RV delamination is a dangerous phenomenon that strikes fear in the heart of every road warrior. It can completely destroy your vehicle and isn’t always easy to catch.
Sounds pretty scary, right?
We’re here to help. Today, we’re going over a few easy steps you can take to ensure this problem won’t happen to you.
Let’s get into it!
What Is RV Delamination?
On the surface, RV delamination might not look too dangerous. But it’s one of the worst things that can happen to your rig.
RV delamination refers to the separation of two layers of your vehicle. The outer coating of an RV is typically made of fiberglass or other synthetic material, while the inner portion is wood or aluminum. Delamination occurs when they begin to detach from each other.
Water leaks are one of the biggest culprits. A poorly sealed roof may cause moisture to seep in and penetrate the fiberglass and wood. This damages the bonding solution used to hold those layers together.
In the early stages, RV delamination presents as warped or bubbly spots on the outer or inner walls. These areas will get worse over time. Eventually, more serious structural and mechanical issues often occur.
Why Is RV Delamination Such a Danger?
RV delamination looks like a surface issue to the untrained eye, but the dangers associated with this problem are serious. It can result in your camper becoming totally unusable.
One of the most obvious effects is structural damage. Because delamination causes the different layers of your RV to separate, it can make the entire rig structurally unsound. Eventually, it may deteriorate until the damage is so bad it can’t travel safely.
Another threat is wood rot. Whether due to water leaks or another problem, RV delamination leaves your rig vulnerable to the elements. If any part of your vehicle features wooden components, they can become waterlogged and rotten.
And while wood rot is a significant issue, mold is an even bigger one. Increased moisture in your RV’s exposed frame is a magnet for fungi and mold spores. Mold infestations can cause illness and worsen existing health conditions.
What do you think? Do Fiberglass Campers Leak?
Can You Prevent the Dangers of RV Delamination?
Delamination is dangerous for any RVer. What’s worse, many insurance companies refuse to cover the damage. Fortunately, you can take some easy steps to avoid this problem.
Routine roof inspections are a fantastic prevention tool. Leaky roofs are the leading cause of RV delamination, so keeping your roof in good shape is critical. Check the sealant on your roof frequently. If you notice any bubbles, address them as fast as possible.
But while roofs are the most common problem area, they aren’t the only ones. Cracks and leaks can pop up almost anywhere on a camper. Keep an eye on any part of the rig that contains a seam, including windows, corners, and doorways. If you spot weak points, repair them promptly.
Storage is another easy way to prevent RV delamination. Keep your vehicle dry and covered when you aren’t on the road. For long-term storage, an indoor area is ideal. The less exposure to the elements, the longer your rig will last.
We’ve got the answer: Should I Caulk My RV Roof Each Spring?
How Do You Fix This Issue Before It Becomes a Problem?
If your camper is in the early stages of delamination, it’s time to take action. Repairing RV delamination as soon as it starts keeps minor issues from becoming dangerous.
You can do some of the work if the damage is minor. Visit your hardware or RV supply store and buy a delamination repair kit. These kits include a high-strength adhesive to reattach the layers on your vehicle.
After resealing, use a heavy-duty caulk to touch up any other problem spots. Remember, cracks and crevices caused delamination to occur in the first place. Caulking helps prevent these issues from happening in the future.
However, there are some repairs that only a pro should tackle. If wood rot is present, the rig will need a partial rebuild. Hire a professional to avoid further damaging the frame or other structural components.
This Product Can Save Your RV From Delamination
You already know preventive maintenance will protect you from the dangers of RV delamination. But if you’re really serious about keeping your vehicle safe, consider giving Dicor a shot.
Dicor is a brand of lap sealant designed to protect your camper. All newly-manufactured RVs come with factory sealant, but those products wear down over time. That’s where Dicor comes in, providing much-needed extra protection.
Dicor sticks to nearly any material, including aluminum, wood, and fiberglass. It’s designed specifically for aftermarket use and won’t harm your vehicle. Almost every RV eventually suffers damage from the elements, but Dicor is basically weatherproof.
You can even use it in place of caulk. While caulk tends to dry out and crack over time, Dicor maintains its flexibility while repelling moisture.
Price Check: Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant.
Solve a Delamination Situation Before It Starts
RV delamination starts as a minor inconvenience that quickly escalates into a dangerous issue. If you don’t treat it in time, it can cause major pains down the road.
The good news is that you can avoid RV delamination altogether. Routine roof and seam checks help keep your vehicle safe. With vigilance and prevention, your camper will remain in great shape for years!
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