Water damage is one of the most common issues caravan owners face, especially on the Gold Coast where heat, storms, humidity and coastal conditions can all take a toll on your van.
The problem is that caravan water damage is not always obvious straight away. A small leak around a roof seal, window, hatch, awning bracket or external join can slowly work its way into the walls, floor or cabinetry. By the time the damage is easy to see, the repair may already be more serious.
Here are seven warning signs to look out for:
1. Soft or spongy floors
If part of your caravan floor feels soft, uneven or spongy underfoot, it may be a sign that moisture has entered the flooring structure. This should be checked quickly, especially near doorways, corners, bathrooms or external storage areas.
2. Stains on walls or ceilings
Brown marks, discolouration or water stains on the ceiling, walls or around windows can point to a leak. Even small stains are worth taking seriously.
3. A musty smell inside the van
A caravan should not smell damp. If you notice a musty or mouldy smell when you open the door, there may be moisture trapped behind panels, under flooring or inside cupboards.
4. Bubbling or peeling wall panels
Water can cause internal panels, vinyl finishes or wall linings to bubble, warp or peel. This is often a sign that moisture has been sitting behind the surface.
5. Mould or mildew
Visible mould around windows, seals, corners or cupboards can mean poor ventilation — but it can also be a sign of an active water leak.
6. Cracked or tired sealant
Old, cracked or poorly applied sealant around the roof, windows, vents and hatches is one of the biggest causes of caravan water leaks.
7. Rust, swelling or movement around fittings
If screws, brackets, cupboards or external fittings are moving, rusting or swelling, water may have entered the structure around them.
What should you do next?
If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Water damage usually gets worse over time and can become more expensive if left untreated.
Carafix can inspect your caravan, find the source of the leak and recommend the right repair. With workshops in Arundel and Currumbin, we help Gold Coast caravan owners get their vans repaired properly and back on the road.
Need caravan water damage repairs on the Gold Coast? Contact Carafix today and book your van in for an inspection.
