Let’s Talk About Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′
Picture this: you’ve just arrived at your favorite campsite, the sun is setting, and the air is filled with the promise of relaxation. Then the mosquitoes arrive. That’s where the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ steps in. Manufactured by Lippert, this screen room promises to keep the bugs out and the good times in. It offers a simple solution to create a comfortable, bug-free environment under your existing RV awning.
My family and I have been RVing for years. We’ve tried everything from bug sprays to citronella candles, but nothing beats a physical barrier. I needed a reliable and easy-to-setup screen room to enjoy our outdoor space without constantly battling insects, and the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ seemed like a promising solution.
Unboxing the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′, I was immediately impressed by the sturdiness of the materials. The neutral tan fabric felt durable, and the included hardware appeared well-made. While not feather-light, it felt manageable for one person to handle.
Compared to cheaper, universal screen rooms, the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ seemed like a significant upgrade in terms of quality and fit. We looked at some generic models on Amazon, and even a similar model from Carefree, but the Lippert seemed to offer the best balance of price and features, specifically the compatibility with existing awning rain dump features. My initial impression was excitement mixed with a touch of trepidation – I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ to the Test
First Use Experience
Our first test of the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ was at a campground in the Smoky Mountains. This particular area is notorious for its biting insects. We set up the screen room under our existing awning. The process took about 45 minutes the first time, mostly due to figuring out the best way to attach it to our specific awning model.
Despite a light rain shower during our setup, the screen room remained taut and secure. Once fully enclosed, the difference was immediately noticeable. The interior was significantly cooler and, most importantly, bug-free. We encountered no major issues during the initial setup, although adjusting the tension on the side panels required some patience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several camping trips spanning months, the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ has proven to be a reliable addition to our RV setup. It withstood several moderate windstorms with only minor adjustments needed. The neutral tan fabric has held up well against sun exposure, showing no signs of significant fading.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris. A more thorough cleaning with mild soap and water is occasionally needed. Compared to our previous experiences with open-air camping, the screen room has drastically improved our outdoor enjoyment. It offers superior protection from insects and provides a comfortable, shaded space to relax.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′
Specifications
- Size: Specifically designed to fit 20′ awnings. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing gaps where bugs could enter.
- Compatibility: Works with most 10′-21′ manual and power awnings in 1′ increments. This offers flexibility for different RV setups.
- Awning Extension: Accommodates 8′ extension Solera, Carefree, and Dometic awnings. This covers a wide range of popular awning brands.
- Awning Rail-to-Ground Measurement: Designed for RVs with awning rail-to-ground measurements of 101″. This is a critical measurement for proper fit and function.
- Material: Neutral tan material. This offers both privacy and a cooler interior compared to darker-colored screen rooms.
- Rain Dump Feature Compatibility: Does not interfere with the rain dump feature of 12V DC Powered Awnings. This is essential for preventing water buildup during rainstorms.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the usability and effectiveness of the screen room. The size and compatibility determine whether it will fit your specific RV awning. The material choice affects temperature and light levels inside the room.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ performs admirably in its primary function: keeping bugs out. The tight-knit screen mesh effectively blocks mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. The zippered door provides easy access while maintaining a secure seal.
One of the strengths is its ease of setup. After the initial learning curve, it can be assembled in about 20-30 minutes by one person. A minor weakness is that the instructions could be clearer regarding tensioning the side panels. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ features a simple yet effective design. The neutral tan color blends well with most RV exteriors, and the screen mesh provides excellent visibility. The build quality is solid, with durable zippers and reinforced stitching.
The weight is manageable, although it’s not the lightest screen room on the market. There’s a slight learning curve associated with the initial setup, but once you’ve done it a couple of times, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on our extended use, the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ appears to be quite durable. The fabric is resistant to tearing and fading, and the zippers are robust. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for many camping seasons.
Maintenance is straightforward – a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For tougher stains, mild soap and water can be used.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ comes with all the necessary hardware for installation. This includes stakes, ropes, and mounting brackets.
There are limited customization options directly from Lippert, but you can easily add aftermarket accessories such as lighting or flooring. It’s compatible with most standard RV awning accessories.
Pros and Cons of Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′
Pros
- Keeps bugs out effectively, creating a comfortable outdoor space.
- Relatively easy to set up after the initial learning curve.
- Durable construction with high-quality materials.
- Neutral tan color reduces heat and blends well with RV exteriors.
- Compatible with most standard RV awnings and rain dump features.
Cons
- Initial setup instructions could be clearer.
- Side panel tensioning can be a bit fiddly.
Who Should Buy Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′?
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ is perfect for RV campers who want to enjoy their outdoor space without being bothered by bugs. It’s also great for families with young children or pets who need a safe and enclosed area to play.
Campers who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear or who have non-standard awning configurations might want to skip this product. A must-have accessory would be some heavy-duty stakes for added stability in windy conditions.
Conclusion on Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′
The Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ offers a compelling solution for RVers seeking a bug-free outdoor living space. It combines durable construction with a user-friendly design. While the initial setup may require some patience, the long-term benefits of enjoying a comfortable, insect-free environment are well worth the effort.
At $889.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the overall functionality. I would definitely recommend the Lippert Solera Screen Room 20′ to any RVer looking to enhance their camping experience. Invest in your comfort and say goodbye to buggy evenings – click here to make your outdoor dreams a reality!