Bubble/delamination

[ALAN GEDDES]

Have developed a bubble 1 x 3 inches in rear exterior roof curve. Looks like maybe delaminating or maybe a void in second layer. Should I just cut out top layer and fill ? If it was flat cabinet work I would just consider injecting glue and clamping but that won't be possible in this location. Finish is paint so that is not a problem. Suggestions please.

[SteveH]

Allen,

I would think the only glue that would work well injected would be a catalized glue like epoxy.

[ALAN GEDDES]

That's what I would normally use but there is no way to clamp it down in this area.

[mikeschn]

You have to pull your teardrop into the garage for this repair. After you get the glue in there, then place a board on the bubble, and force some 2x2s inbetween that board and the rafters in the garage. Instant clamp!

Mike...

[angib]

A suggestion:

Inject some epoxy and then screw down a clamp plate using the injection hole. Apply wax to the screw really generously to make sure it can be removed. Remove the screw the next day and fill the hole with some more epoxy. For a 1x3 bubble you might need two injection holes and two screws.

Andrew

[asianflava]

You could make foam blocks that follow the arc then turn the trailer over on it's back while it rests in the blocks. Not really practical but it is just another way to skin the cat.

[Guest]

Alan,
Have you determinded that the bubble is filled with air and not water, perhaps?

[BILLYL]

Alan-

Don't forget sand bags. A couple of sand bags make excellent weights and hold down clamps on curved surfaces.

BILL

[ALAN GEDDES]

Don't have a garage so when it stops raining I'll cut into it and see whether it is a void,delamination or whatever.

[ALAN GEDDES]

Cut into it and it was delamination. Cut the layer that was loose out and filled it. Turned out to be separating for about 3 x 5 inches in the top ply. I figure the bend was just too much for the glue to hold.