Tyvek by DuPont has been a recognized global leader in selective barrier technology. Lightweight and durable, DuPont Tyvek has introduced new dimensions of protection, security and safety in a wide variety of industries.
In Your Household
Tyvek by DuPont is now the leading home-wrap product in the United States. Chances are you have noticed this product on construction sites. It resembles white sheeting that is applied over framed construction walls with the purpose of preventing Mother Nature from penetrating the internal structure of the building.
How it Began
The discovery of Tyvek was a chance occurrence by a DuPont researcher, Jim White, who in 1955 noticed white polyethylene fluff coming out of a pipe in a DuPont experimental lab. A program to develop the new material was set up, and a year later DuPont submitted a patent proposal. The proprietary flash-spinning technology, which is the basis for what was to become DuPont’s new engineered sheet structure, took several more years to perfect. In 1959, a pilot facility was established for trial applications and commercial production officially commenced in 1967.
What It Is
The technical name for TyvekRV is spunbonded olefin. This extremely versatile material offers a balance of physical characteristics that combine the best properties of paper, film and cloth. Spun-bonded olefin is formed by a continuous process from very small fibers. These non-directional fibers are first spun and then bonded together by heat and pressure. The physical properties of Tyvek are the same, wet or dry. Toughness and flexibility are retained down to -100°F and up to 270°F.
Protecting Your RV
Your RV represents what could be the second largest investment of your life. Every day that your RV goes uncovered, paint and interior surfaces fade, while vinyl, rubber, leather and fabrics dry, crack and deteriorate. Unless you’re a full-timer, your RV may sit for months exposed to UV rays, rain, snow, bird droppings, tree sap and wind-driven dirt and dust. The most versatile protection you can get for your coach is an RV cover featuring TyvekRV fabric.
Fits Your Budget
Selecting the right RV cover will save you time and money in the long run. Choose a cover with a warranty that matches the approximate amount of time that you plan on owning the RV for. DuPont TyvekRV fabric is offered in both the 100% TyvekRV Custom-Fit model and the off-the-shelf Contour-Fit line with TyvekRV top and polypropylene side panels. Contour-Fit covers come with a two-year warranty whereas Custom-Fit covers come with a four-year warranty.
Custom Versus Universal
If you intend to own your RV for many years, make the upgrade to a Custom-Fit RV cover so that you don’t have to shop for a new RV cover every few years. Custom-Fit covers made for specific RV models provide better protection than off-the-shelf covers because they conform to the exact contours of the vehicle. For instance, a custom-fit cover will not move around in the wind as much as a typical universal-fit cover. An extra advantage to purchasing a custom cover is the custom placement of zipper doors for access during storage so you easily can go into and out of the RV without going through the trouble of removing the cover.
Maintaining Resale Value
Whether you choose an off-the-shelf RV cover, or something made custom for your particular vehicle, this relatively small investment will perhaps save you thousands of dollars in resale value when you go to trade-in or sell your RV. While covers might be considered an expensive addition to an already costly rig, the real truth is that they will add resale value as the cover takes the beating from the elements instead of your RV. Imagine how much it would cost to repaint the exterior, purchase and install new graphics, reupholster the dash and front seats and replace the curtains. It’s easy to see how quality covers can actually come out looking like a bargain.
Protect Your Mirrors and Wipers
ADCO’s Mirror and Wiper Cover Set fits both Class A and Class C vehicles. Constructed using DuPont TyvekRV fabric with black trim, these attractive covers will prevent UV damage and premature aging. They are easy to install and come with a handy storage bag.
Don’t Neglect Your Tires
Tires can also be destroyed by the environment in as little as one season if not properly cared for. It is essential that RV tires be protected from the sun’s damaging UV rays. Tires on RVs kept in storage are subject to premature cracking, especially in the sidewall area. For vehicles used infrequently, this “dry rot” can be greatly reduced by blocking the sun’s rays. Quality coverings that guard against environmental damage, such as the ADCO Ultra Tyre Guard, are available for your tires for a minimal cost. Again, a small investment in covers could save you a lot of money down the road.
Where to Purchase
The products mentioned in this article are available at Camping World and other RV accessory retailers. For more information on ADCO Covers, visit www.CampingWorld.com/covers .