Protect Your RV from the Elements
As an RV owner, protecting your investment from the elements should be a top priority. Wind, rain, snow, UV rays from the sun, and temperature fluctuations can all cause exterior damage over time if preventative measures aren't taken. Fortunately, there are many RV exterior parts and accessories designed specifically to shield your RV from the hazards of the outdoors.
Awnings & Accessories
Awnings are great for providing shade and shelter from the sun and light rain. Some key awning accessories include:
- Awning de-flappers - prevent awnings from flapping in windy conditions
- Awning screens - provide insect protection and privacy
- Awning lights - illuminate areas under the awning at night
Roofing & Sealing
The roof is especially vulnerable and requires regular inspection and maintenance. Here are some useful products:
| Product | Purpose |
|---|---|
| RV roof sealant/coating | Creates a protective barrier against leaks |
| Roof vent covers | Prevents water entry through vents |
| Roof conditioner/protector | Guards against UV and weathering |
Windows & Doors
It's important to ensure windows and doors are properly sealed against the elements. Helpful products include:
- Window seals/gaskets - replace aging seals around windows
- Door weatherstripping - reinforce door edges against drafts and moisture
- Window awnings - protect windows from sun exposure and dripping rain
Steps & Ladders
Steps and ladders take a lot of abuse from outdoor use. Protect them with:
- Step rugs - provide traction and minimize wear
- Step covers - shield steps from rain and snow accumulation
- Ladder sealant - seals ladder mounting holes and joints
Molding & Trim
Molding and trim pieces exposed to the elements are susceptible to damage. Useful products include:
- Trim protectant/restorer - revitalizes faded trim
- Replacement trim pieces - replaces damaged sections
- Trim sealant - seals gaps and joints
By utilizing RV exterior accessories designed for weather protection, you can help ensure your RV retains its function and aesthetic appeal through all of your adventures on the road. Be diligent and proactive with inspections, maintenance, and repair to get the maximum return from your RV investment.
Top products in 🚐 RV Exterior Parts
Awnings & Accessories for RVs
Awnings are an excellent addition to any RV, providing shade, shelter from the elements, and expanded living space. With the right accessories, you can get even more functionality and protection from your RV awning.
RV Awning Fabrics
RV awnings come in two main fabric types:
- Vinyl - Vinyl is a coated polyester fabric. It's water resistant and the most affordable awning fabric. Vinyl awnings have a lifespan of about 4-8 years.
- Acrylic - Acrylic fabric is breathable and UV-resistant. It's more durable than vinyl, with a lifespan of 8-10 years, but also more expensive.
Awning Styles
There are two basic styles of awnings:
- Standard awnings - These are fixed awnings that unroll from an awning rail on the RV side. They provide shade and shelter for the RV side they are mounted on.
- Slide-out awnings - These are mounted above slide-out sections to specifically provide coverage for the extended slide-out space.
Useful Awning Accessories
Here are some useful awning accessories to consider:
- De-flappers - These straps prevent awning fabric from flapping loudly in windy conditions.
- Drop shades - Attaches underneath the awning and drops down for added sun protection.
- Screens - Add protection from bugs and small insects.
- LED lights - Lights mounted on awning rolls provide illumination at night.
- Wind sensors - Automatically retract the awning when winds reach unsafe speeds.
Awning Care Tips
Follow these tips to get the most out of your RV awning:
- Extend awning support legs for stability and to prevent pooling.
- Pitch awning slopes to allow water runoff.
- Retract the awning during high winds or storms.
- Periodically clean vinyl with a mild soap and water.
- Use silicone sprays to keep slide-out awning fabric flexible.
With the right awning and accessories, you can shade, protect, and add usable space to your RV exterior. Always consult your owner's manual for product-specific care and operation guidelines.
Similar products
RV Roofing & Sealing Tips
An RV's roof takes a beating from the elements. Proper maintenance and sealing is essential to prevent leaks that can cause water damage. Here are some useful roofing products and tips to keep your RV's roof in top shape.
Inspection & Maintenance
Inspect the roof at least twice yearly and after major storms. Look for:
- Cracks, peeling, chalking in roof membrane
- Damage around vents, skylights, seams
- Debris that can clog drains
Sweep roof clean and remove any leaves, branches or debris. Check sealant around roof components and re-seal as needed.
Roof Sealants & Coatings
Two main products for sealing and protecting the roof:
- Acrylic sealant - Flexible sealant that adheres to roof membrane. Use to seal seams, gaps, cracks.
- Elastomeric coating - Reflective roof coating helps waterproof and resist UV damage. Recoat every 2-3 years.
