Different TT construction
It seems that the industry is slowly moving away from wood stud, fiberglass insulation and aluminum siding to the fiberglass skin, aluminum tubing, solid foam for wall construction. Both have their p...
Forum Discussion
JBarca wrote:
Regardless of stick and tin or aluminum studs and filon siding, the death of a camper from water infects both. Once the leak starts, it's downhill from there on when the leak will stop or the camper fail. Here are 5 groups I have found common among many a brand or build of camper. I'm sure there are more items.
1. Part of this issue is a design problem in my opinion. The standard RV extruded gutter rail system still used today, is a design issue.
I have always felt this way !
Look at cargo trailers. Most use a rounded piece of aluminum that joins the side wall on the vertical. Much less chance of it to allow water intrusion.
JBarca wrote:
2. Part of this is a materials issue. The roof sealants and putty tape sealants for walls and non roof opening sealants are not a long life product. While many of the roofs do use a good quality butyl sealing tape, the caulking concept used on the roof is a weak link. And the putty tape used on the walls joints is just not a lasting product.
Eggshell or RV with fiberglass roofs are likely a better solution. 1/4"-3/8" plywood with 6oz or 7.5oz fiberglass cloth over arched roof trusses. All vents/cutouts should be installed with a flange protruding up. 2 layer would be required for adequate strength. The problem with this is not the cost of the material, but the labor cost. It would take at least the same number of worker as it takes to install a rubber roof, but it would take a lot more time, especially if they have to do 2 layers. Cure time would be at least 8-12 hours, and then you would have to finish the edges.
JBarca wrote:
4. Part of this is the knowledge problem of the owner. Since they do not know or some do not care, a camper living outside all the time is destined die a water death. A new camper owner needs to understand how to care for their new camper and the fallout if they do not do what is needed.
5. And then there is the big question, how long is the design life of an RV supposed to be? How many miles, years, highway, off road etc. We may be getting what the design life is? This is a post in itself.
I know the best thing you can do is keep your RV under a cover. RV cover are expensive and short lived, so most sit exposed to the sun.
