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RV Siding Materials: Which Type is Best For Camper Exterior Walls?

• Last Updated: March 17, 2024
• 16 minutes read

Are you in the market for a camper? If so, you’re probably neck-deep into RV research, including their basic construction and the various types of camper siding options. 

If you’re just beginning your search, however, you might be wondering: What is RV siding made out of? 

RV siding is typically made out of either aluminum or fiberglass; and while these are the most common materials used, not every RV is made the same. Fiberglass RVs are made from both laminated and molded fiberglass, while aluminum RVs can be made from corrugated or smooth aluminum. 

RV siding material is an important aspect of your search, but it’s not the only element to consider.

So before choosing RV siding, it pays to do a little research on the different types of materials used to construct the exterior walls of your camper and learn about their costs and benefits, and ultimately – which RV siding is best.

Choosing The Correct Siding For Your RV 

Welcome to the amazing journey of RV construction; hold on tight, there’s a lot to know! 

This is mainly because there are SO many RVs out there to choose from. Lucky for us, there truly is an RV for everyone with many different options for floor plans, features, and of course – siding construction. 

As mentioned above, the two main types of camper siding materials are aluminum and fiberglass.

And yes, you can side your RV with just about any material out there: wood, vinyl, steel, etc.. however, you won’t really find those siding materials at a traditional RV dealer.

Indeed, there is a reason why aluminum and fiberglass are so popular: they are both lightweight and durable. 

Nevertheless, not all aluminum-sided and fiberglass-sided RVs are similar.

Some RVs have corrugated aluminum (think: wavy siding) while others have smooth aluminum (yep, you guessed it: Airstreams). Likewise, fiberglass RVs are made with either laminated fiberglass or molded fiberglass.

These include most motorhomes, as well as Scamps, Casitas , and other similar trailers. And of course, each option comes with its own list of advantages and disadvantages.

Next, we’ll dive into the four most common types of RV siding construction: corrugated aluminum, smooth aluminum, laminated fiberglass, and molded fiberglass. 

Let’s get started!

Different Types of RV Siding Options to Consider

Below are the four different types of siding that are typically used in RVs. While each one has its pros and cons, it’s important to remember that they are used for a reason.

Whether you choose an aluminum-sided RV or a fiberglass one, you can rest easy knowing that they are tried-and-true materials trusted by RV manufacturers throughout the years. 

1. Corrugated Aluminum

RVs with corrugated aluminum siding are extremely common, and chances are, someone you know probably has one.

They are typically cheaper than fiberglass RVs because they’re less expensive to make. Even so, it takes more man-hours to build one of these rigs because of their construction.

In fact, RVs with corrugated aluminum siding are referred to as “sticks and tin” campers because they’re built similar to a house.

They typically have a wood frame, fiberglass or foam insulation, and aluminum panels lining the exterior. 

Unfortunately, these rigs come with a reputation of being made with lesser quality materials; however, RVs with corrugated aluminum siding have many benefits. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons. 

• Lightweight : Aluminum is actually lighter than fiberglass, and therefore RVs with aluminum siding are generally more lightweight – thus, saving you money at the gas pump.
• Less Expensive  : Due to the cost of construction, RVs with corrugated aluminum siding are typically cheaper than those with fiberglass siding. This allows more people to afford RVs and enjoy everything that RV life has to offer. 
• Easier to Repair : Because the exterior of the RVs are made with aluminum paneling, they are much easier to repair – especially if you plan on doing the work yourself. If the side of your RV becomes damaged, you can replace individual panels instead of having to remove an entire wall. 
• Decent Insulation : We all know that RVs aren’t the best structures for keeping out the cold, but the wood and padding behind the aluminum provide a decent amount of insulation. Some say, better than fiberglass-sided RVs. 
• Prone to Dents : Yes, aluminum is lightweight, but that also means it dents very easily. If you find yourself caught in a hail storm or you accidentally drive under low-hanging trees, your RV may not look as nice as it once did. 
• Lower Resale Value : Like I said before, RVs with corrugated aluminum siding have a reputation for being built poorly, and in some cases, this is true. Unfortunately, whether this is accurate or not, resale value is affected. 
• They Age Poorly : To expand on the last point, these RVs’ susceptibility to dents and dings doesn’t help their resale value either. One mishap or scratch and your RV may suddenly look much older and more beat-up than it actually is. 
• More Wood = More Chances for Rot : Lastly, because the frame is made of wood, any kind of water damage is bad news. It’s also harder to spot any water damage from the outside, as the aluminum siding conceals it very well. You may not even discover it until the interior damage is noticeable – and by that time, an entire wall might need replacing.

