subject: Which Canopies Protect Your Investments Better? [print this page] Which Canopies Protect Your Investments Better?
Storing vehicles inside a canopy is often advised for winter, especially for homes without garages. But what do you do in warmer weather? Even though the RV or boat can be taken out and used, the shelter does not suddenly become irrelevant. Rather, vehicles from cars to RVs need shelter all year long. Instead of functioning as a portable storage shed, your canopy can be used as a carport in warmer weather.
But what if you do not need the ample storage space of a boat or RV canopy? As you look for the right portable shelter, consider your needs and zoning laws before purchasing.
Carport canopies are often the go-to shelters for homes without garages. With a valance style, these canopies consist of powder-coated or galvanized steel frames and polyethylene tarps on top. The tarp also gives the shelter a slight overhang. Once anchored into the ground, the steel frame holds up to high winds up to 95 miles per hour and heavy snow. The tarp is treated to be UV resistant, waterproof, mildew resistant, and rot proof. This combination of features keeps cars underneath dry and prevents UV damage.
Valance carport canopies often have two options, however. In addition to the common steel and polyethylene structure, fully steel canopies offer the same coverage abilities. Naturally UV, mold, and rot resistant, a steel canopy is designed to last 15 to 20 years.
Valance canopies, on the other hand, are better for protecting your everyday vehicle, the one you take to work each day regardless of weather. More coverage may be needed, especially if a vehicle or similar investment is being kept in storage. Not usable in colder weather, seasonal vehicles need to be placed in storage; otherwise, UV rays and water may damage external and internal parts. Enclosed storage canopies, in these instances, are the shelters that provide the best coverage. With a steel frame and tarps on all sides, enclosed canopies block out all water and UV rays and do not lock moisture inside.
Not everyone owns a boat or RV but that doesn't mean you don't need storage. While canopies are built in sizes to accommodate larger vehicles, these structures can also be smaller. If you have a woodpile needing shelter or a motorcycle needing coverage for part of the year, consider using a smaller enclosed portable shed to shelter any investment of a similar size.
