O, the DIY project, how I love and hate thee! If you are like me, then you mostly prefer to enjoy life, work on what you’re good at, and you try to get a professional to do your home and RV projects. That being said, saving money and time is always a great feeling, and it can be pretty fulfilling to make that cool renovation yourself — until it’s not. Because renovating your RV, while rewarding, is no joke.
As an avid RVer and DIYer for over six years, I’ve talked before about 10 popular RV renovations that can transform your home on wheels into a personalized haven. However, there are a few common mistakes that can turn your dream renovation into a nightmare, and that is what today’s story is all about. To help you navigate this journey smoothly, here’s a guide on what not to do when renovating your RV.
1. Don’t Dive Straight Into Renovating Your RV
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is diving into your renovation without a detailed plan. This often leads to hasty decisions, budget overruns, and a lot of frustration. Trust me, planning and measuring several times before executing is the only way to go.
With our new solar system, other than some minor wiring issues, the thorough planning thoroughly and measuring everything several times helped the project stay fairly on time and budget. Even then, unexpected things happened. Now, if you haven’t read my freezing toilet mishap, you can check out the link at the end of this post for a good laugh at my expense.
Tip: Start by outlining your goals, making a budget, and creating a timeline. Sketch out your ideas and list the materials you’ll need before you begin. Once that is done, increase your cost and time estimates by 15 to 20 percent for unforeseen circumstances.
2. Avoid Using Heavy Materials
While it might be tempting to use materials like hardwood or granite to create a luxurious feel, these heavy materials can significantly affect your RV’s weight and fuel efficiency.
Tip: Alternatives like peel-and-stick, vinyl planks, or laminate for countertops, flooring, and the like can offer a similar aesthetic appeal without the added weight.
3. Don’t Ignore Your RV’s Weight Capacity
This goes hand in hand with number 2, because every RV has a maximum weight capacity, and exceeding this can lead to safety issues, increased wear and tear, and potential fines.
Tip: Weigh your RV before and after renovations to ensure you stay within the safe limit. Remember, this includes everything you plan to carry on your trips, including passengers, food, belongings, etc. If you can, try to get a good estimate on the total weight you are taking out and the weight you are adding for your project.
4. Avoid DIY Electrical Work Without Proper Knowledge
Tackling electrical work without the necessary expertise can be dangerous and lead to severe problems down the road like burnt fuses, wires, or even a full-blown fire.
If you’re not confident in your electrical skills, it’s best to hire a professional. Even if you are confident, reading forums and watching YouTube videos are always recommended with these types of projects before beginning.
Tip: Always disconnect and turn off the power before working on electrical components to avoid shocks and injuries.
5. Don’t Sacrifice Function for Aesthetics
It’s easy to get caught up in making your RV look beautiful, but functionality should always come first. A pretty kitchen isn’t much use if it doesn’t have enough storage or counter space. A balance between aesthetics and practicality will make your RV both beautiful and livable.
Tip: Start by ensuring there’s ample storage, comfortable seating, and functional appliances. No matter where your renovation takes you, these are must-haves for any RV.
6. Avoid Neglecting Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial in an RV to prevent issues like mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Skimping on ventilation can even lead to health problems and costly repairs.
Ensure your RV has adequate vents and fans, especially in areas prone to moisture like the kitchen and bathroom.
Tip: Regularly check and clean your ventilation systems and filters to keep them functioning properly.
7. Don’t Forget About Temperature Extremes
Materials that work well in a stationary home might not perform as expected in an RV due to temperature fluctuations. Warping, cracking, and other issues can arise if you choose the wrong materials.
Tip: Consult with experts or fellow RVers for recommendations on the best materials for your climate. This will ensure your renovations last through all your adventures, hot or cold.
8. Avoid Making Permanent Changes That Reduce Resale Value
While personalizing your RV is important, making changes that are too specific to your taste can reduce its resale value. Permanent modifications might not appeal to future buyers.
I took out the dinette and valances on one of our fifth wheels; when it came time to sell, the dealer that was helping us recommended that we reinstall them for the original look. Luckily we had hung onto them, and were able to restore and sell the RV.
When in doubt, opt for neutral changes that enhance the RV’s appeal to a broader audience. Stick to timeless designs and avoid overly trendy choices.
Tip: When deciding between two options, if one can be easily reversed, that is usually the best way to go.
9. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Quality Tools and Materials
Using low-quality tools and materials might save you money initially, but they can lead to poor results and frequent repairs in the long run.
Invest in quality tools and materials to ensure your renovations are durable and long-lasting. It’s worth spending a bit more upfront to avoid headaches later.
Tip: Quality tools can also make the renovation process smoother and more enjoyable.
10. Don’t Ignore the Legal and Safety Requirements
Renovations that don’t comply with safety regulations and legal requirements can lead to fines, insurance issues, and even accidents.
Familiarize yourself with local and state laws/codes for whatever state the RV is registered in, including safety standards and guidelines. This is especially true for weight limits, as some states have regulations for certain weights and driver license classifications.
Ensure all renovations meet these requirements to keep your RV safe and compliant. Nothing is ever full proof, but taking these measures will help protect you, and it will likely minimize your risk of financial or legal issues with insurance or law enforcement, should an incident occur.
Tip: A detailed plan is an invaluable asset when navigating regulations and requirements. Knowing the exact changes you want to make to your RV will help you look up relevant guidelines – or ask the right questions when consulting a professional.
While jumping into renovating your RV can be exciting and rewarding, taking time to plan, and avoiding these common pitfalls is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful transformation. By planning meticulously, prioritizing functionality, and investing in quality, you can create a beautiful and practical home on wheels. Best wishes with renovating your RV, and remember, don’t be like me and try to fix a frozen toilet in the winter!
