To garage or not to garage...?

[Misty Meg]

I have the chance of renting a garage for a few months over the winter.

The "fold" is currently stood in front of the house with a large tarpaulin over it. Can it get frost damage during the winter or should I save my funds towards the refurb and leave her where she is?

[txfsealord]

Hi Meg,

Unless yours has plumbed-in water systems which still have water in, the chances of frost damage are small.

There is more chance of water absorption through the gel-coat of the fibreglass roof, caused through contact with the wet tarpaulin. I believe this is called osmosis (unfortunately I don't know all that much about fibreglass). This shows afterwards as bubbles in the gel. It doesn't seem to cause further trouble but it's certainly unsightly & bad for the resale value.

To save the cost of garaging, I would suggest building a frame over the 'van, using timber, Dexion angle or other suitable structure, then drape the tarp. over this. Water on the tarp is not then in contact with the 'van & there is an air gap which promotes air movement. The frame should have a pitched roof so water can't puddle on the tarp, & air gaps are good at intervals round the tarp's base. Mould grows well in stagnant, moist air so aim for good air circulation beneath your cover. The tyres should be covered as they deteriorate in sunlight - if there is any!

An old garden swing, climbing-frame etc., can be altered/mangled to make an excellent lightweight frame for this job.

Steve Lord

[Admin]

Just thought I'd provide some caravan storage companies for anyone who might need them. These are in no way approved by portafold.co.uk. Please ensure that they have all the required insurance and security measures in place before you leave your caravan with them.


Herefordshire: 01568 797281
Peterborough: 01733 223918
Devon/Cornwall: 01409 254477
Bosham, Chichester: 01243 572605
Weston-Super-Mare: 01934 513110 (evening)
Malvern: 01684 575658
Hampshire, Surrey & Berks: 01252 845194
Thetford, Norfolk: 01953 498858
Scotland border: 07875 107952
Lancashire: 01253 837990
France: 0033 (0) 549877705
Swindon: 01666 860241
Essex: 07538 764084
North East: 01325 485533
Braintree, Essex: 01245 361338
Attelborough, Norfolk: 01953 457652

[bigbird]

Steve, I don't think my neighbours will wear me building a frame outside the house to put Matilda in...it already looks like a used car lot..lol We saw a couple of old dears walking past shaking their heads disapprovingly the other day....ah well......