OUTER SKIN
Any caravan that is made with a frame will require an outer skin of some type . Typically , manufacturers use one of two materials . There ’ s good old fashion ribbed aluminium cladding , which has been used for decades . It is probably the cheapest material used for the outer skin of caravans . For the most part , it is up for the task but it could not be described as durable .
This type of aluminium cladding can dent with relatively little force and it is particularly vulnerable to hail damage . That said , if the van is involved in an accident , it is comparably easy to repair .
The insulating properties of this type of cladding are minimal so you are completely reliant on the quality of the insulation placed in the walls of the van and , if the manufacturer has not done this properly , your van may be prone to extremes of heat and cold .
The other material used is aluminium composite panelling . It is made up of two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a polymer core . It is much more durable than regular cladding and has better insulation properties . It is generally fitted to the frame in large sections , giving the exterior of the van a smooth , flat look .
Some owners have concerns about the fire risk of these products ; however , the types used in modern caravan manufacturer use fire-resistant materials , reducing this risk considerably .
Fibreglass sandwich panels are available in a variety of thicknesses and colours .
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