We are buying a new annexe for our van. Want to get something not too flimsy but easy for us to put up as we are in our 70s.
The van we have ordered is 19 ft KakodA. Any thought that would help us decide would be much appreciated
Dougwe said
08:01 PM Aug 30, 2015
Welcome to the gang betty01, enjoy here and out in the playground.
Assuming you have a vinyl roll out awning I would go with canvas walls personally. I think vinyl walls would get way too hot and wouldn't breath.
If no awning, still canvas. IMO.
NeilandRaine said
08:39 PM Aug 30, 2015
I agree canvass. It might be an idea when you get your annex try to get one that zips together mid front wall, makes life a bit easier.
Depending on how long you stay in any one place sometimes just a shade cloth wall at the front is ok
Woody n Sue said
09:49 PM Aug 30, 2015
And it's welcome from us two 2
betty01 said
08:13 AM Aug 31, 2015
thanks folks for your advice. We will stick with the canvas. We do have the shade cloth as well so can use that as well when the weather is fine. The canvas on our previous van was very difficult to put up but apparently there is a product at the top of the canvas that helps you to slide it through better so we will explore that.
Dougwe said
08:33 AM Aug 31, 2015
That could be the anti flap kits betty01.
Cupie said
11:57 AM Aug 31, 2015
Hi ...
I am in the vinyl camp. Perhaps because I have always had vinyl with no real problems over 15 years.
Sure, I have had to repair a tear around one of the zip doors, but that is a 20minute job for any handyman.
They are heavy but can be put away while still wet. Only have to dry them out later to prevent mould.
My Daughter has canvas & would very much prefer my vinyl ones. But I like the use of velcro in hers where mine use a lot of brass toggles
I think that the most important aspect is how they are made. Take lots of time in looking at the various brands & talk to others who have them fitted (just like you are doing here).
Mine (Kakadu brand) are quite hard to erect & stretching of the vinyl roof (Awning) causes some problems. A modified technique solves that issue. Newer designs may be better.
I only fit mine if we are staying in the same location for more than 4 days. If privacy or wind break or sun blocker is required we use the shade screens sold by most RV shops. They are light, easy to fit and are fantastic. Except for heavy rain or perhaps very cold weather they are all you need IMHO.
Bruce and Bev said
11:52 AM Sep 1, 2015
the modern annexes made of canvas are lightweight and easy to put up with one person. We have a set that has two ends and two sides - quick to put up while the wife is doing something else, easy to keep clean and look smart with a range of colours.
I never weighed them, but guess they come in at about 10 kg or so and they can stay packed and wet for a few weeks before they should be dried out.
We are buying a new annexe for our van. Want to get something not too flimsy but easy for us to put up as we are in our 70s.
The van we have ordered is 19 ft KakodA. Any thought that would help us decide would be much appreciated
Assuming you have a vinyl roll out awning I would go with canvas walls personally. I think vinyl walls would get way too hot and wouldn't breath.
If no awning, still canvas. IMO.
Depending on how long you stay in any one place sometimes just a shade cloth wall at the front is ok
Hi ...
I am in the vinyl camp. Perhaps because I have always had vinyl with no real problems over 15 years.
Sure, I have had to repair a tear around one of the zip doors, but that is a 20minute job for any handyman.
They are heavy but can be put away while still wet. Only have to dry them out later to prevent mould.
My Daughter has canvas & would very much prefer my vinyl ones. But I like the use of velcro in hers where mine use a lot of brass toggles
I think that the most important aspect is how they are made. Take lots of time in looking at the various brands & talk to others who have them fitted (just like you are doing here).
Mine (Kakadu brand) are quite hard to erect & stretching of the vinyl roof (Awning) causes some problems. A modified technique solves that issue. Newer designs may be better.
I only fit mine if we are staying in the same location for more than 4 days. If privacy or wind break or sun blocker is required we use the shade screens sold by most RV shops. They are light, easy to fit and are fantastic. Except for heavy rain or perhaps very cold weather they are all you need IMHO.
I never weighed them, but guess they come in at about 10 kg or so and they can stay packed and wet for a few weeks before they should be dried out.