The Hansen family is not new to DIY RV makeover projects. At any time, they have multiple RVs on hand getting updated. During the renovation process, they test out all the systems and functionality of each rig. They discover where make improvements, then do them.
Carrie and her husband RW are from Dodgeville, Wisconsin. The duo makes one heck of a powerhouse DIY RV renovation team. RW has years of experience in home construction. And with Carrie’s eye for design and wealth of RV renovation resources, they make some incredible creations.
The Rig
Each time the Hansens complete a renovation, it’s their new favorite project. Let’s look at their latest favorite DIY RV makeover. This most recent renovation is named “Betty.”
This RV is a 2010 Jayco Super Lite 30.5 DBSA fifth wheel.
Betty was stored indoors her whole life and it showed. There were no surprises during her renovation and her floorplan was great! Along with a completely new aesthetic, our design added form and function . . . Our goal is always beautiful, thoughtful design and Betty did not disappoint!
Driftless RV Renovations
What the 2010 Jayco Super Lite looked like before the DIY RV makeover
Betty had a layout that Carrie and RW liked. She was stored indoors, which leaf her in great shape. The couple gave Betty a total facelift – from a new aesthetic to improved form and function.
The Renovation
The Hansens rearranged the bedroom. They moved the bed against the wall. Then made side-by-side closets to open up the floor space.
Next, they added custom bunk beds with additional storage.
For the second bathroom, they installed a barn door. This freed up space in the bunkhouse section. They also built and installed custom storage cabinets for the bunkhouse and first bath.
In the RV kitchen, Carrie and RW rebuilt the shelf under the sink. This accommodated space for a trash can.
The DIY RV makeover project turned out great. Today, beautiful Betty is traveling the country with her new family.
Their Fifth Wheel DIY RV Makeover Advice
Renovating an RV requires a lot of pivoting, learning and reevaluating, Carrie admits.
One of the biggest things the Hansens have learned is related to paint. They use a paint sprayer for all their renovations to ensure quality.
One time, they sprayed a layer of paint during a Wisconsin November, when the temperatures are not ideal painting conditions. Their paint ran in certain areas, which they noticed right away. Luckily, the Hansens were able to roll out the paint and fix it before it dried.
Pro Tip When Painting RV Walls
Carrie and RW invented a workaround when painting RV walls. This prevents the cold from making the RV wall paint run.
The Hansens purchased a pressure fan to increase air circulation. They also added more heaters and fans after paint was sprayed on the walls.
This RV wall painting hack fixed the problem. It also allowed them to keep using paint sprayers, which elevates the quality of their work. Now, the Hansens can keep working and painting their fifth wheel DIY RV makeover projects, even in cold winter months.
What’s the Best Kind of Fifth Wheel to Makeover?
When Carrie and RW look for a fifth wheel RV to renovate, they are diligent about looking for rigs with good bones. “It’s the best way to protect our clients’ investments in RV renovation,” says Carrie. Their goal is always a beautiful, thoughtful finished product.
More Expert Advice for DIY Fifth Wheel Projects
- Research before you get started. Invest in expert RV makeover consultants along the way. RV renovation can feel overwhelming. Gather resources and tap into the knowledge and experience of RV makeover pros. This ultimately saves you time and money.
- During your DIY RV makeover, you’re likely to uncover something unexpected. Leave room in your budget for these surprises. Pivot when necessary.
- Be sure the RV you renovate is worth your investment of time and money. This is especially true when doing a full-scale RV renovation. Ask yourself: Is the layout what you want/need now and in the future? Does it have “good bones?”
Their Life: More About The Hansens RV Makeover Team
After falling in love with the idea of making an RV look and feel like home, Carrie started collecting information and resources about RV renovation. She studied the work of Trina and Steve Sholin of RV Fixer Upper for inspiration as she dreamed about renovating her own RV one day.
For the last three years, Carrie and RW have loved RV camping. They enjoy RVing on weekends and vacations with their kids, Gray, Mack and Donovan and “the World’s Best Camping Dog,” Blue.
See More Fifth Wheel DIY RV Makeover Inspiration
Follow the Hansens on social media at @driftless_rv_renovators. They renovate RVs for purchase and makeover client-owned RVs, too. Carrie and RW also offer RV design and renovation consultation services.
“While we may not be the fastest renovators around, we hope to be counted among the most thorough and thoughtful. We are committed to quality RV renovation, and together we’re making home anywhere.”
Carrie Hansen, Driftless RV Renovators
