Stress cracks on the roof of caravans

charlie25
charlie25 Forum Participant Posts: 100
First Comment
edited May 2021 in Caravans #1

Just watched a video on YouTube showing stress cracks on the roof of caravans. Just checked my caravan and all is fine. Just wondered how many people check the roofs of their caravans.

 

Comments

  • paulfrompontefract
    paulfrompontefract Forum Participant Posts: 31
    edited May 2021 #2

    I regularly check the floating roof on our 2018 coachman, which tends to ripple and lift in ridges throughout the length of the van, if it’s causing stress on the joints/seals you’ll see the sealant has cracks or gaps, which in turn will let water in.

    we've just collected our van after a damp repair caused by the above, hoping the repairs keep the water out, but I have to say I’m not convinced that it won’t happen again as the roof expands and contracts due to changes in temperature and the stresses caused when the van is being towed. 

  • Amy3897
    Amy3897 Forum Participant Posts: 26
    edited May 2021 #3

    Hi, we have just noticed quite a big crack in the front panel while cleaning after the winter. Water has also got through :-( 2016 Xplore which we have had since new. First time we have noticed but can't say we have consciously looked before for cracks but always check it over generally. After checking all the other corners there are hairline cracks on all.  Has been into the dealer where I understand they drilled to prevent it getting worse and filled it. Quote for bodywork which includes plastic welding is just £1,050. Feel very disappointed with the situation but will be keeping a close eye on the other corners for sure 

  • longtailtit
    longtailtit Forum Participant Posts: 14
    edited February 2022 #4

    Hi! Did you manage to get these cracks sorted by dealer FOC i.e. by claiming via Customer Rights Act 2015 stating clearly that the van is not "fit for purpose"? Like you I have an Xplore with cracks in all four corners - will never buy an Elddis van again since Elddis could not care less once they have your money. Even when dealers do panel repairs/replacements these frequently do not last for more than two years or so before cracking again. So the best thing to do is to get "rid off" once water-tight again and switch to a manufacturer who actually cares. I used to like my van; - now I just hate Elddis.