Example of an RV with Corrugated Aluminum Siding: The Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 26DBH Travel Trailer

2. Smooth Aluminum

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of smooth aluminum siding? Airstreams, of course! And Wally Byam knew exactly what he was doing when he founded the iconic company in 1931. 

Airstreams are made from a riveted aluminum shell, an aluminum frame, and spray-on insulation.

This allows them to be both light AND indestructible. The body of an Airstream will not rot if left sitting for years in your backyard – there’s no wood in the structure! (Okay, there is wood in the subfloor, but that’s to be expected). 

While Airstreams are the most emblematic of the smooth-sided aluminum RVs, they are definitely not the only ones ever made.

In fact, you can find Airstream alternatives such as Living Vehicle Trailers and Bowlus Road Chief Trailers – both excellent companies that make top-quality rigs.

You also may recall seeing different vintage trailers with smooth aluminum siding, as they were very popular at one point. 

• Built to Last : Because these RVs are literally a shell of riveted metal, they won’t leak and fall apart like more traditional RVs. How many times have you seen a vintage airstream sitting in someone’s yard looking like it hasn’t aged a day?!
• Lightweight : As we discussed before, aluminum is very lightweight – and when it comes to Airstreams, their outer shell, frame, AND interior shell are all aluminum. Talk about weightlessness! 
• High Resale Value : At this point, investing in an Airstream or another comparable RV is almost like investing in a house. And if you buy and restore a vintage trailer like these, you’ll probably find yourself making money on the resale. This is because everyone knows: they last forever. 
• You Will Look Oh, So Cool : This factor doesn’t hurt the resale value, either! If you’re into RV life at all, you’ve probably seen those picturesque scenes of a vintage aluminum trailer with amazing views in the back. Yeah, Airstreams definitely have that cool factor, and it doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. 
• Expensive to Buy : As you might guess, riveted aluminum RVs are quite laborious to construct. In fact, Airstreams take two people (one inside, one outside) to insert each rivet. Couple this with their top quality materials and “cool-factor”, and you have one expensive RV (specifically, $188,100 for the 2023 Airstream Classic). 
• Expensive to Repair : If you find yourself needing to repair an Airstream, Road Chief, or a similar rig, prepare to pay a pretty penny. Replacing just one segment of an Airstream’s outer shell will cost $2,000 or more, and if you want to DIY it, the parts alone are in the hundreds. 
• Dents Easily : As we already mentioned, aluminum dents very easily, and if your RV’s exterior is shiny and smooth, just imagine how it will look after a hail storm! 
• Lower R-value : Because metal conducts temperature very easily, these aluminum-built RVs aren’t the best at keeping the heat in or the cold out (or vise versa!). Yes, there is a layer of insulation between the inner and outer aluminum shells, but they aren’t as energy efficient as other RVs. 

Example of an RV with Smooth Aluminum Siding:  The Airstream Classic Travel Trailer 

3. Laminated Fiberglass

Laminated fiberglass is one of the most common types of RV siding; especially in modern RVs.

In fact, if you see a camper or motorhome going down the road with smooth sides, it probably has fiberglass walls. 

RVs with fiberglass walls have grown in popularity – mainly because they look so good.

They don’t dent as easily as aluminum and they hold up well as they age. Yes, you may see some cracked decals, but the structure behind it remains solid unless heavy damage occurs. 

These RVs are usually made with an aluminum frame, and the walls are constructed with laminated fiberglass, luan wood, foam insulation, and another layer of luan for the inside wall.

If made well, this construction is very durable and lightweight. Moreover, because the frame is aluminum instead of wood, it will withstand water damage better than corrugated aluminum RVs.

In fact, you’ll probably be able to spot water damage pretty quickly. A sure sign that moisture has made its way into your walls is delamination, which happens when the layers of your RV wall separates, creating that wavy or warped look. 

• More Resistant to Water Damage: Again, because the frame is aluminum and the insulation is foam, there is less opportunity for mold and rot to make its home in your RV compared to “sticks and tin” RVs. 
• Water Tanks are in Located an Enclosed Underbelly : This is a fantastic perk of fiberglass RVs; the water tanks are usually enclosed underneath the RV (where the heat ducts are!). This makes RVing in cold weather a little more enjoyable, as your tanks and pipes won’t freeze as easily. 
• Higher Resale Value : Fiberglass RVs are known for being better quality than those with corrugated aluminum sides, and whether or not that is true, the resell value is generally higher for fiberglass RVs.
• Doesn’t Dent as Easily : If you have an RV with laminated fiberglass sides: good news! A hail storm won’t damage your rig nearly as bad as it would an aluminum RV. This also goes for low-hanging branches, excited pets, and other small mishaps. 
• They’re Pretty : While aesthetics are purely subjective, most RVers seem to like the smooth, sleek look of fiberglass RVs (as opposed to corrugated aluminum), and this is probably why they have a much better resale value. 

