RVs with Porch or Patio [Including 5 Examples]

RV enthusiasts looking to extend their living space into the outdoors may find a solution in porches or side patios. These additions can be portable or built-in, providing a comfortable space for lounging, dining, or socializing at every destination.

Aside from the practical benefits, porches and side patios also allow for personalization of one's RV. Decorative elements such as flags, solar lights, plants, and other outdoor decor can create a unique and inviting atmosphere.

However, it is important to note that these additions require additional time and effort for assembly and disassembly and must be used responsibly to avoid encroaching on neighboring campsites.

What Is A Side Patio?

A side patio is a feature in some RVs that provides an outdoor living space. It is stored neatly folded onto a section of the RV’s mid-exterior or rear-exterior wall and can be manually or power-operated.

The patio extends outward from the RV and is supported by two cables attached to the RV and legs on the ground. A safety railing around the patio's perimeter provides added security and folds snugly into the storage panel.

Fleetwood - Southwind Class A

Fleetwood's Southwind Class A motorhome is a 39’ vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000-pounds. It features two power-slide-outs that offer extended interior living spaces. The rear patio is power-extendable, providing a comfortable outdoor living space.

The patio is user-friendly and easy to operate. Fleetwood has designed the Southwind with a residential-sized sliding glass door that allows easy access to the patio from inside the RV.

Fleetwood - Bounder 36FP Class A, Gas

Fleetwood's Bounder Class A motorhome is a 39’ vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds. It has a snap-in rear patio system that is durable and adjustable. The patio has snap-on stairs that can easily be set up on any terrain beneath a legless, slide-out awning. The patio also features standard LED lighting, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind after traveling.

The Fleetwood Southwind and Bounder models offer a convenient, comfortable outdoor living space with side patios. These user-friendly patios are perfect for those who love to spend time outdoors but also want the luxury of an RV. Read more about the Bounder 36FP here.

Can I Buy A Deck For My RV?

Decking Materials

RV owners can purchase portable decks and stairs that are pre-built and available in various decking materials. Plastic, metal sheeting, and composite materials require little maintenance and are available in various colors that can complement the RV's exterior design.

These materials are easy to assemble, lightweight, and resistant to mildew and insect infestation. Interlocking tiles can generate any size deck over a hard, level surface. Plastic, metal sheeting, and composite decks drain water efficiently and have non-skid surfaces. These quick-drying materials will not be susceptible to rot.

RV owners can also consider eco-friendly options, such as the Pure Garden slat-pattern deck tiles or the Acacia Hardwood interlocking tiles. However, it is important to note that plastic and composite decks may not withstand excessive weight.

Wooden decking, such as Bare Decor's teak deck tiles, is a durable and aesthetically pleasing material. Teak is a hardwood that weathers well with low maintenance and resists mildew and insect infestation.

However, when stowed, it is a dense material, which adds more weight to the RV than plastic, metal sheeting, or composite deck tiles. The vibrant teak color can fade in the sun over time, but applying teak oil can refresh the color and protect the wood.

Sizing Decks & Stairs

RV owners can select the size of the deck platform or stair platform and the number of steps required to access the height of the deck or the RV's threshold. Decks and stairs can come paired together or as separate features.

A standard RV deck platform is 45" by 45", but decks can be customized and expanded. The narrowest stair width is 36", and stair heights can vary from as few as 2 steps (14 inches high) to as many as 6 steps (42 inches tall). RV owners may consider adding deck railings and stair handrails to ensure safety when using an RV deck platform and stairs.

Most portable decks and stairs come equipped with adjustable leg bases to adjust to the height of the RV for a neat finish. Adjustable legs also enable the deck platform and stairs to be set level atop uneven ground.

In summary, RV owners have several options when purchasing a deck for their RV. Portable decks and stairs are available in various materials, sizes, and styles to suit different preferences and requirements. By considering the decking materials and sizing options, RV owners can make an informed decision when purchasing a deck for their RV.

Can I Build A Porch For My RV?

Building a porch for an RV is a feasible DIY project that can be accomplished with some planning and effort. The first step is determining the best decking material that suits your budget and travel style.

After that, you need to decide on the porch platform's size and the height of the stairs, considering the available storage space in your RV for the disassembled porch tiles, stairs, and base support structure.

