Buying a camper is a large investment. As such, you will want to do everything you can to preserve the condition of your rig, so it lasts as long as possible. If you want to keep adventuring with it for years to come, you will need the right supplies. Maintaining your RV has many of the same tasks as maintaining your home or vehicle, along with some tasks unique to the world of campers. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Of course, you do not want moisture getting inside your RV, but you also want to avoid having it build up inside either. You can still have moisture problems even if there are no external leaks. As the weather allows, keep the airflow going inside. Have windows or vents open, and use fans to keep the inside humidity low. This will prevent mold and mildew from growing and causing damage. If your RV is in storage, put a dehumidifier or moisture absorber inside, as the RV will be sealed up for a few months without any outside air flowing through.

The prevention of surface damage to various parts of your motorhome can take many forms. You will want to make sure the outside stays clean, including the awning, which will require regular washing. The type of soap you will need to use will depend on what material or finish your RV has. Getting your RV waxed may seem like an unnecessary step, but it does provide a barrier against UV damage. If you spot black streaks, there is specific black streak remover that you can use. It is best to remove them as soon as you can to prevent staining. If you can, park it so the wind direction does not hit the sides straight on. If there is a lot of wind, it’s a good idea to roll-up your awning and retract your slide-outs to prevent damage to the frames. When in storage, make sure it stays covered, either by keeping it under a roof, or by using a breathable fabric RV cover. It will not only prevent damage from snow and moisture, but also protect it from tree branches or other things that may hit it. RV tires should also be covered when your camper is in storage, especially if it sits outside. This will prevent them from drying out and cracking due to UV damage.

Leaks will most likely be one of the main things you will have to look out for. Keeping the roof in good condition is a key way to prevent damage from leaks. You should do regular roof inspections, paying special attention to any seams around your rooftop accessories. Using a roof treatment such as Dicor’s rubber roof coating will clean and protect your RV’s roof from UV damage, which can dry out the material. Check your slide out seals, as well as the seals around doors and windows to make sure they are in good condition.

While these are a few of the main areas to keep an eye on, keeping up with the condition of your RV can also include other aspects as well. Things such as routine engine maintenance, checking the tire pressure, brakes, and batteries, as well as winterizing properly all go a long way toward making sure your RV investment lasts.

Maintaining the Condition of Your RV