Quote:
Originally Posted by Cumminsfan
Do you know if any manufactures make high end 5th wheels rated for full timing that have wood framing and corrugated aluminum sides? I haven't seen any. I wonder why.
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I have little experience with high end full time rigs. I speculate that the transition to fiberglass had more to do with aesthetics than anything. I also speculate that the high end fifth wheels and motorhomes have much more stringent QC than the bulk of RVs out there. My understanding is that many of those have a different type of roof system than the lower and mid level rigs which leads to a much lower or maybe even non-existent potential for roof leaks. Maybe the fiberglass used is thicker and/or better quality, too??? When I refer to what I have seen, I am speaking primarily of campers and fifth wheels in the under $40K or so range. This, at least in my area, accounts for the majority of rigs out there. Most of these units have the same type of rubber roof with several seams that can begin leaking should a sealant joint fail. The OP is indicating that he is going to be buying a travel trailer. I think it would be doing him a great disservice to steer him toward a $30K fiberglass TT because of experiences with high end luxury rigs and/or $300K+ motorhomes. MY observation has been that delam is a very real possibility, especially if owners are anything other than anal about roof inspection and maintenance. AND, should delam occur the owner is typically stuck footing the bill. Insurance doesn't cover it, and manufacturers can often claim lack of owner maintenance caused a leak. They look great and I've almost purchased one before, but I considered it knowing I'd have to be very cautious about inspection/maintenance and I've got a covered shed for storage that further reduces the likelihood I'll experience an unknown leak.
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