Renovating an old RV is a great way to give your recreational vehicle a new lease on life.
With the right knowledge and planning, you can renovate your RV with minimal costs and create something that looks like it belongs in an interior design magazine. Whether you’re looking to spruce up an older model or completely overhaul a vintage RV, there are a few key steps that will help you get the job done right.
In this article, we’ll discuss the essential steps for renovating an old RV and provide tips to make sure your project goes smoothly. With the right amount of effort, you can transform your RV into a comfortable and stylish home away from home. So let’s get started!
Planning, Assessing the Project, and Setting a Budget
Planning is an essential step when it comes to renovating an old RV. Before you begin any renovations, it’s important to assess the condition of your RV and determine what type of work needs to be done. This assessment will help you set a realistic budget and timeline for the project. Additionally, it will also help you determine what upgrades and accessories you’ll need for the renovation.
First, assess the condition of your RV. Look at both the interior and exterior to identify any damage or wear-and-tear that needs to be repaired or replaced. Make sure to check behind cabinets and furniture, as well as under carpets and rugs. If possible, have a professional look over the RV and provide an opinion on any necessary repairs.
Once you’ve identified what needs to be done, create a budget for your renovation project. Take into account labor costs, materials needed, and any new accessories or upgrades that you want to make. Make sure you factor in unexpected expenses, such as additional repairs that might be discovered during the renovation process. Don’t forget to budget in time for yourself, as well.
Finally, determine what type of improvements you want to make and set a timeline for completion. Consider how these renovations will affect the aesthetic of your RV and decide which upgrades are most important. Make sure that your timeline is realistic; depending on the scope of the project, it could take weeks or even months to complete.
Cleaning
Once you’ve created a plan for your renovation project, the next step is to clean out and prep the interior of your RV. This involves removing all furniture, carpets, and clutter from the RV so that it can be thoroughly cleaned and prepped for renovations.
Start by removing any furniture and accessories from the RV. If possible, take pictures before you remove anything so that you can remember how it was arranged. As you’re removing items, set aside any that are salvageable and may be used in the renovation.
Once everything has been removed from the RV, give it a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt or debris. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, and use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down surfaces. It may be necessary to rent a steam cleaner or pressure washer for tougher jobs, such as removing mold or mildew.
Once the interior is clean and dry, you’ll need to assess any damage that needs to be repaired. This may include fixing broken windows, replacing rotten wood, and patching holes in the walls. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to hire a professional contractor to do these repairs.
Choose Upgrades & Accessories
Now that the RV has been prepped and cleaned, it’s time to choose any new upgrades and accessories you want to add. This is the fun part of renovating an old RV—you get to decide how you want your interior to look!
When selecting upgrades and accessories, think about what type of aesthetic you want for your RV. Determine the color palette, furnishings, and accessories that will help you achieve the look you’re going for. It’s important to keep your budget in mind when making these decisions; there are plenty of affordable upgrades and accessories out there that can help give your RV a unique touch.
Look at furniture stores and online retailers for inspiration. Consider the layout of your RV and decide which pieces will fit comfortably without crowding the space. When shopping for accessories, look for items that match the overall aesthetic of your RV, such as artwork, pillows, and rugs.
Finally, don’t forget to also consider any necessary functional upgrades. This could include installing a new water heater, upgrading the electrical system, or replacing old appliances.
Start Renovating
Once you have all of your upgrades and accessories selected, it’s time to start the renovation process. Depending on your experience level, this could involve anything from a simple paint job to a complete gut job.
If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, there are plenty of ways that you can handle the renovations yourself. For example, if you want to give your RV a facelift, consider giving it a new paint job or installing new flooring.
If the renovations are more extensive and require specialized skills, it may be beneficial to hire professional contractors. Be sure to do your research when selecting contractors; look for professionals who have experience working on RVs and can provide references.
Once the renovations are complete, it’s time to start putting your RV back together. Begin by moving the furniture and accessories back in and arrange them as you envision. Add the finishing touches—including artwork, rugs, and other accessories—and make sure everything is secure before you hit the road.
Renovating an old RV can seem like a daunting task, but when done correctly it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
By following these steps and having patience, you’ll have the RV of your dreams in no time! And if renovating an old RV seems like too much work and you don’t want to put the time and money into it, contact Oliver Travel Trailers today. We’ll help you find a great RV that meets your and your family’s needs!
