Slide Canopy Covers

I like them because they keep debris off the top and I would think they also help keep the temperature lower. JMO

Agree with some possible lower temps and the debris off the slide. However, we camp in some windy places and the noise would drive us crazy. We have seen some folks who use partially inflated beach balls to tighten them. This is kind of like a charcoal or gas grill question......some will go one way and the others the other!

Thanks for the reply. Temperature is one thing I had not considered. dnismenace

Strongly recommend:
http://www.learntorv.com/2014/01/slide-toppers-aka-awnings-definitely.html

There are some cases where you shouldn't get them like LynnandCarol mention, but for most situations- they're a benefit.

Yes LynnandCarol, I agree that some will like and others will not. I just to see a general consensus and get more reasons (excuses, LOL) to spend the money or not. Thanks so much, dnismenace

Thanks "ependydad" for your input and especially for the link to your website/blog. I have read part of it and it is very informative and interesting. I can relate to your upgrading as ours was similar. dnismenace

I installed one because so much heat came through the roof and seal area's of the SO. It made a huge difference to our AC load and I was finally able to cool the TT in triple digits after installing it.

We currently have the same camper as the OP except it is a Laredo 27RL that does not have the topper on our slide out. We camp in mostly wooded areas from early April through Thanksgiving and the stuff that ends up on top of the slide I would not want to drag through my seals. I carry a ladder with and I brush it off every trip. I am getting up there a little in age and have a knee that is bad so I could be setting myself up for something bad if I am not careful. We are currently looking at a three slide camper and all three will have toppers on them. I will live with a little noise rather than a trip to the ER. Just my thoughts.

Thanks to all posters for your feedback. I think I will continue to use slide toppers.
dnismenace

Just a thought from a 5er newbie. We bought our first 5er in August of last year and only had one occasion to brush off the top of the slide outs. After getting the ladder and finding that very unstable, I took a large bath towel and tied it in the middle of a 30' rope. I toss the rope over the top of the slide out and with wife on one end and me on the other we run the towel back and forth a few times and the top is clean.