Summer Storage Tips for RV and Boat Owners in Atlanta
Georgia summers hit stored RVs and boats hard. From June through September, your recreational vehicles face 90-100°F days, intense UV radiation, afternoon thunderstorms, and humidity levels that promote mold and corrosion. Even vehicles you use regularly during summer need protection between trips.
Why Summer Is the Critical Season
The Heat Factor
Ambient temperatures: 90-100°F typical, 100°F+ not uncommon
Interior temperatures:
- RV interior: 130-160°F in direct sun
- Boat interior: 140-170°F
- Dashboard surfaces: 170-200°F
Cumulative damage: Heat stress for 4-5 months accelerates material degradation that would take years in moderate climates.
The UV Factor
Georgia's latitude and sunny weather mean intense UV exposure:
- Paint oxidation
- Gel coat chalking
- Rubber deterioration
- Interior fading and cracking
- Canvas and cover degradation
Humidity and Storms
Summer combines heat with:
- 70%+ humidity promoting mold
- Afternoon thunderstorms (hail risk)
- Occasional severe storms
RV Summer Storage Tips
Covered Storage: Worth the Premium
Summer is when covered storage pays for itself:
- Eliminates direct UV
- Reduces interior temps by 30-50°F
- Protects against hail
- Extends exterior and roof life significantly
If outdoor storage:
- Quality RV cover (not cheap tarps)
- Reflective material if possible
- Proper ventilation underneath cover
Ventilation Is Critical
The problem: Sealed RVs trap heat and moisture, creating optimal mold conditions.
Solutions:
- Vent covers that allow airflow while keeping rain out
- Leave roof vents cracked (if secure)
- Use interior fans on timers (if power available)
- Moisture absorbers throughout interior
Interior Protection
- Remove all food (attracts pests in heat)
- Open cabinet doors (promotes air circulation)
- Reflective windshield and window shades
- Consider removing removable cushions to prevent moisture damage
Roof Care
Summer sun destroys RV roofs:
- Inspect seams and sealant before summer
- Reseal any questionable areas
- Clean roof to prevent dirt from becoming permanent
Battery Management
Heat accelerates battery drain and deterioration:
- Check water levels monthly (heat evaporates electrolyte)
- Use a quality maintainer
- Consider removing battery if not using RV for extended periods
Tire Protection
UV and heat are hard on tires:
- Cover tires (UV-blocking covers)
- Maintain proper pressure (heat causes expansion)
- Check for cracking and dry rot
AC and Refrigerator
- Run AC monthly to keep seals lubricated
- Leave refrigerator door propped open (prevents mold)
- Clean refrigerator before summer storage
Boat Summer Storage Tips
Covered Storage Value
Even more critical for boats than RVs:
- Gel coat is UV-sensitive
- Canvas and covers degrade quickly in direct sun
- Vinyl seats crack and fade
- Electronics suffer in extreme heat
Between-Use Care
Summer boating means the boat sits hot between uses:
- Thorough rinse/flush after each use
- Apply UV protectant to vinyl
- Ensure proper cover placement
- Check bilge for water accumulation
Gel Coat Protection
- Regular washing removes damaging contaminants
- Wax before summer (creates UV barrier)
- Touch up any scratches or chips before they spread
Canvas and Bimini
- Apply canvas protectant
- Store folded when possible
- Inspect for weakening stitching
- Covered storage extends life dramatically
Fuel System
- Keep tank relatively full (reduces condensation)
- Add fuel stabilizer if boat will sit 2+ weeks
- Use ethanol-free fuel if available
Motor Care
- Flush after every use
- Check cooling system
- Verify motor oil levels
- Inspect for signs of overheating
General Summer Tips for Both
Pest Prevention
Heat drives rodents and insects to seek shelter:
- Remove all food sources
- Seal any openings
- Use repellents (mothballs, electronic deterrents)
- Check for evidence of intrusion regularly
Moisture Management
Combat Georgia humidity:
- Moisture absorbers throughout interior
- Ventilation where possible
- Address any water intrusion immediately
- Check during humid periods for mold starting
Regular Inspections
Summer damage can compound quickly:
- Check weekly if possible
- Look for cover issues
- Verify no pest intrusion
- Check battery and electrical
Storm Preparation
Georgia summer means afternoon storms:
- Choose storage with good drainage
- Covered storage protects against hail
- Secure all covers against wind
- Have a plan if severe weather threatens
Oxford RV Storage Summer Storage
Oxford RV Storage offers covered storage that provides critical summer protection:
- Roof overhead blocks direct UV and hail
- Gated security protects your investment
- Space for both RVs and boats
- East-Metro pricing
For RV and boat owners who use their vehicles through summer, covered storage between trips significantly extends the life of materials that Georgia sun would otherwise destroy.


