Living in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) means learning to love the rain—but it also means learning how to protect your valuable vehicles from it. With frequent downpours, mist, and year-round humidity, moisture control in storage is a top priority for RV, auto, and boat owners. Without proper precautions, the region’s damp climate can lead to mold, mildew, corrosion, and costly damage. Whether you’re storing your RV for the winter, keeping your car under cover, or tucking your boat away until next season, here’s how to keep moisture under control and protect your investment. At PDX Auto Storage, we understand the importance of the proper winter protection and look forward to helping.
1. Choose the Right Storage Location
The first line of defense against moisture is selecting the right storage environment. If possible, opt for indoor or covered storage—especially for long-term storage. Fully enclosed facilities provide the best protection against constant rain and wind-driven moisture. If indoor storage isn’t available, look for covered outdoor options with paved surfaces and good drainage to prevent pooling water.
When storing at home, park your RV, car, or boat on a concrete or gravel surface rather than grass or dirt, which can hold moisture and cause condensation underneath. Always avoid parking under trees, where dripping water and organic debris can lead to staining and mold growth.
2. Use High-Quality Covers and Ventilation
A water-resistant, breathable cover is essential for outdoor storage in the PNW. Choose a cover specifically designed for your vehicle type—RV, car, or boat—to ensure a snug fit and proper ventilation. Breathable fabrics allow moisture vapor to escape, preventing condensation that leads to mildew. Avoid plastic tarps, which can trap moisture and cause more harm than good.
Ventilation is equally important. For RVs and boats, crack roof vents slightly or install vent covers that allow air circulation without letting rain in. Good airflow helps balance humidity and discourages mold growth in enclosed spaces.
3. Manage Interior Humidity
The damp air of the Pacific Northwest often seeps into stored vehicles, especially boats and RVs with large interiors. Combat this with moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers. Products like DampRid, silica gel packs, or small plug-in dehumidifiers are inexpensive and effective for enclosed spaces.
For long-term RV or boat storage, remove soft furnishings and store them in a dry area, or at least elevate them to allow airflow underneath. Wipe down all interior surfaces and ensure everything is completely dry before sealing up.
4. Seal and Protect Exteriors
Inspect all seams, gaskets, and seals on your RV or boat before storage season begins. Reseal any cracks or gaps where water could enter. Apply a wax or protective coating to painted surfaces, chrome, and fiberglass to create a barrier against moisture. For cars, a thorough wash and wax can help repel rain and reduce oxidation.
For boats, don’t forget to drain all water from the bilge and plumbing systems before covering. Any standing water can become a breeding ground for mold and corrosion.
5. Regular Checks During Storage
Even in storage, your vehicle shouldn’t be forgotten. Periodically check on it—especially after a heavy storm—to ensure no leaks, condensation, or pooling water have developed. A quick inspection can prevent small moisture problems from becoming big, expensive repairs.
Final Thoughts
In the Pacific Northwest, moisture control is the key to preserving your RV, car, or boat year-round. With smart storage choices, breathable covers, and a little ongoing maintenance, you can beat the rain and humidity that define PNW living. Protecting your vehicles now ensures they’ll be ready to hit the road—or the water—when the skies finally clear. Be sure to visit us at our convenient location near the Portland Airport or call (503)257-1140
If you live in Portland, Oregon, or plan to store your RV in the area, you know the drill. Pacific Northwest winters are no joke. The combination of rain, freezing temperatures, and humidity can wreak havoc on an unprepared camper. From frozen plumbing lines to mold and mildew, winter weather can turn your beloved RV into an expensive repair project come spring. That’s why RV winterization is one of the most important maintenance steps you can take before temperatures drop.
Here’s how to properly winterize your RV and protect your investment during Portland’s chilly, wet winter months.
1. Drain and Protect Your Water System
The number one cause of RV damage in cold climates is frozen water lines. When water freezes, it expands and can crack your pipes, fittings, and tanks. To prevent this:
Drain your fresh water tank, gray tank, and black tank completely.
Open all faucets, including the shower and outside hose connections, to remove trapped water.
Use RV antifreeze in your plumbing system. Run it through your water pump and lines until pink antifreeze flows out of each faucet.
Don’t forget to bypass your water heater before adding antifreeze, as you don’t want to fill the tank with it.
