Are you looking to buy a static caravan? Owning a caravan is the most accessible way of owning your own holiday home. A static caravan provides you with the opportunity to go on holiday as often as you want to; without the added stresses of excessive travel, passports and all the unexpected costs that go along with getting to unfamiliar locations.

A static caravan is yours and you have the freedom to holiday anytime you want. Static caravans are not just a home from home, but one with all the luxuries, facilities and attractions of a top-notch tailored holiday. It is the cheapest and easiest way to have your own perfectly personalised holiday. In this article we have compiled the top 35 questions to ask when buying a static caravan;

1. What Costs are Involved in Owning a Static Caravan?

The pitch fee will be the biggest cost involved in owning a static caravan. The costs can vary between £2,000 – £10,000, depending on what the parks have to offer in terms of location, facilities and your pitch position.

Some parks will provide complete access to their entertainment and facilities within your pitch fee. On top of this, there are other fees connected to general living costs, such as electricity, gas, water and insurance. There will also be business rates to pay. All the expenses that you are required to meet should be a part of your written agreement with the park providers.

2. Do Holiday Parks Close for Winter?

A lot of parks are open for the twelve months of the year. Each holiday park has a tailored opening schedule, so it is essential to check when each is open and closed. Some are open seasonally, for instance, ten months of the year. It is useful to have full knowledge of the individual park’s planned opening as it will help you to schedule your holidays around it. A post-season closure might be ideal if you didn’t need to use your park home in the winter. It can also help you account for potential income (should you be renting it out).

3. Can I Live in a Static Caravan?

No, you cannot live in a static caravan on a holiday park as your main residence. If you want to live in a static caravan, you will need to either look for a residential park or have your own land to put the home on.

4. How long can I keep my static caravan on the pitch?

Parks hold limits on how long you can have your static caravan on a pitch. This will vary, with some parks offering a nine-nine year-long pitch and others offering as short as fifteen years. Whatever the age limit on a particular pitch, this will be outlined in your licence agreement and usually cannot be negotiated. So, do ensure that you obtain this information in writing and that you are aware of the facts.

5. Are Holiday Parks child-friendly?

Once again, the answer is that some do and some don’t. That said, there are plenty of options for you if you do have children. There are parks that offer entertainment for them, parks and activities, as well as children’s clubs and even childcare services.

6. Can you take Dogs to Holiday Parks?

Yes, most holiday parks are now pet friendly. Holiday parks have adapted over the years to cater for our four-legged friends and realise they are part of the family. However, there are still a few that are not, so ask the question and check the contract before you purchase.

7. Can I Sell My Static Static Caravan?

Yes, you can sell your static caravan and there are different options for selling. You must check with the park operators before placing the static caravan for sale. This information on selling is detailed in your licence agreement.

Another reason why it is so vital to ensure that you have a written contract – without one the process of selling your static caravan on its pitch could be jeopardised and you would have to liaise with your park operator for guidance.

8. Do Static Caravans need Insurance?

Yes, static caravans do need insurance. in fact, it will probably be a condition of your licence. Public liability insurance is imperative for your static caravan. This should always be included in the wording of a policy. It is recommended to check with the holiday park operators regarding insurance responsibilities. They will have a wealth of experience on the subject, a sound knowledge of exactly what is required and will be able to point you in the right direction ensuring your policy is aligned to your requirements. Read further about Static Caravan Insurance.

9. Can I Rent or Sublet my Static Caravan?

This can be a great way for static caravan owner to subsidise their pitch fees and other costs when they buy a static caravan. A lot of parks allow this as an option. Do, however, be sure to seek independent advice when purchasing as a ‘buy to let’ and be savvy when receiving schemes such as ‘Return on Investment ‘ (ROI) and ‘guaranteed lets’.

10. Can I lend my Static Caravan to Friends and Family?

Yes, you can usually lend your static caravan to friends and family. This is one of the most prominent benefits of owning a static caravan. A static caravan may be shared and enjoyed amongst friends and family. However, check the contract before purchasing.

11. Does a Static Caravan Require Maintenance?

Yes, a static caravan does require maintenance. By carrying out simple maintenance, you will be able to increase the lifespan of your static caravan. Be sure to keep hold of the manufacturer’s handbook, it will contain all the detail and outline all aspects of maintenance and general care. The majority of manufacturers do now offer extended warranties but know that these don’t tend to cover wear and tear.

