How To Rehab a Travel Trailer

A second hand travel trailer can be upgraded by improving the unit in sections. Several areas will need to be addressed, since damage from long-term use or water can enter into the picture. An older trailer will look a lot better with careful attention to upgrading interior walls and sleeping areas, for example. But, if structural issues are not addressed, superficial upgrades might not result in a usable vehicle. Take the time to assess how much the rehab of the trailer will cost and if improvements are possible. By using both new and used materials, the project should be manageable in stages.

Instructions

1

Assess the structural soundness of the travel trailer and the materials that will be needed. Use a flashlight to examine areas underneath the vehicle that include metal framing. Look in roof areas, closets and under fold-up beds to check for water damage, mold and cracks. Make a list of supplies and all materials to be purchased to complete the rehab.

2

Evaluate all plumbing and electrical issues. Examine the breaker box and wiring issues of the travel trailer. Install new wiring throughout, if lots of water damage has occurred. Review kitchen and bath plumbing upgrades and utilize used sinks or a used commode from another travel trailer. Look in classified ads or advertise for used items to be used in the upgrade.

3

Address roof issues. Use an electric sander to get rid of rust and built-up debris on the roof. Use paint remover to smooth out the roof surface for new paint, caulking and vents, if needed. Spend time to repair every aspect of the roof area and replace any needed sections, if there has been a lot of water or wind damage. Use a circular saw to cut sections of plywood to be installed in roof areas.

4

Improve the vehicle's exterior. Fix windows and doors before painting it. Purchase a new front door or windows that need replacing. Install these and caulk carefully. Prepare the exterior for painting by installing metal sheeting and spray painting it in small sections. Be sure to cover glass and other surfaces not to be painted with heavy paper before painting. Tape the paper carefully in place, using several thicknesses of paper to prevent paint penetration to protected areas.

5

Repair interior walls and flooring. Cut plywood with a circular saw and install with 3-inch stainless steel screws to wall, ceiling and floor areas that need repair. Countersink the screws into the surfaces. Use two thickness of -inch plywood in walking areas of the floor and one thickness of -inch plywood on wall areas. Cover the walls of the living and sleeping areas, plus kitchen and bath areas, with paneling or vinyl wallpaper. Lay vinyl flooring after all interior improvements are in place.