Storing outside Question

[rodsterinfl]

Greetings

I wanted to ask about storing Airstreams. I live in FL so I do not have cold to contend with but sun. It looks like I will have to store it outside. What are the thoughts on that? I know a garage would be better but the cost is prohibitive. So, what are some how to's on storing an Airstream outside and protecting it from ruining as best as can be done.

[dznf0g]

Well, most folks say DO NOT use a trailer cover of any type. They rub the clear coat and cause "dark" rubbed spots.

I would use a good UV inhibiting wax/polish/sealer. I don't know if they really inhibit much UV, but it'll help keep the clear coat from oxidizing.

Get some vinyl tire covers.

I made window, and skylight covers out of reflectix. Keep the sun off of the interior fabrics, etc.

That's about all you can do except build a "barn" for it.

Shade is good, but then you have to contend with more bird droppings, tree sap etc.

[kidsgone]

We, too, live in the sunshine state and store ours outdoors. We live on a barrier island, but keep our AS mainland in Melbourne. We wash it alot to remove any salt and wax it many times in a year. We always check the seals, especially those on the top of the rig. Paying attention to the needs of your rig will go a long way to preventing any damage due to exposure. We use those thick silver car window reflectors on all windows and always cover the tires. We check on her (Belle) once a week when shes tucked in to her storage area. Sun can cause alot of damage, but hopefully we give the ol girl enough attention!
There is an indoor storage facility close by, but at $240 a month....well, its really cost prohibitive and only open certain hours.
Andi

[InsideOut]

Depending on the length of your Airstream, space constraints and HOA limitations (if any) you could get either a metal or fabric carport. They usually run from the price of "indoor storage for a month" (at Costco) to a couple of thousand for the metal ones. It would protect your Airstream from the sun &/or weather. Just make sure it is secured so it doesn't blow away during a hurricane!

Shari

[Pat Conway]

Damp Rid helps. You will be able to see how much moisture is collected in the canister. This will help keep out musty smells generated by storage in a hot, humid locale. Many of us here in Sun City use this while the rig is in storage.

If parking on grass or bare ground check for ant infestation in your storage area. You may need to spray around your trailer tongue and wheels occassionally to keep the invasive pests out.

Your trailer probably has wire covers over your outside furnace openings, these will help combat mud dobbers that really can do some damage.

I use Reynolds wrap inside the referigerator outside access door and the water heater access door to help keep the moisture out and put Bounce drier sheets inside to help keep out spiders,etc. Remembering to remove the reynolds wrap and drier sheets before getting underway is key to not starting a fire, but I think not as dangerous as moth balls in that regard. I am my own worst enemy in this regard and have come close to firing up the water heater and forgetting to remove this protection.

After nearly 10 years since our '88 was refinished from center stripe up, and the PO paying $2600 at PS Trailer Service to have this done, the clear coat is coming offf and oxidation is beginning to set in once again on the front end caps and top edges. So much dew and summertime heat!

You can buy a roll of the reflextic aluminum sheeting at Camping World and cut it to fit inside all windows. This really helps potect your interior from sun damage. It is more than protecting curtains and upholstery, it will protect other interior furnishings from the intense storage heat.

Hope this helps. At least we don't have to combat snow on the roof and freeze damage down here. Pat

[rodsterinfl]

There is an indoor storage facility close by, but at $240 a month....well, its really cost prohibitive and only open certain hours.
Andi

Thanks everyone. I am getting flack from the family about wanting to buy a trailer and one point of contention is the storage. Yes, Andi, I called and the woman locally quoted what she told me was her terrific offer at $177 mth covered storage. That led me to the question of how to store outside and IF it ruins the trailer, etc. Your comments are greatly appreciated.

[rodsterinfl]

Greetings I found covered storage for $150 mth. They also have open asphalt storage and field storage at the same facility so I can always switch later. I definitely will have to pursue various options as this is expensive for me. It is obvious that my new to me used baby has always been out as the paint is off the power jack and there is corrosion to be fixed. My goal is to do some fixing then consider other options. I was just curious what most people do. Where I live many if not most of the communities are HOA and do not allow parking of any vehicles next to a home.