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Christl's avatar
Christl
Explorer
Aug 11, 2015

Big Decission Purchase Question

Hi Everyone: Maybe some could see this question coming. I am looking at purchasing a 2005 1181 Lance which is clean inside and has a water tight roof but showing some concerns on outside walls. There is a tapered bulge in the lower middle exterior wall of the slide-out about 6" in width and 1 foot high. I estimate it is a good 1/8" in thickness. The present owner for the past 4 years has indicated it has not changed in that time. When applying heavy exterior pressure by hand the bulge feels quite firm - no movement. There is no evidence of deformity on the inside wall of the slide under the table or under the slide. It looks like moisture at one time has been allowed to enter the interior wall along the bottom seam and swelled the plywood and hence been re-sealed. Could this bulge (after 4 years) be considered to be in a stable condition and not get worse? Please see picture.


There are other lower seams that need to be re-caulked as soon as possible but they do not appear to show any signs of swelling yet.
See picture.


Any words of wisdom/caution/experience would be appreciated. I understand the final decision is mine. cheers christl
By tomorrow afternoon any comments won't make any difference.

13 Replies

  • Im not so sure that bulge has anything to do with water intrusion. My brand new AF had a few areas near the bottom of the side walls and mine were there since day 1. Mine arent as long as what you are showing, but they are slight bulges. They appear to be where the metal studs are. If you push on them they are solid and tight. If you can do the same thing then possibly they are construction faults and not delamination. Usually with delam the area is soft and can be pushed in.
  • if there's damage in the wall due to a lower seam leak then the floor is bad as well and a good chance for interior mold
  • looks like poor/no maintenance on this unit. is it cheap enough?
    bumpy