A Deep Dive into Materials and Construction

If you’ve ever stepped inside an RV and knocked on the walls, you probably noticed they don’t feel like the walls in a traditional house. That’s because RV walls have to be lightweight, durable, and resistant to movement, moisture, and temperature changes.

So, what exactly are RV walls made of? The answer depends on the type of RV, its price range, and the manufacturer. Let’s break it down.

The two main mypes of RV walls: stick and tin vs. laminated walls

Most RVs fall into one of two construction categories:

1. Stick and Tin Construction – Common in entry-level and budget-friendly travel trailers.

2. Laminated Walls – Found in modern travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes.

Let’s go over each.

1. Stick and Tin (Wood-Framed with Aluminum Siding)

Stick and tin RVs use a wood frame with corrugated aluminum siding. This is the old-school method of building RVs, and while it’s not as sleek as newer designs, it has its advantages.

What it’s made of:

• Wood studs (usually 2×2 or 2×3) for the frame.

• Fiberglass insulation or foam board in the wall cavities.

• Corrugated aluminum panels on the exterior.

• Thin plywood or MDF paneling on the interior.

Pros:
✅ Easier to repair if damaged.
✅ Generally cheaper than laminated walls.
✅ Holds up well in colder climates (wood doesn’t transfer heat/cold as quickly).

Cons:
❌ Heavier than laminated construction.
❌ More prone to water damage and rot.
❌ Aluminum siding can dent easily.

You’ll typically find stick and tin construction in brands like Jayco Jay Flight, Forest River Salem, and Coachmen Catalina.

2. Laminated Walls (Fiberglass with an Aluminum or Composite Frame)

Most modern RVs use laminated walls, which are lightweight, sleek, and better insulated. Instead of a wood frame, these walls use aluminum or composite framing with layers bonded together under pressure.

What it’s made of:

• Outer fiberglass skin (smooth, durable, and aerodynamic).

• Thin luan plywood or composite backer behind the fiberglass.

• Foam insulation (closed-cell or block foam) for better energy efficiency.

• An aluminum or composite frame for support.

• Interior paneling (either vinyl-coated luan, MDF, or lightweight plywood).

Pros:
✅ Lighter weight, which improves fuel efficiency.
✅ More aerodynamic and modern-looking.
✅ Better insulation for extreme temperatures.
✅ Doesn’t rot as easily as wood-framed walls.

Cons:
❌ Harder (and more expensive) to repair if delamination occurs.
❌ Can develop “soft spots” over time if water gets inside.

You’ll find laminated walls in brands like Grand Design, Winnebago, Airstream, and Tiffin Motorhomes.

A closer look at RV wall insulation

No matter the wall type, insulation plays a huge role in keeping an RV comfortable. Here are the most common types:

1. Fiberglass Batting (Like House Insulation)

• Found in stick-and-tin RVs.

• Decent insulation but absorbs moisture easily.

2. Rigid Foam (Block Foam)

• Common in laminated walls.

• Provides better insulation than fiberglass.

• More resistant to moisture and mold.

3. Spray Foam or Composite Insulation

• Found in high-end RVs.

• Superior insulation and noise reduction.

• Less risk of water damage.

How to tell what your RV walls are Made Of

Not sure what type of walls your RV has? Here’s a quick test:

• Knock on the exterior. If it sounds hollow and metallic, it’s stick and tin. If it’s solid and smooth, it’s laminated fiberglass.

• Look at the seams. Aluminum-sided RVs have visible horizontal seams. Fiberglass walls are smooth with fewer visible joints.

• Check your manufacturer’s specs. Most RV brands list wall construction details in their brochures.

Which RV Wall Type Is Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re on a budget and want something easy to repair, stick and tin walls may be the way to go. If you want a sleek, modern RV with better insulation, laminated walls are the better choice.

Regardless of what type you choose, always inspect the walls for water damage, delamination, or soft spots before buying a new or used RV. A well-built wall means a longer-lasting RV!

🚐💨 Happy RVing!