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Guide to Refurbishing a Recreational Vehicle (Motorhome)

Performing a comprehensive clean-up on a motorhome might appear daunting, but it's an essential chore with notable benefits, according to John Sootheran's perspective.

Guide for Refining Your Motorhome
Guide for Refining Your Motorhome

Guide to Refurbishing a Recreational Vehicle (Motorhome)

In the world of motorhomes, keeping your vehicle in top condition is essential for both aesthetics and resale value. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to clean, polish, and maintain your motorhome for a gleaming finish.

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When it comes to polishing your motorhome, start by cleaning it thoroughly. This step is crucial to avoid contaminants and micro-scratch swirls. After cleaning, allow your motorhome to dry completely.

The suggested method of applying the polish is rubbing it on in a circular motion, with the solution being worked into the surface. Better brands of polish may have more of the "good stuff" but will be more expensive. Premium brands like Autoglym, Silky, or Care-avan are recommended because they contain superior ingredients that restore shine, remove oxidation, and create a protective, hydrophobic layer on the surface that repels water, tree sap, and bird droppings. Poli Glow® is another excellent option, especially for fiberglass surfaces, as it penetrates, seals, and restores gloss without buffing, lasting for years with proper maintenance.

When choosing a motorhome polish, key considerations include surface compatibility, ease of application, protection level, and longevity. Ensure the polish is suitable for your motorhome's surface, such as fiberglass, painted aluminum, or laminate fiberglass. Water-based polishes like Poli Glow® require no buffing; others involve applying in circular motions and buffing off after drying. Look for polishes that create a durable, protective shell to guard against environmental damage and make future cleaning easier. Some polishes provide long-lasting protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

Before polishing, it's best to do so when surfaces are cool, ideally in the evening. Apply polish in small sections using a sponge or clean cloth with circular motions, allow it to haze, then buff off with a microfibre cloth for best results.

Polishing a motorhome makes the walls and roof hydrophobic, causing rainwater to bead and roll off. This not only enhances the appearance of your motorhome but also aids in cleaning.

Ceramic coatings like Paintseal or Diamondbrite can be applied to provide an invisible protective layer and make cleaning easier. These coatings offer an additional layer of protection and can be a worthwhile investment.

Older motorhomes with a powdery, drying out glass fibre finish can benefit from a quality polish or Owatrol Gelcoat and Surface Restorer. For cleaning a motorhome, consider using Autoglym Motorhome and Caravan Cleaner or Fenwicks Motorhome Cleaner.

Remember, polishing a motorhome is important for protecting and maintaining it. While you don't necessarily need a specific motorhome polish, as the ingredients are similar for cars, boats, and motorhomes, it's essential to choose a product designed for RVs, boats, or cars since their formulations are similar.

The publisher of this article, Future Publishing Limited, provides the information in good faith but disclaims any liability in connection with its use.

In summary, opt for a premium, brand-recommended polish compatible with your motorhome's surface, ensure proper cleaning beforehand, and apply using recommended techniques to achieve the best cleaning and protective results. By following these steps, you'll keep your motorhome looking great and protect it for years to come.

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