Cons: 

• Heavier than Aluminum : While fiberglass is a durable, lightweight material, it’s not as lightweight as aluminum. Thus, laminated fiberglass RVs are usually a bit heavier than aluminum ones (and require more powerful tow vehicles). 
• Lower R-value than Corrugated Aluminum Competitors : While this point is definitely up for debate, laminated fiberglass walls won’t typically have the same energy efficiency as “sticks and tin” RVs. This is because the aluminum frame, fiberglass, and foam insulation conduct temperature better than the wood and traditional insulation in corrugated aluminum walls. 
• More Expensive : As you might expect, fiberglass RVs are usually more expensive than their aluminum counterparts. This is because of the aesthetics, manufacturing costs, and durability of these rigs. 
• Unable to DIY Wall Repairs: Unfortunately, if major damage occurs to one of the sidewalls, you won’t be able to repair it yourself. Because the RV walls are created and laminated in a factory, you’ll have to turn to professional help for these projects (and it probably won’t be cheap!). 

Example of a Laminated Fiberglass RV: Jayco Eagle HT Fifth Wheel 

4. Molded Fiberglass

Molded Fiberglass RVs are in a class of their own. In fact, only six companies manufacture molded fiberglass RVS: Escape, Scamp, Oliver, Casita, Big Foot, and The EggCamper. 

These RVs are very recognizable and are made by molding fiberglass into two sections and then sealing them together to create the outer shell.

The interior is then lined with insulation (a space-age “bubble” insulation or foam), and then an interior wall material such as cloth or another layer of fiberglass. 

Molded Fiberglass RVs are unique because they don’t need a frame; the molded shell is sturdy enough to hold itself up (with some supports).

This construction provides both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to weight, durability, and size. 

• Resistant to Water Damage and Moisture Build-up: Because of the molded design, there are almost no seams – and thus fewer chances for water to seep in. The campers themselves are built with very little wood as well, so you won’t have to worry as much about the integrity of the structure. 
• Holds Up with Age : Like Airstreams, molded fiberglass RVs barely seem to age, and there are many older fiberglass campers on the road today. No doubt, buying a molded fiberglass RV like a Scamp or Oliver is a true investment because they last forever. 
• High Resale Value : To expand on the last point – since molded fiberglass RVs don’t seem to age, they keep their value! Therefore, you won’t have to worry about the depreciation that a typical RV experiences.
• Lightweight : Because of the ingenious design of molded fiberglass RVs, there is no need for a frame! This cuts down on weight dramatically, as the entire shell is made of lightweight fiberglass.

Cons :  

• Less Space Because of the Rounded Edges: This is a common complaint from Scamp, Escape, Oliver, Big Foot, EggCamper, and Casita owners. Because of the molded form, they have almost an egg-like shape (hence the name “The EggCamper”). This can impede both living and storage space. 
• Limited by Size : For one reason or another (possibly the rigid nature of fiberglass), molded fiberglass RVs max out at only 25 feet in length. In fact, most of these campers are between 17 and 19 feet, automatically excluding families who need more room.
• Expensive : Considering the size of these RVs, they are considered rather expensive. For example, a 17 foot Casita starts at $25,000, while an 18 foot Oliver starts at $57,000. Yes, they are made to last, but you could save thousands of dollars if you decide to buy a corrugated aluminum rig of the same size. 

Example of a Molded Fiberglass RV:  Oliver Legacy Elite 

So, Which Camper Sliding Material is Better?

It’s tempting to say one material is better than the rest (and I definitely have my own opinions).

However, the best camper outer wall construction is going to differ for everyone.

For example, someone who doesn’t want to blow their budget on a rig they will only use occasionally may opt for a corrugated aluminum RV, while a full-timing family may opt for a large rig with laminated fiberglass sides.

Likewise, a retired couple may enjoy the durability and low maintenance nature of molded fiberglass campers. 

Another point worth mentioning is: It’s all how they’re made! 

If you search long enough, you’ll find laminated fiberglass RVs that are poorly made and corrugated aluminum RVs that are extremely well built.

Therefore, comparing one material to the other is just one aspect to consider when deciding which RV is best for you – and usually, you get what you pay for! 

Now we want to hear from you! Which type of RV do YOU think is best?

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Robin D Shelton

We are in the market for a travel trailer and this has helped me understand so much about the camper exterior. My husband is against a corrugated one but those seem to have the best indoor features. It’s good to know that there are some bad fiberglass campers and some good aluminum ones. Thanks for this article.

