Which materials should you use? You have a variety of options and Trailer Source, with three locations throughout Colorado, is the RV dealer that’s primed and ready to help you choose one. Check out your choices below and bring us any questions you may have.
1. Wood
While it’s a little unconventional, wood is quite popular due to its versatility and its aesthetic. Plywood in particular is inexpensive and can be painted or stained to suit any color palette. It’s important when using wood to remember that it is both flammable and may be permeated with water, so you need to ensure that your RV ceiling is leak-free to avoid water damage.
2. Metal
This material has proven to be increasingly popular with RVers as a ceiling panel replacement. Metal panels just need to be nailed up onto a clean ceiling with no other affixing necessary. You can apply different paints or finishes to metal to complement your existing decor. Metal helps to hide imperfections while also enhancing the RV’s structure. If you worry about moisture or odors, then a metal ceiling is perfect because it will never rot or absorb anything. This material is also flame-resistant and easy to clean.
3. Vinyl or PVC
Both of these durable materials last for a very long time and make excellent RV ceiling panels. Many RV manufacturers use them in high-humidity places such as bathrooms and kitchens. Vinyl can be used to create custom ceilings with an elegant, leather-like finish. While being easy to clean and waterproof are both great qualities of vinyl on their own, an additional bonus is that vinyl is also flame-resistant.
4. Plastic or Styrofoam
The nice thing about styrofoam and plastic tiles is that they can be cut to fit with a pair of scissors, then glued into place with construction adhesive. Plastic and styrofoam are not quite as durable as other options, but they are easy to clean and hold up fairly well over time.
5. Fiberglass
Fiberglass-reinforced panels are another great option because they are thin and lightweight enough to be installed using a construction adhesive. These panels are durable, easy to clean and waterproof.
When you’re in search of a new or used RV, visit one of our three Colorado dealership locations to see what we’ve got in stock. We even offer financing options to help you fund your RV purchase. Trailer Source proudly serves the cities of Colorado Springs and Denver, CO
FAQs
The Most Common Cargo Trailer Ceiling: Cedar Planks
Cedar planks are by far the most common ceiling we came across, and it's easy to see why. It's quick, simple, and a breeze to work on. There's also the added benefit of that rich cedar smell if you choose to go with true cedar.
What is the best material for an enclosed trailer ceiling? ›
The Most Common Cargo Trailer Ceiling: Cedar Planks
Cedar planks are by far the most common ceiling we came across, and it's easy to see why. It's quick, simple, and a breeze to work on. There's also the added benefit of that rich cedar smell if you choose to go with true cedar.
How to remove ceiling RV? ›
Removing Your Ceiling Fabric
Try to find a seam at the edge of your RV ceiling, or horizontally across the ceiling. Drag the putty knife along the seam to gently undo the fabric. If you can't find a seam, use a hobby knife to create a horizontal cut along the ceiling.
Can you paint the ceiling in an RV? ›
however if you're painting RV walls, ceilings, and/or cabinets, using a sprayer will save a lot of time. Especially when you think about having to do multiple coats. We used a sprayer to apply all of the paint inside our RV and ended up doing 2 coats of paint after primer.
What material is used for RV ceilings? ›
Meanwhile on an RV ceiling, you'll typically find fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) or PVC wall paneling because both materials are lightweight, moisture resistant, and neither need to be painted.
What are trailer ceilings made of? ›
Manufactured home ceilings are made of either mineral fiber or drywall panels.
What can I use to replace the ceiling in my camper? ›
Replace Your RV Ceiling Panels With These Materials
- Wood. While it's a little unconventional, wood is quite popular due to its versatility and its aesthetic. ...
- Metal. This material has proven to be increasingly popular with RVers as a ceiling panel replacement. ...
- Vinyl or PVC. ...
- Plastic or Styrofoam. ...
- Fiberglass.
The fabric headliner in your RV can begin to sag in spots for various reasons, including excessive heat, humidity, and leakage.
What is the best material for trailer covers? ›
Polypropylene fabric is the most common material used for outdoor covers, as it is rip-resistant and waterproof. It also breathes, allowing moisture to evaporate right away, which means that mold or mildew has no chance to grow, keeping you and your vehicle healthy and safe.
What kind of insulation do you use on an RV ceiling? ›
Fiberglass insulation is the most common choice for RVs due to its affordability, with an R-value typically around 3.5 to 4 per inch, making it a cost-effective option.
How to Prevent Mold In RV During Storage
- Buy a Dehumidifier.
- Use Moisture-Removing Crystals or Chemical Packets.
- Wipe Down All Surfaces.
- Open Up Your Cabinets and Closet Doors.
- Remove as Much Fabric as Possible.
- Ensure all Pipes are Bone-Dry.
- Use a Fan for Airflow.
- Run a Heater.
Oftentimes, you can paint over them but they tend to reappear after a few weeks. Learn more about the gypsum panels and mobile home ceilings here. This article will help you understand what your mobile home ceiling is made of, how to paint the panels and cover those pesky water stains so they stay covered.
What type of paint is best for an RV interior? ›
Good primer is a must! You'll need to use oil based Kilz first. After that, you can use interior household paint (water based). The water based stuff won't stick to the vinyl wallpaper covered paneling in most rvs.
What is the best type of roof on an enclosed trailer? ›
The Roof. You can opt for an enclosed trailer with either a flat roof or a rounded one. The flat roofs are cheaper, but they can collect rainwater easily. On the other hand, the rounded roofs are expensive, but they let rain and debris roll-off, making maintenance and cleaning easier.
What is the best material for a pop up camper ceiling? ›
For the interior of the ceiling, we used 1 x 2 pine lumber (which is actually only 3/4″ thick), 3/4″ plywood, luan paneling, and 3/4″ R-TECH styrofoam insulation. You want your foam to be the same thickness as your frame, so you if are using 1″ thick lumber, you can use 1″ foam.
