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RV Slide Out Floor Replacement (Material, Cost, How To Guide)

April 11, 2022 /
RV Slide Outs /
By James V.

Water leaks are dangerous. If you do not spot one, the water can ruin good flooring no matter where it is. When your slide-out floor gets soaked, it can be a pain to replace it as the wood the RV makers use, is not usually the size you can buy at your local lumber yard.

The cost of this repair is going to depend on the quality of the materials you buy. Some people suggest using marine-grade plywood as it will stand up better to water and water leaks than regular plywood. It is basic carpentry so hire someone who is good at this type of work.

How Much Does it Cost To Replace The RV Slide-Out Floor?

It would be nice to say that this repair will only cost you $100 and that is it. Unfortunately, specific prices cannot be given simply because material costs are different, labor costs are different and the size of the slides are different.

Also, you may add in special features like window tape, tarp and other waterproof or resistant materials to help protect the floor from damage. To get your specific cost here is what you need to do:

1. measure the slide floor to see how much plywood you will need

2. calculate the number of screws you will need

3. add in any extras like window tape etc.

4. calculate the number of hours it will take someone, or you, to do the repair correctly.

Those four factors will determine your basic cost. If you and a friend did it, you could possibly get away with paying the labor with a case of beer. In that case, your main costs will be the materials and time to rip out the old floor.

How To Replace The Slide-Out Floor

There are different ways to do this repair and some methods would depend on the size of your slide out. Here is just one method to use:

1. Remove all furniture etc., that can be removed and put in a safe spot.

2. Extend your slide out to its full distance.

3. Support the inside and outside of the slide with hydraulic jacks and sturdy 2 by 4s or 4 by 4s. You do not want it to bend, flex or move at any time during the repair.

4. Remove the old floor material. Be careful as it could be extra weak and break apart easily. Put this material out of your way so you do not trip over it.

5. Install the new floor. This step is going to be different for everyone if they have different size slides. One owner had a floor that measured 12’ 3” and the lumber yards did not sell plywood in that size.

You will have to do some figuring on how to get all the pieces to fit in the best way possible if you have a large slide floor to replace.

6. When done, remove the jacks and the 2 by 4s and retract your slide.

RV Slide-Out Floor Material

There is a product called Darco that is used to help the slide-out floor slide better. The problem is that some owners cannot find this material is thick enough sheets to replace the old material the manufacturer placed on the slide-out.

Some people have gone to a plastic-like material and they had to glue and press only 8 inches at a time to keep any bubbles from forming. To replace this material will take a lot of work.

We are mentioning this material as it is essential to have when you want your slide to work properly. You can replace the Darco with other alternatives but you would have to talk to some experts to see how those replacement materials would actually work.

For the rest of the flooring, plywood is your only option. The type of plywood you use will be up to you and how much space you have to put the new material. Some people recommend marine plywood for its resistance to water.

However, that plywood may be too expensive for some budgets. You can always waterproof the new material or cover it in a waterproof tape or tarp-like substance to keep the moisture away. But you also have to make sure the new materials do not interfere with the slide operation.

How do I Replace The Plywood in My RV Slide Out?

To do this correctly, you may need someone or something holding up the plywood when you remove the screws. The damage may be so bad that when you remove the screws, the plywood will simply fall out.

That is either a good or bad thing depending on how the old plywood breaks or falls. In most cases, you will have to deal with the brace or braces the manufacturer placed there to hold the expected weight placed on the slide-out.

You will have to support the slide-out so that it does not get damaged during the repair. Once that is done and you have something holding up the flooring, remove the screws and then take out the plywood.

After that is done, all that is left to do is reverse the process and install the new plywood. If your slide-out is like other owners’ then you may be faced with a sandwich. There will be a top layer with a layer of foam insulation and another layer of plywood

You may have to remove all three layers to do a good job. Before you install the new layers make sure they are properly protected against leaks and moisture

How do You Replace The Carpet in an RV Slide?

If you have ever removed the carpet from a floor before, you know it is a tough job to do. However, it is not as tough as trying to remove carpet from a slide-out. That is because the carpet edges are usually tucked under the slide-out walls and or molding.

That makes it a bit more time-consuming and difficult to do. However, you start by cutting the carpet edges that you can see. Don’t cut the carpet too deep as you do not want to damage the sub-flooring material.

As you cut, you should pull the carpet away from its place. After you have removed the carpet, you will need to scrape off any glue used to hold the flooring in place or remove the staples if the latter were used.

To get the carpet under the walls or molding, you may have to remove screws holding those items in place along the floor. Once that is done, you simply pull those carpet pieces out.

You can replace the old carpet with new one but that may not always be the best idea. Keeping carpets clean is difficult. You can opt for a vinyl plank floor or some other flooring material which are easier to keep clean.