Eddie olson

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• Exterior Parts
• Fiberglass Siding

8.5' Wide Arctic White RV Fiberglass / Filon Siding and Roofing

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Description

Warranty information.

RV Fiberglass Filon siding is a great option for upgrading the exterior of your RV, camper, or trailer. Unlike aluminum siding, fiberglass does not dent since it is made of a durable filon material. Fiberglass siding is built to last for a long period of time while keeping its same great structure. We offer 8 1/2 foot wide fiberglass siding with options ranging from 1 feet long all the way up to 40 feet long so you can get the right size for any project.

This fiberglass filon siding has a beautiful arctic white shade to it and unlike gel coat fiberglass, the arctic white fiberglass shows high visible fibers. If you are looking to remodel the outside of your RV or maybe just need to replace damaged siding, the arctic white RV fiberglass filon siding is a great choice.

• Fiberglass is 102" wide (8-1/2 feet)
• Gauge (thickness): 0.045 mill (1/16")
• Made of Filon: Durable and smooth reinforced plastic
• Visible fibers

Fiberglass is a type of plastic that has been strengthened and reinforced with glass fiber. Its strength and flexibility makes it readily moldable into all kinds of shapes, both simple and complex. Fiberglass has been put to use in automobiles, aircraft, boats, casts, external door skins, etc. The RV Fiberglass Filon siding has many potential benefits to the exterior of trailers, campers, and RVs.

Quick facts about the RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white:

The RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white is specially designed for the external covering of your RV, trailers, or camper. It is a delicate composition made with durability, beauty, and flexibility in mind. Some of the basic features include:

• It is made of long lasting filon material.
• It doesn't dent and is a remarkable improvement on aluminum siding.
• It is structured for longevity without alterations to its original design.
• A highly protective film is embossed on its finish panels; this film can be removed upon installation.

Width: RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white comes at a width of 8.5 feet. Color:  It comes in an appealing arctic white shade. Component: It is composed of a tough, long-lasting plastic that has been passed through a process of reinforcement. Visibility: The RV Fiberglass is made up of highly visible fibers which is quite different from the gel coat fiber glass. Thickness: 0.045 mill (1/16") Length: The length varies widely. It ranges from 1 feet to 40 feet in length. Can call for longer lengths but will have to ship freight.

What's special about the RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white?

• Durability: It's made of long lasting material that will give you a long time value for your money. The high durability of the Filon 8.5' wide arctic white is due to the Filon material used to manufacture it.
• Aesthetics: It enhances the beauty of the exterior of your RV, trailer, or camper. The material is smooth and very attractive, making the fiberglass a delight of builders/constructors as well as home owners.
• Flexibility: It comes in various lengths as short as 1 feet or as long as 40 feet so that you have something that fits a project of any size.
• Safe Installation:  The protective film positioned on the finish panels makes it possible to avoid damages during installation. The covering also protects the fiberglass from damages that could result from harsh chemicals like acids.
• Easy Transportation: The flexibility in terms of dimensions makes it easy and convenient to transport over both short and long distance.
• Packaging: The RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white is well-packaged.

When installing, smooth side (side with protected film) is the exterior side.

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RV Siding Types: What is RV Siding Made of?

• June 21, 2019 /
• RV Siding /
• By Phil Nash

RVs are more than just looks. But how they look is the first thing you notice about an RV. What makes an RV’s looks stand out are the exterior construction materials used. These materials not only have your RV looking good but also do a great job in protecting everything inside.

What is RV Siding Made of? There are two main construction materials used when manufacturers build an RV. You have a choice between aluminum and fiberglass. Both construction materials have their advantages and disadvantages but these materials are far better than the earlier choice, steel.

To learn all you need to know about an RV’s exterior siding just continue to read our article. It is filled with helpful information on an RV’s exterior siding. Knowing what your RV is made of, will help you decide which one to buy when it is time to get a new vehicle.

RV Siding Material Alternatives

Due to weight and mileage concerns, manufacturers have adopted only 2 real exterior siding options for your RV. It can either be aluminum or fiberglass . These two siding options may have different features, like gel coating or arctic white, but those features are used only with the fiberglass option.

On rare occasions vinyl, wood, and composite sidings are used but these types of siding are inferior to both fiberglass and aluminum. The cost to replace damaged portions may also be expensive.

RV Siding Aluminum vs Fiberglass

In today’s world comparisons are inevitable. Everyone wants to know which is better. These comparisons cover just about everything in life, as second best is not a desirable position to be in.

RV exterior siding is no exception to this comparison fad. People want to know which exterior siding on an RV is best- aluminum or fiberglass. Both exteriors have great advantages and we will let you know about those and their negative points.

