RV Covers vs. Tarps: What's Better for Winter Protection?

Winterizing your RV is essential to ensure it stays in good condition during the off-season. You have two main options to protect your RV from the harsh winter elements: RV covers or tarps. Both serve a similar purpose, but there are crucial differences between them. In this article, we'll dive into the details of both options to help you decide which is the better choice for winter protection.

Why Winter Protection is Crucial for Your RV

When winter sets in, your RV is exposed to extreme weather conditions such as snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Without proper protection, moisture can seep in, causing rust, mildew, or even structural damage. Whether you’re storing your RV in a driveway, garage, or storage facility, a cover or tarp acts as a shield, helping to prolong the life of your vehicle.

What Are RV Covers?

RV covers are specialized, fitted covers designed specifically for recreational vehicles. Made from durable, water-resistant materials, these covers are designed to offer full protection against all weather elements. They typically come with features like air vents to reduce condensation, reinforced corners, and UV-resistant fabrics.

Key Features of RV Covers:

• Made from breathable materials.
• Customized fit for different RV models.
• UV and water-resistant.
• Reinforced areas to prevent tearing.

What Are Tarps?

Tarps, or tarpaulins, are general-purpose, multi-use sheets that are used for covering a variety of items, including RVs. They are typically made from polyethylene or vinyl, and while they provide basic coverage, they are not specifically designed for RVs.

Key Features of Tarps:

• Made from heavy-duty plastic materials.
• Available in different sizes but not custom-fitted.
• Generally waterproof but lack breathability.
• Affordable and easy to find in most hardware stores.

Material Durability: RV Covers vs. Tarps

RV Covers are generally made from high-quality, durable materials like polypropylene or polyester, making them long-lasting and resistant to weather conditions. Many are UV-resistant, which helps protect your RV from sun damage, even during winter.

Tarps, on the other hand, are usually made from polyethylene, which may not be as durable for long-term exposure to harsh weather. Over time, tarps can become brittle in cold temperatures, leading to potential tears.

Weather Protection: RV Covers vs. Tarps

When it comes to protection from snow, ice, and rain, RV covers are the clear winner. They are designed with multiple layers that not only prevent water from seeping in but also allow moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold and mildew buildup.

In contrast, tarps are prone to trapping moisture underneath, which can lead to water damage or rust. While they do provide some basic weather protection, they lack the advanced features of RV covers, making them less reliable in extreme conditions.

Ease of Use: RV Covers vs. Tarps

Covering an RV isn’t a one-person job, regardless of whether you use a tarp or an RV cover. However, RV covers are designed for easier application, with straps and buckles to secure them in place. They fit snugly around the RV, making them more manageable once in place.

Tarps, by contrast, can be tricky to secure properly. Since they aren’t custom-fitted, you’ll need to rely on bungee cords or rope, which may not always hold the tarp in place during strong winds or heavy snow.

Cost Comparison

Cost is a big factor for many RV owners. Tarps are the more budget-friendly option, often costing significantly less than RV covers. You can usually find a large tarp for under $50, making it an attractive option for short-term storage.

RV covers, while more expensive (usually between $150-$500 depending on the size), offer far superior protection and longevity. Consider it an investment in your RV's future, especially if you plan on storing your vehicle for extended periods during the winter.

Breathability: A Key Consideration

One of the biggest downsides of using a tarp is its lack of breathability. Tarps can trap moisture underneath, which can lead to mold, mildew, and corrosion on your RV's exterior.

RV covers, however, are typically designed with breathable materials that allow moisture to escape while keeping snow and rain out. This is crucial for preventing long-term damage caused by moisture buildup.

Customization and Fit

Another advantage of RV covers is that they come in custom sizes designed to fit your RV perfectly. A well-fitted cover ensures all areas of your RV are protected, from the roof to the wheels.

Tarps, on the other hand, are one-size-fits-all and can leave certain areas of your RV exposed. This can lead to uneven protection and potentially damage areas not covered properly.

Long-Term Storage Considerations

If you’re planning on storing your RV for several months, RV covers are the better option. Their durability and tailored fit make them ideal for long-term protection, ensuring your RV stays safe from the elements over an entire winter.

Tarps might work for shorter periods, but their lack of durability and poor fit mean they may not hold up for an entire winter season.

Aesthetic Appeal

While aesthetics might not be your primary concern, RV covers do offer a more polished and neat appearance. They are designed to contour to the shape of your RV, offering a clean and professional look.

Tarps tend to look bulky and unkempt, and they can flap in the wind, creating noise and potential wear and tear on your RV.

Which Option is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between an RV cover and a tarp comes down to your priorities. If you're looking for long-term protection, superior fit, and peace of mind during winter storage, an RV cover is the better investment. However, if you're on a tight budget and only need short-term coverage, a tarp might be a suitable solution.

Conclusion

When it comes to protecting your RV during winter, both RV covers and tarps for winters have their advantages and disadvantages. RV covers offer superior protection, durability, and breathability, making them the best option for long-term winter storage. Tarps, while affordable, may not provide the comprehensive protection your RV needs during harsh winter conditions.