Why Your RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Needs a Winterization Cover
When snow and ice accumulate on your RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket, the weight and moisture can damage both your gear and the basket’s finish. A dedicated winterization cover keeps your cargo dry, prevents rust, and ensures your basket remains functional through harsh months. This guide explains how to protect your investment with the right cover and preparation techniques.
Without proper coverage, ice can freeze zippers, warp plastic bins, and accelerate corrosion on metal components. The RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket winterization cover is engineered to shed snow while breathing to prevent condensation buildup.
What Material Is the Winterization Cover Made From?
The cover uses a three-layer laminate: a heavy-duty 600-denier polyester outer shell bonded to a waterproof polyurethane membrane, with a soft fleece inner lining to prevent scratching the basket’s powder coat. This material withstands sub-zero temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) without cracking or becoming brittle.
UV stabilizers in the polyester resist fading from winter sun exposure, while reinforced stitching at stress points prevents seam separation under snow loads up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg). The cover also includes a webbing strap system with corrosion-resistant buckles that cinch tight around the basket’s perimeter.
How Does the Cover Fit and Stay Secured in Windy Conditions?
The cover is custom-shaped to match the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket dimensions: 48″ x 36″ x 6″ (122 cm x 91 cm x 15 cm). An elastic hem with shock cord runs through the bottom edge, creating a snug fit that hugs the basket’s contours. Four adjustable web straps with quick-release buckles wrap under the basket’s crossbars to anchor the cover in place.
For additional wind resistance, the cover includes two integrated grommets at the front edge that align with the basket’s mounting holes. You can thread a lock or zip tie through these grommets to secure the cover against gusts up to 60 mph. The design also features a low-profile silhouette that doesn’t flap excessively at highway speeds.
Can You Use the Cover With Gear Stored in the Basket?
Yes, the winterization cover is designed to accommodate gear inside the basket while maintaining a weathertight seal. The cover’s internal volume allows for loaded cargo up to 18 inches (46 cm) tall, provided the load is evenly distributed and does not exceed the basket’s 150-pound (68 kg) capacity. However, sharp objects such as shovel blades or tent poles should be padded to prevent puncturing the cover.
If you frequently store irregular shapes, consider pairing the cover with a RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket DIY Lightweight Mod to create a flat platform that minimizes pressure points. For plastic storage totes, the cover’s fleece lining grips the container surface to reduce shifting during transit.
What Are the Snow and Ice Load Ratings?
The cover handles static snow loads up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg) distributed evenly. Under heavier loads, the cover may sag but won’t tear due to its ripstop reinforcement. Ice accumulation adds weight that can stress the basket’s mounting points, so the cover’s slippery outer surface encourages snow to slide off during driving.
| Load Type | Maximum Weight (lb) | Ice Shedding Efficiency | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Snow (<2" depth) | 30 | 95% self-shedding | No action needed |
| Heavy Snow (6″+ depth) | 50 | 75% self-shedding | Brush off before driving |
| Freezing Rain | 25 | 40% self-shedding | Remove before icicle formation |
| Mixed Ice & Snow | 35 | 60% self-shedding | Check straps for slippage |
For environments with persistent ice storms, applying a silicone-based fabric protector spray (available at most outdoor gear stores) further reduces ice adhesion by 30%. Also inspect the cover after each freeze-thaw cycle for cracked buckles or frayed straps.
How Does This Cover Integrate With Security Upgrades?
The winterization cover works seamlessly with your existing locking mechanisms. The cover’s grommets align with the basket’s tie-down loops, allowing you to thread a cable lock through both the cover and the basket for theft deterrence. For higher security, the cover includes a zippered access panel that reveals the basket’s latch points without removing the entire cover.
If you’ve installed the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Lock Security Upgrade, the cover’s zipper pull can be secured with a small padlock to prevent unauthorized access to both the cover and the basket’s contents. This dual-layer security is especially valuable when storing expensive gear like generators or solar panels overnight during winter trips.
What Maintenance Does the Cover Require Over Winter?
Clean the cover monthly with mild soap and lukewarm water, avoiding detergents with brighteners or bleach that degrade the waterproof membrane. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before storage to prevent mildew. During thaw periods, open the cover slightly to ventilate trapped moisture from the basket’s interior.
Check for UV damage to the outer shell every 60 days, especially in high-altitude regions where winter sun intensity is stronger. Small holes or tears can be repaired with adhesive-backed nylon patches (similar to tent repair kits). For long-term storage, fold the cover loosely to avoid creasing the laminated fabric, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
What Owners Say About the Winterization Cover
Owners consistently praise the cover’s ability to keep gear dry even after multi-day snowstorms. Many note that the integrated strap system eliminates the need for bungee cords or additional tie-downs. One owner from Minnesota reported that after a winter of use, the cover showed no signs of fabric wear or seam failure despite temperatures dropping to -20°F.
Some users mention that initial fitting requires adjustment to achieve a taut seal, but once set, the cover holds position without re-tightening. The zippered access feature is highlighted as a major convenience for quick retrieval of tools or snow removal equipment. A commonly suggested improvement is adding reflective strips for nighttime visibility, but overall satisfaction remains high, with most owners recommending the cover as essential winter gear for any full-time RV traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cover compatible with the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Corrosion Resistance Test version?
Yes, the cover is designed to fit all standard and corrosion-resistant models. However, if you own the test version with the extra-thick powder coat, the cover’s fleece lining may occasionally pull loose powder coat chips on sharp edges. Apply clear edge trim to the basket’s rails before installing the cover to prevent this issue.
Can I install a solar panel while using the cover?
Partial coverage is possible if the solar panel is mounted on a separate rack. For full solar integration, remove the cover during daylight hours. The RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Solar Panel Mounting Compatibility article details how to combine both systems without compromising weather protection.
Does the cover work with an aerodynamic fairing?
Yes, the cover is low-profile enough to fit under most fairings. Install the fairing first, then cinch the cover around its edges. For specific models, see the Aerodynamic Fairing Installation for RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket: Reduce Drag & Noise guide.
How do I remove ice frozen to the cover?
Never use a metal scraper. Gently flex the cover from underneath to crack the ice, or pour lukewarm (not hot) water over the affected area. Silicone-based lubricants applied before freezing weather also help release ice without damaging the fabric.
Can I mount the cover on an underbelly basket?
Yes, but underbelly mounting requires a different attachment method. The cover’s straps can be threaded through the basket’s frame slats. Read the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Underbelly Mounting: Alternative Storage Solution for detailed instructions.
What is the manufacturer’s warranty on the cover?
RVStow offers a one-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage from ice picks, sharp tools, or improper installation. Replacement covers are available directly from RVStow for approximately $89.99 USD.
