Forum Discussion

Explorer

May 10, 2016

Camper Repair-Big Rebuild

Extensive water damage. Roof leaks will be sealed soon, lots of rotten wood. this is an 88 aluminum exterior, stick built interior pull behind camper. After it is all cleaned out I'm thinking about using flex seal on the inside along seams. Any thoughts on this idea? Then installing new wood, that I was going to waterproof somehow, maybe flex seal wood also. And trying to figure out how to make it all strong again, maybe use liquid nails as I rebuild, to help wood stick to frame(aluminum siding was stapled and screwed to wood support structure originally) because I would prefer not to mess with the aluminum exterior, it seems to be in good condition. The leaks I know about are in the roof and around a vent and window. I am replacing floor, walls, and ceiling support structure. Then new siding and interior rebuild. This is my first work on any camper and am looking for some guidance.

23 Replies

azrving
Explorer
May 10, 2016
I would think it would be very difficult to do much with it when all the siding is stapled to the frame work. But if you are doing it I suppose not disturbing the siding means lots of adhesives. I would just glue in a lot of support material and possibly not venture too far in. There are products like rot doctor penetrating epoxy that are excellent but it's used to completely coat the wood before assembly. A stapler or finish nail gun would also be handy.
420RVfun
Explorer
May 10, 2016
When you throw something away, where is away?

Yes it is worth it. It is 15 ft and is going to be awesome when finished. Just what the family will need for camping trips. Unless with all your help you want to give me $10,000.00 to buy something newer.

Thanks but no thanks for your comment. Anyone else out there with some productive thoughts.
DownTheAvenue
Explorer
May 10, 2016
Is a 28 year old camper worth all that expense and work?