RV Repair: Not Always a DIY Job

Living on the road can be wonderful, but just like any home, from time to time, your RV is going to need some repair. The good news is that you may not need to call in a professional, and a little TLC can go a long way in keeping your recreational vehicle in tip-top shape. Many parts in a recreational vehicle are made from molded plastic and tend to have a high failure rate just because of the additional weight and movement of a motorhome. That means that you probably need to keep an eye on things or have a professional give it the once-over at least once or twice a year.

First Things First

When you discover that a minor RV repair is required, you may be able to handle it on your own, depending on the source of the problem. The first thing that you should do is see if your motorhome repair is covered under any warranty or insurance. Next, give an honest assessment of your own skill level and the complexity of the RV repair you are considering.

If you have the basic skills and tools, and it's something as simple as a leaky window seal, then you can probably pick up the materials for a reliably quick fix at a home improvement store. Be advised, though, leaks are something you really need to look at quickly.

Handle Leaks Quickly

Just like any roof leak in a traditional home, the longer you wait, the more damage water can do. That means that if you see any evidence that there is a leak, make sure you get to it as soon as possible (or promptly hire someone to handle the RV repair for you). In the case of a leaky window, you may want to call an auto glass specialist, but be advised that many do not work on motorhomes. If you are comfortable with tools and choose to do it yourself, it can be a simple procedure. First, you will need to find a replacement window, either from a parts dealer or a junkyard. A simple online search can help you locate the part, but make sure you call first and double-check to see if it is still in stock.

Next, you will need to clean and prep the area. You can remove any excess caulk with a putty knife. Whether the glass is cracked or not, you should still wear gloves to protect your hands and safety goggles when you are taking a window out or putting one in. Once you have applied new caulk or putty, you need to carefully replace the window and tighten the screws. Be sure to double check that the seal is flush and watertight.

Do not Get in Over Your Head

While at first blush, you may feel a bit apprehensive about going it alone, with a little research and an online video or two, you should be able to save yourself a lot of money and handle many of your RV repairs yourself. If you do get in over your head, do not hesitate to call in a pro to handle the job right.

Source by Andrew Stratton