Caravan & Motorhome Floor Repairs / Rotten RV Floors
Is Your Caravan or Motorhome Floor Rotten Or Water Impacted? We can help.
Any RV with a wooden floor is susceptible to floor rot. However, some English caravans are more susceptible due to a design flaw that allows the water to run down the rear external wall and contact the wooden underfloor. Over time, this results in rot and a deterioration of the floor panels (especially in the corners).
VTNZ And WOF/COF Issues Due To Floor Rot
In October 2023, VTNZ amended WOF requirements for caravans and motorhomes with the following key clauses that can affect the issuance of WOF's and COF's:
- Corrosion or wood rotting damage that is individually larger than 50mm in diameter.
- Corrosion or wood rotting damage within 150mm of the top of an A-Pillar.
- Any corrosion or wood rotting that the inspector considers has caused weakening of a load-bearing structure.
Water damage and rot can also push into the caravan/motorhome side walls from the floor. However, this cannot be substantiated until the affected (damaged) floor section is removed and the undercarriage examined.
Signs of Rotten, Water-Damaged Floors
Not all water damage is immediately visible. Here are the red flags to watch for:
- Soft or Spongy Spots: A noticeable give in the flooring when stepped on, is often a sign of rot underneath.
- Discolouration or Staining: Dark spots on vinyl, laminate, or wood could indicate mould growth or moisture.
- Warping or Buckling: Flooring materials that seem uneven or warped are often responding to trapped moisture.
- Odour: A persistent musty smell can signal mould or mildew beneath the surface.
- A Failed Warrant of Fitness: New regulations are ensuring caravan floors are free from rot to aid in the structural integrity of the caravan.
How CaraCare Repairs Rotten Water-Damaged RV Floors
Repairing water-damaged floors might sound overwhelming, but with the right approach, CaraCare can restore your vehicle and get it back on the road. Here's how we do it:
- Assess the Damage
- Remove the Rot
- Repair the Underlying Structure
- Install a New Subfloor
- Seal and Protect
- Restore Flooring
Fixing rotten, water-damaged floors requires both expertise and the right materials—a daunting combination for most vehicle owners. The CaraCare team specialises in diagnosing and repairing caravan/motorhome floor damage back to WOF and COF standard.
For more information, please email us: info@caracare.co.nz
Caravan floors, particularly UK models, can be subject to floor rot and water damage.
CaraCare specialises in repairing water damaged floors.
For more information check out our blog article on water damaged floors...