How Important is a Slide Topper?

[RandyB]

2017 Newmar Ventana 4037. During a high wind event the slide topper was ripped out of the anchor strip on the side of the coach. Of course, it’s on the full wall slide that is 20+ feet long. It is completely detached and rolled up on the spool.

I was understanding that the purpose of a topper is to keep debris from being on top of the slide, so upon retraction, the junk will not wind up inside.

I am considering not replacing the topper until I get home and can have my trusted dealer replace it. That’s 2,000+ miles away.

I will add a step in the retraction process to examine the slide roof before moving.

Please tell me any flaws in my direction.

 

[Neemer]

That sounds like a plan to me.

 

[Joe Hogan]

I believe that the toppers also help shed rain water. Btw, we typically pull the slides in when it gets too windy. We started doing this when we saw another coach parked across from us in west Tx loose the topper from their slide out.

We have closed slides in heavy wind ever since.

 

[Fish]

You'd be surprised how much slide toppers help keep the heat off the top of the slide so there's another benefit.

So
Keeps most rain off slide roof
Keeps most debris off slide roof
Help keeps slide roof cooler

Only disadvantages I've found and noise in wind and trouble treating that top slide seal.
I tie a rag to a pole and work the slide seal compound in there.

 

[Knobs]

Here's one guy's opinion... (slide out awnings - start at ~9:30)