Storing my new RV is it ok to leave it out in the open?

[rving]

I live in Florida in a gated community, no RVs allowed.
Unless I find a individual with a garage or facility close by willing to store my RV I am stuck using an RV storage facility that offers outdoor parking only, no roofs.
My concern is the extreme sun and heat year round drying out any exposed rubber molding or seals as well as bleaching the dash.
Am I being overly concerned or is it the norm to keep these things out in the elements year round.

Thank you.

[LindaH]

While storing an RV under cover would be ideal, it's not an option for many.

I would definitely put something in the front windows so that the dash doesn't get sun bleached.  I doubt that drying out will be a problem in humid Florida...in fact, you'll probably want to take steps to reduce the humidity inside so mold doesn't start to grow.  As for the roof and seals, use a UV protectant (without petroleum distilates) and apply before putting the RV in storage.  I'd check all the seals and caulking at least twice a year to make sure they remain in good shape and repair/replace when, and if, necessary.

[Tom]

Our last two coaches have been stored outside in California. If it's a fiberglass/gelcoat finish, keep a coat of protective wax such as carnuba paste wax on it. If it has full body paint, a liquid wax will do fine. What seems to take the worst beating in the sun is decals. As Linda sugsests, we use blackout screens on the windshield and front side windows.

[ArdraF]

Most people have no other choice than to store their RVs outside.  We always stored ours with all the shades closed to prevent fabrics from fading and deteriorating.  Always clean the inside of the refrigerator with soapy water and leave the doors open during storage to prevent mold and mildew.  It also helps to keep cupboard doors cracked so there's some air flow (albeit very little) within the coach.  Cover overhead vents with those foam plugs you can buy at places like Camping World.  Make sure you remove food that will attract rodents.  Cover shower and sink drains to keep water in the traps from evaporating (prevents odors).  Outside, keep a good protective finish on the exterior as Tom mentioned.  If you have those privacy window covers, also use them, again to keep the inside fabrics in good shape and to keep some of the heat out.  The seals should be okay, especially in Florida.  Disconnecting the batteries has been discussed elsewhere.

ArdraF

[Sportsdad]

Heh, I did things backwards....I spent good money on a RV garage/workshop, THEN bought a used motor home. (garages actually will appreciate over time, where a new MH depreciates over time)

The good news is, I have a place to keep the toys out of the weather, the bad news is, used motor homes need constant attention!

Man Cave

[sherry3]

How about leaving RV outside in cold weather? Suggestions? Thanks!

[Marsha/CA]

Another thought is to put covers on your tires as well.  You can buy them from camping world.

Marsha~

[rving]

Thanks everyone. Lots of good tips, much appreciated

[Jim Godward]

How about leaving RV outside in cold weather? Suggestions? Thanks!

We have the MH in the driveway till we head south, usually in late December or early January.  Last year we never did make it south so our winterizing was more complete.  If you do not have any heat, winterize the water and sewage systems.  Once that is done be sure to remove any and all things in the RV that contain liquid in any form, gels, ointments, etc.  The exception would be oils, antifreeze and such.  I do remove them as some will expand when cooled to subzero temperatures and it is easier to remove than to figure which ones are the bad guys.

The best way is to go south early!!    

[Biker56]

My MH sits out in the Florida sun from September to May every year. But the AC is used almost every day to keep the humidity at bay.

But every spring before I leave. I have to wash the rubber roof, all vent covers, TV & Satellite dishes and Bat Wing to get rid of that green mold that multiplied over the winter.
It even grows on the roof and sides of my fiberglass cargo trailer.

Cover tires, Window shades, leave roof vents open(Max air cover over vents), exercise generator 2 hours every month, check house batteries water every month.

For the windows you may want to buy from Home Depot those 4' X 8' reflective on one side foam insulation boards about 1" thick. Easy to cut to fit every window and it may help keep some heat out.
I use that on my drivers side windows that face the west all winter.