Community Forums

Stan827 · 08-19-2013, 06:09 AM

I am curious as to the general thoughts on storing your TT outside in cold areas. We are in Northern Illinois and I have seen many Trailers sitting uncovered and some covered during our harsh winters. In the past we were lucky enough to have inside storage but that is not the case now. Other than the normal winterizing what are some of your thoughts for taking care of your TT during the winter months??

Bounder123 · 08-19-2013, 02:04 PM

The key is if you cover it should be breathable. I was told this by one who is in the business of repairing trailers. He says, "those that cover with an air tight tarp keep me in business."

JudyH · 08-19-2013, 02:16 PM

We leave our fifth wheel outside all year without any problem, just make sure it is winterized. We have never used a cover, as worry the wind will cause more wear than it saves.

smiley87 · 08-19-2013, 04:57 PM

I have vent covers over my roof vents and leave the vents slightly open all year as well as put a few damp rid containers in the trailer to help keep humidity down.

Don't forget to remove anything that cab freeze and burst such as canned goods. Learned that from experience lol

SMRDNR · 08-19-2013, 05:04 PM

we never covered our travel trailer - I was told by the warranty manager at the Flagstaff factory that the roof needs to breathe. he said the covers can cause damage to the roof and if not secured properly flap around and damage the exterior. I would wash the roof 1st and last of the season, check all the seals and do any maintenance. I would also wash and wax 1st and last of the season with a few washes in-between.

hillbillyhtl · 08-19-2013, 08:28 PM

I live in Wisconsin, and have stored all 3 of my campers outdoors. I have a cover, ADCO, that I use every winter. I clean the roof, wash, wax, and winterize. I put the cover on and secure it with the straps and also with a rope. I reinforce the corners with old towels to keep sharp edges from damaging the cover. I have had good luck, no damage whatsoever, and best of all my trailer is clean and ready to go come spring! I would highly recommend using a cover. Just be sure to use a cover meant for campers, they allow ventilation, no plastic tarps!

Stan827 · 08-20-2013, 07:12 AM

Appreciate all the good advice. I am beginning to realize the value of all who participate in these forums. The information learned here is invaluable....
Thanks to all......

scbwr · 08-21-2013, 05:27 AM

I'd keep looking for inside storage. There's usually someone that has room in a barn or storage building that can use a few extra $$. But if you can't, then just make sure you winterize it properly and examine the undercarriage for any openings that mice could use.
If you don't cover, than just make sure that all roof seams are caulked properly and in good shape as the contraction/expansion due to extreme temps can result in leaks. Outside storage won't be a big issue as long as you really monitor your camper's roof and keep everything watertight!