When storing your RV for the winter, should you leave the RV slide-outs during winter extended or bring them in?
In most situations, we recommend storing RV slide-outs fully retracted, unless your RV manufacturer recommends otherwise.
Why Store RV Slides In?
Leaving slide-outs extended for long periods exposes more of the slide room to rain, wind, dirt, leaves and other debris, increasing the risk of RV slide-outs during winter. Retracting the slides can help protect:
- Slide-out roofs and seals
- Slide topper fabric
- Slide mechanisms
- Exterior seams and sealants
- Interior areas from potential water intrusion
Inspect and Clean Before Retracting
Before bringing your slides in for winter storage, inspect the slide roof and seals. Remove leaves, dirt and debris and avoid retracting a slide that has excessive water sitting on it.
Check rubber seals for cracks, tears, gaps or deterioration. Remember that slide-outs have sealing surfaces for both the extended and retracted positions.
Don’t Forget the Slide Toppers
Slide-out toppers help protect the slide roof, but leaving them extended for months exposes the fabric to UV, rain, wind and debris. Older topper fabric can stretch, sag and collect water.
Retracting the slide rolls the topper back onto its roller tube and reduces its exposure during storage.
Water and Winter Weather
Water, leaves and debris sitting on an extended slide can increase the opportunity for moisture problems. Snow and ice can create additional weight on slide roofs and toppers in colder climates.
Even in areas with mild winters, prolonged rain can expose weaknesses in aging seals and sealants.
Follow Your RV Manufacturer’s Recommendations
RV slide systems and construction vary between manufacturers. Always check your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage, leveling and slide-out operation.
For most RVs, slides in is the preferred choice for long-term winter storage, including RV slide-outs during winter.
Most importantly, inspect your RV throughout the winter. Catching a small leak or seal problem early can help prevent expensive water damage.
Need Your RV Slide-Outs Inspected?
California RV Specialists provides professional RV slide-out inspections, maintenance, seal replacement, topper service and repairs in Lodi, California.
California RV Specialists LLC
200 S. Cherokee Lane, Lodi, CA 95240
209-263-7040
Serving Lodi, Stockton, Sacramento, Elk Grove, Galt, Manteca, Modesto, Tracy and surrounding Northern California communities.
