Those who want to know how to repair water damaged RV walls should check out this quick and simplified guide. We will also mention some steps to replace your panels right after you repair your water-damaged wall. Stay in touch with this worthwhile read!
What Are The Materials Needed?
Before you proceed to the procedure, you need to have the following materials. If you have the complete set, you are good to go!
- Waterproof tape
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- 80 grit sandpaper
- Epoxy resin or wood hardener
- Putty knife
- Wood putty
- 4×8′ panel
- Electric or air nail gun
- RV caulking
Repairing Your RV Walls
Step #1. Look for leaks
For the first step, you need to look for water leak sources to avoid more water damage. If these leaks are entering through your winders, you need to apply RV caulking.
Step #2. Patch up exterior sidings and roof
When you repair an RV water-damaged wall, you may also patch up the exterior roof and sidings with tape, making sure that it is waterproof. Apply everything very carefully since it will not come off once the backing sticks to your trailer.
Note: If there is an instance of significant exterior roof or siding repairs, it would be most beneficial to ask for help from a professional since it is labor-intensive.
Step #3. Look for all areas with water damage
But if it is from the inside, check-in all areas that may have water damage. Try looking through the floor, ceiling, and wall for any signs. Also, look for any mushiness.
Step #4. Repair damaged wood in the wall
In this step, you need to repair the damaged wood in the wall by pulling off the loose pieces present and smoothing the remaining wood using your 80 grit sandpaper. Once everything is smoothed up, you need to spray or paint on the epoxy resin or the wood hardener.
Note: You need to remember that it will not harden and repair the wood that quickly, but it will prevent the growth of the mold.
Step #5. Apply wood putty after 24 hours
After you have accomplished step 4, you need to apply a wood putty after 24 hours to harden the wood. When you use the putty to fill in the wood indents, that causes the water damage. Then, you need to dry up the wood putty and use 60 grit sandpaper to smoothen the wood.
Step #6. Install new paneling
When you have accomplished all the steps above, it is time to install new wallpaper or panelings.
Replacing your panels
When you replace your panels for your RV wall, it will only require numerous techniques and options. However, we are here to offer you two of the most simplified methods that you can consider when you replace your panels or wallpaper for your RV. So, read carefully and follow the steps correctly.
Caution: When you replace your panels, please be mindful of your safety since one of the methods requires tools that can lead you to harm if not used properly. We advise that you wear gloves to protect your handstand safety goggles for your eye protection from the tools that will be mentioned.
Decide to cut corners and install a panel
It would be best if you try to attach an underlayment of plywood that is about ⅛ inch. Then, add some additional layers of the wood panel.
Doing this technique will add up more strength, soundproofing, and another barrier from natural elements such as heat or cold weather that can cause damage to your RV wall.
Note: If you prefer to have a natural-looking panel, we advise you to get a 4×8′ panel that is kind of red oak stained. This type of panel does come unfinished, making it an excellent option for people who prefer a lighter panel shade.
Apply a wood panel, then add peel-and-stick panels
If you prefer to apply a wood panel, you will need to peel it off and stick the panel over the wood. Some people prefer to use groove panels and tongue, but this article advises you to use an electric or air nail gun.
This tool will save you up so much time since finish nails are tiny and difficult to hold if you plan to use this method manually. Also, this is an efficient way to use if you want your panels to be in place. Lastly, it will less likely damage your panels when you use the nail gun rather than a hammer.
Conclusion
We’re glad to see you reach this article’s point on how to repair water damaged RV walls. Remember that if you follow the steps correctly, it will save you some time and money.
Also, it is very simplified already so that you can do this! However, if there are instances that you can not fix by yourself, we advise that you call for a professional to do the hard work.