Do Scamp campers leak?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Do Scamp campers leak? We will explain what are the main causes of Scamp campers leaks and how to prevent and deal with this oh-so-common issue with trailers and campers. 

Do Scamp campers leak?

Yes, Scamp campers are prone to leaks. In truth, fibreglass campers, such as the Scamp models, are less likely to leak. Still, improper maintenance is the main cause of Scamp camper leaks and if it has been a while since you last thoroughly checked your camper roof and seals, don’t be surprised if you find water leaking inside!

In general, the main causes of Scamp camper leaks are:

• Water accumulation on the camper roof (fibreglass roofs can hold up to 550 lbs water accumulation);
• The age of the camper (all materials have an estimated lifetime) 
• Climatic conditions (depending on the weather conditions, the roofs can last more or less time.) 
• Lack of maintenance (they deteriorate in an accelerated way so it is essential to do regular repairs)
• Low-quality materials (it is important to invest in the best materials) 
• Broken pipes and leaks (regular maintenance will prevent this). 

Are Scamp campers better than aluminum trailers?

When it comes to leaks, Scamp campers are generally better than aluminium trailers, as they are made from fibreglass.  The Scamp trailer also offers a more aerodynamic shape, a very practical aspect for nomadic travelers. Its profile, much more attractive than the aluminum trailer, facilitates movement on the road and promotes a certain fuel economy. A significant advantage if you like to drive a lot to explore new landscapes!

Moreover, in the opinion of many caravanners, the fiberglass trailer is more aesthetic than the aluminum trailer. And unlike aluminum, the paint on fiberglass (similar to the paint on an automobile) does not peel and provides a more modern appearance.

The main differences between these two types of trailers lie in their structure. Indeed, a model in an aluminum sheet has a frame and beams of a thickness that varies between 6 and 8 inches, as well as a wooden frame at the level of the walls, mineral wool and wood. 

A fibreglass trailer, for its part, has a structure offering aluminum walls and high-density styrofoam, all covered with a layer of fibreglass such as Gelcoat, Lamilux or Vetro.

Why buy a Scamp camper?

For several reasons in fact! Their size, weight, fuel economy, aesthetic qualities … you are spoiled for choice!

• The layout: Often, Scamp trailers have more compact dimensions than aluminum sheet trailers, which makes them easier to manoeuvre.

• The weight: For the same size, a fibreglass trailer is lighter than an aluminum model. It could therefore be easier to tow by a utility vehicle or a minivan, for example.

Remember to check the towing capacity of your vehicle to make sure it is able to tow your trailer, regardless of its composition!

• The fuel economy: Who says less weight says savings at the pump! Indeed, since a Scamp camper is generally lighter than a sheet metal trailer, it will require less effort to be towed, thus reducing fuel consumption! In addition, their more aerodynamic shape offers less wind resistance, which also helps to increase fuel efficiency.

• The Scamp camper is more aesthetic: It’s all a matter of taste, of course, but the glossy finish and the various graphics on the exterior of the Scamp camper are the most beautiful effect! In addition, unlike aluminum sheets which can sometimes have their paint peeling, fibreglass remains beautiful for a long time … obviously provided you take good care of it!

How to prevent Scamp camper leak?

Regular maintenance is the key to preventing Scamp camper leaks. Indeed, regular cleaning accompanied by waxing will preserve the shiny appearance of your Scamp camper; it will only be more beautiful once pampered!

Additionally, take the time to inspect it regularly to detect any water infiltration. If the sealant joints are damaged, water can seep in and swell the fibreglass sheathing.

How to repair a fibreglass camper leak?

Incorporated in campers and motorhomes, fibreglass is a plasticized polymer reinforced with fibreglass. Due to a lightweight composition of fibreglass camper shells are susceptible to damage from road debris and hanging tree branches when off-roading or manoeuvring through campgrounds. 

Once the exterior has been compromised, an RV’s fibreglass shell should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping through and damaging the caravan frame. 

Things you will need:

• Jigsaw
• Drill
• sanding disc
• Nylon detection
• Scotch tape
• marker pen
• Pair of scissors
• fibreglass resin with hardener
• 150 grit sanding discs
• Clean rag
• 220 grit sanding discs
• Paint.

1. Cut the edges around the damaged area with a jigsaw and a fibreglass-rated blade. Fade the inside edges of the trim area, using 150-grit sandpaper attached to a sanding disc and drill, making the edges of the trim slope down toward the centre of the hole.

2. Secure a piece of nylon sensing in the hole with masking tape. Trace a line over the top of the projection with a marker, around the inner edges of the hole, creating a pattern on the screen corresponding to the dimensions of the hole. Cut out the pattern on the screen with a pair of scissors.

3. Mix a small amount of fibreglass resin and hardener, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the prepared resin to the edges of the fibreglass pens with the spacer supplied with the resin. Place the prepared screen over the hole, working the edges of the screen into the resin. Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Mix a quantity of resin large enough to fill the cavity on the screen. Gently flatten the resin onto the screen with the spreader. Let the resin cure.

5. Sand the surface of the patch with the sanding disc and 150-grit sandpaper. Wipe the clean sand area with a dry cloth.

6. Mix a small portion of resin and fill in any blemishes in the repaired area. Sand the patch with the disc sander and 220 grit sandpaper, blending the edges of the repaired area flush and smooth with the surrounding surface.

7. Prime and paint the repaired area to match the original paint.

Note: It is important to do a periodic review from time to time to ensure that there is no type of damage to this material. This periodicity should increase in rainy seasons since this is when our roofs tend to receive the most damage. Remember that minor damage is always easier to repair.

The bottom line

Very compact and, as their name suggests, very light, Scamp campers are made of moulded fibreglass; in this way, no water infiltration is possible through the walls! In addition, they are ideal for travelling long distances and they are easy to tow, given their low weight and compact dimensions.

Improper maintenance of your Scamp camper could lead to issues such as roof leaks! If you don’t manage to find the leak source in your travel trailer, you could take the vehicle to a service or motorhome specialist. They would be able to find the source of the leak and repair it.

If you have any comments or questions on the content, please let us know.

FAQ on Do Scamp campers leak?

Are there any travel trailers that don’t leak?

Yes, there are travel trailers that don’t leak. There is no brand name or model that we can guarantee is perfect and that will have no issues because the promise that an X brand won’t leak is just this – a promise.  Owners that do not have water leaks problems aren’t lucky, they just know how to prevent any future issues. 

How do you know if you have a water leak?

Some of the signs that there may be a leak are:

• A hot spot on the ground.
• A water heater that does not turn off.
• Sound of running water when accessories, such as the toilet, are not being used.
• Water from a point under the wall.
• Hot water from a cold water tap.

How long do fibreglass trailers last?

Fibreglass trailers last around 10  years, however, the lifespan of a caravan will largely depend on how well you maintain it!

How to detect a water leak in the wall?

Some of the signs that there is water leaking the wall are: feeling a hot area on the floor, listening to the sound of water passing through the bathroom or kitchen accessories, seeing areas of water on the floor, noticing large damp stains on the wall, notice that water comes out of the cold water tap. 

How to minimize the risk of camper leaks?

Regular inspection of the seals, at least twice a year, will allow you to minimize the risk of water infiltration and leaks in a camper. If you find that the gaskets are crumbling or peeling, it is time to replace them.

References

• Help! My “no-leaks” Scamp had a leak – Fiberglass RV
• Lightweight Travel Trailers & Small Campers – Scamp Trailers with …
• Leaky Camper? Tips for Finding RV Water Leaks | Ketelsen RV Blog