If you need design inspiration, Pinterest is a great resource. You can find various DIY deck plans online, such as the nine examples featured by The Spruce. Floating, freestanding, or island deck plans could be particularly useful in designing your RV porch. A dependable yet easy-to-disassemble base is necessary to support the deck tiles.

Pre-planning is critical to the completion of the project. You can start building once you have taken measurements and gathered all the necessary materials and tools. With some effort, you will soon enjoy the view from your RV's portable porch.

How Much Do Portable RV Porches Cost?

Pre-built portable porch systems can cost between $1,075 and $1,500, depending on the platform's size and the stairs' height. These prices are based on Sunrise RV Products' pricing and do not include shipping to your location. The cost of a DIY portable porch system will vary based on the building materials used and the size of the platform.

Add A Portable Porch To These RVs

Heartland - Charleston

The Heartland Charleston, fifth wheel model, is perfect for those who want extra living space while on the road. With optional interior slide rooms, it offers ample space for relaxation.

Adding a portable deck beneath the double power awning with LED lighting is an excellent way to extend the living area. The Charleston model has a GVWR of 18,000 pounds and is 41’ long. You can read more about the Charleston model here.

Forest River - Cedar Creek 341K Hathaway Edition

The Forest River Cedar Creek Hathaway Edition is a 37’ fifth wheel with a GVWR of 16,190 pounds. It has sliding glass doors and a power awning, making it an ideal location for adding a portable patio. The Cedar Creek model allows you to enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of your RV. You can read more about the Cedar Creek Hathaway Edition here.

Forest River - Salem Villa 42QBQ

The Forest River Salem Villa 42QBQ is a 12’3” fifth wheel with a UVM of 11,759 pounds. It has sliding glass doors and a 20’ awning, making it an excellent location for a portable deck.

The Salem Villa model also has an optional outdoor kitchen feature, allowing you to enjoy cooking and dining outside. You can read more about the Forest River Salem Villa Classic here.

Adding a portable porch to these RVs is an excellent way to extend the living area and enjoy the outdoors on the road. It provides ample space for relaxation and entertainment. With a portable porch, you can experience the beauty of Mother Nature from the comfort of your RV.

What Accessories Can I Add To My RV’s Portable Porch Or Side Patio?

Enhance your RV experience with these fun and practical porch or side patio accessories.

  • An awning sunshade attached to the front or side of your porch provides relief from harmful UV rays and added privacy.

  • Keep pesky bugs away by enclosing your porch in a breezy screen house.

  • Set the mood for a relaxing evening with globe-string lighting.

  • Enjoy lounging in the afternoon on an inflatable chaise lounge that can be easily stowed away when it's time to hit the road.

Make the most of your RV's outdoor space with these must-have accessories. Don't forget to check the links for more details and options.

How Much Do Portable Stairs Cost?

Portable stairs are a great addition to any RV, but how much do they cost? According to Port-a-Step pricing, detachable, foldable stairs for RVs can range from $375 to $600, depending on the height and platform size.

This price range includes stairs from 2-steps to 5-steps, including a 23-inch by 31-inch platform. However, this price range does not include shipping to your location.

Alternatively, MOR/ryde steps cost $331 and do not have a platform. Adding a platform at the top of the stairs is a matter of personal preference. It can be a beneficial drop spot when entering your RV with groceries or laundry needing to free up your hands for the doorknob.

Overall, when considering portable stairs for your RV, it is important to consider the height, platform size, cost, and personal preferences.

Can I Buy A Ramp For My RV?

For those who require a ramp for easy entry and exit from their RV, a Roll-a-Ramp portable system could be a suitable option. Made of aluminum, the ramp is designed for easy assembly and disassembly with quick-connect pins and adjustable legs.

This ramp system is available for Class A, C, and fifth-wheel rigs and can include handrails on one or both sides. The ramp's length can be extended, or a platform can be added by adding aluminum tiles. A Roll-a-Ramp system costs from $4,000 to $7,860, not including shipping to your location.

In addition to ramps, there are many options for RV portable porches and side patios. VEHQ’s RV section provides more ideas about available floorplans and extended living spaces.

For those who want to decorate their RV's patio or porch, fun accessories are available, such as those listed in 12 Fun RV Accessories That Will Take Your Rig to The Next Level.

RV’s With Porch Or Patio [Including 5 Examples]

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