Deciding to build a carport for your RV is a good idea since an RV is one investment that you won’t want to deteriorate due to exposure to the elements. Such an expensive piece of equipment requires additional protection to help keep it in tiptop shape and looking as good as new. When you are building a carport for your RV, the choice often comes down to whether you should opt for metal RV carports or wood RV carports.
Both types have advantages and disadvantages, but when people weigh these in, they usually find after careful comparisons and scrutiny that metal carports are better than wooden ones. Here are some of the reasons why such a conclusion is often reached:
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Metal carports are generally fire-resistant
Metal does not burn, unless if it is volcanic lava, or the fire reaches 2750 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that your carports won’t burn.
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Metal carports are more durable
No matter what kind of metal you choose to use for your RV carports, you will find that these are sturdier and more durable than wood. This is because these are termite resistant, have a higher strength-to-weight ratio, won’t rot when exposed to moisture (as long as the metal is tarnish and rust-proof or properly coated with paint), and won’t warp or split.
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These are easier to construct
Carports in general are easy to construct since these usually consist of poles and a roof, with some designs having two walls on either side of the structure. However, despite such a simple design, putting up a wooden carport can be more tedious than putting up a metal carport. You can even have such a carport built in a single day.
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Old metal RV carports can be recycled
Well, metal in general can be recycled, making it a “green” material to use for your RV carport. The good thing about recycling steel and other metals that are used to manufacture these metal RV carports is that these don’t lose any of their inherent properties or deteriorate after recycling.
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Metal RV carports are more cost effective than wooden ones
Some people may argue that wood is cheaper than metal, and in some cases, they may be right. What they do not realize is that lower costing does not really translate to cost effectiveness. For a material to be considered cost effective, you have to take into consideration the wastage that goes into the construction of the carport using the material. The life of the carport should also be factored in for you to get the actual cost of building your carport. When all is said and done, metal carports are more cost effective.
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Metal carports are easier to maintain
Unlike wood, metal carports for your RV don’t need to be sanded and painted over every year to help keep it in good shape. All you need to do is to wash your carport with mild dishwashing soap and water, hose it down, and you are done. If you want to give it a nice shine or some waterproofing protection, you can consider waxing it with car wax after you wipe it dry. This will give it an added coat of protection, not that it needs it.
Wash It Regularly