The installation has to be as careful as the removal process as you need to clean the area first to make sure all dirt, etc., is removed. Then follow instructions that come with the new flooring material to get it done right.

How do You Fix a Sagging Slide-Out Floor?

There are different methods you can use depending on the type of sag your floor has. But before you decide it is sagging, make sure that this is not a purposeful design. Some slide-outs are made to sag a little bit to help drain the water away from your RV .

It pays to know the difference between a design sag from a real sag. It will save you a lot of hassle as well.

Horizontal sag

- loosen the carriage bolts from each bracket

- position the room horizontally by pushing or leveraging the outside wall

- tighten the carriage bolts back up

Vertical sag

- loosen the carriage bolts on each bracket

- next, loosen the jam nut

- turn the vertical adjustment bolt up or down to correct the sag

- tighten the jam and carriage bolts once again

Now if these do not do the trick, you may have put too much weight on the bolts holding the slide-out in place. If that is the case you may need to get the dealer or repair shop to replace those bolts or weld them back on.

In other cases you may need slide-out supports to help hold the weight of the floor.

Some Final Words

Replacing the floor in your slide out may be a tough job to do. But if you do not want to fall through the floor at some point, it is a job that has to be done. You can do it yourself, hire a handyman or let the dealer handle the repair work.

The last option is the only one when you are still under warranty. Always check first before starting any repair.

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RV Slide Out Floor Replacement Guide

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If you’re planning to replace the flooring in your RV’s slide out, it’s important to know the right steps to take. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process for replacing the slide out floor in your RV. Whether you have carpet, vinyl, or another type of flooring, these instructions can be applied to any type of flooring material. So let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Replacing the slide out floor in your RV is a straightforward process that can be done with basic tools.
Regularly inspect your RV for signs of water damage to catch it early and prevent further damage.
Before removing the old flooring, make sure to remove any furniture from the slide out.
Choose the right underlayment for your RV slide out floor to provide a stable base for the new flooring.
Installing the new flooring involves careful planning and attention to detail to ensure a professional finish.
Attach trim to the edges of the slide out to create a finished look and protect the flooring.
Follow these steps and you’ll have a beautifully renovated RV slide out floor in no time!

Now that you have a general idea of what to expect, let’s dive into the specifics of each step in the process.

Signs of Water Damage in RV Slide Floors

Water damage is a common issue in RVs, and it’s crucial to identify the signs early on to prevent further damage. By regularly inspecting your RV slide floors, you can catch water damage and take the necessary steps for repair, renovation, or maintenance. Here are some key signs to watch out for:

Damp or Mildewy Smells: If you notice a musty or unpleasant odor in your RV slide area, it could indicate water damage. The presence of moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, resulting in persistent odors.
Soft Spots: Walk around your RV slide floor and pay attention to any soft or spongey areas. These spots indicate underlying water damage and may require immediate attention.
Stains or Discoloration: Look for visible stains or discoloration on the floor surface or walls surrounding the RV slide. Water damage can leave behind unsightly marks, indicating leaks or excess moisture penetration.
Mold: Mold is a clear indicator of water damage. Pay close attention to any signs of mold growth on the RV slide floor or surrounding areas. Mold can cause health issues and needs to be addressed promptly.
Rusty Screws: Check for rust or corrosion on the screws or fasteners holding the RV slide floor in place. Rusty screws are often a sign of prolonged exposure to moisture.
Cracked Caulk: Inspect the caulking or sealant around the RV slide floor edges. Cracked or deteriorated caulking can allow water to seep in, leading to damage over time.

By staying vigilant and addressing any signs of water damage promptly, you can mitigate further issues and ensure the longevity of your RV slide floors. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to consider rv slide out floor repair , renovation, upgrade, or maintenance to protect your investment.

Removing the Old Flooring

Before you can begin your RV slide out floor renovation , it’s crucial to remove the old flooring. This process may involve taking out carpet, vinyl, or any other existing flooring material in your RV slide out. Follow these steps to ensure a successful removal:

Start by clearing out any furniture or objects from the slide out area.
Carefully begin pulling up the old flooring, starting from one end and working your way across. Take your time to avoid causing any damage to the subfloor or other components of your RV.
As you remove each row of flooring, keep them separate and in order. This organization will make it easier to replace the flooring later.

Remember, safety is essential during this process. Wear gloves to protect your hands and be cautious of any sharp edges or nails. By properly removing the old flooring, you’ll create a clean slate for your RV slide out floor renovation .

Choosing the Underlayment

Once the old flooring has been removed, it’s time to choose the right underlayment for your RV slide out floor. The underlayment serves as a crucial foundation that helps level the floor and provide stability for the new flooring.

