RV awnings are a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living space, but they can be a real pain to deal with during rainy weather. They're designed to provide shade and protection from the elements, but water can easily accumulate under the awning and cause damage to your RV.
One common issue with RV awnings is water pooling, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. This can be especially problematic if you store your RV in a humid climate.
To prevent water from accumulating under your RV awning, you can install a rain gutter system. These systems are designed to channel water away from the awning and prevent it from pooling.
A well-designed rain gutter system can make a huge difference in keeping your RV awning dry and preventing damage.
What is an RV Awning Rain Gutter?
An RV awning rain gutter is a device that directs rainwater away from the RV's exterior and reduces the risk of water damage to the awning and surrounding areas. It's a simple yet effective solution that can be installed on most RV awnings.
RV awning rain gutters come in different materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and stainless steel, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Vinyl gutters are lightweight and easy to install, while aluminum gutters are durable and resistant to corrosion.
A well-designed RV awning rain gutter can extend the lifespan of the awning by preventing water from seeping under the fabric and causing damage. This is especially important for RV owners who live in areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
Some RV awning rain gutters are adjustable, allowing owners to customize the flow of water based on the wind direction and other environmental factors. This feature can be particularly useful for RV owners who park their vehicles in areas with strong winds or heavy rainfall.
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Types of RV Awning Rain Gutter Systems
There are several types of RV awning rain gutter systems available, each with its own unique features and benefits.
The Rain Saver Gutter Kit is a popular option, suitable for caravans, RVs, and motorhomes. It's an ingenious UV-stabilized polycarbonate clip that turns your existing awning valance into a gutter.
This kit is easy to install and includes everything you need to attach your hose and start collecting rainwater from your awning. The kit contains 10 gutter clips, a leaf guard, a snap-on hose fitting, and ball bungees to attach a bucket.
Here's a breakdown of the clip numbers to suit different van/awning sizes:
Additional clips can be purchased separately if you need them for a larger awning.
Benefits of Installing
Installing an RV awning rain gutter system can greatly enhance your outdoor living experience.
A properly installed system can prevent water from accumulating under your RV, reducing the risk of damage to the roof, walls, and surrounding areas.
In fact, a clogged gutter system can lead to costly repairs, with water damage estimated to be around $5,000 or more.
This is especially true for RVs with large awnings, which can collect significant amounts of water during heavy rainfall.
Installing a gutter system can also improve the overall aesthetic of your RV, keeping your awning and surrounding areas clean and free of debris.
By installing a gutter system, you can enjoy your RV's outdoor space without worrying about the hassle and expense of cleaning up after a storm.
Types of RV Awning Rain Gutter Systems
The Rain Saver Gutter Kit is a great example of an RV awning rain gutter system that's easy to install and use. It's designed to turn your existing awning valance into a gutter, collecting rainwater for you to use.
The kit includes everything you need, including 10 gutter clips, a leaf guard, and a snap-on hose fitting. It's suitable for caravans, RVs, and motorhomes with an 180mm or 18cm drop on the awning valance.
One of the key benefits of the Rain Saver Gutter Kit is its versatility. It can work with scalloped valances as well as straight ones, as long as they have a minimum length of 18cm or greater.
If you have a larger RV awning, you'll need to get additional clips to suit your size. Here's a rough guide to help you figure out how many clips you'll need:
Remember, clip numbers are approximate and dependent on the length, thickness, and style of your awning valance fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can RV awnings handle rain?
RV awnings can handle rain, but excessive exposure can cause damage and compromise their structural integrity if not properly maintained
Can you attach an awning to a gutter?
Yes, you can attach an awning to a guttered vehicle with the right mounting system. An awning gutter mount adaptor kit can make this process easy and convenient.
How do I keep water out of my RV awning?
Try placing a beach ball under the pooling area to raise the low spot and prevent water accumulation. Consider investing in a high-quality replacement awning for long-term water protection
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