Outgassing - Fulltimers

[FTRVR]

Does anyone have ecperience with outgassing from the materials used in the manufacture of MH?
My wife has certain medical problems that I would not want aggravated.
Any particular mfg worse than others when it comes to outgassing?

[FTRVR]

Does anyone have ecperience with outgassing from the materials used in the manufacture of MH?
My wife has certain medical problems that I would not want aggravated.
Any particular mfg worse than others when it comes to outgassing?

[GaryKD]

Hi FTRVR,
Welcome to iRV2. Consider finding the floor plans you value the most and contacting the manufacturer(s) with your question. Be prepared to provide details about the chemical outgassing you're concerned about. Share the manufacturer(s) information with your wife's doctor(s). This sounds like professional assistance will be needed to minimize or eliminate aggravating your wife's condition.

[FTRVR]

Forgot to mention, we currently are shopping for used MH 1997 - 2003.
Decided to go FT due to wifes illness.
Diagnosed with leukemia last year, had stroke this year. Want to see what we can see while there is still time.

As MH ages, is outgassing less of a concern?

[GaryKD]

A 97-03 should have all the "new material" outgassing over with. I am not skilled to advise if there is an ongoing problem with some materials. If it were me, I'd follow the advice in my OP.

[Steve Rankin]

First, I'm doubtful that any of the manufacturers will be willing to be very helpful with genuine information, especially on an older coach.

Second, most but definitely not all outgassing will be done after a few years.

Third, outgassing is primarily a byproduct of man-made materials made with petroleum products. The more you eliminate man-made materials, the more you will eliminate sources of outgassing.

For example, our Beaver Patriot had solid oak cabinetry with no pressed woods. Veneered plywood was used on large end panels, but the rest was solid hardwood. The dash panel,some trim under the front TV & the sides of the driver/passenger seats were the only vinyl parts in the coach. The rest of the interior upholstery was leather. The galley and bathroom were ceramic tile. The sinks and commode were porcelain. That leaves the Fountainhead solid surface counters, wall covering, headliner and carpeting.

As you move down the food chain, you'll probably find more and more items in a DP that are capable of outgassing.

[Jackm]

A previously owned RV will most likely be stable in terms of environmental hazards. The usual suspects are apt to include the carpeting, adhesives, fabric treatments, and lacquers. However, the volitility of these materials is relatively short. Thus, an older RV would be a safe bet. Needless to say, you would want to stick with very innocuous products for cleaning the RV. Otherwise, you might inadvertantly introduce a new set of environmental hazards.

In any case, I would suggest that you visit the US EPA's website and look for information on indoor air pollution. The EPA has been focusing on this issue for several years and should have lots of good advice on the topic. Best regards to both you and your wife.

Jack

[oshacon]

Having spent more than 30 years dealing with occupational and environmental issues, including concerns about Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), I don't foresee any realistic problems with offgassing for a MH of this vintage. VOC's and formaldehyde don't persist for years so I wouldn't be overly concerned. Hope this helps.