Wet Floor and Carpet

[PovIndy]

We have discovered leaks on either side of the foldout couch in the front of our newly purchased 2005 Safari. We are in the process of reupholstering the couch and want to take care of any leaks before completing the update. We have noticed the front leg area of the couch on both sides show historic signs of prior leakage. Has anyone dealt with this issue in the past? We are planning to replace the carpet, and install new laminate over the offseason - but we need to fix any leaks
before taking that project on. Any suggestions would be appreciated - what we know:
The leakage seems to have been ongoing for some time
The only areas we have identified dampness are the arms of the front couch where they meet the floor on both sides. The dampness only shows up in the carpet 2 -3 inches from the front legs of the couch
The windows are closed - there are no other openings close to the damp area that might be responsible for the leak. The moisture appears to be wicking up from the floor to the carpet and up the leg of the couch. The under belly pan is complete and secure. So where is the moisture coming from?
Has anyone experienced a situation like this one? Where was the moisture coming from?

[arktos55343]

Water can get in at any seam...and travel in unexpected directions. It gets in, and then travels the path of least resistance...finally collecting at the bottom of the wall and seeping out. Just because there is water where you found it, doesn't mean the leak is right there too. The very least you should do is check every seam on the outside, check the seals around roof vents and anything that pierces the roof. Check your window seals. If you can't find the leak, there is a pressure test that can be done at a dealership that (may) reveal the source of the leak.

[Al and Missy]

If there is a vent fan in the ceiling in the area, pull the interior parts and look for signs of a leak. Water could be running down the back side of the interior sheathing. Check the roof caulking in the area, and along the top of the widows and door. I haven't had the problem, but that's where I'd start. Other ideas are the front windows, and the belt molding. Do you have panoramic windows? They have been a source of problems at the bottom corners.

Al

[PovIndy]

Thank you both for the prompt responses - I will check out your suggestions - those pesky water leaks are insidious We do have a vent fan in the roof - I'll also inspect the seams and where the tops of the windows seal to the body - we have a slideout so the front window is not a panoramic The amount of moisture is not great - at least not for now I will update the thread as I complete inspections

[dkottum]

Get a moisture test meter such as this one Sonin 50211 Rapitest 10% to 28% Pinless Analog Wood, Concrete, Plaster, Carpet, and More Moisture Meter - - Amazon.com and probe into the plywood subfloor to see if that is wet. If so, see if it is solid or some wood rot has set in, and will probably need some repair.

The moisture meter can also help you track the leak source. Although the water can move as it drains down, the leak is usually above or at the highest concentration of moisture. Awning support arm mounting bracket rivets, screws can be a culprit in the area you have shown, as well the front storage access door if you have one.

Check the perimeter of your trailer interior periodically with the moisture meter to find any leaks before they can cause damage as part of your regular maintenance.