Without proper care, your comfortable home on the road can be quickly damaged. Which is why, if your caravan or motorhome is made from fibreglass, it’s essential to properly care for it. A significant part of the appeal of investing in a fibreglass motorhome or caravan is its durability, but that doesn’t mean you can skip servicing and maintenance. Especially considering how harsh the Aussie client can be, from intense sun to dusty outback roads, it can take its toll.
The aim of this guide is to provide you with straightforward support and actionable steps to keep your fibreglass body motorhome or caravan in top condition. Understanding how to care for your RV’s exterior will not only preserve its value but also prevent minor issues from becoming significant, costly problems. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to the lifestyle, these tips will help you keep your fibreglass in top condition.
Why Fibreglass is the Top Choice for Australian Rigs
There’s a reason fibreglass has become the go-to material for modern caravans and motorhomes in Australia.
- Durability and Strength: Compared to traditional aluminium-clad vans, fibreglass offers superior resistance to dings, dents, and hail damage. Its resilient nature means it can handle the odd knock from a stray branch or road debris with ease.
- Lightweight Design: Fibreglass construction is generally lighter than its counterparts. This translates to better fuel efficiency for your tow vehicle or motorhome and a more manageable towing experience.
- Superior Insulation: The insulating properties of fibreglass are a major advantage in a country of climate extremes. It helps keep the interior cooler during scorching summer days and warmer on those chilly nights, making your travels more comfortable throughout the year.
- Seamless Construction: Fibreglass panels can be moulded into large, seamless sections. This streamlined construction significantly reduces the number of joints and seams on the vehicle’s body, minimising the risk of water leaks—a common issue in older, panel-built vans.
- Ease of Repair: While tough, fibreglass can still get damaged. The good news is that minor issues, such as small cracks and chips, are often highly repairable. This makes it a practical choice for long-term ownership, which we will explore later in this guide.
The Right Way to Clean Your Fibreglass Motorhome
Regular cleaning is about more than keeping your RV looking good; it removes harmful contaminants like dirt, dust, bird droppings, and road grime that can permanently stain or damage the gel coat finish. Cleaning effectively, without causing tarnishing or fine scratches, is crucial to ensure the longevity of your RV.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Using the right tools for the job is crucial. Avoid harsh, abrasive products that can strip away the protective gel coat.
What to use:
- A pH-neutral, high-quality vehicle wash soap.
- Soft-bristle brush on a long pole for hard-to-reach areas.
- Microfibre wash mitts.
- A two-bucket system (one for soapy water, one for clean rinse water).
- A hose with an adjustable spray nozzle.
- A quality chamois or large microfibre towels for drying.
What to avoid:
- Abrasive cleaners, scourers, or stiff-bristled brushes.
- Cleaners containing bleach or ammonia.
- Using a high-pressure washer too close to the surface, especially around decals and seals.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Pre-Rinse: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the entire vehicle with your hose to remove loose dirt and dust. This prevents you from grinding grit into the surface when you start washing.
- Wash with the Two-Bucket Method: Fill one bucket with your soap solution and the other with clean water. Dunk your wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water, wash a section of the motorhome, and then rinse it in the clean water before returning it to the soapy water. This simple step prevents dirt from being transferred back onto the vehicle.
- Top to Bottom: Work in manageable sections, starting from the roof and moving downwards. This prevents dirty runoff from streaking over areas you’ve already cleaned.
- Rinse Promptly: Rinse each section with clean water immediately after washing it, before the soap has a chance to dry on the surface.
- Dry Thoroughly: Use a clean chamois or microfibre drying towels to dry the vehicle completely. This prevents water spots from forming, especially when washing in direct sunlight or using hard water.
Beating the Aussie Sun: Protecting Your Gel Coat from UV Fading
The shiny, smooth surface on your fibreglass is called a gel coat. It acts as the primary protective layer against the elements. However, constant exposure to Australia’s intense UV radiation causes oxidation. This process degrades the gel coat, leading to a dull, chalky, and faded appearance.
Prevention is Key: Applying Wax and Sealants
The best way to combat UV damage is to protect the gel coat with a quality wax or sealant. This sacrificial layer takes the brunt of the sun’s rays, preserving the finish underneath.
- Carnauba Wax: A natural wax that provides a deep, rich shine. It offers excellent protection but typically needs to be reapplied more frequently, around every 3-4 months.
- Synthetic Polymer Sealant: A man-made product designed for longevity. While it may not offer the same depth of shine as carnauba, a sealant can last for six months or even longer, offering durable, long-term protection.
For best results, apply a wax or sealant at least twice a year. A well-protected surface is not only shielded from UV rays but is also easier to clean, as dirt has a harder time sticking to it.
How to Restore a Faded Gel Coat
If your gel coat is already showing signs of light to moderate oxidation, you can often restore its shine on your own.
- Thorough Cleaning: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the vehicle.
- Apply Polishing Compound: Use a quality polishing compound or a specialised gel coat restorer. You can apply it by hand with a microfibre applicator pad or with a machine polisher for faster results.
- Work in Small Sections: Focus on a small area at a time, working the product into the surface until the shine starts to return and the chalkiness is gone.
- Protect the Finish: Once you have restored the shine, it’s vital to apply a protective layer of wax or sealant to prevent the oxidation from quickly returning.
For severe oxidation or heavy fading, it is best to seek professional help to prevent further damage.
A Stitch in Time: Trust Roadtrek with Your Fibreglass Motorhome Repairs
Catching stone chips, hairline cracks, or surface damage early is really important to ensure the longevity and safety of your fibreglass motorhome or caravan. Left unaddressed, even minor imperfections can allow water to creep into the layers, leading to costly issues such as delamination or major structural damage in the future. That’s why it’s always wiser—and more cost-effective—to have minor fibreglass motorhome repairs handled promptly by skilled professionals.
At Roadtrek, we believe professional servicing is the key to reliable, long-lasting repairs. Our team uses the right materials and proven techniques to ensure every repair meets the highest standards of quality and safety. Unlike DIY repairs, which often carry the risk of weak seals, hidden faults, or further damage, our expert approach guarantees your caravan or motorhome remains roadworthy and protected for years to come.
Don’t risk compromising your investment or your safety. For trusted, high-quality fibreglass repairs—no matter how small—bring your vehicle to Roadtrek. We’ll take the stress out of repairs and keep your caravan or motorhome looking and performing its best.
Your Fibreglass Care Checklist
Keeping your caravan or motorhome in prime condition is straightforward with a consistent routine.
- Wash Regularly: Clean your rig after every major trip using the right tools and products.
- Protect the Surface: Apply a quality wax or sealant every 6 months to shield it from UV damage.
- Inspect Often: Make it a habit to walk around your vehicle and inspect for any chips, cracks, or signs of fading.
- Act Quickly: Perform small fibreglass motorhome repairs as soon as you discover them to prevent water ingress.
Simple, regular maintenance will ensure your fibreglass motorhome or caravan continues to look its best and is ready for many more years of adventure.
For major fibreglass damage, professional gel coat restoration, or if you’re not confident in tackling a repair yourself, trust the experts. Contact us today for a free assessment of your motorhome or caravan.
