As summer finally arrives we can start to enjoy our caravans and look forward to getting out there and having a holiday, you have hopefully by now cleaned down your van stocked up with essentials and booked pitches around the UK. With holidays in the UK now up by 95% it has never been a better time to holiday at home. However, have you returned to your van faced with a day's worth of cleaning and repair work with your caravan looking another year older?. This could be the time to look at investing in a caravan cover before winter returns all too quickly.
At this time we realise what a difference a caravan cover would make to our vans. With every summer it becomes clear how beneficial a cover can be and that there are many positive reasons to buy one. If your caravan has been on a storage site you will be able to see the difference in your neighbours caravans that haven't been protected through the winter!
The Caravan clubs advice on covers
Winter storage Q: Does the Club recommend the use of covers to protect the caravan from the weather during the winter?
A: Large polythene or tarpaulin sheets should not, in the opinion of most experts, be used to 'seal' the caravan against the elements. Condensation and mould growth may be encouraged and any flapping material or guy ropes could scratch acrylic windows. If you feel a cover is absolutely necessary because of where the caravan is parked, however, purchase one that is made of 'breathable' material.
The main benefits from having a caravan cover are:
- Protection form UV damage to paintwork, upholstery, graphics and tyres.
- Preserving your re sale value of your caravan.
- Protects the paintwork from bird droppings, acid rain and a build up of black sludge on the roof.
- Prevents the rubber seals from rotting around the windows.
- Saves time, as you return to the van as you left it for the season.
- Waterproof & breathable fabric allows the caravan to breath preventing a build up of damp and keeping the caravan dry at the same time.
- A cover provides added security as a deterrent to thieves.
- Helps to disguise the caravan into its surroundings.
There is a large number of caravan covers on the market so researching the different options is key. Things to ask about:
- Is the cover 100% waterproof and breathable?
- What guarantee is offered?
- What's a covers expected life span?
- Is the cover a generic fit or a tailored one for your van?
- Is there a door open and an allowance provided for the aerial?
- Is there an A frame cover included?
- What additional items come with the cover?
- What discounts are available over the summer period?
- Will you have to measure your caravan?
- What experience does the company have in this sector?
And most importantly...
- How much is the complete cover!?
