Restoring Fiberglass Camper Shine: Tips For A Like-New Look

Getting your camper to shine like it's brand new is a process that requires time and effort. The first step is to thoroughly wash your camper, starting from the roof and working your way down to the tires. After that, you can proceed to remove any oxidation using an oxidation remover, but be careful to only use it on fiberglass or gel coat areas and not on decals as it can ruin them. Next, polish all the fiberglass areas on the exterior of your camper, carefully following the instructions on the fiberglass polish you're using. Finally, apply a coat of wax to give your camper that shiny finish you're looking for. It's important to take your time and follow the directions on the products you're using. After completing these steps, you should plan to re-wax your camper every 5-6 months to maintain its shine.

Wash your fiberglass camper with a car wash product and a wash brush or mitt

To get a new shine on your fiberglass camper, it is important to start with a thorough wash. This will help to remove any dirt, grime, and oxidation that has built up on the surface.

For this step, you will need a car wash product, a bucket, a telescoping wash brush, a tire/wheel brush, and a hand wash mitt. Start by rinsing the RV and then apply the car wash product to the brush or mitt. Begin washing the RV from the top and work your way down to the tires. Rinse the RV frequently to prevent streaking and use the brush or mitt more vigorously for stubborn dirt. Allow the RV to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Some people recommend using a product like Soft Scrub with Bleach or Bar Keepers Friend to clean the fiberglass and remove stains. You can also try a marine cleaner and wax product, such as SeaPower, to clean, wax, and protect the surface.

Once the camper is clean, you can move on to the next steps, which include removing oxidation, polishing, and waxing. These steps will help to restore the shine to your fiberglass camper and protect it from future damage.

Remove oxidation with an oxidation remover, following directions and using a buffer on electric power

To remove oxidation from your fiberglass camper, you'll need to gather the right materials and follow a few important steps. Here's a detailed guide to help you get that new shine:

Materials:

• A marine gel-coat oxidation remover (specifically for fiberglass/gel coat RVs)
• Soft terry cloths or microfiber rags
• An electric buffer tool with a buffing pad (optional but recommended)
• A polishing pad (less coarse than the buffing pad)
• High gloss polishing gel
• Marine wax

Step 1: Clean the Surface

Start by cleaning the fiberglass surface with soap and water. This will help you identify the areas that truly need oxidation removal and prevent dirt from causing additional damage during the buffing process. Make sure to rinse the camper frequently to prevent streaking, and don't forget to let it dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Apply the Oxidation Remover

Attach a buffing pad to your electric buffer tool. If you don't have an electric buffer, you can also do this step by hand with a microfiber rag. Apply the oxidation removal liquid gel to the buffing pad. Spread or dab the oxidation remover on the fiberglass before turning on the buffer. Once you have a light coat, turn on the buffer to its lowest RPM setting and begin working it over the surface, gradually increasing the speed as you go. Move the buffer slowly in a side-to-side motion, applying light pressure on areas that need extra attention.

Step 3: Wipe Off Residue and Attach Polishing Pad

After you've buffed the oxidation away, use a terry cloth to wipe off any residue. Now, replace the buffing pad with a polishing pad. This pad will help smooth out the surface and prepare it for the final steps.

Step 4: Apply High Gloss Polishing Gel

Apply a high gloss polishing gel to the polishing pad. Spread it gently over the area you're working on with the power turned off. Once coated, turn the buffer back on to a slow setting and work the polish onto the surface, moving slowly to ensure an even application. You can gradually increase the speed and go over it again if needed.

Step 5: Final Wipe and Wax Application

Use a terry cloth to gently wipe down the camper again. Now, replace the polishing pad with a finishing pad and apply marine wax. With the buffer on a low setting, start applying the wax with light pressure, moving slowly across the surface until you have a thin and even coating. Leave the wax on for about 5-10 minutes, and then wipe it off with a fresh terry cloth.

And that's it! Your fiberglass camper should now be free of oxidation, protected from further damage, and shining like new!

Polish the fiberglass with a good-quality polish

Polishing your fiberglass camper is a crucial step in restoring its shine and protecting it from the elements. Here's a detailed guide on how to polish your fiberglass camper effectively:

Choose the Right Polish

Select a high-quality polish designed specifically for fiberglass and RVs. Look for products that can remove oxidation and have UV inhibitors to protect your camper from sun damage. Meguiar's M4965 Marine/RV Fiberglass Restoration System is a popular choice for its ability to provide a smooth and glossy finish while also treating stains and discolouration. Alternatively, PolyShine® Premium Fiberglass & Composite Polish is a user-friendly option that offers both shine and long-term protection.

