Front End Rebuild

[UKHunk]

I own a 1996 fleetwood Garland,Last year i repaired my floor with great success,Now i have just done a complete front end rebuild due to leaks and dampness.I have built the three window frames and replaced all wood surrounding the area,i have put 4 mm boarding up on the inside,now its time to decorate,I would like to paper and give it an oak affect(like the original)Is there anything i can use that is ticker than the normal paper.ie to cover up the joins of the internal boarding,

Secondly,When i come to put the window rubber seals on and i staple them to the window framework,would it be practical to also use a sealer and then staple,Thanks in anticipation for your replys,

 

[MikeP]

Thinking of the 1970s, woodchip wallpaper with about 15 coats of emulsion was the answer to everything. Do you fancy a "retro" look?

That's not helpful. Sorry.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi Eddie,

Easy answer first - always use a butyl mastic to seal around any exterior "holes" or joints, and certainly underneath the window rubbers before stapling.

Wall-board edges - our Eriba (tubular metal frame) has the (very few) vertical wall-board edges hidden under a narrow plastic trim (about 1cm wide). If the edges on your repair are vertical then this might just work for you.

If not, then you could use a very flexible filler to fill the gap and smooth out the edges before you paper.

Good luck with your project.

Robert

 

[mcghee]

There is one concern regarding the papering of a caravan interior; fire retardence. I don't believe you have any intention of setting your 'van alight, but its a consideration nonetheless. If you really want an oak finish you could buy a sheet of 1mm thick oak veneer, but it'l cost you around 70quid for an 8x4 sheet.

 

[chrisn7]

Eddie

When I did a major repair to the front end of our van, I faced a similar problem. I discovered that Homebase do a range of self adhesive materials similar to 'Fablon', that is, I think, about 1metre by 3 metres long. I was fortunate enought to get a very good match that is indistiguishable from factory finish. There was quite a large range so you might find what you want.

I would recommend sealing the ply finish you have so far, as this improves adhesion. You must also ensure that the ply is quite smooth as imperfections will show in the final finish

 

[mcghee]

Yes that stuff is pretty good if, as you say, you can find a good match. Again it's not that cheap at about

 

[chrisn7]

I too was surprised at the cost, but then you get a finish as good as the factory, so much so that I was encouraged to make further items. mcghees fitting comments are useful, as wrinkles can be a problem. The roller tool used for wallpaper edges is a handy gadget as well

 

[UKHunk]

I too was surprised at the cost, but then you get a finish as good as the factory, so much so that I was encouraged to make further items. mcghees fitting comments are useful, as wrinkles can be a problem. The roller tool used for wallpaper edges is a handy gadget as well

Thanks all for the replys,I have got a roll of light oak finish self adhestive vinal from B&Q,and will also seal the windows rubbers before i staple,thanks