About 11.2 million Americans are estimated to own an RV. This is mainly because most individuals and families prefer active outdoor lifestyles and enjoy safe & leisure travels. While not in use, these motorhomes need a sturdy shelter to rest till you plan for the next vacation.
There are many RV storage solutions, from rental & traditional to fabric, but a metal RV carport stands out due to its easy upkeep, robust nature, and resilience to external weather.
Discover Why An RV Carport Is Best For Your Motorhome
Though you can find plenty of storage solutions for motorhomes in the market, such as a wooden carport or a fabric cover, a steel cover outshines them with higher strength, long-lasting durability, and low maintenance needs.
1. Superior Protection Of RV Metal Carport From Weather
Metals Shield Against Sun, Rain, Snow, & Hail
A steel motorhome carport with a vertical roof helps slide off dirt, debris, rainwater, and snow quickly. Thus, it needs less cleaning. With 12-gauge thick steel frames, you can build a certified steel cover that can withstand strong winds & heavy snow.
The corrugated metal panels can bear hail storms without letting them puncture inside. RV metal carport also shields the motorhome from harsh sun rays that can fade off its exterior paint.
Metal RV Carport Vs Traditional Storage
Most traditional storage methods include building a wooden carport, using fabric covers, or renting out a storage unit. Renting an RV storage facility can add up quickly, and a full-fledged garage requires a higher upfront cost. In this situation, steel RV prefab carports are the best choice.
2. RV Prefab Carports As An Cost Effective Solution
Breakdown Of Cost
How much do prefab metal RV covers cost? Costing between $10 to $25 per sq. ft., a steel cover is a suitable shelter that can accommodate most motorhomes. You can also choose a 32x28x16 metal carport with lap siding to park most RVs. It is fully closed from two sides, offering a secure space to park the motorhome. Below is the cost breakdown:
| Raw Material, Shipping, & Installation | Site & Foundation | Accessories & Basic Finishing | Total Cost |
| 70% | 15% | 15% | 100% |
Most metal building dealers provide steel RV covers for sale, which includes kit, delivery, and installation service. So, you’ll only need to get your site ready and the foundation laid before the construction crew arrives.
Savings On Repairs & Replacements
Structural steel is a dense and inorganic material that does not absorb moisture from air or rain. Thus, a steel cover needs less frequent repairs or replacement compared to a wooden carport. Steel carports are also resistant to fire, rust, and pests like termites. Some essential tips for storing RV during off-seasons include cleaning, having proper vents, using a concrete base, and proper lighting.
3. Easy Access & Convenience With It
Easy Access Without Hassle
Since carports are fully open, roof-only structures, owners can easily access RV, park them, or take them out. Ensure to choose the right height. Consider AC ducts, antenna, vents, etc., when deciding how tall a steel RV cover should be. Generally, 12 ft. to 16 ft. tall carport can accommodate most RVs.
Convenient Drive-Through
With both ends open, you can easily pull in from one side and exit from the other. This can be helpful as it is tricky to maneuver large vehicles in a tight space. When installing a new steel motorhome carport, it is equally important to choose the right size carport for easy parking in and taking it out.
4. A Carport Increases RV’s Lifespan
Having a sturdy and durable cover over the motorhome will protect it from direct sun, rain, hail, and snow. It will remain safe from falling debris in areas with strong winds. RV owners will need fewer touch-ups and repairs and save money & effort with time.
A steel RV shed also protects tire life from deteriorating quickly due to exposure to elements.
5. Customizable Options For Metal RV Covers
Custom Features
Your RV steel cover doesn’t have to look boring. Most metal building dealers these days offer tons of custom features for metal buildings that not only increase functionality but also appeal. Some common custom features for RVs include:
- Variety of colors to match it with your home aesthetics
- Custom width, height, & length
- Frame & panel gauge
- Double/ single ladder leg
- Roof styles like boxed eave or vertical
These aren’t the only custom features. There are many others offered by various metal building dealers. You can contact them for more information.
Examples & Designs For RV Steel Carports
We can broadly classify carport into three designs:
- Roof Only: As the name says, it has at least four legs and a roof installed over a foundation. For RV covers, we suggest choosing concrete slab as it can bear more load, needs less upkeep, and will last longer.
- Two Side Enclosed: In some areas, you can add fully/ partially enclosed side walls to two sides of a steel motorhome cover. This design will be suitable for windy areas.
- Carport with Shed: Also known as Utility Carport, it is a combination of metal carport cum steel shed. You can park the RV and store all gear & supplies in the shed.
6. Multiple Uses Of RV Prefab Carports
One of the top reasons to invest in a metal RV carport is because you can easily remodel it for other purposes. Some common uses of prefab carports are:
- Outdoor workspace
- Recreational Area
- Patio Space
- Gatherings
- Pet Areas
- Small Livestock Shelter
- Crop Drying Area
- Event Venue
- Greenhouse
Note that some of these uses may require adding or removing parts of the original carport. So, plan your renovation in advance before beginning.
7. Steel RV Carport Adds Value To Property
When designing, keeping your home aesthetics in mind, your RV carport can be a visually appealing addition to your property. It gives a clean & modern look. A new homeowner can park cars and use it as an outdoor shed or a shaded patio/ outdoor kitchen. Ensure to monitor your steel motorhome carport regularly to maintain its appeal.
To Warp It All Up,
You can choose steel carports for the RV or a utility carport where you can park the motorhome and lock away tools, gears, and RV supplies till the next trip. Being resistant to rust, pests, and fire, it is a good investment for your property.
Even if you decide to part with your RV, you can easily remodel this shed for a patio or car park or convert it into a garage.
Till Next 🙂
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