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TenOC's avatar
TenOC
Nomad
Aug 30, 2020

Sidewall has delaminated near the top -- DIY Repair ???

Yesterday, I noticed that my fifth wheel sidewall was delaminating near the top. I suspect water has leaked between the roof and the vinyl (?) sidewall. In the next few days, I plan to patch where the roof and sidewall joins with tape and liquid rubber roof coating. Have any of you done this type of repair and how successful were you. Assume I caught the leak in time I do not expect the wood has rotted simply that the glue has got wet and allowed delamination.

Any and all suggestions and comments are welcome.
  • The fix depends on what caused the delam (sometimes the glue separates because of sun etc .. but usually water), where the delam is located, how big the delam, and how extensive the unseen damage. A picture would really help.
  • TenOC wrote:
    In the next few days, I plan to patch where the roof and sidewall joins with tape and liquid rubber roof coating.

    That is a band aid !

    TenOC wrote:
    Assume I caught the leak in time I do not expect the wood has rotted simply that the glue has got wet and allowed delamination.

    If the wood got wet, it has to dry. The only way to get it to dry is peel off the siding and get some fans to blow on it for a couple of days.

    You have a big job ahead of you if you want to make it last another ten yes. Or make it look decent and sell it.
  • jdc1's avatar
    jdc1
    Explorer II
    To repair it correctly, the entire filon sheet needs to be removed. To fix it for now, drill a hole in it small enough to insert spray foam. Then, with trailer next to a wall, put a piece of plywood over the affected area. Use 1x2's to put pressure against the plywood (1x2's against wall and plywood).

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