Aluminum Siding

• Cost - buying an RV with aluminum siding can save you thousands of dollars. It is just much cheaper than fiberglass
• Wires and cables - aluminum walls leave room to run the wiring and other cables your RV needs to operate correctly
• You stay warmer - the wood frame used with aluminum exterior siding does not transfer heat or cold as fast as other frames
• Easier to repair - you may only need to repair the damaged section on an RV with aluminum exterior siding. You do not normally have to replace the whole exterior wall.
• Fuel mileage - aluminum is lighter than fiberglass thus it is possible to get more miles per gallon with aluminum siding than an RV with fiberglass siding
• Durability - aluminum is very durable and strong that is why it has been used as siding for decades
• Water leaks - if the silicone sealant is damaged, aluminum layers cannot stop water leaks and your wood frame may rot
• Weather issues - hail can damage aluminum quite easily, leaving you with a heft repair bill

Fiberglass Siding

• Noise levels - fiberglass is good at keeping the outside sound out of your RV
• Flexibility - fiberglass is more stable and less flexible than aluminum
• Easier to clean - your RV will look its best all the time
• Weather damage - hail does not hurt fiberglass like it does aluminum
• Resale value - fiberglass stays looking better longer helping you get a higher resale price
• A clean look - there are no staples, etc., used in attaching the fiberglass to the frame. Your RV looks cleaner and has fewer locations for water leaks to penetrate
• Water does do damage - if water does leak inside you could face a de-lamination issue
• Wiring and cables - you can’t run these behind the wall. There is no room as fiberglass walls are solid
• Cracks - when hit by a solid object spider web like cracks can occur costing you a lot in repair bills.
• N ot DI Y - RV users usually cannot fix damaged fiberglass. You cannot fix fiberglass in sections, usually the whole side needs to be replaced
• Inferior quality - sometimes the front and rear walls are cheaply put together, allowing water to damage the fiberglass backing. This allows for wobbles, dents, and indentations to appear on your RV

Best RV Siding

Most experts tend to find that fiberglass siding is better despite its faults. They are looking at the resale value, the resistance to hail, and other factors when deciding that fiberglass is the best RV exterior siding available.

There are those that disagree as the easy to repair, easy to run wires, the better gas mileage factors convince many to declare aluminum as the best siding. We tend to side with those who like aluminum over fiberglass.

The cost to replace and repair aluminum is much easier on the wallet and makes up for any disadvantages aluminum siding may have. Which one you consider to be the best, will be up to your preferences.

The look of fiberglass is more 21 st century, and it does hold its resale value, which makes for an interesting argument. Before you decide, get more opinions and facts on both types of exterior sidings.

What is Filon RV Siding

Filon material is a form of fiberglass that is often used to upgrade the siding on may RVs. It is a popular material because it will not dent, it is very durable and lasts a long time. It also looks a lot better than regular fiberglass and aluminum siding options.

Also, it can be put on your RV in one piece and it does not need painting. Its only drawback seems that it needs a layer of protective gel coating to protect it from being damaged

You need an expert to attach filon siding to your RV. It takes a specific glue and the surface it is being attached to must be 100% dry. The backing of filon is made from Luan or filon and there cannot be any air spaces between the filon siding and the material you are attaching it to.

RV Composite Siding

This type of siding is used when regular RV siding cannot perform up to expectations . They are used more for slide outs, ramps, decking and side walls. Also, they are more expensive to use than regular RV siding materials.

The honeycomb construction option provides the siding with strength while the foam style offers better insulation against the outdoor weather. Overall, the siding is very lightweight but that fact does not make it weak. It is a very strong siding.

The flexibility in how it can be handled allows for RV users to cut the panels to size and can be fitted with trim to make your RV look as good as new. Plus, this siding can and does resist dent.

Gelcoat RV Siding

Gel coat in and of itself is just a waterproof coating that is applied to wood, fiberglass and filon. This coating doesn’t show any of its fiberglass fibers allowing it to look good. It comes with the standard advantages that fiberglass brings to RV use.

A gel coat siding will resist dings etc. But it does add a little weight to your RV. Plus, it is a little more expensive than regular aluminum siding. Another good point for gel coat siding is that it is more durable, last longer, and has a better resale value than most other RV sidings used today.

RV Steel Siding

RV steel siding is better known as RV sheet metal siding. The material is easy to put on your RV and comes in different size sheets to meet your repair needs. Sheet metal is very durable and can withstand different weather and rock issues that may damage weaker RV siding.

