7 Signs Your RV Needs Fiberglass Repair

If you own an RV, even minor damage to the fiberglass exterior can quickly become a much larger problem. Small cracks, chips, or punctures allow moisture to penetrate beneath the surface, leading to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs if left untreated.

Whether you own a Class A motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or camper, recognizing the early warning signs can save thousands of dollars in future repairs.

1. Cracks in the Fiberglass
Hairline cracks may not seem serious, but they can spread over time due to vibration, temperature changes, and road stress.
Look for:

• Spider cracks
• Stress cracks around corners
• Cracks near slide-outs
• Cracks around windows or doors

Even small cracks should be professionally evaluated before water works its way underneath the fiberglass.

2. Soft Spots on Exterior Walls

If you press on the side of your RV and it feels soft or spongy, moisture may have reached the underlying structure.
Soft spots often indicate:

• Water intrusion
• Delamination
• Rotten wood backing
• Structural damage

The sooner these issues are repaired, the less extensive—and less expensive—the repair usually is.

3. Delamination
Delamination occurs when the fiberglass separates from the wall beneath it.
Common signs include:

• Bubbling
• Bulging walls
• Waves in the siding
• Areas that flex when pushed

Once delamination begins, it rarely improves on its own.

4. Collision Damage
Even low-speed impacts can crack fiberglass.
Common accidents include:

• Backing into posts
• Tree branches
• Tight campground turns
• Tire blowouts damaging side panels

What appears to be cosmetic damage may hide broken support materials beneath the surface.

5. Faded or Peeling Gel Coat
Years of UV exposure can wear away the protective finish.
Watch for:

• Chalky oxidation
• Peeling clear coat
• Discoloration
• Uneven fading

Professional refinishing restores both appearance and protection.

6. Water Stains Around the Damage
Brown stains, bubbling wallpaper, or musty odors inside the RV often indicate moisture entering through damaged fiberglass.
Repairing the exterior quickly helps prevent much more expensive interior restoration later.

7. Loose Trim or Moldings
Trim that begins pulling away from the RV can allow water behind the fiberglass.
If you notice:

• Loose corner trim
• Missing sealant
• Gaps around windows
• Lifting moldings

it’s worth having the area inspected before leaks develop.

Why Professional Fiberglass Repair Matters

Fiberglass repair involves much more than applying filler and paint. Proper repairs restore structural strength, recreate the original contour, match the factory finish, and seal the damaged area against future moisture intrusion.

At JP’s Collision & RV Repair, technicians use professional repair techniques and computerized paint matching to restore everything from minor cosmetic damage to major collision repairs on motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers, and fifth wheels. The shop also features a 52-foot paint booth capable of accommodating large RVs.

Schedule an RV Repair Estimate

If you’ve noticed cracks, bubbling, soft spots, or collision damage, addressing the problem early can prevent more extensive repairs down the road. Contact JP’s Collision & RV Repair in Salt Lake City to schedule a professional inspection and receive a free estimate.