What is RV Delamination?

Delamination occurs when the fiberglass and the substrate of your RV gets loose and separate. It's often caused by water damage, and it can be a serious problem if you leave it untreated. Signs of delamination include bubbling, cracking, and warping of the RV's exterior.

Causes of RV Delamination

As we mentioned, water damage is a common cause of delamination. Other factors can also contribute to this issue. These factors ,ay include extreme temperatures, improper storage, and poor maintenance.

Signs You Have RV Delamination

If you notice any of the signs we mentioned earlier, you may have delamination. You can also try tapping on the walls of your RV to see if they sound hollow. If they do, that's another sign that you may have delamination.

DIY vs Professional Repair

Now let's talk about whether you should attempt to repair it yourself or hire a professional. Each have its own pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of DIY Repair

Pros

• Cost savings: The main advantage of DIY repair is cost savings. You will be doing the work yourself so you will be saving money. By doing this, you can often find the materials you need at a hardware store.

Cons

• DIY repair can be challenging: It requires specific tools and a good amount of time and patience. If you don't have experience with fiberglass repair, you run the risk of making the problem worse.

Pros and Cons of Professional Repair

Pros

• Professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to quickly and efficiently repair delamination.
• Additionally, if you hire a certified technician, you can be confident that the repair will be done correctly.
• Professional repair often comes with a warranty, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you're covered if something goes wrong.

Cons

Higher cost: Professional help can be expensive. Be sure to ask for a quote before hiring anyone for the job.

Cost Comparison

The cost of repairing delamination varies depending on the amount of damage, your Rv's size. It will also depend on whether you choose to repair it yourself or hire a professional. On average, DIY repair can cost anywhere from $50-$1000. On the other hand, professional repair can cost upwards of $5,000.

Preparing for Repair

Whether you choose to repair delamination yourself or hire a professional, there are a few steps you'll need to take to prepare for the repair.

Gathering Tools and Materials

If you decide to repair delamination yourself, you'll need to gather the following tools and materials:

• Epoxy resin
• Fiberglass mat
• Gel coat
• Sanding block or sandpaper
• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Painter's tape

Cleaning and Sanding the Affected Area

Before you can begin repairing the delamination, you'll need to clean and sand the affected area. Use a cleaning solution to remove any dirt or debris from the area. You should then use a sanding block or sandpaper to rough up the surface.

Removing the Damaged Fiberglass

Next, use a utility knife to carefully remove the damaged fiberglass. Be sure to only remove the damaged area, as removing too much fiberglass can weaken the structure of your RV.

DIY Repair Process

If you've decided to repair delamination yourself, here's the process you'll need to follow:

Applying Epoxy Resin to the Affected Area

Apply a thin layer of epoxy resin to the affected area using a putty knife. Be sure to work quickly, as the resin will harden in just a few minutes.

Replacing the Fiberglass

Cut a piece of fiberglass mat to fit the affected area, and then lay it over the epoxy resin. Use a putty knife to press the mat into the resin.

Applying Gel Coat to Finish the Repair

Once the fiberglass has been added, you'll need to apply a layer of gel coat over the repair.

This will help the repair blend in with the rest of your RV's exterior. The gel coat should then be allowed to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Professional Repair Process

If you've decided to hire a professional to repair the delamination, here's what you can expect:

Assessment and Professional Recommendation

A certified technician will assess the damage to your RV and provide a recommendation for repair. They will also provide you with an estimate for the cost of the repair.

Fiberglass Repair by a Certified Technician

The technician will use specialized equipment to repair the delamination. This typically involves removing the damaged fiberglass and replacing it with new fiberglass.

Application of Gel Coat to Finish the Repair

Once the repair is complete, the technician will apply a layer of gel coat to the affected area to ensure a seamless repair.

Sure, here is a table for how easy it is for a DIYer or professional to fix RV delamination:

Maintaining Your RV to Prevent Future Delamination

Once your delamination has been repaired, it's important to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are a few tips:

Regular Inspections

Inspect your RV regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear. The sooner you catch a problem, the easier and less expensive it will be to repair.

Proper Storage

Store your RV in a covered area, such as a garage or carport, to protect it from the elements. If this isn't possible, consider investing in an RV cover.

Addressing Water Damage Immediately

If you notice any water damage, such as leaks or water stains, address the issue immediately. As we said earlier, leaving this type of damage untreated will cost you more in the future.

Products that can help to keep water out