If you’re restoring an older van, upgrading panels, or repairing storm damage, you’ll eventually need to source quality aluminium cladding. It’s one of the most common materials used in caravan exteriors, prized for its durability, lightweight properties, and resistance to corrosion. But where do you buy it—and what should you look for?
If you’re on the hunt for caravans in Heatherbrae or need materials for a rebuild, understanding your cladding options can save you time and money.
What Is Caravan Aluminium Cladding?
Aluminium cladding is a ribbed or flat panel system installed on the exterior walls of a caravan. It acts as a protective skin, shielding the internal structure from weather, dust, and road wear. It’s lightweight and rust-resistant—ideal for Australia’s climate—and it comes in various styles and profiles.
Cladding is usually installed horizontally, overlapping each sheet like weatherboard. Some panels are painted or coated for aesthetics and UV protection.
Why Replace Caravan Cladding?
There are several reasons you might want to replace caravan aluminium cladding:
- Water damage: Leaks behind cladding can rot timber frames
- Dents or hail damage: Panels can be visibly marred
- Age and wear: Older vans may have faded or brittle cladding
- Aesthetic updates: Modern cladding can refresh a van’s look
Replacing damaged cladding can also increase resale value and structural integrity—particularly if you plan to sell or tour extensively.
Where Can You Buy Aluminium Cladding for Caravans?
You have several solid options in Australia when shopping for aluminium caravan cladding:
- Specialty caravan part suppliers: Companies like CaravansPlus, Camec, and Supex
- Local repair shops and RV builders: Often stock panels for in-house repairs and may sell to the public
- Aluminium fabricators: Some sheet metal suppliers carry caravan-grade ribbed panels
- eBay and Gumtree: Can be hit or miss, but useful for second-hand or rare profiles
Always confirm the profile, length, and colour before purchasing—there’s no true universal standard across manufacturers.
What Types of Cladding Are Available?
Aluminium cladding typically comes in the following finishes:
- Mill finish: Unpainted, raw aluminium
- Powder-coated: Durable, colour-finished coating
- Pre-painted: Finished at factory, often white or silver
Profiles may include:
- Smooth
- Stucco (embossed)
- Ribbed (corrugated-style)
Choosing a matching profile is important for partial replacements. A mismatched panel will stand out and may affect waterproofing.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Before placing an order, measure your van carefully. Consider:
- Panel length (some are sold in 2.4m or 3m sheets)
- Overlap allowances
- Window and door cut-outs
- Sealing tape and trim pieces
It’s also worth checking:
- If you need new corner mouldings or joining strips
- Whether the panel has the same gauge (thickness) as your original
- If UV coating is included for long-term fade resistance
Can You Install Aluminium Cladding Yourself?
DIY installation is possible for experienced builders or handy van owners. However, it requires the right tools and knowledge of:
- Panel alignment
- Weatherproof sealing
- Edge trims and fasteners
For large or visible repairs, professional installation is recommended. Improper fitting can cause leaks, road noise, or panel movement during travel.
Are There Alternatives to Aluminium Cladding?
Yes. Modern caravans increasingly use:
- Composite panels: Insulated, lightweight, often seamless
- Fibreglass sheeting: Durable and less prone to denting
- Aluminium composite panel (ACP): Two aluminium layers with polyethylene core
Each option has pros and cons for weight, cost, and appearance. Aluminium remains the go-to for traditional or cost-effective repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Where Can I Find Matching Aluminium Cladding for My Older Van?
Tracking down matching aluminium cladding for an older caravan can be a real challenge, especially if the van was built in the ’70s, ’80s or ‘90s when manufacturers often used proprietary profiles. Many of these older ribbed or embossed styles are no longer in production, and there’s no true standard across the industry. The best starting point is to take a detailed photo or physical sample of the cladding you need to replace, including the profile shape and any coating or paint colour. Suppliers like Camec, Supex, and CaravansPlus may have archived stock or compatible alternatives. You can also try reaching out to restoration forums, Facebook groups, or local caravan repairers—many keep scraps or offcuts from older jobs. If all else fails, the cleanest fix is to re-clad an entire section for visual consistency. It’s a bigger job, but it avoids a patchy finish and helps maintain water resistance.