The manufacture of static caravans is to a high standard and the newer the static caravan, the less maintenance they should require.

12. Can you get a Static Caravan on Finance?

Yes, finance is available for static caravan finance. This is subject to the usual checks and conditions. A holiday park will usually have an existing relationship with a finance company that they will offer to you, by way of assisting you with spreading the cost.

Do be aware, though, that there can be a high-interest rate within these schemes. You may want to seek independent advice before signing any finance agreement and agreeing to buy a static caravan. Banks will also loan on the purchase of a static caravan.

13. Is it possible to place a Deposit on a Static Caravan?

As with many things, this entirely depends on the individual park operators. Some parks will allow a deposit service on static caravans, holiday homes or pitches. Whilst others will ask for payment in full.

14. What is the minimum deposit amount?

Again, this will vary depending on the individual holiday park. But as a ballpark, you are likely to need a 25% deposit to reserve a holiday home.

15. Do Static Caravans need a TV Licence?

No, you don’t need a separate TV license for your static caravan If you already have a registered TV license to any address in the UK.

16. Does the Holiday Park have its own entertainment and sports facilities?

This differs from park to park. Many have an array of onsite activities and facilities. Some parks offer these for free. Others will sell passes to access their entertainment offer, these costs vary so it is valuable to check the park’s pricing. It is well worth finding out if these facilities are open year-round, or seasonally, as well as when they close day-to-day.

17. What Entertainment Facilities or Activities are close by?

Sometimes, part of the joy of the holiday park is that it is close to local attractions. Often parks have been developed in particular locations because they are a destination point for certain activities. Many parks hit the perfect balance between locality and in-site facilities.

18. How Much are the Site’s Fees?

Site fees will vary from park to park and are often dependent on the specific location. You can expect to pay higher site fees if the park is in a popular holiday location as opposed to a quiet rural location.

19. How often do Site Fees Increase?

You can access the history of how specific site fees increase, how frequently they do so and to what value. This can be really useful in your effective budgeting

20. Can I Pay my Site Fees in Instalments?

This depends on the individual park or park group. If you’re worried about paying the site fee in a lump sum in some cases you may be able to pay site fees in a series of instalments rather than in one lump sum. Some parks offer systems, where you can pay quarterly whilst others, maybe half-yearly or yearly.

21. How is Gas and Electricity paid for in a static caravan?

This differs between parks. On some you will be getting your gas from a bottle that you pay as you use it, others will have a mains gas supply that is incorporated into your annual charges. Generally speaking, your pitch will have its own electricity metre, which will also be part of your annual payments. It is always good to check the frequency of these payments and how you are expected to pay them with your park provider so that they can be included in your budgeting.

22. Can I Expect there to be Internet Access on the Park?

If internet access is a required part of your holiday experience then you’ll be happy to know that many parks have either Wi-Fi access or that a dongle can be used in that area. Obviously, information is readily available on what the best service provider is for that particular area.

23. Do Pitches come with a Parking Space?

Yes, most pitches will come with a designated parking space. But should you need extra parking for any visitors or people you are holidaying with, then you will need to check with your holiday park.

24. Are there Shops on the Caravan Park Site or Nearby?

The vast majority of holiday caravan parks will have an on-site shop, that is easy to access. That said, these shops are more often than not somewhat more expensive than your average supermarket. They are very handy if there is a shortage of shops in the local area. You can search any supermarkets in the vicinity, and some do offer delivery to parks and sometimes individual static caravans.

25. What Guarantee can I expect when Buying a Static Caravan?

In general, the guarantee usually lasts between one and three years, but some even have a five-year guarantee. All the information of the warranty can be found in the Manufacturers’ Guide upon purchase of your static caravan.

26. Does the Park Operator have Staff available 24/7?

Caravan holiday parks have intricate staff bodies that provide the smoothest possible experience. But it is helpful to know what those staffing arrangements are ahead of your purchase, to help you to be prepared for any emergencies that may occur.

27. What Security is in place for when the Caravan Park is Closed?

Should you be purchasing a static caravan on a park only opening seasonally, it will be imperative to know that your property is safe and secure outside of that season, when you are leaving it behind. All caravan parks will have the staffing to cover this securely and ensure that your holiday caravan is safe. You can always ask about what this entails to put your mind at rest.

