Sidewall construction, paint vs...

[ilik2t]

OK, there are thousands of "full body paint vs glass" threads. Hopefully this is addressed somewhere and I have just missed it. Sidewall construction on my keystone fuzion impact edition is most likely what keystone calls laminat sidewall. From my observation after removal of slideout flooring, I'd call it a cross between cardboard and fiberboard with a vinyl surface heat or vacuum adhered surface. Far from calling it gellcoat or anything else that could withstand water intrusion. On the other hand, keystone identifies an aluminum siding. This "full body paint vs gellcoat" argument doesn't set right. I don't think it's just the "finish". I believe my camper is just vinly wrapped, and a full body paint upgrade would include an aluminum or other layer that allows a much smoother texture, but also adds weather handling characteristics. Can anyone add to this discussion beyond the obvious (paint vs gellcoat)... I'm talking structure of the wall itself.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

I think you are confused about the terminology and what it means. Gel coat is a cosmetic layer used with molded fiberglass components. It is the first (top) layer of resin applied into the mold. Sidewalls are rarely molded but parts like the front & rear cap and wheel wells typically are. RV laminated walls are constructed in layers that are bonded together, with the top layer a thin fiberglass sheet known as filon. Filon has a smooth, somewhat shiny surface but isn't rigid like a molded, gel-coated fiberglass. The filon in a laminated sidewall is bonded to other layers consisting of luan plywood, insulation, and an interior, finished surface layer of some kind. A laminated sidewall with a filon top layer is waterproof as long as the seams or openings (e.g. windows) are properly sealed.

Both molded and laminated surfaces can be painted, either in colors or clear (aka "clear coat"). Clear coat gives the underlying fiberglass a nice shiny finish that is protective as well. In some older construction, only the trim was painted on but now it is more common that the entire body is painted, i.e."full body paint". Painting the surfaces doesn't make them any more waterproof.

This video will give you some idea of how RV laminated walls are made.

 

[Ken & Sheila]

Some manufacturers use a solid "glass" (fiberglass) vs a laminated wall
with just a thin layer of Fiberglass.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

Some manufacturers use a solid "glass" (fiberglass) vs a laminated wall
with just a thin layer of Fiberglass.

Yeap, but I don't think Keystone is one of them. For 2025 they went to "Hypercore" construction" but it's vague about how that differs from the previous laminate. And whether it pertains to all Keystone models or just selected ones.

 

[JudyJB]

My Fleetwood Tioga Ranger has laminated sidewalls and roof, made up of fiberglass and a center of foam and other things, such as wiring and metal backing where they screw in things like cabinets and the dinette. (I watched the lamination process on their production line.) I had a choice of gel coat or full automotive body paint, and ended up with the full body paint because the dealer had a unit he had taken to shows for 5 months and wanted to sell it cheap. It had about 600 miles on it, and everything was covered in plastic and very clean, so I took it. I am very glad I did because full body paint does not fade or change color with age, although in the last year of the heavy use I have given this thing, the gel coat on top of the paint is beginning to crack and come off in some spots.
No need to wax or do anything to full body paint, which is nice.

 

[CharlesinGA]

although in the last year of the heavy use I have given this thing, the gel CLEAR coat on top of the paint is beginning to crack and come off in some spots.

I think this is what you mean. Clear coat does fail. My 2004 automobile has been out side since 2011 and is starting to look bad. I hate it but it is what it is.

The filon used on the laminated sidewalls and the roofs of many Winnebago motor homes usually will show (if you look closely) a bit of the fiberglass weave pattern in it. It also will yellow somewhat. The door on my Bigfoot trailer is made (I think) by Lippert and has a filon finish on the outside. It is no longer the same shade as it was when I bought it in 2019 (used, it is a 2008 model) and that is even with it being stored inside. It hasn't changed alot, but it has changed.

The full body paint is certainly a good idea.

Charles