2) How Much Does Caravan Aluminium Cladding Cost?
The cost of aluminium cladding for caravans depends on several factors, including the style, finish, supplier, and length. As a general ballpark, painted or coated cladding typically costs between $40 and $70 per linear metre. Raw or mill finish aluminium may be slightly cheaper, while embossed or powder-coated finishes may fall at the higher end due to added durability and aesthetics. It’s also worth factoring in extra materials such as silicone sealant, trim pieces, rivets, joining strips, and corner mouldings. These can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost, especially for full re-clads. Delivery fees for large sheets are also something to keep in mind. If you’re hiring a professional to do the installation, labour costs can add another $1,000–$2,000 depending on the job complexity. For full van re-cladding, the total project cost can easily exceed $4,000. Getting several quotes and comparing suppliers is the smartest way to stay on budget.
3) Can I Use Generic Aluminium Sheeting from a Hardware Store?
While it might be tempting to grab standard aluminium sheeting from a hardware store like Bunnings, it’s usually not a good idea for caravan repairs. Generic sheets may not have the correct ribbed profile, thickness, or flexibility required for caravan use. Caravan cladding is specifically engineered for exterior exposure, movement, and attachment to lightweight frames. It often includes UV protection, pre-drilled fastener guides, and a design that supports waterproof overlap installation. Using plain sheet metal may lead to problems like misalignment with existing panels, poor sealing against water, and rattling or flexing when the caravan is in motion. Worse still, it can void insurance if the repairs don’t meet acceptable standards. If you only need a small patch and you’re handy, it might work in a pinch—but it’s generally not worth the risk. Stick with caravan-specific cladding sourced from reputable suppliers to ensure longevity, safety, and structural integrity.
4) What Tools Do I Need to Replace Caravan Cladding?
Replacing caravan cladding is a job that requires a solid toolkit and a bit of patience. At a minimum, you’ll need a cordless drill for fastening, a rivet gun (or suitable screws), and a sealant gun for applying silicone or butyl tape to keep everything watertight. Tin snips, an angle grinder, or a multi-tool are essential for trimming panels to size, especially around windows or doors. Accurate measurements are vital, so a reliable tape measure and straight edge are also must-haves. To make the job easier, clamps or suction cups can help you hold panels in place while fastening. Depending on your van’s age, you may also need to replace rotted timber, insulation, or internal framing—so bring along a pry bar and gloves for any demolition work. Safety is key, as aluminium edges are razor sharp. Wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection during cutting and fitting. A helper is also highly recommended for handling large panels.
5) Is It Worth Re-Cladding an Older Caravan?
Re-cladding an older caravan can absolutely be worth it—if the underlying structure is still in good shape. It’s one of the most effective ways to improve your van’s visual appeal, boost weather resistance, and extend its usable lifespan. New aluminium cladding also improves insulation and eliminates the risk of leaks from cracked or rusted panels. For vintage caravan enthusiasts, it’s a way to modernise a classic while keeping its original charm. That said, re-cladding isn’t a small job. It requires time, effort, and potentially unexpected repairs if underlying damage like water ingress or timber rot is discovered during the process. For confident DIYers, the project can be satisfying and cost-effective, but for those less experienced, hiring a professional may be the safer choice. Either way, it’s important to budget realistically and inspect the van thoroughly before starting. A properly re-clad van not only looks better but holds its value far longer.
Speak With the Local Experts at 7th Street Caravans
Whether you’re renovating an older van, tackling a DIY repair, or simply weighing up the costs of a full re-clad, having the right advice can make all the difference. At 7th Street Caravans, our team understands the realities of caravan ownership and the practical challenges that come with upgrades and maintenance. We’re here to help you navigate your options with honest guidance, no pushy sales tactics—just the kind of support you’d expect from your local dealer.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.