Most travel trailers are constructed with a wood frame and aluminum or fibreglass siding. If water starts seeping into the wood structure, it can cause deterioration, rot and mould over time. Not only will this weaken the structure, but it can lead to some very expensive repairs.
You can take your trailer to a dealership or repair facility to maintain your seals and inspect for water damage, but this type of maintenance is DIY friendly—as long as you do it regularly and pay attention to detail.
Here’s how to prevent water damage in your travel trailer:
Inspect the roof, seams and seals regularly
At the start and end of each season, carefully examine the roof, seams and seals to ensure there’s no damage.
Look for cracks, gaps or deteriorating caulking around vents, skylights and air conditioners. If You see any damage, reapply self-leveling RV sealant to prevent leaks.
Maintain windows, doors and slide-out seals
Check window and door seals for cracks or wear and replace dried-out rubber seals. You can also lubricate slide-out seals with silicone spray to keep them flexible. And use RV seal conditioner on rubber gaskets to prevent cracking.
Manage condensation inside
If your trailer is regularly in humid conditions, use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to help manage dampness. Crack a window or run a vent fan when cooking to allow an escape for steam. You can also insulate windows with thermal covers to prevent condensation buildup.
Check plumbing and water lines
If you want to prevent water damage, it’s critical to regularly inspect pipes, fittings and the water heater for leaks. When it’s time to winterize, use a heated hose or insulate water lines to prevent freezing. And be sure to drain the water system to prevent burst pipes.
Protect the undercarriage and floor
Once or twice a year, or after heavy rainfall, check the underbelly panels for water intrusion, soft spots or sagging. If possible, elevate your RV slightly on one side when parked to allow rainwater to drain properly. And store your trailer on gravel or pavement, not grass, to reduce moisture exposure.
Cover and store properly
If you don’t have your RV professionally stored for the winter, use an RV cover to protect against snow and ice, and park under a covered shelter if you can. Avoid parking under trees; leaves and debris can clog roof drains.
Good maintenance practices can help you identify any water-related issues promptly and prevent damage from occurring in the first place.
