Ask The RV Engineer

The Ultimate Guide to RV Sidewall Construction Types

Wall construction quality is a litmus test for the rest of the RV. It’s rare to find an RV with a “better-built box” and shoddy workmanship elsewhere – but the opposite is also true.

If you’re about to purchase an RV, this article is so incredibly important. There are many types of RV sidewalls. Understanding how your RV is built can make the difference between a travel trailer or 5th wheel that will bring you 20 years of happiness versus 20 years of grief.

In preparation for this article, I reviewed some of the other information about types of RV wall construction online. And quite frankly, a lot of it is wrong or severely outdated. I read one article stating that the average R-value of fiberglass is between R-10 and R-20 per inch – which is absolutely bonkers. So please don’t believe everything you hear! Take it from a guy who gets paid to know this stuff.

3 responses to “The Ultimate Guide to RV Sidewall Construction Types”

  1. Dennis

    I have a 2006 Fleetwood Gear Box fifth wheel. Allegedly it has an aluminum frame. Problem is the toy ramp frame moves independently from the walls. The walls when going over speed bumps at an angle sway and move while the toy ramp frame stays square. Caulking cracks as a result. I’m thinking of adding an internal steel frame at the back and attaching it to both the ramp frame and the aluminum wall studs. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  2. tirod3

    It’s funny how the next three guides to RV construction as displayed in searches claim fiberglass is superior insulation compared to foam. They also do not allow comments.

    I have found that to be an indictment across the internet. With the advent of more AI written articles, there is a trend to allow comments, as they likely feed the data to correct the mistakes that the AI missed first time around. That doesn’t make the AI articles better tho.

    As time goes by, I expect to see more panels being used, and for those who frame, more sprayed closed cell foam on the better campers. Since there is no plumbing etc and closed cell actually seals up and prevents leaks, it will earn it’s place.

    Reply
    1. Andy

      Closed cell spray foam has a murky future, I think. The first generations are already obsolete because of the global warming potential with the blowing agents. In a manufacturing facility, it’s a major hassle due to concerns with ventilation and flammability. As anyone who has used spray foam can attest, it’s also permanent … there’s no disassembly. It’s a fabulous material, but I’m not sure what place, if any, it will play in tomorrow’s RVs.

      Reply

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