New Caravan

Our van is much the same, who normally looks under or on top of a caravan when out shopping for one.

The saying "Out of site, out of mind " maybe was invented by a caravan builder.

Ours has the whoops and lots of silicon on the roof, but the underside is very tidy.

Have had this van for 7 years with no problems and it has done a lot of K's.

Really have to see pictures to determine how good or bad the quality of workmanship is.
The roof should be taut and have no dips or hollows. Dips and hollows is a poorly constructed roof. The battens and framing in the roof should ensure the roof is taut and level. Also indicates no or insufficient insulation. Take down a light fitting and see if you can see the insulation.
Heaps of silicone is sloppy workmanship and indicates everywhere else is likely to be sloppy in some form or another.
Many caravan manufacturers are currently battling financially and doing everything possible to keep costs down.

Are you taking about dips an dhollows outside on the roof or inside on the ceiling?

Vans have a sheet of waterproof/insulation on the roof which is "baggy" that will contract and expand with the temperature. It can look dodgy but try comparing it with others.

Hi Tony, this is nothing new, I did have a big gripe about our 1st new van, here is an excerpt from a letter I wrote to the agent:

"The roof cladding annoys me. One of the things that put me off of some other brands is the workmanship in this area. When I look out of our lounge window along the van roof, there are several creases and dips in the roof where rain and dirt collect. Especially so along the edge where the awning is fastened."

This was a new van we bought in 2004, what's changed? I did have some photos for warranty but didn't get anywhere back then. Hence our next van was to be a full fiberglass construct.

Silicone sealant - God's gift to those who can't measure properly, or make anything fit together with a professional, smart finish.

I have to admit, gobs of silicone sealant on the underside of a van/trailer/camper/whatever, does ensure that nothing will get into the inside or the upper side of the rig.

Sags in a roof show inadequate roof support members, or it's being subjected to undue pressure that is causing buckling.

Cheers, Ron.

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