In the Dallas Fort Worth area, RV drivers are well aware of the havoc mother nature can reap on an RV. The storm DFW RV drivers are susceptible to are hail storms, which are known for tacking up an expensive repair order; however, so many coach owners tend to overlook the damage caused by wind. Hurricanes are more than a rare occurrence in DFW, so the reality of damage caused by high winds is bound to occur for our customers, and rather than leave you blowing in the wind, we wanted to gather as much information to protect your RV from wind damage.
Step 1: Park your RV
The first step to protecting your RV from high winds is to not drive it during a wind storm! While an RV can take on a high number of force from wind when it is driving into the wind head on, side wind is a threat to damage your RV. Side wind is known to flip an RV if the force is great enough.
In order to protect your RV, park it with the front facing the oncoming wind. If you are carrying a fifth wheel or trailer, make sure to leave it hitched, as the extra weight will help with stability. If you RV has air bags, make sure to release the air to make more contact between your RV and the chassis. Also, make sure you keep your stabilizing jacks down.
Step 2: Protect your Awning
Awnings are very susceptible to damage from wind storm. Once you have parked your car, you should make sure your awning is retracted in order to protect it.
There are instances where you may not have time to retract your awning, or you may have an awning that is unable to retract. If that is the case, you should invest an anchor to tie your awning to the ground. These will not only secure your awning, but also stop high winds from whipping your awning around.
Step 3: Protect your Slide Outs
Just as you should make sure your awnings are retracted, you should always bring in your slide outs. This is not only to protect your slide outs, but to also protect your RV. Bringing in your slide outs will minimize the surface area battered by wind and help protect your RV from being damaged.
Step 4: Mind your Surroundings
This may be the most important step: you must be aware of where you parked your RV. Parking it in an RV lot is usually a good idea; however, always take note of trees in the area. There are countless instances of RVs being damaged during wind storm from downed trees. Make sure you are parked in an area that is from a safe distance rom any trees to avoid having them fall or being blown into your RV.
If you need any more information regarding wind damage, or you are looking to repair your wind damaged RV, make sure to make an appointment with Coach Specialists of Texas. Our experienced staff in Mansfield and Plano has worked in the DFW for years and know how to properly repair damage caused by storms in the local area. They have seen the worst from hail and wind storms and know how to effectively repair any damage. Make your appointment today!