Slide out awnings yay or nay?

fj12ryder wrote:

Lantley wrote:
Toppers create as many problems as they resolve.
They keep debris away and block the sun. However they flap in the wind and pool in heavy rain.
Then we start getting into using beach balls and cargo straps to correct the down side of toppers.
In the end I chose not to have them.
I have 5 slides and don't wish I had toppers.

The good points:

They keep heat off the top of the slide out which will result in the trailer being easier to cool. Problem resolved.

They keep debris off the top of the slide out which can prevent seal damage, and prevent the need to climb a ladder, get on the roof, or use a blower to clean the top. Problem resolved.

They keep water from coming into the trailer when bringing the slides in when it has rained, or is raining. Problem resolved.

Problems:

Water pools on the toppers. Not exactly sure why this is a problem, since the water is outside and doesn't come inside, and will evaporate or flow off when the slide in pulled in.

Toppers flap. Mine don't, but some people say theirs does, and most comments seem to come from people who don't have toppers.

So, honestly, they really don't cause more problems than they solve. If someone doesn't want them for personal reasons, that's fine, but be up front that it's personal preference and not actual issues with the slide toppers.

I can agree you like them or you don't. But to pretend that they don't flap or don't pool water is disingenuous.
Yes some pool or flap worse than others. But those with flapping or pooling awnings are not imagining these issues or making them up.
The beach ball fix or cargo strap method are not imaginary either.
People are not putting beach balls or straps on their toppers just for kicks.... They are trying to resolve a REAL problem.

Nothing wrong with toppers if you find them beneficial nor is there anything wrong with not having toppers if you don't find them beneficial.