Leisure vehicles spend most of the year parked up, exposed to the elements, then need to look their best for a few key months. The result is the classic caravan problem: black streaks down the sides, green algae in the shaded areas, and a chalky, oxidised finish. Here's how it's properly dealt with.
The common problems
- Black streaks — dirty rainwater running off seals, trim and the roof leaves dark vertical streaks down the sides.
- Green algae and mould — thrive in shaded, damp areas and around seals.
- Oxidation — the gel-coat/paint goes chalky and dull after prolonged UV exposure.
- Traffic film and road grime on the front and lower panels.
Why the roof matters most
Most streaking starts at the roof — it collects the worst grime, algae and standing water, which then washes down the walls. Cleaning the sides without addressing the roof means the streaks return with the next rain. Proper cleaning starts at the top, safely.
How professional cleaning works
The job covers a safe wash of the full body, dedicated black-streak removal, algae treatment, careful cleaning around seals and windows, and the roof. Oxidised surfaces can often be machine-polished back to life, and a protective sealant or coating applied to slow future streaking and make the next clean easier. Interiors can be valeted too.
Best time to do it
Two ideal points: before the season to get it looking its best, and before winter storage to remove contaminants that would otherwise sit on the surface for months (similar logic to protecting a car for winter).
Book caravan or motorhome cleaning
We come to your storage site or home with everything needed — these are big jobs best done where the vehicle is. Get in touch via our caravan & motorhome cleaning service. We cover the UK.
