Slide toppers, or slide-out awnings, are designed to protect the top of your RV's slide-outs from debris, water, and sun damage. They can be quite useful, but there might be several reasons you may want to consider removing them:
Maintenance and Replacement Costs
Slide toppers can become worn or damaged over time and require repair or replacement, which can be an ongoing cost.
Noise
In windy conditions, slide toppers can flap or billow, causing noise that might disturb your peace.
Debris Accumulation
While designed to prevent debris from collecting on the top of your slide-out, the topper itself can collect leaves, twigs, or other debris, which can be troublesome to clean, especially if you're in a heavily wooded campsite.
Frozen Conditions
In freezing conditions, ice or snow can accumulate on the topper, adding extra weight and potentially causing damage. The ice could also make it difficult for the slide-out to retract.
Aesthetic Reasons
Some people don't like the look of slide toppers and prefer the clean lines of their RV without them.
Malfunction
If the spring mechanism fails, the topper will sag and won't retract properly when the slide-out is brought in.
Mildew and Mold
In wet climates or if not allowed to dry properly, slide toppers can develop mold and mildew, which is not only unsightly but can also lead to health issues.
However, removing slide toppers should be done with careful consideration. They do provide a layer of protection for your RV's slide-outs and can save you from a lot of cleaning after a storm or when parked under trees. It's a matter of weighing the potential downsides against the benefits and deciding what's right for your specific situation.