Storage has become an integral part of modern-day living for most Americans. And why not? After all, it provides a safe and secure place to store vehicles and other household belongings. If you are looking for reliable RV garages to shelter your beloved wheels, consider sturdy metal garages. They are modern, sleek, and secure. But what features should you include in your prefab RV garage? Here are some suggestions.
Five Must-Have Features To Look For In Your RV Storage Facility
1. Location: Convenient Access And Security Considerations
You would want to keep your RV in a place that is easy to access when it’s time to hit the road. Choose a place with good drainage on your lot for installing a prefab RV storage building. It will remove water and snow quickly, protecting your vehicle from moisture and mold.
Other than convenience, you should consider the security of the installation site. RVs are expensive investments for any homeowner. Their safety from weather and unauthorized access is necessary. If possible, choose a place on your lot that’s visible from your home so you can keep an eye on it.
2. Size: Ensure Enough Space For Your Specific RV Needs
Next up, it’s the size of the RV shelter. It must be large enough to accommodate your vehicle and have space to store extra gear. You can choose steel RV garages that are sturdy, durable, and come in all sizes. For residential construction, the height can be up to 20 feet.
Height
Ensure your vehicle can easily maneuver inside without bumping into the garage walls or door frame. Take special care of height. Your prefab RV garage eave’s height must be taller than your RV’s, including any antennae, fan, vent, or AC duct. This will ensure the roof is protected. Opt for a taller garage if you would like to lift tires, repair, or clean inside.
Here Are Some Average Size Of Different Types Of RV:
RV Type | Height[in ft.] | Width[in ft.] | Length[in ft.] |
Class A | 11 – 13 | 8.6 | 15[26 – 45 when expanded] |
Class B | 7 – 9 | 8 | 20 |
Class C | 10 | 8.4 | 20 – 30 |
Travel Trailer | 10 – 11 | 8 – 8.5 | 12 – 25 |
Fifth Wheel | 8 – 13 | 8 – 8.5 | 21 – 40 |
Add at least 2 feet to each to get the minimum size for your RV storage. When measuring, include side mirrors, tail light, extension, and roof.
Attached Vs. Detached
An attached garage will be less expensive to build than a detached garage. However, a detached garage offers more flexibility. It doesn’t block the view to and from your home, and you can renovate this space later for a different use.
3. Features: Climate Control, Security Systems, And Maintenance Options
Climate
Whether storing RV or boat covers, climate control is an essential feature that one must not miss. There are various types of insulators in the market with different R-values suitable for any climatic zone. Insulators help reduce heat transfer and moisture content from the building and regulate indoor temperature easily.
Another factor to consider is ventilation. You can choose between natural or mechanical vents that push humid, warm air out and bring in fresh air. Both insulation and vents help regulate the climate inside the RV shelter.
Security
Opt for robust doors that deter unauthorized access. To enhance the security of your RV storage unit, you can install new-age IoT devices such as security cameras, motion sensor lights, automatic door openers, etc.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, the type of material used to make RV storage matters. Wooden garages are prone to pests, rot, and decay and require high maintenance. Meanwhile, metal RV garages are low maintenance, free from pest attacks, fire, rot, and decay, and do not require frequent re-painting or re-coating.
4. Cost: Compare Pricing And Value For Long-Term Storage Solutions
Pricing
The initial cost of a metal garage is slightly higher than that of a wooden one. However, you must know that the cost per square foot decreases with the increase in its size. So, don’t hesitate to choose a larger garage space. You can choose extra space for household storage or keeping RV supplies.
The Cost Of Motorhome Garage Includes:
Raw Material Cost | : $5 to $15 per sq. ft. |
Labor Cost | : $20 to $70 per sq. ft. |
Site Preparation | : Depends on soil type & location |
Foundation | |
Permit | : $1200 to $2000 |
Garage Door | : $1200 to $7000[depending on type, style, and size] |
HAVC System | : $1000 to $4000 |
Plumbing | : $350 to $2000 |
Electric Lines | : $130 to $2500 |
Insulation | : $0.50 to $1.50 per sq. ft. |
Long Term
Although a metal garage may have a higher initial cost than a wooden RV shelter, it is affordable in the long term. This is mainly because metal garage maintenance is less expensive than wood’s.
With a structural steel garage, you don’t have to worry about pests, fire, rot, decay, rust, and other external phenomena that can damage your garage or RV. You won’t need to spend time, energy, and money on termite inspection, mold, mildew, weather damage, or other stuff. A metal garage generally needs cleaning once or twice a year with warm water and mild soap.
5. Accessories: Storage, Extra Space For Belongings
The average RV garage space is 700 sq. ft. or 14 ft. x 50 ft. However, this isn’t a standard size or dimension. You can custom design a steel building with additional accessories that improve RV garages’ functionality and looks. Here are some of them:
- Color: Choose a color that matches with your main home. Ensure the door and window styles match your home as well. This will create a seamless look.
- Lean-To: This is an additional metal awning attached to your garage. You can use it as a patio, outdoor space, or for storing garden tools and equipment.
- Extra Storage Space: Add extra dimensions to your RV shelter for storing household items, motorhome spare parts & gears or to create room for storing everyday cars.
- Driveway & Landscaping: Create a driveway for easy maneuvering and access to your RV. Plant shrubs or grasses for aesthetics and garden lights to increase lighting after dark.
Unlocking The Secrets For Selecting Ideal RV Storage Building
So, if you select a perfect RV storage space, these are the five key factors you can’t overlook. First, consider the size of the prefab RV garage – you don’t want to cram your motorhome into a space that is too small, do you?
Next, look for overall security, convenience, and climate control features to protect your vehicle from extreme temperatures and external weather conditions. Don’t forget about RV garage accessories that enhance functionality and aesthetics. Keep these factors in mind, and you will be cruising in style in no time!