The most common materials used in RV construction are wood, aluminum, or steel. The smaller-sized motorhomes are mostly built using wood, but this material has a weakness in the form of termites. You can’t expect them to last a lifetime, which is why wooden trailers are quite rare nowadays.
On the other hand, steel is strong and has no apparent weakness except corrosion, but it is too heavy and adds a lot of weight to the structure. It is unfeasible; hence not many manufacturers use it for an RV’s frame.

The most common material nowadays is aluminum, which companies use to build motorhomes. It is lightweight and sturdy enough to support the RV on its weight. However, aluminum, wood, or steel are only used in the frame’s construction. The outer body of an RV is made of Fiberglass, which is extremely lightweight and moldable.
However, fiberglass material is prone to damage, as it cannot withstand too much force or the sun’s radiation. Sometimes it bends out of shape, but it can also break into pieces on impact. When that happens, you must repair the RV at the first possible convenience.
How To Repair Small Cracks?

However, there is a drawback with this quick and easy fix. The fiberglass Bondo filler doesn’t work too well when you apply it to a large area. The fiberglass constantly shrinks at colder temperatures, and then cracks start to appear on the edge of the space where you apply the filler. Subsequently, water starts to seep in, and more unnecessary damage occurs.
Voila! You are done!
Now, you must be wondering, what do I have to do for a large affected area?
How to Repair a Large Damage Area?
If there is too much damage to the RV, then that means it’s not just the fiberglass that is affected. The frame holding the fiberglass in place is also damaged. For something like this, you would cut out the affected area and install a new piece. After that, you place a fiber sheet on top, followed by primer and paint.
It is that easy!
FAQs
Should I Repair an RV myself?
Yes, if you have the expertise to undertake such a repair job.
Citations
https://www.rvforum.net/threads/body-work-on-rv.129158/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktIdadbcIf8&ab_channel=PippiPeterson
https://www.forestriverforums.com/forums/f221/body-damage-question-202423.html
https://www.montanaowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30609
Ever since I was a kid, I've been fascinated by travel. I inherited this passion from my parents. Since my college years and to this day, I have had a passion for traveling in a motorhome. I am here to share my experiences with you.
Thanks for the reminder that it’s essential to also look into the coatings that will be used when planning to get RV body repairs. I’d like to get my RV repaired soon because I will be going on a couple of summer trips soon. I will be the driver on both instances so I have to make sure that my RV will be in its best condition.