Do I Need a Slide Out Topper if My Awning Covers My Slide Out

Updated 09/13/2021 | Published 09/12/2021

Question:

I ordered a new Cyclone 2006 2021. They have been waiting on slide toppers to come in . Now 2 out the 3 came in and been installed. The service manager told me he did not know how long it would be before the 3rd slide topper would come in. We have been waiting so long the service manager is no longer there. Now they are telling me the reason the 3rd one didnt come is because the regular awning covers the 3rd largest of the 3 slides. Its my understanding the awnings are out a small percentage of time. You cant leave awnings out during wind over 20 miles an hour, nor when your out exploring during the day away from the RVessentially every day , you cant leave them out at night when sleeping. So I feel strongly the other slide still needs a topper on it. what our your professional thoughts.

asked by: Steven C

Expert Reply:

If I am understanding this correctly, it sounds like you were told that they were not going to get you a 3rd slide out topper because the awning will cover the 3rd slide out.

You are correct that your awning will often be closed. It is best to retract your awning during heavy rain, wind and when it will be unattended such as over night. A slide out topper is not something that necessarily is required but does provide some protection for your slide out and convenience for you. If you don't have a a topper you would want to get up there and clean off the slide out before closing it each time.

I would not count your awning as adequate protection for your slide out. I recommend using a slide out topper such as the Solera RV Slide-Out Awning # LCV000163300 which works for slide outs that are 152" - 157" wide.

You will want to measure your slide out from the outside edge of each flange. You also want to make sure you have at least 7" of clearance from each side of the slide out box, if you do not you can go down in size on your topper. Just keep in mind that if you go down in size you may not have full coverage over your slide out. I have included a link to our page with different slide out topper size options.

expert reply by: Scott S