The Best RV Wall Coverings for Every Style and Budget

Want to spruce up the inside of your RV, but you don’t know where to start? Consider changing up the way your walls look with these different ideas from Harvest Hosts.

Why change your walls?

A lot of RVs are outdated, but otherwise in great shape. You can save yourself a lot of money by avoiding the purchase of a new RV and just upgrading an older rig. There are a lot of things to consider before renovating, but don’t let it stop you from sprucing things up.  One of the quickest ways to create that refreshed feeling in a space is by upgrading your RV walls. Below we will look at 3 great wall covering ideas—besides painting—and an estimated budget to go along with each option.

3 Great Wall Coverings Besides Paint

We are not hating on paint. Painting is always a great option, but sometimes you want a little more character than paint can provide. Here are those options.

Why Use Shiplap in Your RV?

*Photo Courtesy of campingnerd.com

Shiplap in an RV is amazing. It brings that real wood look from the outside in, and can feel a little more upscale.

Shiplap Creates Solid Surfaces & Looks Beautiful

The thin walls of an RV can be a little obnoxious when you are trying to hang stuff on the walls. You end up being stuck with 3M’s or trying to anchor things that you aren’t sure will endure the constant vibrations of the road. When you adhere shiplap to the studs in the wall, you are creating a solid surface to attach anything to. And this can create other opportunities.  If you use the common pine shiplap, you naturally get a light wood with beautiful knots. But this doesn’t mean you can’t stain it or paint it whatever color you’d like. If you do paint it, you will want to make sure you prime it to block the pine sap from showing through—especially with lighter colors.

Shiplap Adds Weight & Costs

The weight shiplap can add to your RV is significant. If you use real wood shiplap, you can approximate two pounds per square foot. You can see how this might add up.

How Much Does Shiplap Cost?

It currently costs about two dollars per square foot for pine shiplap. ****

Why Choose Peel and Stick Wall Covering?

*Photo Courtesy of wallpops.com

Peel and stick wall paper—vinyl—has become increasingly popular for all sorts of applications. And one good option is using it to completely change the feel inside your RV.

Vinyl Peel and Stick Wallpaper Transforms Your Space

If you are looking for something trendy, cheap, and quick to install, vinyl wall covering might be your best bet. It easily goes over any smooth surface with very little prep. You simply clean your surfaces, patch up any significant bumps or holes, and then slowly roll out your vinyl.  Having two people to help with this project is an added bonus. You’ll be unrolling and then immediately smoothing out with a tool like a putty knife. The putty knife helps push any potential air pockets to the edges and ultimately out from behind the vinyl. The cool thing about this is that there are tons of unique wall covering options, styles, and colors.

How Long Will Vinyl Wall Covering Last?

This is the downside to this option—but could also be an upside. You should only expect this wall covering solution to last around three years before you start seeing some potential issues. Though some people have said it lasts longer. The good part is you can always choose to change up the style every few years without breaking the bank.

How Much Does Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Covering Cost?

This project cost about $0.75 to $1.50 per square foot to complete—depending on the pattern and thickness you choose.

Why Choose Wall Paneling for Your RV

*Photo Courtesy of RVBlogger.com

Paneling is always an option too. While this might take you back to the 70s in your mind, there are some good reasons to choose paneling for your RV.

Choose Wall Paneling If You Need to Repair Your Walls

Replacing your RV wall paneling is something you may have to do. If you notice a significant amount of water damage on your walls, it may be a good idea to remove the current paneling. This will help you truly address the issue and then replace it with new paneling.  The good thing about replacing your old paneling is there are a lot of great looks out there. You can choose an updated wainscotting or even a shiplap paneling. All of these might make you consider dealing with that pesky water issue.

Steps to Replacing Paneling in Your RV

The steps to replacing your RV paneling can be intimidating and time consuming. It is for this reason, you might not want to take this job on.

How Much Does New Wall Paneling Cost?

This project is about one dollar per square foot for materials. Also, make sure to factor in what you might need to repair along the way.

Changing Your Walls Can Make Your RV Feel Totally Different

If you are looking for a quick way to make a big difference, use some of the above tips to help. These tips and many more from the Harvest Hosts community can help you love your space while on the road.  Even if your RV isn’t exactly how you want it, that's ok. You got into RVing because you wanted to see what this world had to offer. And Harvest Hosts has made it easier for you and your family to experience North America—regardless of what is covering your walls. So join Harvest Hosts today, and start making memories tomorrow!