Slideout Awning's

[jesilvas]

Necessary? No. Good idea? I think so.

As stated the slide out roofs are thin. They DO have insulation, but only an inch or two.

For any argument saying they are needed to keep them from leaking, it's invalid. Slide outs do not leak unless there is a problem.

Usually even if there is debris on top of the slide, it does not affect the performance of the gaskets, unless they are large tree limbs.

It's also pretty hard to improperly install them or tension them, as they are factory tensioned and they come with instructions.

I would get them.

[raineyj32]

Lots of good info!! Thanks for all the reply's. Man them things are expensive!!! I have 5 slides!!! I guess they are cheaper than replacing or repairing a slide!!!

[dayle1]

Originally Posted by raineyj32

Lots of good info!! Thanks for all the reply's. Man them things are expensive!!! I have 5 slides!!! I guess they are cheaper than replacing or repairing a slide!!!

They are cheaper when ordered with the RV and installed at the factory. Which is what I have done on the last two RVs. Besides what has been stated, w/o toppers, if you don't clean the roof effectively, then the remaining debris can move inside the RV, like bird droppings. With toppers, those same items stay outside the RV.

There is a Cedar Creek Silverback that I really like. But with cathedral slide outs in the living room and bedroom and no practical topper solution, that is a deal breaker.

[drfife]

I have owned trailers with and without slide awnings.

My previous trailer had slide awnings. I replaced the fabric once in 10 years. I was a big proponent of slide awnings (then).

My current trailwr does not have slide awnings. I thought I would miss them. I do not.

I've had a non-slide awning trailer for 2 1/2 years. We have traveled coast to coast. Border to border. Under pines, oaks, etc. I have not swept the slides before retracting a single time. No problems.

My advice, skip the slide awnings and spend the money on other toys.

YMMV......