Caravan covers

AndyJF

I was considering buying a Protec cover for my van. However, on dropping it off today for a service, one of the people there said that using a cover would be a mistake. He said that because the cover is breathable, and allows water through, it can cause problems due to the water not being able to evaporate, and lead to mould growth. He also said it'll be blown by the wind and get ripped, as they don't fasten securely

I've had a look at the Protec website, and they make their covers from a waterproof fabric, which would obviously keep the rain off it.

So now I'm confused on whether he's talking about a much cheaper cover he used, which was rubbish, or if Protec offers a superior quality product which won't suffer from the problems he mentioned.

Any thoughts/opinions?

 

 

eribaMotters

Get a cover, you will not regret it. They use a breathable fabric so any moisture that does get through can slowly dry out. I'm still surprised though by how much water the fabric actually sheds. When I last entered the van I got in the gap between the van and cover whilst it was tipping down and I stayed dry.

If you want regular access to the van it is worth buying a made to measure cover, but they are very expensive. I bought a generic Kampa version and I'm very pleased with it. My last van was a smaller pop-top so the fit was not very good. I added a few straps around the cover and it did not budge. It is parked up in a fairly exposed wet and windy Devon location. 

Give the van a good clean and polish before you put it on and it will be nice and clean when you uncover it next year.

 

Colin

Tinwheeler

Andy, this is your second thread on the subject and it’s getting a bit confusing now. It’s best to stick to the original thread really. 

AndyJF

Thanks. I think the guy wasn't aware of the quality of Protec covers. They are expensive, but custom made to the spec of your van, including access for doors and battery compartment. Btw where did you buy your cover from?

 

eribaMotters

The supplier I used is out of stock, but this is what I bought:-

https://www.purelyoutdoors.co.uk/products/kampa-prestige-4-ply-caravan-cover.html?F1=783&F2=0&F3=0&F4=0&F5=0&ID=28939&refid=plappc&utm_source=GoogleBase&utm_media=Product+Search&gclid=CjwKCAjwkNOpBhBEEiwAb3MvvUgJl-kopkQ0sspcS_hkQRQw63kXQVuJsdOwsYcyjKohkkZqFGIXHxoCpjMQAvD_BwE

 

Colin

Randomcamper

The person you spoke to when you dropped your van off was talking rubbish.

We have used covers on every van and motorhome we have ever had, and currently have a Protec cover on our van......

wh1nbrew

We have got a Protec full cover (covers sides and back as well as top), for winter, and a Specialised top only for summer use, as quicker to put on and take off.  Both fit extremely well and keep the van dry.  We had the Protec for the previous van for about ten years with only slight wear in places, so I doubled up the cover with the supplied spare material in those areas.  Both highly recommended.  

AndyJF

 Thanks for the helpful replies folks.

triky auto

Hi You'all, from experience of using a 'Protec ' cover for my previous Mo-Ho ,quite a big one , (Sunningdale Autocruise ) i found it easier to fit it if the wind/breeze was blowing, utilising the 'lift ' that it gave me on my own !! .

heddlo

We have had a bespoke Protec cover for many years.  We have had 2 for different caravans.  Never had any issues, inside or out, the ‘easi-fit’ one is easier to fit we found.  Fitted well and they provided us with a clear plastic panel so the solar panel would still charge the battery over winter.  Would certainly recommend.  

ScreenName8DCF4F12A3

If I can jump in here, regarding roof only covers would it be safe or recommended to tow with the full roof cover in place? I have a front panel cover which obviously is used when towing, so I thought why not a full cover. In my case it would only be on really long journeys when we go to the Alps. A full cover would also help to protect from hail stones when on site as it could be slipped on easy.

eribaMotters

It would be illegal as your lights would be covered. I don't think you would be it that position for very long though as the wind would get under the edges and rip it off. You would then be a cause of danger to other road users.

As regards the hailstones. I thought they would fall into the same area of possible damage due to stone impact when towing.

A 2mm thick piece of material cannot make much difference. Covers are excellent at keeping a van clean, but do not really offer any other form of protection.

 

Colin

 

Tinwheeler

I’m not sure if the questioner meant a full cover or a roof cover but, either way, it would be a hazardous and probably illegal undertaking as you say, EM, and definitely not a good idea.