inside and around your trailer.
- Can I leave my batteries connected during the winter?
- It’s generally recommended to disconnect your batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. This will prevent them from discharging and freezing. You can also use a battery maintainer to keep them charged.
- Should I remove the tires from my travel trailer during the winter?
- Removing the tires is not usually necessary if you’re using stabilizers and tire covers. However, if you’re storing your trailer for an extended period, consider removing the tires and storing them indoors to prevent them from deteriorating.
- How do I prevent ice buildup on my travel trailer cover?
- Choose a cover that is designed to shed snow and ice. If ice does build up, avoid trying to remove it manually, as this can damage the cover. Let it melt naturally.
- What should I do if my travel trailer cover tears during the winter?
- Repair any tears as soon as possible. Use a patch kit specifically designed for RV covers. You can also use duct tape as a temporary fix until you can obtain a permanent solution.
- Is it better to store my travel trailer indoors or outdoors during the winter?
- Storing your travel trailer indoors is always the best option, as it provides the most comprehensive protection from the elements. However, if indoor storage is not available, a high-quality winter cover is the next best thing.
- How much does a good quality travel trailer cover cost?
- The cost of a travel trailer cover can vary depending on the size, material, and features. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 for a high-quality cover.
- Where can I buy a reliable winter travel trailer cover?
- You can purchase travel trailer covers from RV dealerships, online retailers like Amazon, and specialized RV supply stores. Be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.
Post-Winter Cover Removal and Maintenance
Once winter is over, carefully remove your travel trailer cover and inspect it for any damage. Clean the cover and store it in a dry place until the next winter season. Inspect your travel trailer for any signs of water damage, mold, or other issues. Address any problems promptly to prevent them from worsening. Regular maintenance will help ensure your travel trailer stays in good condition for years to come.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality winter cover and following proper winterization procedures is essential for protecting your travel trailer from the harsh realities of winter. By taking the time to prepare your trailer properly, you can prevent costly damage and enjoy years of worry-free RVing. Remember, preventative maintenance is always cheaper than repairs.