Finding damp in your caravan or motorhome is every touring enthusiast’s nightmare. Not only is it expensive to repair (most tradespeople charge between £50 – £75 per hour for damp repair), but it can also result in irreparable damage to the structure of your leisure vehicle.
To help you prevent it from forming in the first place, expert Shane Spence, owner of Sell The Caravan, has shared his top tips for spotting dampness this winter.
Mr Spence commented:
“Winter is one of the worst seasons for damp; constant long wet spells can leave moisture in the air and when left can develop into mould.”
Checking for damp is easy when you know what to look for. Here are some of the common signs to keep an eye on:
- A musty smell: This is the most noticeable sign, so if you can pick up a strange musty odour when you enter your caravan or motorhome, it may be time to take a closer look.
- Spongy walls: The walls of your leisure vehicle should make a clear sound when you knock them. If the sound is dull, it could be a sign of damp.
- Dark and wet patches: If discoloured spots start to appear on the walls or floor, it can signal water stains in your vehicle.
- Black mould: This can occur around the window seals and is a clear sign of damp and you need to take action.
If unfortunately, you’ve spotted some of these signs, you’ll need to take steps to tackle the problem before it escalates. Here are some things you can do:
- Ventilation: Ensure your caravan or motorhome is well-ventilated by trying to keep the windows open when cooking or showering to prevent moisture build-up.
- Condensation: Wipe away condensation from the windows and doors as soon as you notice it, particularly after waking up on cold mornings or when using the kitchen.
- Dehumidifying: Some areas of your leisure vehicle may be prone to damp, such as the windows. Invest in a dehumidifier to take unwanted moisture out of the air.
Once you know what to look for and the steps to take to prevent it, you can focus on making the most of your winter touring adventure without having to worry about unwanted moisture raining on your parade.
