Do Chalet A Frame trailers leak ?

[PartyMarty]

Do they leak when the roof is raised ?
Do they leak when the roof is closed ?
Do the models with the " Dormer " option ( 1930 XL ) leak ?

[bondebond]

Those smart alek responses are why fewer and fewer PUP owners frequenting this site. I would always welcome helpful suggestions from any person on this site but it seems like owners of other styles of RVs are always looking down on PUP owners and providing answers that are unhelpful at best and often just condescending. I'm not sure why someone like that would take the time to even respond like that.

PartyMarty, here are a few sources to look at regarding some of the leaks encountered with Chalets. Most leaks are with older models but something to be cognizant of regardless of manufacturer, model or year.

Three different areas of leaks:
http://www.ligneous.com/cedar/?View=modifications

Leaks causing full floor replacement:
http://2001chaletcamping.blogspot.com

Both of these are older models and it sounds like the company has taken steps in subsequent years to address the problem. The long and the short of it is that every camper can leak. I would not have a problem looking at a recent model Chalet at all as they corrected much of the causes. However, I don't care who makes a camper - if the owner(s) has not kept up with maintenance, inspected and corrected any caulk or seam failures, then that camper is going to have a problem.

It comes down to you doing a great visual inspection and interview of the seller if you are buying used. If you are buying new, then try to do research on the specific, recent years' models.

You could help us out by letting us know if you are looking at new or used and possibly if you have some specific models in mind.

It would appear that by your location in your profile that you are right to be concerned about leaks. Most leaks can be avoided or greatly reduced by proper storage when the camper is not in use - breathable covers or completely covered by a garage of some sort. If your camper's only exposure to the elements and UV is when you are actually camping, you will keep a "mint" looking camper for quite a long time. That's one of the benefits of having a collapsible format.

Good luck and let us know what else you think about.

[NorfolkCounty]

Beachums wrote:
What is with all of the smart-ass replies??? This is a person trying to get some insight. If you are in the same demographic as I am, your hard earned money is best spent with confidence.

Stop being jerks, post something constructive and/or find another place to troll.

X3

[rickm]

Beachums wrote:
What is with all of the smart-ass replies??? This is a person trying to get some insight. If you are in the same demographic as I am, your hard earned money is best spent with confidence.

Stop being jerks, post something constructive and/or find another place to troll.

I totally agree with you ..... if you have nothing good to say, move along. It's a darn good question.
I cannot speak for the other brands, but our new Jayco Jayseries Hardside has been out for 2 outings, both times in hard rain ....not a drop. Hopefully it will stay that way too.

[Beachums]

What is with all of the smart-ass replies??? This is a person trying to get some insight. If you are in the same demographic as I am, your hard earned money is best spent with confidence.

Stop being jerks, post something constructive and/or find another place to troll.

[rexlion]

I've heard of A frame trailers leaking around windows and vents, but that's no different from any normal shaped trailer. Nothing a little Eternabond couldn't fix, probably. Leaks at the joining of the panels should not be a problem; if it did leak there, it would be a simple matter to replace the rubber strip.

I owned an Aliner for one year and always left it up, just in case.

If you want something small but sturdy, with no edge seams, consider a molded fiberglass trailer like a Scamp or Casita or the new Happier Camper (in CA).

[gheicher]

Can't speak for Chalet since my experience has been with Aliners. I did have a leak on my 1994 Aliner around the bubble window which I successfully resealed. I have had two Aliners since then with no leaks. The construction of the Chalet is very similar to the Aliner and as most all veteran TT person knows that any brand TT can experience a leak, especially at a roof penetration seal. One advantage the A-type folding trailers have is the steep angle of the roof - The roof sheds water better and has reduced rain noise. Now some Chalets had dormers and I have no experience with these, but Aliner has recently added dormers to their line and I have not heard of any issues (I live just a couple of miles from the Aliner plant and have friends working there).

[RoyB]

The fact they don't have fabric window flaps should make them more water tight...

My OFF-ROAD POPUP trailer only had some water leaks under the access door in all the times I have had it in use since 2008...

I would imagine the A-RAME is probably more water tight and probably alot quiter from outside noise with the hard sides...

Roy Ken

[CKNSLS]

Don't buy one then.

[2lazy4U]

Chalet A frames have been around for a long time. I've never seen one that leaks, but I suppose it's possible. They have a very good reputation.

[lawrosa]

PartyMarty wrote:
Do they leak when the roof is raised ?
Do they leak when the roof is closed ?
Do the models with the " Dormer " option ( 1930 XL ) leak ?

Why would a new travel trailer in production leak?

Its like asking if a new pool will hold water...:h