Early Signs of Water Ingress – What to Look For and What to Do

This article is part of our Mars Caravan Body & Seals Care series. For the full overview, see "Mars Caravan Body & Seals Care – Exterior Maintenance Overview".

Water ingress is one of the most important issues to catch early in any caravan. This article helps you recognise early signs inside your Mars caravan and explains what to do next if you suspect a leak.

1. When Should I Look for Signs of Water Ingress?

• After heavy or prolonged rain.
• After washing the van, especially if you washed the roof and joints.
• After a big trip on rough or corrugated roads.
• As part of your regular 3–6 month interior check.

2. Visual Signs Inside the Van

Walk through the van and look closely around:

• Ceiling and roof hatches – especially near corners.
• Upper wall areas where roof meets walls.
• Around windows and doors.
• Corner areas at the front and rear of the van.

Common early signs include:

• Stains or discolouration on ceiling or wall panels.
• Soft, spongy or swollen areas in wall lining, cabinetry or trims.
• Bubbling, peeling or lifting of interior finishes.
• Visible damp patches after rain.

3. Smell and Feel – Hidden Clues

Sometimes you may not see obvious water but can still detect signs:

• A persistent musty or damp smell, even after airing the van.
• Cabinet bases or corners that feel cool and slightly damp to the touch.
• Soft floor spots, especially near doors, hatches or in corners.

4. Distinguishing Leaks from Condensation

Not all moisture is from a leak. Condensation can build up from:

• Cooking and showering with poor ventilation.
• Sleeping with windows fully closed in cool weather.

Condensation usually:

• Appears on cold surfaces (windows, metal frames, cold walls).
• Improves when you ventilate (open windows, run fans) and use less internal moisture.

Water ingress from leaks more often appears as specific localised damp spots, stains or swelling that return after rain, even with good ventilation.

5. What to Do if You Suspect a Leak

1. Dry the area as best you can
   Gently dry visible moisture with towels or cloths and allow the area to air out.
2. Take clear photos
   
   Photograph:
   • The affected area close up.
   • A wider shot showing where it is in the van.
   • The corresponding exterior area if possible.
3. Note timing and conditions
   Write down when you first noticed it and whether it followed heavy rain, washing or travel.
4. Lodge a support ticket
   Include your van details (model, VIN, age), your notes and photos so our team can assess and advise.

6. What Not to Do

• Don’t ignore persistent signs of damp or staining, hoping they will go away.
• Don’t immediately cover everything in generic sealant from the outside – this can trap moisture and make diagnosis harder.
• Don’t cut out or remove major sealant or trims without guidance, especially on roof and structural joints.

Summary

Catching water ingress early is crucial. Look for stains, soft spots, swelling, persistent damp smells and recurring damp patches after rain. Dry the area, document what you see and contact us with photos so we can help you take the right next steps to protect your Mars caravan.