Prepare the Surface

Before polishing, ensure your camper is thoroughly cleaned and dried. Start by sweeping the roof to remove any dust, bugs, or debris. Then, apply a bug and tar remover solution to address any discolouration or stains. Scrub problematic areas until the majority of the buildup is gone. Next, wash your camper's exterior with soap, water, and sponges, paying extra attention to the roof. Rinse it off with a hose and let it air dry to prevent streaking.

Apply the Polish

Once your camper is clean and dry, you can begin polishing. If you prefer hand polishing, use a kitchen sponge to scrub the wax/polish into the fiberglass surface until it's smooth. Allow it to dry and cloud over, then wipe it down with a soft cloth. This method requires more time and effort but can be worth it for some.

Alternatively, you can use a mechanical power buffer, such as a random orbital buffer, to speed up the process. Apply the wax to the fiberglass and use the buffer until you achieve a smooth and glossy finish. Be cautious when using a power buffer, as excessive speed or misuse on certain surfaces can cause damage. Work in small sections and regularly check your progress.

Maintain Your Camper

To protect your fiberglass camper long-term, consider using a cover when it's not in use to shield it from UV rays, dust, and scratches. Regular washing and waxing are also essential. Depending on your usage, consider washing your camper monthly and re-waxing every 5-6 months to maintain its shine and protection.

Wax the fiberglass with a marine or RV-grade wax

To get a new shine on your fiberglass camper, waxing is a crucial step. Here is a detailed guide on how to wax your fiberglass camper with a marine or RV-grade wax:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Wax

Select a wax that is specifically designed for fiberglass or gel coat surfaces. Look for products labelled as "marine wax" or "RV wax". These waxes are formulated to protect and enhance the appearance of fiberglass surfaces. Some recommended products include:

• Meguiar's Marine/RV One Step Compound
• Meguiar's Marine/RV Pure Wax Carnauba Blend
• Meguiar's Marine/RV Fiberglass Restoration System Kit
• 3M Marine Restorer and Wax
• Thetford Premium RV Wax

Step 2: Surface Preparation

Before applying the wax, ensure that the fiberglass surface is clean and dry. If there is any oxidation, use an oxidation remover or a heavy-duty polishing compound to restore the surface. You can also use a mild detergent and a soft sponge or brush to clean the surface.

Step 3: Applying the Wax

Follow the instructions on the wax product you have chosen. Some waxes can be applied by hand, while others may require a dual-action, variable-speed polisher. Work in small sections and apply the wax evenly to the surface.

Step 4: Buffing

Allow the wax to dry according to the product instructions. Then, use a soft cloth or polisher to buff the surface. This will remove any excess wax and create a smooth, shiny finish.

Step 5: Maintenance

To maintain the shine and protection of your fiberglass camper, reapply the wax as recommended by the manufacturer. This may vary depending on the product and the environment in which you use your camper. Regular waxing will help protect against UV damage, oxidation, and other elements.

Re-wax your camper every 5-6 months

To keep your camper in top condition, it is important to re-wax it regularly. The protective layer of wax on your camper's exterior can wear off over time, leaving the gel coat exposed to the elements. This can cause the gel coat to oxidize, making it appear cloudy and dull. Therefore, it is recommended to re-wax your camper every 5-6 months to maintain its shine and protect it from the damaging effects of oxidation.

Waxing your camper regularly will help to preserve the gel coat finish and keep your camper looking its best. It is also important to note that different waxes have different durability, so the type of wax you choose can impact how often you need to re-wax your camper. For example, regular automotive waxes may only last around 3 months, while a marine fiberglass wax can last up to 6 months.

When re-waxing your camper, it is crucial to follow the directions on the wax product you are using. The process typically involves cleaning the surface, applying the wax, and then buffing it to a shine. It is recommended to use a soft cloth or sponge for application and buffing. Additionally, you may need to use an electric orbital buffer for best results, especially when working on large or hard-to-reach areas.

It is also important to properly prepare the surface before re-waxing. This includes washing your camper with a suitable car wash soap or mild detergent and ensuring it is thoroughly dry before proceeding with the waxing process. Removing any existing oxidation and polishing the fiberglass can also help ensure a smooth and even finish.

By following these steps and re-waxing your camper every 5-6 months, you can maintain the shine and beauty of your fiberglass camper for years to come.

Frequently asked questions