Common Roofing Problem Areas
Pay special attention to these areas when inspecting and maintaining the roof:
- Seams - Reseal any gaps or cracks in roof membrane seams
- Vents - Seal around plumbing vents, AC vents, fans
- Skylights - Check rubber seals and re-caulk as needed
- Roof edges - Seal along termination bars and roof trim
Roof Repairs
For serious roof damage, repairs may involve:
- Patching holes/tears with roof sealant and fabric
- Replacing damaged roof membrane sections
- Repairing/replacing roof components like vents
For major roof work, it's often best to consult a professional RV technician. Proper roof maintenance is crucial to avoiding costly moisture damage down the road.
Enhancing Your RV's Exterior Appearance
The exterior of your RV serves both form and function. While protecting your RV from the elements, the exterior also creates that all-important first impression. There are several ways to upgrade the appearance of your RV exterior to give it extra curb appeal and style.
Graphics & Decals
Vinyl decals and graphics offer an easy way to give your RV exterior a facelift. Consider:
- Pinstriping - Adds distinctive lines and detailing along exterior edges
- Accent decals - Decorative decals for the sides, rear, or front cap
- Custom graphics - Transform the look with custom vinyl designs
Exterior Paint & Coating
A fresh coat of paint or protective coating improves appearance and seals the RV exterior. Products to consider:
- Exterior RV paint - Available in a range of gloss, satin, or metallic finishes
- Protective paint coatings - Clear coat or ceramic coat adds shine and protection
- Rubber roof coatings - Restores roof appearance and weatherproofing
Molding & Trim
Replacing or restoring faded molding and trim restores exterior to near-new condition:
- Replacement trim - Replace worn corners, inserts, bumpers, etc.
- Trim restoration - Bring back color with vinyl and rubber trim restorers
- Polishing compounds - Remove oxidation and restore gloss
Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting amplifies curb appeal and functionality:
- Accent lighting - LED strips and bars highlight design features
- Scene lighting - Adjustable RGB LED spotlighting sets mood
- Entry lighting - Illuminates doorway and assist handle area
Enhancing your RV’s exterior protection and appearance pays dividends for years down the road in the form of increased enjoyment, resale value, and pride of ownership.
Another interesting products
Customizing Your RV with Graphics & Decals
Adding graphics and decals is a great way to customize the exterior look of your RV. With so many styles to choose from, you can get creative and make your RV distinctly yours.
Types of RV Graphics & Decals
- Pinstriping - Decorative striping that contours along the RV exterior edges and body lines.
- Accent decals - Visual accents for the sides, rear, front cap, or entry door. Popular choices include swoops, tribals, and abstract shapes.
- Logo decals - Display your favorite brand logos from RV clubs, tire manufacturers, auto brands, etc.
- Name & number decals - Customize with your name, RV model name, or number.
- Full wraps - A cohesive, full-coverage graphic design that wraps around the entire RV.
Material Options
Vinyl graphic decals come in various material types:
- Basic calendared vinyl - Most affordable and shortest lifespan of 2-4 years.
- Cast vinyl - More durable with an average 5-7 year lifespan.
- Clear film - Nearly invisible finish allows RV paint or gelcoat to show through.
- Paint protection film - Clear urethane provides scratch protection.
Tips for Application
Follow these tips for a successful graphic or decal application:
- Wash and completely dry the RV exterior.
- Measure the surface area and cut decals to fit.
- Carefully remove any old graphics, if needed.
- Start decal application on the flattest surface.
- Apply firm pressure with a squeegee or credit card to adhere the vinyl.
With the right graphics and decals, you can give your RV a cool, eye-catching look that reflects your personal style. Just be sure to choose professionally-cut, high quality vinyls for the best results.
Keep Your RV Looking New
While RVs are built tough, continuous exposure to the elements can take a toll on exterior appearance. With regular care and maintenance, you can keep your RV looking almost showroom-new for years of enjoyable camping trips.
Washing & Waxing
Frequent washings and waxing are key to preserving exterior finishes:
- Wash every 2-3 weeks with a mild RV wash formulated for fiberglass and gelcoat.
- Wax at least once yearly with a polishing wax designed for RVs. This protects from oxidation and UV damage.
- Focus on vulnerable areas like the front cap, roof edges, and graphics.
Repair Kits
Repair minor scratches, chips, and damage spots using:
- Touch-up paint pens that color match your RV.
- Gelcoat repair kits for fiberglass damage.
- Vinyl and rubber sealant for cracked moldings and weatherstripping.
Replacement Panels
For more extensive damage, replacement exterior panels may be needed, such as:
- Corner panels
- Rubber roof membrane sections
- Rear cap panels
- Molded end caps
Consult your dealer or RV repair center for color-matched parts to get a seamless look.
