Guide to painting a caravan exterior (step-by-step)

Whether you’re looking to spruce up an old van or give your new one a personal touch, painting a caravan exterior is easier than you might think. 

We have all the tips and tricks you need, from choosing the right paint to painting those hard-to-reach corners.

 

Can you paint a caravan exterior?

Firstly, let’s clear up this important question. Can you paint the outside of a caravan?

Yes! Painting a caravan exterior is not only possible but also a brilliant way to breathe new life into your trusty travel companion.

Whether you’re looking to freshen up a tired-looking van or give your new pride and joy a personal touch, a lick of paint can work wonders.

 

How to paint a caravan exterior (step-by-step)

1. Gather your tools and materials 

Before you crack open a tin of paint, you’ll need to gather all your gear.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Exterior caravan paint (coach enamel paint is a top choice)
• Primer suitable for your caravan’s material
• Sandpaper (various grades)
• Cleaning supplies to wipe up splashes and spills
• Brushes and rollers
• Masking tape and plastic sheeting
• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask)

 

2. Prepare your workspace

Now, where are you going to work your magic? You’ll want a spot that’s covered and well-ventilated.

First things first, protect the area around your caravan. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting.

Good lighting is also essential. If you’re planning on using any electric tools, don’t forget about power sources.

 

3. Clean and inspect the caravan exterior

It’s time to give your caravan a proper scrub down. Use appropriate cleaning agents to remove all the dirt, grease, and old flaking paint from the exterior surfaces before giving it a polish. 

While you’re at it, give the exterior a thorough once-over. Look for any dents, cracks, or rust spots. Catching problems early can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Related: Complete guide to cleaning a caravan

 

4. Repair any damage

Have you found a few battle scars on your caravan? Addressing dents, cracks, or rust spots will provide a smooth finish later.

Use an appropriate filler for any holes or uneven surfaces. Once dry, sand the repaired areas until they’re smoother than a freshly groomed cricket pitch.

Remember, patience is key here. Take your time, and you’ll reap the rewards later.

 

5. Sand the entire exterior

Now, here’s where the elbow grease comes in. Sanding the exterior might seem like a chore, but it’s crucial for paint adhesion. You’re creating the perfect surface for that new coat to cling to.

Choose your sandpaper wisely. Coarser grades are great for stubborn areas, while finer grades will give you that silky-smooth finish.

When sanding, use circular motions and even pressure. Firm but gentle does the trick.

 

6. Mask off areas not to be painted

Now, let’s talk about masking. This is where you protect the bits of your caravan you don’t want to be painted. You want to shield the sensitive areas.

Use automotive masking tape for clean lines. It’s designed to withstand paint and won’t leave residue behind. Mask off windows, trims, and any other areas to keep paint-free.

When masking, make sure your tape is pressed down firmly. Any gaps are like leaving the tent flap open in a rainstorm—paint will find its way in.

 

7. Apply primer

Priming might seem unnecessary, but trust us, it’s worth it. It’s like laying a good foundation for a building—everything else sits better on top of it. Make sure you choose a primer suitable for your caravan’s material.

Apply the primer evenly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It might look a bit odd at first, like a half-finished jigsaw puzzle, but don’t worry—it’ll all come together in the end. Remember to factor in drying times.

 

8. Apply the first coat of paint

Finally, we’re at the main event—applying that first coat of paint! This is where your caravan starts its transformation.

You’ve got options here. Brush, roller, or spray. Each has its pros and cons.

Brushes are great for detailed work but can leave streaks if you’re not careful.

Rollers cover large areas quickly but might only get into some nooks and crannies.

Spraying gives a smooth finish but requires more setup and can be messy.

Whichever method you choose, apply the paint evenly. You want good coverage without any blobs or bare spots.

Start at the top and work your way down. Any drips or runs can be smoothed out as you go.

Related: Why is caravan insurance important?

 

9. Allow proper drying time

Now comes the hardest part—waiting. It’s tempting to rush ahead, but proper drying time is crucial. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times.

Remember, factors like temperature and humidity can affect this. Painting on a damp day is like drying your laundry in the rain.

 

10. Sand between coats 

You might be thinking, “What? More sanding?” But trust us, this light sanding between coats is important.

Use ‌fine-grade sandpaper for this step. You’re not trying to remove the paint; you’re just scuffing it up to help the next coat stick better.

 

11. Apply additional coats

Time for round two (or three)!

Most caravan painting jobs will need at least two coats for full coverage. Each layer adds more protection and warmth.

Apply your next coats just like the first, but be extra careful around the edges and corners. If you’re not careful, these areas can build up too much paint, leading to unsightly drips.

Remember, slow and steady wins the race here.

 

12. Remove masking and clean up

The big reveal is approaching! Once your final coat is dry, it’s time to peel off that masking tape.

Remove the tape slowly and at an angle. If you find any areas that need touching up, now’s the time to do it. You want to make sure everything’s just right.

Related: How to level your caravan (step-by-step)

 

13. Final inspection and touch-ups

Step back and admire your handiwork! But don’t just give it a cursory glance—inspect your paint job. Look at it from different angles and in different lights. You want to catch any issues before they become problems.

If you spot any imperfections, don’t panic. A few tweaks can make all the difference.

 

FAQs on painting a caravan exterior

What paint do you use on a caravan exterior?

When painting a caravan's exterior, you’ll want to use specialised exterior paint that can withstand the elements.

Look for paints specifically designed for vehicles or caravans. These are formulated to be flexible, durable, and weather-resistant.

 

Can you spray paint the outside of a caravan?

Yes, you can spray paint the outside of a caravan, giving it a fantastic finish.

However, spraying requires more setup and can be messier than brushing or rolling. You’ll need to mask off areas carefully and ensure you work in a well-ventilated, dust-free area.

 

How much does it cost to paint a caravan?

The cost of painting a caravan can vary widely, like trying to guess the price of a pitch without knowing the campsite.

If you’re doing it yourself, you might spend anywhere from £100 to £300 on materials, depending on the size of your caravan and the quality of paint you choose.

Professional jobs can range from £500 to £2000 or more.

 

Specialist caravan insurance through Ripe

Now that you know how to pain the exterior of your caravan and give it a new lease of life, you might want to protect it through specialist caravan insurance.

At Ripe, the cover protects tourers from theft, loss, or damage up to the value of £75,000 and static caravans up to the value of £175,000. You can also opt for additional cover to protect your contents and awnings.

Learn more about how we can help here or get an instant online quote today.