How to Replace Camper Floor Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Rotten Camper Floors and Upgrading Your RV Interior

Replacing a camper floor is one of those DIY projects that can seem overwhelming at first but is totally doable with the right approach. Whether you’ve got rot from water leaks or just want to modernize that 90’s vinyl, this guide will walk you through what I’ve learned as a designer (and a weekend RV renovator) on how to replace a camper floor with confidence.

Project Planning: Know What You're Replacing

Start by assessing the condition of your camper’s floor. Common signs you need a replacement include soft spots, visible rot, or warping. Carefully move out all furniture and appliances. Don’t forget to inspect under sinks, around windows, and in corners—these are typical trouble spots.

If you’re considering redesigning the layout while replacing the floor, this is your chance! Using tools like a room planner can help you visualize the new look before you start the demolition.

Choose the Right Materials and Tools

Selecting materials depends on your camper’s structure and your style preferences. Plywood is the go-to for subfloors; opt for marine-grade if you want ultimate durability. For the surface, vinyl planks are lightweight, waterproof, and easy for DIYers, although laminate or even carpet tiles also work well.

You’ll need these basics: pry bar, circular saw, drill, tape measure, utility knife, flooring adhesive (or nails/screws), and safety gear. Some folks prefer using an AI home design tool to preview material choices in 3D before buying bulk.

Level of Detail & Time Investment

This job typically takes a dedicated weekend, but set aside extra time for drying, especially if you’re sealing wood or leveling the floor. Removing rotten flooring can uncover surprises—like hidden water damage—that may require more involved repairs. Decide how deep you need to go: Some projects only need a new finish, while others require a full tear-out right down to the joists.

Step-by-Step: Replacing the Camper Floor

1. Remove All Fixtures: Disconnect and move out furniture, benches, and cabinet bases. As a rule, remove everything you reasonably can—it’s worth it for a cleaner, longer-lasting job.
2. Demo the Old Floor: Use a pry bar and circular saw to cut and remove rotted areas. Wear a mask if you suspect mold.
3. Inspect & Repair Structure: Examine the subfloor and joists. Replace any moldy insulation or compromised wood.
4. Install New Subfloor: Cut plywood to size, ensuring good support at all joints. Screw or nail into joists for stability.
5. Seal the Edges: To prevent future water damage, use waterproof sealer along walls and seams.
6. Lay New Flooring: Vinyl planks or tiles go down easily and are a favorite among RV veterans. Consider referencing a 2D floor plan to double-check your fit.
7. Trim & Finish: Reinstall cabinetry, furniture, and thresholds. Caulk around fixtures to keep water out.

Case Study: Jane's Family Camper Rescue

Jane, a DIYer from Arizona, restored her family’s 2006 Jayco trailer after discovering soggy, collapsed floors beneath the bathroom. Using a mix of reclaimed plywood and peel-and-stick luxury vinyl, she completed the job over four days (with help from two teenagers and a pile of takeout pizza). Jane shared that pre-planning layout with a free floor plan creator made cutting boards and tiles a breeze, not to mention reducing measurement mistakes.

Workflow Tips & Time Savers

1. Label everything you remove—drawers, hardware, even wires.
2. Pre-cut flooring outdoors to minimize dust inside the camper.
3. If you hit stubborn rot, don’t cut corners—replace down to good wood.
4. Test-fit tricky angles before gluing.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to replace a camper floor? For a standard camper, expect 2–4 days if you’re working solo and need to address some rot.
2. What’s the best flooring to use in an RV? Vinyl planks or sheet vinyl are most popular; they’re waterproof, light, and forgiving on uneven surfaces.
3. Do I need to remove all cabinets when replacing the floor? If cabinets sit on the old floor, yes. Otherwise, you can carefully cut around them—but full removal yields a better, longer-lasting result.
4. Can I DIY a camper floor replacement as a beginner? Absolutely! Start small—maybe a single soft spot—and work up to larger jobs as your confidence grows. Using a design visualization tool can boost planning confidence.
5. Should I insulate under the new floor? If you camp in cold climates, yes—add rigid foam between the joists before laying your subfloor.
6. What tools are essential for this project? At minimum: pry bar, circular saw, drill, tape measure, screwdriver, and safety gear.
7. Is it safe to use adhesive in enclosed spaces? Use low-VOC adhesives and ventilate the camper well. Many pros open all windows and keep fans running during installation.
8. Can I apply new floors over the old ones? If the original floor is sound (not rotten or uneven), you can sometimes lay vinyl plank over the top. Rot must always be removed!
9. How do I prevent future floor rot? Carefully seal all wall-floor seams, keep up with roof/fixture repairs, and vent the camper after rainy trips to reduce moisture buildup.
10. What’s the hardest part for most DIYers? Removing and reinstalling furniture often takes the most time. Photograph each step for an easy reference—trust me, it’ll save headaches later.
11. Where can I find a tool to plan my new camper layout? There are free online planners such as this 2D floor planner that make it easy to design and adjust your new floor before picking up a saw.
12. What’s a common mistake when replacing camper floors? Not extending new flooring under fixed cabinetry—this leads to odd edges and potential movement. Always measure and cut generously!