What is RV Delamination?

RV delamination occurs when the exterior walls of an RV start to separate from the interior structure. Many different reasons can contribute to this happening, including water damage, poor-quality materials, and inadequate maintenance. If left untreated, delamination can cause serious structural damage and compromise the safety of the RV.

Causes of RV Delamination

Understanding the causes of RV delamination is essential in preventing it from occurring in the first place.

Three most common causes:

• Water Damage: Water is the most common cause of RV delamination. The adhesive that holds the layers together i your rv walls can break down if water or moisture is inroduced. This can lead to the walls separating and forming bumps or blisters.
• Inadequate Maintenance: RVs require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Failure to maintain an RV can result in delamination and other issues. For example, failing to seal the roof regularly can cause water to leak into the RV and contribute to delamination.
• Poor-Quality Materials: Some RV manufacturers use low-quality materials in the construction of their vehicles. These materials are more prone to delamination and other issues than high-quality materials.

Signs of RV Delamination

Knowing the signs of RV delamination can help you catch the issue early and prevent it from causing serious damage.

Three most common signs:

• Bumps or Blisters on the Exterior Walls: One of the easiest signs of rv delamination is when there are evidend lumps or bums on the exterior walls. These bumps are caused by the layers of the wall separating.
• Sagging or Bulging Walls: When the adhesive holding the layers of the wall together breaks down, the walls can start to sag or bulge. This can create a visible deformity in the exterior walls of the RV.
• Soft Spots on the Walls: If you notice soft spots on the walls of your RV, there is a good chance that delamination is occurring. Soft spots are usually caused by water damage.

Preventing RV Delamination

The good news is that RV delamination is preventable. Follow the tips below to help ensure that your RV remains in good condition for many years to come.

Here are some tips:

• Keep the RV Dry: This might not seem like a good tip. This means regularly checking for and repairing any leaks, as well as storing the RV in a dry place when not in use.
• Perform Regular Inspections: Regular inspections can help you catch delamination and other issues early. Inspect the exterior walls of your RV for bumps, blisters, and soft spots, and have any issues repaired immediately.
• Use High-Quality Materials: Look for an rv that is built with high-quality materials. These materials are less prone to delamination and other issues.
• Proper Installation: Finally, ensure that any modifications or repairs to your RV are done by a professional who uses proper installation techniques. Improper installation can contribute to delamination and other issues.

Repairing RV Delamination

The longer you wait to repair delamination, the more damage it can cause. In most cases, repairing delamination involves removing the damaged area and replacing it with new material.

Rv delamination repair cost

Delamination repair cost can be anywhere from $500 t0 $5,000. The difference in price is usually decided by the severity of the damage and the material of the delamination. There are many other factors that will help to determine the final price. You can read about these factors in my article titled cost to repair rv delamination.

Conclusion

RV delamination can be a serious issue for RV owners, but it's also preventable. If you do notice signs of delamination, have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.