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Buying an RV. Watch out for water damage!!
By: bmsautt( 34Feedback score is 10 to 49) Top 1000 Reviewer
1035 out of 1060 people found this guide helpful.

If you are considering the purchase of an RV watch out for water damage.  Water is the #1 killer of RV's.  Ask for more pictures at some of the most common leak areas.  These areas include the 4 corners, (inside cabinets and at the floor, under windows), inside compartments, and exterior signs.  This is what you need to look for.  Brown or rust color stains. These come from the screws and nails that are inside the walls.  These can show up inside or outside, usually under windows or coming from under moldings.  Pimpeling under windows is another sign.  It is caused by water getting behind the vinyl wall paper and will show up as bumps.  The best method for detection is to run your hand under the window and feel for the rough bumps. Delamanation is one of the most serious problems encountered on fiberglass side rv's. This will show up as bubbles ar waves on the sidewall.  They can range from small softball sized spots or very large areas.  Delam is caused by neglected leaks and happen over time.  The water gets in the walls and slowly softens and rots the luan plywood which is bonded to the fiberglass for strength and stability.  When this happens the glue has nothing to bond to anymore and the fiberglass delaminates which causes the bubble inthe sidewall.  This can also happen on the interior wall.  You should ask for pics of these key locations.  You can capture delam if the pic is taken from the front or rear of the coach along the side. The bubbles will show up pretty good.  Also look for stains.  I am a Master Certified Rv Tech and hate to see people unknowingly buy severly damaged rv's.  Just remember there is no such thing as a perfect rv.  Minor water damage can easiy be repaired usually by repairing the leak, buy severe damage is not usually cost effective.  If you do your homework befor purchasing you will be much happier with your purchase. And Remember.....GO RVING LIFES A TRIP


Guide ID: 10000000000948382Guide created: 05/14/06 (updated 07/04/08)

 
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