When replacing your damaged RV siding, Sheet metal siding can be trimmed with simple hand shears. When repairing your RV with sheet metal siding, it is best to have at least one or two extra hands to help you. The material can be quite heavy and hard to manipulate into position

RV Vinyl Siding

This can be added to your RV and it should not transfer as much heat or cold as other RV siding materials do. One of the drawbacks of using vinyl siding is that it is not a durable or strong product. It may not be able to handle the stress that comes with road travel.

While it is lightweight and can look good, vinyl RV siding does not have the durability other RV sidings have. Also, it would have to be very securely fastened to your RV, which can add more possible water leak openings,so it can withstand the pressure of the wind and vibration.

RV Wood Siding

There are those people who like to give their RV a unique look. They often turn to wood to provide that uniqueness. There are a few problems with using wood as siding material for your RV.

• Wood can be very heavy
• Wood can rot if not treated or protected correctly
• Replacement of broken or damaged sections can be expensive
• Wood may not be as durable as you mat think
• Wood can attract bugs
• Wood may not be able to handle the wind or vibration pressure, as well as other siding material
• Wood can be time consuming to put on your RV
• Over time, the look of the wood may deteriorate and ruin your resale value
• Wood does not have a high resale value over other siding materials
• Not everyone shares your desire to be unique, making resale a very difficult chore to do

Homemade RV Siding

People like to do projects themselves. These projects are rewarding and can save you a lot of money. Even RVs are subject to DIY projects including placing new siding on the exterior of their vehicle.

Some of the ideas different RV users have is to turn to cedar paneling, vinyl sheets and even interior shower panels to update the look on their RVs. Some have even gone as far as adapting PVC pipe to make their RV look unique and special.

There are as many materials out there as ideas when one wants to redo their exterior siding themselves. The key is when you attempt this type of project, make sure you can securely fasten the siding without ruining your frame and creating potential spots for water leaks.

Also, you should be practical as many materials will not stand up to the vibration that comes from road travel.

Other RV Siding Ideas

There actually is no shortage of ideas when it comes to RV exterior siding. Aluminum siding usually uses wood frames and anything that can be attached to wood is good to use on your RV. Or so you hope.

When you go to add your own ideas to your RV, you need to be aware that you would need to strip your old siding off, and inspect the frame for rot and other damage. Then you would need to replace those damaged frame parts with new ones before you can add your new siding.

Even if you are thinking of just overlaying the new siding on top of your old, you should inspect the frame. Damage frames will not be able to hold the extra weight or handle the extra stress.

Some Final Comments

When you are shopping for a new RV, you do not have to worry about the exterior siding that much. There are basically only 2 options available and any other type of siding used is not frequent and may be part of a DIY project.

The difference between fiberglass and aluminum siding boils down to cost. Aluminum is cheaper to use, cheaper to repair and easier on the fuel bill. The only real advantage that fiberglass has, including the filon, gel coat and white arctic varieties, is that it is very difficult to damage.

The other advantage that comes with a fiberglass is that it looks good longer and has a higher resale value. Other types of siding like vinyl, wood and more may not be the best choice as they may not hold up to weather, wind and vibration issues.

Refurbishing your RV with inferior materials may cause you more headaches than you want to deal with. It is best to stick with either aluminum or fiberglass when residing your RV.

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• This item can be returned in its original condition for a full refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt. You may receive a partial or no refund on used, damaged or materially different returns.

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About this item.

• Fiberglass is 102" Wide and gauge: 0.045
• Has a protective film that must be removed after installation
• Made of Filon
• Does not dent like aluminum siding
• **PLEASE NOTE** All fiberglass/Filon/flooring/Superflex/EPDM/Roofing cuts are obtained from a master roll. This means the ends will have a rough edge and will be longer than the purchased cut length. This is done so the customer may cut the piece to exact specifications. Customer will make final cuts.

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Product description.

RV Fiberglass Filon siding is a great option for upgrading the exterior of your RV, camper or trailer. Unlike aluminum siding, fiberglass does not dent since it is made of a durable filon material. Fiberglass siding is built to last for a long period of time while keeping it's same great structure. We offer 8-1/2 feet wide of fiberglass siding with options from 1 feet long all the way up to 40 feet long, so you can get the right size for any project. This fiberglass filon siding has a beautiful arctic white shade to it, and unlike gel coat fiberglass, the arctic white fiberglass shows high visible fibers. If you are looking to remodel the outside of your RV or maybe just need to replace damaged siding, the arctic white RV fiberglass filon siding is a great choice.

