Are slide toppers a good thing on a motorhome?

[Chuggs]

We have also had it both ways...

Without toppers... advantage, not having to bring slide in as storms pass, for fear of damaging them.

disadvantage, have to get up high enough to lead blow debris before retracting slide. Slide is in direct sunlight...and transfers more summer heat to the inside of the coach.

With toppers...advantage, debris stays outside...nice air pocket between topper and slideout roof, so slideout stays cooler in hot sunshine.

Disasvantage... debris accumulates in the housing, if equipped... sometimes pool water... seams unravel in moderate to strong winds. Difficult to maintain seals on slide because they are obscured by topper.

 

[Dutch Star Don]

I've had an idea for a slide topper wind protector. It would be an oblong bladder made out of something like a truck innertube material. It would come in 2', 3' and 4' lengths. It would have a built-in pvc pipe that would hang down the end (side) of the slide with an inflator (maybe CO2). The pvc pipe would be used to put it in place (no ladder needed) and then used to inflate it, sealing the edge of the awning and slide out from wind.

Neal, you're free to use my idea, I only ask a slight per unit royalty!

 

[Neal]

Neal, you're free to use my idea, I only ask a slight per unit royalty!

Oh no, I believe in 50/50 all the way (glad this isn't in writing!)

 

[BGMAC]

Just asking, but could it be the topper does not have enough tension?

 

[Chuggs]

Carefree...(not so carefree)...awning. Single stitched beading. Pulled out of the track. The wind picked up one evening while in the Florida Keys.

New Tuff Top Awning. RVGEEKS have a discount code. These are double stitched. Appears to be a tough fabric and more water repellant.

Anyway...not a fun project.

 

[Jim]

I just had mine replaced and they are nowhere near that taunt. Maybe I need to take the coach back and have them revisited?