stopping the rot

[hertfordnc]

I have a 65 Boles Aero, for those not familiar, it's one of the great Airstream wannabees.

All aluminum construction, high end materials, etc.

This one was bone dry insoide for many years but in the last few winters it developed a few leaks which i did not notice as the water came inside the cabinets. The source is failed roof calking.

So here's my question, the old beauty is not worth ripping the walls out for a proper retoration.

As much as I love it, i'd have a hard time giving it away.

How can i arrest the damage,remove the moisture, and keep the old beast going for a few more years?

thanks

Dave

[silverleeper]

Originally Posted by hertfordnc

I have a 65 Boles Aero, for those not familiar, it's one of the great Airstream wannabees.

All aluminum construction, high end materials, etc.

This one was bone dry insoide for many years but in the last few winters it developed a few leaks which i did not notice as the water came inside the cabinets. The source is failed roof calking.

So here's my question, the old beauty is not worth ripping the walls out for a proper retoration.

As much as I love it, i'd have a hard time giving it away.

How can i arrest the damage,remove the moisture, and keep the old beast going for a few more years?

thanks

Dave

First, Fix the roof leaks.

Then if the damage is not too bad you can use products found in this link. Rot Repair -- Fixing Rotted Wood

[samb]

I also have a Boles Aero, but not a new one like your 65. Mine is a 1949. I believe they are well-built trailers and worth the effort to save.
I agree with what Silverleeper advised. First stop the leaks. Then dry it out.
Then check into what is called CPES. (clear, penetrating, epoxy, sealer) before you remove any rotten wood. I use System Three epoxy, but there are several other brands. This stuff is water thin and soaks deeply into rotten wood, then sets up hard and rot-proof.
This method is not as good as replacing all the rotten wood, but will stop any rot and strengthen rotten areas without doing any harm for any future restoation. And it will give you a few more years of use before you have to decide whether to rebuild or dispose.
Sam