As a proud RV or boat owner, you understand the importance of preserving your investment. With so many storage options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which solution is best for your prized possessions.
If you committed to RV ownership during a time where RV prices had skyrocketed, you don’t want to settle for just any storage solution, especially with your $134,000-$375,00 investment at stake.
This blog post will explore the differences between covered storage, uncovered storage, and enclosed storage, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about which storage option is the most suitable for your needs.
Summary
- Covered storage offers greater protection from the elements and greater maneuverability while uncovered storage is more economical.
- “Covered storage” and “enclosed storage” refer to two different storage types.
- Some facilities with covered storage offer additional services such as maintenance and security features for a stored vehicle’s protection.
Understanding Covered Storage
Covered storage is a popular choice amongst RV owners who live in storm-heavy areas and want to protect their RVs or boats from damage induced by wind, rain, snow, hail, and other harsh weather conditions.
A common misconception is that only severe weather can corrode the exterior of an RV, when in fact, prolonged exposure to direct UV rays can also lead to exterior peeling and fading. Even if you plan to store your RV or boat in a region known for its mild climate, covered storage is a must for preventing damage and maintaining the longevity of your investment.
Let’s delve deeper into what covered RV storage entails and its associated costs.
What is Covered RV Storage?
Covered RV storage is a storage option that features an overhead or canopy shelter, designed to safeguard your camper from inclement weather conditions. Note again that covered storage differs from enclosed storage, as covered storage only provides overhead coverage, rather than a four-wall enclosure that shields your vehicle from hazards at all angles.
Enclosed Storage vs. Covered Storage
Enclosed storage is a fully sealed-off storage option that offers heightened protection and security when compared to covered storage. While covered storage provides overhead protection from the elements, this storage solution won’t deter vandals, thieves, or looming pests that can access your vehicle through the driver’s side and passenger’s side doors.
Enclosed storage, on the other hand, completely shields your vehicle from the outside world, providing superior protection from weather, pests, and potential theft or vandalism. Because of these enhanced security features, enclosed storage comes at a higher cost than covered storage.
Cost isn’t the only potential downfall of enclosed storage options. Enclosed storage may also prove more challenging to access, as it requires additional steps to enter the storage unit and a careful approach when maneuvering the RV in and out of the enclosed space.
While covered storage is less secure, it is often more convenient to access, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing ease of use and affordability over maximum protection. Without walls or structures to navigate around, you can access your stored RV or boat whenever needed, without recruiting a team of RV marshallers to help you back out of your 10’x40′ storage unit.
How Much Does Covered Storage Cost?
The cost of covered RV storage depends on the following two factors: the size of your RV and the location of the storage facility.
Typically, covered storage is more expensive than uncovered storage. However, investing in covered storage can save you money in the long run by preventing weather-induced damage, translating to a slew of repair costs.
For a better idea of the price of covered storage, it’s best to contact a storage facility and request a free quote.
If you’re seeking a more cost-effective solution, constructing a carport structure on your property might be a viable option. A metal RV storage carport starts at approximately $1100, making it a more budget-friendly choice for those looking to protect their investments without breaking the bank.
Although, it’s important to note that some states prohibit the parking of RVs on residential properties. If local laws don’t bar you from parking your RV in your driveway, the HOA rules and regulations you’re bound to might.
Extra Services Offered by Covered Storage Facilities
If overhead protection from the elements didn’t sell you, some covered storage facilities go the extra mile by offering a menu of extra services to enhance your overall storage experience. From on-site maintenance to top-of-the-line security features, you can rest assured that your RV will leave in better condition than it was at the time of the initial storing.
Maintenance Services
Some covered storage facilities offer a range of maintenance services, such as:
- Cleaning
- Inspection of doors
- Battery charging
- Tire pressure checks
- Routine cleaning and lubrication
These services can help ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition while in storage. By minimizing storage-related wear and tear, your RV will be ready to hit the road as soon as you retrieve it from its storage space.
Because dust and debris can accumulate on the surface of your vehicle while storing, some storage facilities offer services like pressure washing, vacuuming, and polishing to renters.
Because covered storage leaves the sides of your vehicle vulnerable to door dings, scratches, and tire punctures, some facilities bake inspection services into their service offering. Inspection services may cover door inspections, battery charging, and tire pressure checks. These additional services can provide peace of mind to customers, knowing that your RV or boat is well-maintained even when you’re not using it.
Security Features
Covered storage facilities often provide enhanced security features to protect your valuable investment. These features may include:
- Surveillance cameras
- Personal access codes
- Perimeter gates
- Security personnel
While partial-coverage storage (also known as “covered storage”) may sound like a break-in waiting to happen, rest easy knowing that surveillance cameras will deter and detect intruders, as well as provide evidence in the event of a criminal offense.
On your storage hunt, look for gated access facilities—facilities that require renters to input a code or insert a key to enter the facility— as this security feature blocks unauthorized access. For an added layer of security, consider those facilities that employ around-the-clock personnel to monitor the premises.
If you’re struggling to find a storage facility with staff members patrolling the property 24/7, consider storage solutions like Neighbor, a peer-to-peer marketplace that connects users to private storage units located on residential properties. By renting out someone’s basement, garage, or driveway—rather than a traditional drive-up storage unit—you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing the homeowner will be there to keep a watchful eye on your RV, boat, ATV, motorcycle, or other vehicle.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right storage solution for your RV or boat is a crucial decision that can impact the longevity and safety of your investment.
While covered and enclosed storage options may translate to an additional $50-75 per month, replacing a burglar-shattered window on your RV can cost you up to $250. Because time is money, the time it takes to measure the damaged window, order the right size, and enlist the professionals to install the replacement window could translate to hundreds of dollars more.
Soon enough, you’ll realize that an additional $50 (or so) every month for covered storage is a small price to pay for peace of mind. With covered or enclosed storage, you can focus on the RV journeys ahead, rather than dwell over the what-ifs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cost of covered storage compare to other storage options?
Covered storage is more expensive than outdoor storage, yet cheaper than indoor storage, making it an attractive option for many. It offers protection from the elements, while still being more affordable than indoor storage.
What factors should I consider when choosing a storage solution for my RV or boat?
When choosing a storage solution for your RV or boat, you’ll need to account for the following factors:
- Monthly cost (Are you willing to pay for additional maintenance services and other amenities?)
- Location of the facility (If you need to access your vehicle frequently, you’ll want to select a storage option nearby)
- Accessibility (How often will you need to access the vehicle stored? If often, consider covered storage over enclosed storage)
- The level of protection you desire (How concerned are you about break-ins, storms that covered storage alone can’t contain, etc.)
- Additional services the facility provides (car washes, tire pressure checks, battery charging, etc.)
These factors will help you determine the best option for your needs. Consider the size of the unit you need, the location of the facility, and the security measures in place. Additionally, look into any additional services the facility may offer.
