Structure/Build

Most motorhomes available in the UK/Europe are built onto an existing vehicle, usually a van (Ducato/Boxer/Daily etc). The general structure of these are wood laminate with metal framework. There is generally an outer skin which is Plastic, then a support which is usually ply, then insulation, then internal walls, then decor. There may be a gap between the inner and outer layers or it may be solid or glass fibre insulation.

Wiring generally runs in the floor, rising up to fitments, but this is not always the case.

Water is generally plumbed in flexible hoses which again travel under the floor and may be partially accessible from the underside.

Gas is plumbed in fixed hard pipe which usually runs in the floor, and will have a series of isolation valves (to be compliant) often located in a cupboard or under one.

FAQ

• Q: Can I walk on the roof?
• A: Yes and no. You should be able to walk on the roof if your vehicle has a ladder on the back, but keep to the sides and away from skylights and from the front of the vehicle where there is often a raised area.

• Q: Can I drill into the roof to fit a panel or dish?
• A: Yes, be sure there are no cables in the way and make sure to seal the hole with sikaflex or similar.

• Q: Can I change the layout?
• A: Yes, the fittings are generally not structural like seats and cupboards, but you may have to relocate wiring/piping.

• Q: Can I add seat belts to existing seats that don't have them?
• A: Well, maybe. If the seats are not designed to have seat belts fitted then they will need to be replaced with seats that do. Most motorhome manufacturers use travelling seats with seat belts built in that bolt down to the chassis, but you could use belted seats from a minibus for example providing they are correctly secured. Whatever you do, they must be compliant with the vehicles use/construction regulations in force at the time to be safe.

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