Almost any house that you buy nowadays has a garage, that is used for either storage or cars. In fact, according to Quora, roughly 66% of U.S. homes have one, but that doesn’t mean they are free of clutter, household goods, vehicles or other necessities. The use of a garage has become increasingly popular meaning outside storage methods are becoming more necessary. There are approximately five times more storage facilities in the U.S. then there are Starbucks facilities, with the number averaging over 50,000. Numerous facilities make it hard to determine the best place to store seasonal vehicles like your RV. RVs tend to get used more during the spring and summer months, meaning the winter and fall months they are stored away. Properly winterizing your RV and choosing the correct RV storage center can keep your RV in tip top shape during storage.

Temperature

What are the temperatures like where you live? Are winters extremely brutal with inches of snow lasting the entire season? Or are they mild with a few cold spells? These questions will help you determine which type of storage is best when looking at trailer storage, boat storage and yes even an RV storage center. Just like with any vehicle storage facility, you want to make sure your property is protected. Therefore if you have brutal winters, consider covered storage perhaps over outdoor storage options. If temperatures are not a major concern then considering open air storage would not pose a major problem.

Prepare

A few simple steps can help your RV before you decide to take it to the RV storage center for the winter. Remove debris from the outside like water, any debris from the road such as grime and salt water using a hose or a power washer and a long brush. Be extra sure to remove water from the roof of your RV before taking it to your chosen RV storage center. Water left on the roof just sits sometimes for months at a time and can cause serious damage to your RV. Do a walk around of your RV to ensure there are no holes or bulges in the exterior allowing insects and rodents or water damage. Double check all sealant for cracks or peeling. This helps provide extra protection during long periods of storage at an RV storage center.

Cover Your RV

Despite the fact that your chosen RV storage center has covered protection, you want to do your part as well including covering your RV when it sits for long periods of time. Sunrays damage the exterior and contribute to peeling and cracking of plastic components. Choose a material that properly protects your RV from sun damage, insects and moisture. Some covers actually absorb moisture allowing it to rest directly against your RV. Ensure a snug and proper fit of your RV cover. Remember, despite the cost, the amount you would spend to fix repairs can easily be double or triple the price of a cover.

Choose Storage Centers Wisely

Don’t be in a hurry to choose the first RV storage center. Make sure that you have the exact length, width, height and weight of your RV when visiting storage centers. This will ensure you get a proper spot that will adequately accommodate your RV. Check to make sure that your desired RV storage center has acceptable security. Check to see how easy it is to gain access into the center. Check to see what hours a personal attendant is directly on site. Consider how storage spaces are arranged. Are they side by side with no barriers? Are they completely separated from each other? Choosing a secure RV storage center will provide protection as well as peace of mind.

Considering that one out of every 10 households in America use an offsite storage facility, you could find yourself not knowing where to begin your search. By utilizing these tips you can ensure that you make a smart decision concerning RV storage centers, and that your RV will be ready when you are ready to use it again.