Let’s Talk About Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ promises to transform your RV awning into a bug-free, comfortable outdoor living space. Designed by Lippert Components, this screen room offers a simple solution for those of us tired of swatting mosquitos during dinner or fighting off flies while playing cards. I was particularly drawn to this model because it’s advertised to work with a variety of awning types, promising a relatively hassle-free setup.
My RV trips have always been about connecting with nature, but the bugs are a constant buzzkill, literally. I needed a solution that allowed me to enjoy the outdoors without being eaten alive, and a screen room seemed like the ideal compromise between indoor comfort and outdoor ambiance. The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′, with its focus on compatibility and ease of use, seemed like the best option to solve my buggy dilemma.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the seemingly durable tan material. The fabric feels sturdy enough to withstand moderate breezes, and the overall construction looks surprisingly robust for a product designed for easy setup and takedown. The absence of a floor was a slight surprise, but I understand it’s to allow flexibility and placement over existing patio setups.
I considered several other screen room options, including those with built-in floors and more elaborate setups. Ultimately, I chose the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ for its claimed compatibility with my existing awning, simplicity of design, and reasonable price point. I was hoping for a straightforward solution, and this appeared to be it. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of apprehension, hoping the promise of easy setup and bug-free enjoyment would hold true.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ during a week-long camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The campsite was beautiful but notoriously buggy, making it the perfect proving ground for this screen room. We faced a variety of conditions, from sunny days to a couple of brief but heavy rain showers.
The setup process, while not quite as instantaneous as advertised, was relatively straightforward. It definitely took two people to manage the awning and attach the screen room securely. The awning rail-to-ground measurement matched the specifications, and the screen room fit my Solera awning without any major issues. Bugs were indeed kept at bay, allowing us to enjoy meals and games in peace.
The rain dump feature of my awning was preserved, which was a huge relief. However, the screen room itself offered minimal protection from the rain, which wasn’t a surprise given the design. No unexpected problems arose, but I definitely noted that the tan material did get quite warm in direct sunlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ on various camping trips, it’s held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite being exposed to sun, rain, and occasional strong winds. The stitching remains intact, and the screen material has not ripped or frayed.
Maintenance is quite simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually enough to remove dirt and debris. The screen room folds down relatively compactly for storage, which is a major plus in an RV where space is always at a premium. Compared to past experiences with other camping shelters, this screen room has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′
Specifications
- The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ is designed to fit most 10′-21′ manual and power awnings in 1′ increments. This wide range of compatibility is a significant selling point.
- It accommodates RVs with awning rail-to-ground measurements of 101 inches. This measurement is critical for proper fit and function.
- The screen room is designed to fit 8′ extension Solera, Carefree, and Dometic awnings. This feature offers broader compatibility across popular RV brands.
- The product’s dimensions are determined by measuring the center of arm to center of arm of the awning to determine room size needed. Accurate measurement is crucial for selecting the correct size.
- It does not interfere with the rain dump feature of a 12V DC Powered Awning. This ensures proper water drainage during rain.
- The material is a neutral tan color. This color helps to block out extra heat.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ is to provide a bug-free outdoor space. In this, it excels.
The screen effectively keeps out mosquitoes, flies, and other insects, allowing for enjoyable outdoor gatherings. It’s easy enough to set up and takedown, making it convenient for both short and long camping trips.
However, the lack of a floor might be a drawback for some, especially in areas with uneven ground or muddy conditions. The tan color helps to reduce heat, but it can still get quite warm inside on very hot days. It meets expectations for bug protection and ease of use but falls short in terms of weather protection and overall temperature control.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ features a simple, straightforward design that prioritizes functionality. The tan material is aesthetically pleasing and blends well with most RV exteriors. The screen room is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during setup and takedown.
The absence of a floor contributes to its lightweight design but also means you need to consider the ground surface underneath. There’s a slight learning curve involved in getting the setup just right, particularly in ensuring a snug fit against the RV.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ appear to be reasonably durable. The screen material is resistant to tearing, and the stitching is well-reinforced. With proper care and storage, it should last for several camping seasons.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Occasional checks of the stitching and screen for any damage are recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ does not come with a wide range of accessories. It’s primarily a standalone product designed to integrate with existing awnings. There are no specific customization options offered by Lippert.
However, users can add their own accessories, such as ground mats or rugs, to create a more comfortable and finished space. While it’s not directly compatible with accessories from other brands (since it’s designed around the awning), general camping accessories work well to enhance the setup.
Pros and Cons of Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′
Pros
- Effective bug protection: Keeps insects out, allowing for comfortable outdoor enjoyment.
- Relatively easy setup and takedown: Can be assembled and disassembled quickly with two people.
- Good compatibility with various awning types: Fits a wide range of manual and power awnings.
- Durable construction: Made with quality materials that withstand regular use.
- Preserves awning rain dump feature: Ensures proper water drainage during rain.
Cons
- No floor: Requires additional ground cover or matting for comfort and protection.
- Minimal weather protection: Offers little protection from rain or wind.
- Can get hot in direct sunlight: The tan material can absorb heat on very hot days.
Who Should Buy Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′?
Perfect for: Casual campers, RV enthusiasts, families looking for a bug-free outdoor space, and anyone who enjoys outdoor dining or socializing but wants to avoid insects. This screen room is ideal for those who already have a compatible awning and want an easy-to-install solution.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a fully enclosed shelter with a floor and significant weather protection. Campers who frequently encounter heavy rain or strong winds may find this screen room insufficient.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A durable ground mat or outdoor rug to provide a comfortable and clean surface inside the screen room. String lights or lanterns can enhance the ambiance and functionality of the space at night.
Conclusion on Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ offers a practical and effective solution for creating a bug-free outdoor living space at your campsite. While it has some limitations, particularly regarding weather protection and the absence of a floor, its strengths lie in its ease of use, compatibility, and bug-blocking capabilities.
At $769.99, the price is justified for those who value convenience and insect-free enjoyment. I would personally recommend it to RVers who prioritize a quick and easy way to extend their living space and keep the bugs at bay. It’s a worthwhile investment for enhancing your outdoor camping experience.
Consider the Lippert Solera Screen Room 15′ if you’re ready to reclaim your outdoor space from pesky insects and enjoy the fresh air in comfort.