The recommended underlayment for most RV slide outs is 1/4 inch OSB (oriented strand board). This sturdy material offers durability and support while being lightweight enough to not add unnecessary weight to your RV. However, you can also consider other options like thicker plywood or composite materials, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

Before proceeding, measure the size you need and cut the underlayment to fit properly in your RV slide out. It’s important to ensure a precise fit for optimal functionality and aesthetics.

With the right underlayment in place, you’ll create a solid base for your new flooring, ensuring a successful RV slide out floor repair , renovation, or maintenance.

Installing the Underlayment

Now that you have the underlayment ready, it’s time to install it in your RV slide out. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation:

Start by painting the underside of the slide out with a suitable paint color that matches your new flooring. This will give your RV slide out a clean and finished look.

Next, carefully place the underlayment on the slide out, making sure it is level and aligned with the edges. Take your time to ensure proper placement.

Use screws or adhesive to secure the underlayment in place. Make sure the underlayment is firmly attached to the slide out, providing a sturdy foundation for the new flooring.

With the underlayment securely installed, you’re now ready to proceed with the next step – installing the new flooring in your RV slide out.

Installing the New Flooring

Now that you have the underlayment in place, it’s time to install the new flooring in your RV slide out. Whether you’re opting for carpet, vinyl, or laminate, the process is relatively straightforward. Just follow these steps:

Lay down the first row of flooring along the edge of the slide out, starting from one side and working your way across. Be sure to leave a small gap for expansion and contraction.
Continue installing the remaining rows of flooring, interlocking them securely to create a seamless and durable surface.
Use spacers along the edges of the slide out to maintain a consistent gap and ensure a professional finish.
Trim the flooring as needed to fit the slide out perfectly, using a utility knife or saw as necessary.

Take your time during the installation process to ensure that each piece of flooring is laid down properly and securely. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific type of flooring you’re using to ensure a successful installation.

Installing the new flooring in your RV slide out can instantly transform the look and feel of your living space. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, this project is manageable and rewarding. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy your newly upgraded RV slide out floor!

Attaching Trim to the Slide Out

Now that you have successfully replaced the flooring in your RV slide out, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Attaching trim to the edges of the slide out not only enhances the overall appearance but also protects the edges of the new flooring.

When selecting trim for your slide out, consider the design and material of your new flooring. Choose from options such as flush mount stair nose molding or outside corner molding for a seamless and professional finish. Make sure to measure and cut the trim to the appropriate length before installation.

To ensure a secure attachment, use construction adhesive or nails. Apply the adhesive to the backside of the trim and carefully press it against the edge of the slide out. If using nails, position them evenly along the trim, ensuring they penetrate both the trim and the RV’s structure. Take your time to align the trim properly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a precise fit.

Once the trim is attached, go the extra mile by sealing it. Apply a sealant or caulk along the edges of the trim to prevent moisture or debris from getting behind it. This extra layer of protection will help maintain the integrity of your newly renovated RV slide out floor.

How do I know if my RV slide floor has water damage?

Some signs of water damage in RV slide floors include damp or mildewy smells, soft spots in the roof, walls, or floors, stains or discoloration, mold, rusty screws, cracked caulk, and more. Regularly inspecting your RV for these signs can help you catch water damage early and take the necessary steps for repair or renovation.

How do I remove the old flooring from my RV slide out?

To remove the old flooring, start by removing any furniture from the slide out and then carefully pull up the flooring. Take your time to avoid damaging the subfloor or other components of the RV. Keep each row of flooring separate and in order for easier replacement.

What underlayment should I use for my RV slide out floor?

The recommended underlayment for most RV slide outs is 1/4 inch OSB (oriented strand board), but you can also consider other options like thicker plywood or composite materials. Measure the size you need and cut the underlayment to fit before proceeding to the next step.

How do I install the underlayment for my RV slide out floor?

Start by painting the underside of the slide out with a suitable paint to ensure a clean and finished look. Then, carefully place the underlayment on the slide out, making sure it is level and aligned with the edges. Use screws or adhesive to secure the underlayment in place, ensuring a sturdy foundation for the new flooring.

How do I install the new flooring in my RV slide out?

If you have floating floors, start by laying down the first row of flooring along the edge of the slide out, leaving a small gap for expansion and contraction. Continue installing the remaining rows of flooring, using spacers along the edges for a professional finish. Trim the flooring as needed to fit the slide out perfectly.

How do I attach trim to the edges of my RV slide out?

Depending on the design of your slide out, you may need to use specific types of trim, such as flush mount stair nose molding or outside corner molding. Choose a trim that matches your flooring and carefully attach it using construction adhesive or nails. Make sure the trim is secure and properly sealed to prevent any future issues.

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