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Hi, like many other posts, I too have now joined the "damp in my van". We had a service last week and damp has been deteced within our van in 2 spots.

Spot 1, side of van (door side) at the front, this seems to be at a panel joint height about 10 inches below the window and runs along for about 18 inches (engineer reckons it has followed a batten) only visible sign inside is the interior wallboard starting to "bubble". Damp reading 21-48%

Spot 2, side of van (door side) next to door going behind cooker, along wallboard.  There is a visible wallboard by door going towards cooker but this is only 2 inches wide and the wallboard does feel soft in a few spots. Damp reading 18-42%.

My question is, do i try to repair both spots myself ????.  Obviously my wallboard is patterned and so my main concern is not finding the correct wallboard to replace with and end up with an unsightly repair.  Having the repair behind the cooker and most probably the sink etc is also a concern.

We were originally looking at changing our van towards the latter part of the year and so the big question is

1. Do i try a repair myself

2. Do i pay for a more professional repair

3. Do i just part ex the van and take the "hit" on the part ex value whatever that may be.

Please help me decide !!!!!!

If you are thinking seriously about changing the van, I would price up the professional repair, then ask for a trade in price with the van as it is, then work out if it would be in your best interest. I am in no way judging your DIY skills, but a bad DIY repair can sometimes be worse financially than an actual damp van...

Hi Fleetwood99, I have already asked the service engineer (and repairs) for a quote, and I am already in the middle of asking for a trade in price.  The original plan (before damp), was to enjoy the van this year, "hopefully sell" privately end of August or failing that part ex, but go for a deal at the NEC show in October (funds available of course).  Its still a great clean well looked after van, and so I am so hestitant in repairing myself.  Im my own worst enemy, it has to look just as good as the original otherwise its not worth doing, so your comment above is definitely noted.

thank you