Maintain Seals & Coatings
Preserve seals and coatings to avoid exterior damage:
- Inspect and reseal roof annually.
- Check window and door seals and replace if cracked or peeling.
- Refresh protective wax coatings 1-2 times per year.
With regular TLC and prompt repairs, your RV's exterior can maintain its like-new quality and appearance season after season.
Tips for Washing & Waxing Your RV Exterior
Regular washing and waxing is essential for keeping your RV's exterior looking its best. Follow these tips to properly clean and protect the exterior surfaces.
Washing Your RV
- Rinse the entire exterior with water first to remove loose dirt.
- Use a mild soap or detergent made for RVs. Avoid dish soaps that can strip wax.
- Use a soft brush, sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive brushes.
- Work from the top down and rinse thoroughly as you go.
- Hand wash graphics and decals gently with mild soap and water.
- Dry the RV with a chamois cloth or soft towel.
How Often to Wash
Wash your RV:
- Every 2-3 weeks during peak camping season.
- After long trips before storage.
- Whenever excessive dirt or grime builds up.
Waxing the Exterior
- Use a wax made specifically for RVs once or twice per year.
- Ensure the exterior is completely clean before waxing.
- Apply wax with a soft cloth using small circular motions.
- Buff the wax coating with a microfiber cloth once dry.
- Focus extra wax coverage on the front and rear caps.
Tips for Specific Surfaces
- Fiberglass - Use mild polish to remove stains and restore shine.
- Painted metal - Apply a restorative polish every few months.
- Rubber roofs - Use a dedicated rubber roof cleaner and protector product.
- Decals - Avoid waxing directly over decals.
Proper washing and waxing will help your RV exterior maintain its luster and appearance for many years of service.
Benefits of Amazon Prime for RV Exterior Parts Buyers
For RV owners who frequently purchase exterior parts and accessories, an Amazon Prime membership can be extremely valuable. Here are some of the key benefits Amazon Prime provides for regular buyers of RV exterior products:
Free Two-Day Shipping
As an Amazon Prime member, you get free two-day shipping on most items sold directly by Amazon. This means you can get RV exterior parts delivered right to your door quickly without paying extra shipping fees. For RV owners planning a big camping trip or getting the RV ready for seasonal use, fast shipping on parts is a major perk.
Free Same-Day Delivery
In eligible zip codes, Prime members can get free same-day delivery on thousands of items. This is extremely convenient when you need a critical RV part like a new awning arm or replacement seal fast. Just order by the cutoff time and have it delivered to your location within hours.
Access to Exclusive Deals
Amazon Prime members get 30-minute early access to Lightning Deals and other exclusive deals on RV parts and products. You have a head start on limited-time discounts and promotions before the general public. This allows you to score significant savings on must-have RV exterior gear.
Prime Member Pricing
Certain products have special lower pricing exclusively for Prime members. When shopping for RV exterior accessories like leveling blocks, wash brushes, or tire covers, always check for blue Prime tags that indicate special member deals.
Overall, an Amazon Prime subscription provides significant shipping and shopping benefits for regular RV parts buyers. The conveniences and savings can easily offset the $139 annual Prime membership fee.
What Are The Most Common Problems Faced By RV Owners In Terms Of Exterior Parts??
Based on the search results, here are some of the most common problems faced by RV owners in terms of exterior parts:
- Water intrusion through cracks or holes in the housing, roof, windows, door, or other parts of the RV
- Rust, corrosion, and aging of moving parts
- Broken or weak cabinets
- Leaky RV toilet
- Nests in outside vents
- Broken or absent propane gauge
- Worn-out or damaged awnings
It is important for RV owners to regularly inspect their vehicles and perform maintenance to prevent these problems from occurring or worsening.
What Are Some DIY Solutions For Common RV Exterior Problems??
Here are some DIY solutions for common RV exterior problems:
- Leaky windows: Use a silicone sealant to seal the gaps around the window frames.
- Delamination of RV walls: Cut out the delaminated area, clean the surface, apply adhesive, and clamp the area until it dries.
- Inefficient insulation: Use reflective insulation or foam board insulation to improve insulation.
- Roof damage: Use a sealant to patch up small holes or cracks, or replace the damaged area with a new roof membrane.
- Broken or weak cabinets: Reinforce the cabinets with additional screws or brackets, or replace the damaged parts with new ones.
- Leaky RV toilet: Replace the toilet seal or tighten the bolts connecting the toilet to the floor.
- Worn-out or damaged awnings: Replace the awning fabric or hardware, or repair the damaged parts with a patch kit.
By performing these DIY solutions, RV owners can save money and time on repairs and maintenance. However, it is important to note that some problems may require professional help or replacement of parts.