• Fiberglass is 102" wide (8-1/2 feet)
• Gauge (thickness) .045 mill (1/16")
• Made of Filon - Durable and smooth reinforced plastic
• Visible fibers
• Our Fiberglass is 102" Wide and Gauge (thickness) is .045 mill.
• Made of durable and smooth Filon material.
• Fiberglass does not dent and is built to last while keeping it's same great structure.
• A highly protective film is embossed on its finish panels to avoid damages, this can be removed upon installation

Fiberglass/Filon

The RV Fiberglass/Filon 8.5' wide arctic white is specially designed for the external covering of your RV, Trailers, or Camper. It is a delicate composition made with durability, beauty, tenacity, and flexibility in mind. Some of the basic features include:

• It is made of long lasting filon material.
• It doesn't dent, it is a remarkable improvement on aluminum siding.
• It is structured for longevity without alterations to its original design.
• A highly protective film is embossed on its finish panels, this film can be removed upon installation.

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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the product. They mention that it is a perfect replacement material for a delaminated front cap. Some say that it works well and looks better than the original.

"...The door is now stronger than the original and it looks wonderful!" Read more

" Worked beautifully ! Highly recommend." Read more

"This filon is the perfect replacement material for a delaminated front cap on a travel trailer. The material is easy to works it’s...." Read more

"This seems to be of very good quality . It came packed very well so no damage in shipping. I replaced the complete back side of my camper...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the raw materials. They mention that it looks great and matches good.

"...The door is now stronger than the original and it looks wonderful !" Read more

" matched good !" Read more

"...I replaced the complete back side of my camper. looks very nice .." Read more

"...It is working very well and looks so much better ." Read more

Customers appreciate the fast service provided by the seller of the raw materials.

"We use this when we replace slide room floors. Great product, fast delivery !" Read more

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• [email protected]
• 1-780-448-0851

National RV Siding Ltd.

Siding panels, # 2 mesa siding panel.

# 3 MESA DELUXE

• Cut to Customer Specifications

Panel Locks

Pittsburgh lock (pl) with staple flange.

• Standard Lock On
• # 2 Mesa Pattern Panels
• The Lock Is Raised Approx 1/2 Inch

SMOOTH LOCK (SL) S – Lock with Staple Flange

• Standard Lock On # 3 Mesa Deluxe.
• The Lock Is Raised Approx 1/3 Inch

CONTACT INFO

• Main Office: 14305 121A Avenue Edmonton, Alberta Canada T5L 2T1
• [email protected]
• rvsiding.com

Azdel Onboard® Composite

Azdel Onboard composite panels have been used in RV exterior and interior sidewall, ceilings, and more since 2006. They are produced using a patented blend of polypropylene and fiberglass to create a strong, lightweight, quiet, weather and temperature resistant, odorless and environmentally friendly wall that will increase the life of your RV.

With over three times the insulation value, excellent strength, superior sound reduction, and half the weight of wood, our composite material increases durability, comfort and lightens your adventure. The reduced weight helps keep fuel costs down, and the interior noise reduction helps provide a quieter and more peaceful stay.

The composite panel that’s changing everything

Azdel Onboard composite panels are used in place of lauan plywood during your RV wall’s construction. They are produced using a patented blend of polypropylene and fiberglass to create a technologically superior wall that will extend the life of your RV. Check out the benefits!

At Interstate RV Metal and Supply, we offer a wide range of competitively priced, custom RV accessories and supplies. We are committed to complete customer satisfaction. This commitment is reflected in our product quality, our approach to service, and our growing list of loyal, satisfied customers. 

RV Siding, Paneling and Supplies

We have a variety of colors, textures, and styles of aluminum and fiberglass RV siding as well as a wide range of other RV supplies to meet your repair or manufacturing needs.

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• Aluminum Diamond Plate
• Black Diamond Plate
• Trailer Skin
• Stainless Steel Sheet
• Acrylic Sheet

Trailer Skin or Siding – White Aluminum Sheets, Exterior Panel

$ 129.00 – $ 187.00

Introducing the Size Metal white aluminum trailer skin or siding sheet metal panels, perfect for building or repairing enclosed trailers, RVs, cargo trucks, food trucks, campers, dry vans, and more. These high-quality panels come in a 49” width to ensure 1” overlap during installation. They are also protected with a layer of PVC to protect against scratches during installation. Once installed, simply peel the PVC protection off.  

These pre-painted trailer skin sheets are ideal for interior and exterior applications. The aluminum material makes it durable, yet flexible, and offers a versatile paneling solution for your trailer. For orders less than 4 sheets, they will be rolled inside of a box. When unboxing, you might see a slight curve on them but will not affect the integrity of the material or installation. For larger order quantities, we ship them flat on a skid/pallet via LTL freight.

For details, custom cut orders or bulk quantities, please call (800) 935-1973 or contact us . 

