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How to Restore Late Model Campers

If your late-model camper has been damaged by leaking water, restoring it is a straightforward but time-consuming task. Unlike older campers, where the entire frame has to be replaced, recent models will normally need repairs only to the more superficial layers of the vehicle, requiring only some inexpensive parts and common tools.

Instructions

Repair the Leak

1

Find the source of the leak. Track leaks in the seal around the window or ceiling hatch, as well as in the siding or roof.

2

Apply waterproof silicone caulking to the leaking surface in windows or hatches and allow to set according to manufacturers directions.

3

Apply bonding tape to gouges in the metal roof or siding. Bonding tape is permanent waterproof tape, available in most camping or RV stores. Paint on a coat of rubber repair formulation and allow to set.

Repair Internal Water Damage

4

Search the inside of your camper carefully, using a flashlight, for signs of water damage, particularly at seams and near windows and hatches. Signs can include staining, bulging siding, softened wood panels and discoloration. Probe suspicious areas with a nail; if the nail enters a surface easily, that indicates water damage.

5

Remove wallpaper, flooring or paneling covering the wall or floor in suspicious areas and examine the underlying wood for rotten areas.

6

Replace the entire wooden panel if the water damage is widespread. Cut out the rotten panel with a saw and replace with a panel of identical size by screwing it into the wooden frame underneath. Use waterproof glue around the circumference to produce a better bond and prevent future water leakage.

7

Remove rotted or loose pieces of wood in cases of lesser damage using a screwdriver or utility knife. Clear all rotted areas. Sand the good wood thoroughly to produce smooth surfaces and edges.

8

Apply epoxy resin or wood hardener to the damaged areas to prevent future rot and allow to dry overnight.

9

Apply wood putty or epoxy wood filler to the holes in the wood with a putty knife, smoothing to completely fill the cavities, and allow to dry and cure according to manufacturers directions.

10

Sand or rasp away any projecting areas to create a flat, uniform surface.

11

Apply new wall covering, flooring or paneling over the repaired site.