Ceiling Collapse - Episode 4 - Vanlife "Pro Build" that Failed

[@sherrieventuri5124]

I had to replace the ceiling on our 2017 roadtrek because of water intrusion at the fan prior to us purchasing. I opted not to use cedar planks because of the potential projectiles. We used thin plywood screwed into wood attached with screws and plus nuts to the cross beams of the ceiling. I was a little disappointed that the upper cabinets were secured by Roadtrek with rivnuts rather than plus nuts, that discovery was made when one of the rivnuts pulled loose when we were loosening the rear upper cabinets. Needless to say it was replaced with a plus nut. After watching this video I feel vindicated in my choice of materials and attachments. My thought was every screw that I put in was making us safer in the event of an accident.

[@bobnlouie]

Thank you for this series. Thinking of doing a conversion next year, you've given me a lot to consider that I otherwise wouldn't have. Excellent videos.

[@Scrambler85]

It's good to see you posting again. Always enjoyed your earlier videos. 👍

[@Brigand231]

No joke, it looked like you were about to cry on the clients' behalf in some of those demolition shots. It sucks to (hopefully temporarily) crush someone's dreams, but it's better to save their life, as you say. If nothing else, this series has been a huge wake-up call to be careful who to trust to build out a van.

[@Kettle_Maker]

You guys are seriously doing the Lord's work. I have been planning my build for the past month and your points about modularity and safety are definitely KEY!

[@kingtony911]

More then nothing!!! Love those screws!

[@PattisArtInnaVan]

Just heartbreaking for everyone involved. Madison and Raynor and (I'm so sorry I've forgotten his name) but your wonderful helper have all shown your compassion and caring for not just the van, but for the unfortunate owners also. Kudos to you all for that, it's a rare thing to find in a company. If ever I am asked to recommend an outfitter, you know it will be Ray Outfitted all the way.

[@sovereigns1grace]

I'm going to wait to do my subfloor until I see the next video. Hope it comes out VERY soon!! This series is a real eye opener. I'm doing a 'no build' - ish fitting out. I'm wondering about so many things now. How to make sure my van is safe & not permanently attach all my 'furniture'. Is it possible???? I feel so bad for the owners of the van. All their hopes dashed, not to mention the investment that has gone to nothing.

[@VMvanlife]

It's uploading now. Loose objects can become a projectile when braking hard or in a collision. Screws, L-Track systems and hold downs are some ways to secure objects and maintain the ability to remove/repair. @exporist.life and @faroutride have guides to support DIY'ers.

[@HayleyandJake]

👏What a great video series. It’s so heartbreaking watching the build be torn a part. Hopefully by sharing all the problems you’re finding it you can prevent others from going through the same painful experience. ❤

[@jeffsteinmetz7188]

I used the 1/4 thick T&G but it was installed with screws into the strapping bolted to the ribs. Mine is painted and every screw hole in the T&G is pre drilled and counter sunk to ensure the T&G was not weakened/split. Lots of time involved in the process. I have to ask. Do you think that van is structurally less safe than standard off the lot type B RVs? Much of that stuff is held together with staples. All my cabinet framing is 8020 through bolted to the van frame. The sheer strength of the metal bolts through the 8020 to the van frame is much stronger than what you would get with screws into wood.

[@BoneHead1776]

Truly appreciate you putting this series out. Definitely will look out for the things y'all have mentioned.

[@richbowie76]

What a drag for the owner. I imagine most of the stuff can be re used in the rebuild....after watching further ..maybe not....after watching much further.. definitely not ! LOL

[@VMvanlife]

It was really rough. We feel the pain and hope our efforts on this video series help others avoid this misery.

[@richbowie76]

@@VMvanlife Thank you for posting the videos !

[@KJ4RMZ]

Did y'all say if this was a DIY build or not? #weirdosunite

[@VMvanlife]

This was done by a company.

[@susangriffis4122]

Wow, my heart goes out to the owners! I can’t imagine how many thousands of dollars they just threw away 🥲 on high end crappy builders. Thank you for this series!!

[@susangriffis4122]

Wow, my heart goes out to the owners! I can’t imagine how many thousands of dollars they just threw away 🥲 on high end crappy builders. Thank you for this series!!