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0 Over 11 million households in America own an RV. These wonderful motorhomes need dedicated storage space during colder months or times when you are not RVing. Here, we have compiled a checklist of things to do to maintain your RV during storage. Many people choose to secure their motorhomes in steel RV garages for extra security & safety. Let’s see why regular RV checks are important.
Importance Of Regular RV Check-Ins
Regular checks allow you to identify potential issues early & avoid the following problems.
Battery Maintenance
Your motorhome’s battery can still drain when not in use, which can lead to a dead battery. Thus, you must disconnect the battery or use solar panels or trickle chargers to keep it charged without risking overcharging.
Tip: Check battery terminals & clean them on a regular basis to avoid corrosion.
Rodent & Pest Control
Rats can chew through wires, insulation, and other materials and cause damage to your RV. Therefore, you must store your beloved motorhome in a sturdy & pest-free environment, such as an RV steel garage. These are made using dense metal panels & rodents can’t chew through to enter inside.
Tip: Ensure your RV parking garage is sealed from all entry points to keep pests out. Follow-up on a routine inspection to check insects, fire ants, and other common pests.
Tire Issues
An RV that has been sitting for a long can develop a flat tire due to the weight of the vehicle, which can lead to wear & tear. Keeping regular checks will help find flat tire issues & fix them early.
Tip: You can use an RV jack to reduce the amount of pressure on the tires.
Mold & Mildew
When storing RV, ensure the area has good drainage to avoid moisture development & humidity. Excess humidity can cause molding or mildew growth, which can lead to health issues and even damage to your RV.
Tip: Install proper ventilation for humidity control. You can also invest in a dehumidifier to keep the interior dry. Choose proper storage like steel RV garages for all-weatherproof shelter.
Leaks & Seals
Check the roof, windows, and doors for any signs of leaks, gaps, or holes. If any are found, fix them with seals or caulking. Water damage can lead to structural issues and even promote mold growth. Be sure to check seals regularly and replace the worn-out ones with new ones.
Tip: Check for propane leaks in lines or tanks. Ensure it is disconnected from the RV when it is stored in an RV metal garage.
RV’s Value
Regular inspection & upkeep will help retain the RV’s resale value & its shine. It will also reduce the chances of expensive repairs & replacements & keep the motorhome in top condition.
Choosing Right RV Storage Solutions
When it comes to RV storage, there are several options in the market, from fabric covers & wooden garages to steel RV garages.
Indoor Vs. Outdoor Storage
An RV owner can choose between indoor or outdoor storage depending on convenience & budget. An indoor storage option like a fully enclosed metal RV garage provides superior protection against harsh weather conditions, extra security features, and climate control.
Outdoor storage, like a metal carport, protects the motorhome from direct sun, rain, and snow but is ideal for short-term storage. It is also easy to access your motorhome from a carport as it is open from all sides.
RV Storage Facilities
Some people may prefer rental units to store RV for a short term. However, if you are planning to keep an RV for long, it is best to invest in a dedicated storage space on your lot as it will be easier to access, and you won’t risk losing your precious motorhome if you miss a monthly rental, and you can use the RV shed for other purposes in future.
Cost To Build RV Garage
What is the cost of building a metal RV garage? A 30×30 vertical metal garage with a height of 16 ft. will cost you about $17420. You can customize the color and door, add a walk-in door, windows, roof style, etc., to fit your needs. You can even customize a metal parking garage to fit your car or RV and have some room for workspace or storage.
General Guidelines For RV Check-In Frequency
We recommend performing RV checks at least once a month to ensure that any minor issues are identified early.
Monthly Checks To Maintain Your RV
- Check all seals, caulking, & gaps around doors, windows, and roof
- Check for any leaks
- Clean interior
- Test lights
- Check propane connections
- Inspect plumbing for leaks
- Watch out for those pesky pests
- Check ventilation working
Quarterly Checks For RV Upkeep
- Thoroughly deep clean your RV, including carpets & upholstery
- Check the electrical system, wiring, and signs of wear
- Service water heater
- Check brakes & suspension
- Lubricate all moving parts
- Inspect windows & doors, and screens
- Check fluid levels & top off if needed
- Examine exterior paint
- Check safety equipment like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, etc.
Detailed Checklist For RV Owners To Follow
What are the things you should check when storing your RV? Here’s the list you can save for reference:
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Keep Your RV In Top Shape With A Sturdy RV Garage
The first step to protect your motorhome from degrading in value & prolonging its life is to choose the right RV steel garage. This will prevent mold, rust, leaks, and cracks, protect paint and glasses, and safeguard the motorhome from vandalism. Not only that, steel parking sheds are also low maintenance & versatile in design, so you can easily renovate it for other purposes.