Trailer Skin or Siding – White Aluminum Sheets, Exterior Panel for Sale

White Aluminum Trailer Skin

thickness :

Select size, select quantity, need a custom cut.

We will cut to your specific dimensions (~1/16 accuracy) for $12 per straight edge cut. Call us at 1 (800) 935-1973, M – F, 9am – 3pm or fill out this form.

Product Title

Dimensions in Inches

Additional Information

Contact Number*

More About The Product

We can custom cut to your trailers needs. Please email or give us a call!

How do I maintain trailer skin?

Wiping it down and using non-corrosive cleaning solutions

Why SizeMetal?

Frequently Asked Questions

Wiping it down or using non-corrosive cleaning solution.

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Have a Question About Shipping, Size, Quality or Application? Let our Experts Help You!

Fill out the form below or call us at 1 (800) 935-1973.

We are able to ship oversized metals for a flat rate of $499 to any of the 48 states (up to 50 pieces) using a trucking company.

We are able to ship smaller pieces via UPS.

Here is a more detailed guide on shipping.

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Supreme Court ruling on Trump immunity could alter impeachment

Sauer argued that the founders preferred a president act without fear of prosecution rather than one who faced it constantly, in part citing a memorandum from the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel in the 1970s.

“Keep in mind that the criminal prosecution of a president prior to impeachment contradicts, in our view, the plain language of the Constitution but also hundreds of years of history and what DOJ admits is the Framers’ intent,” Sauer said.

In response to a question from Justice Amy Coney Barrett, Sauer said that former presidents might not even face charges if they were impeached and removed from office for ordering an unsuccessful military coup.

“There would have to be a statute that made a clear statement that Congress purported to regulate the president’s conduct,” Sauer said.

Barrett also asked Sauer what would happen if a president managed to hide their crime until they left office, so there was no opportunity for impeachment. Sauer responded the “framers assumed that risk” rather than take the chance a president would face prosecution.

Dreeben highlighted to the justices that impeachment is an unwieldy tool to address presidential misconduct. “Those are political remedies that are extremely difficult to achieve,” he said.

Past impeachment

The former president’s attorneys made different claims during the 2021 impeachment trial of Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

In response to a question from Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, Trump’s then-attorney Bruce Castor said the Constitution “makes very clear that a former president is subject to criminal sanction after his presidency for any illegal acts that he commits.”

Cornyn later issued a statement citing that answer as part of his reasoning for voting to acquit Trump. Others did as well, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., who mentioned it in his speech after the impeachment trial ended.

“We have a criminal justice system in this country,” McConnell said at the time. “We have civil litigation. And former presidents are not immune from being held accountable by either one.”

McConnell and other Republicans also said they based their votes on procedural grounds — that the Senate did not have jurisdiction to convict a president who was no longer in office — and not as a judgment of Trump’s behavior.

But at the arguments last week, Sauer argued that Trump’s acquittal at the 2021 Senate impeachment trial should prevent him from facing criminal charges.

Trump last officially made that argument at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, where it was rejected along with his other claims of immunity when a unanimous panel ruled against him in February.

It resurfaced as Sauer argued that the Constitution has enough checks in place to allow presidents some form of criminal immunity, and several conservative members of the court raised that in their questions to Sauer and Dreeben.

Historical context

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson during the oral arguments pointed to a brief filed by legal scholars on impeachment, saying Sauer’s conception ran afoul of history.

That brief, filed by the Constitutional Accountability Center on behalf of a group of law professors, argued that the impeachment clause said nothing about making impeachment mandatory for later prosecution, and has not worked that way for the other impeachments in the country’s history.

“The Clause says nothing about the prosecution of an officer who was acquitted after an impeachment proceeding and instead merely confirms that an officer who was convicted via impeachment may face subsequent prosecution,” the brief said.

Stephen M. Griffin, a law professor at Tulane University Law School, said some justices seemed to be looking at the impeachment and prosecution argument backwards.

“The impeachment clause expressly contemplates answerability. It says there can be prosecution after the President leaves office. It specifically says that, so I just can’t follow their argument that impeachment is required first,” Griffin said. “That whole line of argument is ridiculous.”

Nunziata said the Supreme Court risked siding with someone who makes “legal arguments that are designed to get him out of whatever jam he immediately faces,” and not take care of the Constitution or the institution.

He said impeachment alone would “not really be a meaningful check” on a potentially lawbreaking president. The current political landscape makes impeachment nearly impossible, and it would only get more difficult.

“There were, I thought, a few justices who gave too much credence to the idea that impeachment is a meaningful check, at least as impeachment is currently practiced and certainly how it’s construed by the president’s counsel,” Nunziata said.

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