Protecting Your RV with Hurricane Shutters: Feasibility and Alternatives
The idea of installing hurricane shutters on an RV can seem appealing, given the desire to fortify your travel companion against potentially catastrophic weather conditions. However, the practicality and effectiveness of such a choice need to be thoroughly examined. This article explores the feasibility of installing hurricane shutters on travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes and offers alternative solutions for enhancing RV safety during hurricanes.
Understanding the Structural Challenges
One significant challenge when considering hurricane shutters for RVs is the overall design and structural integrity of the RV itself. RVs are typically lighter in construction than traditional houses and are designed to be portable and mobile. This makes them more susceptible to being easily moved or structurally compromised during high winds.
The walls of an RV are usually thin and composed of lightweight materials such as aluminum siding, which are not robust enough to withstand the force of hurricane winds. Similarly, the roof of an RV is often built with a canvas or lightweight fabric, and the floors consist of foam sandwiched between layers of plywood, none of which are designed to provide substantial protection against high winds. Additionally, the studs used for the walls are typically 2x2, which offer limited structural support.
Practical Installations for RVs
Given the inherent limitations of RV construction, it might be more practical to consider other forms of protection that can be easily installed and just as effective. A common and cost-effective method is to use a sheet of plywood over the windows. This can be quickly and securely fastened to the exterior surfaces of the RV, providing immediate protection from wind and debris.
Another viable solution is to create custom-built holders, such as T-nuts or other secure attachments, to mount sturdy removable shutters. This can be particularly useful for RV owners with more luxurious units that can afford the additional space and investment in more robust solutions. However, even with these enhancements, it’s important to note that the primary focus should still be on safe evacuation rather than inland sheltering.
Why Even Consider Installing Hurricane Shutters?
Despite the challenges, some RV owners might still desire some form of hurricane protection. Custom work could be possible, but the question remains—why would anyone choose to install hurricane shutters when the risks and limitations are so high? Most RVs are simply not safe enough to remain inside during a hurricane, and the chances of such shutters surviving the storm are slim. The possibility of wind and debris blowing the shutters out of their mounts or the RV itself being moved by the wind are highly likely.
Therefore, rather than relying on window shutters, the best course of action is to ensure the RV is in a safe location if possible. If you must remain in your RV during a hurricane, do so knowing that you are in a temporary, non-protective shelter. The physical structure of an RV is ultimately not designed to withstand the forces of a hurricane, and attempting to fortify it with shutters might be more of a waste of money than a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
To conclude, while the concept of installing hurricane shutters on RVs is understandable, the practical and structural challenges make it a less viable solution. Instead, focus on evacuation plans and secure storage in a safe location before a hurricane strikes. Custom solutions are possible but should only be considered after evaluating their effectiveness and cost. For the majority of RV owners, the most practical approach is to prioritize safety through preparedness and secure evacuation.