Advertisement
Message Forums |
|
Topic: What to look for in an old caravan
|
|
02/6/2007 at 7:15pm
Location: Manchester Outfit: Vango Inspire 600
View Profile
Reply
Quote
|
Joined: 27/1/2007 Platinum Member
Forum Posts: 1259
Site Reviews Total: | 11 |
|
Site Reviews 2024: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2023: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2022: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2021: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2020: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2019: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2018: | 0 |
|
Site Nights 2024: | 0 |
Site Nights 2023: | 0 |
Site Nights 2022: | 0 |
Site Nights 2021: | 0 |
Site Nights 2020: | 0 |
Site Nights 2019: | 0 |
Site Nights 2018: | 0 |
|
We've just returned from our 1st camping trip in our tent & whilst on site were admiring the caravans. We loved camping but did feel envious that the caravan occupants didn't have to run across the site freezing in their jammies if they needed the loo in the night!
We're now contemplating buying an old/cheap caravan to give it a try. There are 5 of us but the eldest is 16 & won't want to come with us every time so was thinking a 4 berth with awning so we could put a sleeping pod there when he does come along.
We wouldn't want to use bunk beds - other children are 2 (too small) & the 11 yr old refuses to sleep in a top bunk.
What kind of things should we be looking for/at? Been looking on ebay & noticed some ads make a big deal of saying 'no damp'. Is this a common problem?
Any and all advice/opinions appreciated!
------------- Vanessa
x
|
02/6/2007 at 7:58pm
Location: Devon Coast Outfit: Sprite Musketeer XL CD
View Profile
Reply
Quote
|
Joined: 13/9/2005 Diamond Member
Forum Posts: 2882
Site Reviews Total: | 0 |
|
Site Reviews 2024: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2023: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2022: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2021: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2020: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2019: | 0 |
Site Reviews 2018: | 0 |
|
Site Nights 2024: | 0 |
Site Nights 2023: | 0 |
Site Nights 2022: | 0 |
Site Nights 2021: | 0 |
Site Nights 2020: | 0 |
Site Nights 2019: | 0 |
Site Nights 2018: | 0 |
|
Hi there,
Yes, damp is probably the biggest problem caravan owners have to suffer, and pretty much all caravans suffer from it sooner or later. The water eventually works it's way into the joins/rails, past the failing sealant and into the 'van, the wooden frame becomes rotten and the structure and strength of the caravan is compromised.
The first sign of damp is spongey/soft spots on the walls, usually up the corners or around the 'ceiling', the skylight often leaks too so soft spongey flooring is also apparent. The older the caravan the more chance of some damp, a meter is available from any DIY store for just a few pounds that will check for damp, it basically has two prongs that you stick into the caravan walls and it tells you if there is damp. Well worth the fiver or so it will cost!
Apart from damp, caravans have electric and gas appliances that should be checked over by someone 'in-the-know' just to be safe. Always ask to see the appliances working before you buy the caravan, as a replacement fridge for example can cost you £150+.
Never buy a caravan without viewing it, and give it a thorough check over before parting with any cash! Older caravans tend to have steel chassis so have a good look underneath too for severe rust etc.
Last but not least, check your cars maximum towing weight and compare it to the weight of the caravan you are interested in.
Hope you find a good bargain!
Post last edited on 02/06/2007 20:05:39
-------------
"As Real As It Gets!"
View Our Damp Repair Project Here.
|
Discounted Insurance Quotes for UKCampsite.co.uk visitors! Up to 12.5% off! |
|
|
|
|
9971 Visitors online !
Free UKCampsite.co.uk Window Sticker - Recommend to Friend - Add a Missing Campsite
[Message Forums]
[Caravan Sites & Camping]
[Company Listings]
[Features / Advice]
[Virtual Brochure]
[Shop!]
[Reception]
[Competitions]
[Caravans & Motorhomes For Sale]
[Event Diary]
[Contact Us]
[Tent Reviews]
Please note we are not responsible for the content of external sites & any reviews represent the author's personal view only. Please report any error here. You may view our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions here. All copyrights & other intellectual property rights in the design and content of this web site are reserved to the UKCampsite.co.uk © 1999 - 2024
|
Advertisement
|
|
|