If you plan to camp during winter, consider installing tank heaters or heat tape on vulnerable pipes to keep them from freezing.
2. Seal Up and Protect Against Moisture
Portland’s winter rain and humidity can lead to serious mold, mildew, and rust if your RV isn’t sealed properly. Before storing your camper, inspect all seams, roof vents, and window seals. Use a quality RV sealant or caulk to repair any cracks or gaps.
Inside, moisture control is key. Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers in areas like closets, cabinets, and under beds. You can also leave roof vents slightly cracked (with vent covers installed) to promote airflow and prevent condensation buildup. If you’re storing your RV outdoors, invest in a breathable RV cover designed for wet climates like the Pacific Northwest. A waterproof yet ventilated cover helps keep rain out while allowing trapped moisture to escape.
3. Protect the Exterior and Tires
Oregon’s damp winters can also take a toll on your RV’s exterior finish and tires. Start by giving your camper a thorough wash and wax before storing it. This protective coating helps repel moisture and road grime.
If you’re parking your RV on concrete or asphalt for the winter, consider placing it on tire pads or wood planks to prevent moisture damage and flat spots. Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure and cover them to protect against UV exposure—even during cloudy months, the sun can still cause dry rot.
4. Take Care of Your Batteries
Cold temperatures can shorten the life of your RV’s batteries if left unattended. Disconnect and fully charge your batteries before storage. Store them in a cool, dry place—ideally somewhere like a garage or basement. If your RV stays plugged into shore power during storage, use a battery maintainer to keep it charged without overloading it.
5. Keep Pests Away
As the temperatures drop, mice and other critters may look for a cozy place to spend the winter—like inside your RV. Seal off any small openings where they could enter, such as plumbing holes, vents, and access panels. Place rodent repellents, traps, or peppermint oil sachets inside to deter them from nesting.
6. Don’t Forget Your Engine and Fuel (for Motorhomes)
If you own a motorized RV, take time to stabilize your fuel before long-term storage. Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from breaking down, and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it. Check and top off fluids, including antifreeze, oil, and windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your RV for Portland’s wet and cold winter season is the best way to ensure a stress-free spring camping trip. Whether you’re storing your rig at home, in a covered facility, or out in the open, proper RV winterization can save you thousands in repairs and preserve your camper for years to come.
Pacific Northwest winters may be known for their relentless rain and unpredictable cold snaps—but with a little preparation, your RV will be ready to roll again once the cherry blossoms return to Portland. Be sure to visit PDX Equipment Storage for more tips and tricks
Summer is one of the prime seasons to get out there and enjoy your RV – but its also one of the best times to keep it off the road as well. Why you ask? There’s a few reasons why you may not want to be out cavorting in your home away from home during the hottest months of the year.
Weather. The weather can be a bit demanding to say the least. Mother nature hasn’t been too kind to us lately, with record high summer temperatures and dangerous wildfires popping up here and there. There are some gorgeous nights and perfect mornings but you may be spending a bit more time inside your RV relying on it’s air conditioner than you’re used to.
Traffic. Summer time in oregon is the time for people to get out and enjoy the outside. But when you have a Rec. Vehicle, you can take your house-on-wheels anywhere, at any time. Why fight mid-summer traffic when you’re bringing your home with you wherever you go. No matter the weather, you’ve got your cozy spot to relax in; making you more flexible when it comes to planning excursions.
Crowds. Who doesn’t love a crowd? Well, maybe not when you’re favorite beach spot is a bit too full to enjoy. Or when you pull up to that great hike base only to see a sea of cars with no more spots left. It’s great to get out there, but sometimes you want to get away only to find you’re right up in it.
For those times between trips, or when you just want to park your RV securely to take a breather, PDX Auto Storage is a great place to park your baby. Whether only for a day or two, a week, or even a month – we make security and access to your vehicle our top priority. Get it off the street or out of the driveway temporarily and store it at our facility. When you need it, we can put the keys in your hand at a moments’ notice, taking the worry out of what to do with it for the time being. Call us today!
Autumn has finally rolled around and if you’re looking for a great place to store your vehicle, look no furhter than us. Keep your prize possesion off the street and safe with us.
4. Take Care of Your Batteries