28. When is the Best Time to Buy A Static Caravan?

There are no concrete factors that combine to make the best time to buy a static caravan, other than your circumstances and when you are ready. Once you have gathered all the information that matters to you, had all of your questions answered and firmly decided that a static caravan is everything you had hoped it would be then this is the right time to buy.

There can be post-season deals to be had when buying a new static caravan. However, the best caravan parks always have highly sought after plots, so there is little difference. If you have engaged the services of a caravan dealer, you can and should always ask if there are any discounts: you have nothing to lose.

29. Do you Pay Council Tax on a Static Caravan?

No, you do not pay council tax on static caravans. Council tax is specifically reserved for the main residence. When you buy a static caravan, it should be intended for holiday use only.

30. Do you Pay Business Rates on a Static Caravan?

It is very likely that you will pay a fee that contributes to the holiday park’s business rates. See this as a council tax alternative.

31. Can I have decking on my Static Caravan?

Although a static caravan is individually owned, whether decking is allowed is up to the park operator. Before decking is added to a static caravan

Decking is an investment into your lifestyle and maybe part of your holidaying needs. Therefore, you want it to be idyllic and up to your tastes and standards. When you buy your static caravan, it may already have the decking included, or if new, there may be an additional cost for the decking.

32. Do I Need to pay for Siting and Connection of the Static Caravan?

Some parks offer siting and connection as part of your licence agreement. However, some parks may charge an extra fee for this service. Many parks will include siting and connection as part of your licence agreement. That said, there can sometimes be an additional fee for this service.

33. How do I arrange to get my Static Caravan Sited?

Your static caravan will be sited by the park operator or supplier. This will be executed on your behalf, but the park operator should consult with you through the process. If you are moving your holiday home from another park, additional siting and connection costs may incur.

34. Are there any Park Rules?

Different parks have different rules and regulations but consistently tend to include noise regulations, opening times and how they operate their entry and exit registration. See our article on the differences between a holiday park and a residential park.

35. Should I Buy a New Static Caravan?

There are pros and cons to buying a new static caravan. For an older static caravan, the upfront costs may be less, but you can expect to pay more in the long run for maintenance. For example, a second-hand caravan may have ongoing maintenance issues, all of which will go on to derive extra costs. If you are buying to let, buying a new static caravan will be significantly easier to manage as a landlord and work out cheaper in the long run.

When you make the decision to buy a static caravan, it’s an exciting time and one you’ll likely have budgeted or saved up for. In addition to the cost of buying a static caravan – whether brand new or second hand – you must also consider additional fees that come into play so you know how much it will truly cost.

What other costs are there to buying a static caravan?

It is fair to say the bulk of the caravan costs are at the front end; buying the unit, moving the unit and setting it up. Once in place, they are very cheap accommodation and require little upkeep.

Front end costs

Planning applications

The cost of any relevant planning application needs to be considered. Whilst pretty much anyone can position a static caravan on their property, depending on how it is to be used will dictate what planning permission you may need. Certainly, if you intend to live in the caravan, we highly recommend you apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development.

Transportation

The cost of transporting your static caravan to you will vary depending on the distance it will have to travel. This typically includes preparing the model for transit and the use of a lorry and escort vehicle, as well as the staff required.  The cost depends on distances and complexity of access and also whether the home is a single unit or twin as this will require 2 of everything and can easily be £1500 – £2500 + VAT.

Lifting into the space

Will it fit? The more complex the access, the higher the cost there may be to receive your caravan. Certainly, if it cannot simply be rolled in on its wheels the cost will jump as a crane will be required to lift it into position. Caravans are very large and heavy items, so to lift them by crane can easily exceed £2500 + VAT.  If you have concerns about access to your property will highly recommend contacting us to organise a site survey to ascertain whether what you are looking to buy will fit.

Caravan siting

The cost of siting a caravan is the price of moving it from where the lorry can unload it to exactly where you would like it (usually using a custom modified 4X4). Once in position the caravan is raised off the ground on axel stands and concrete blocks and checked to be level.

Commissioning

Once level, the static must be connected. This requires:

• A plumber to connect up the fresh and waste water
• A gas registered engineer to test and certify the boiler and any other gas appliances
• An registered electrician to connect up the power.

As the caravan is in effect a small house, it can draw a significant amount of current and needs to be hard wired into a suitable consumer unit.

It is also essential you check and install pipe insulation and to make sure they are high quality – don’t skimp as the water pipes are exposed under the home and are very prone to freezing during the winter. In the event of frozen pipes, the best case scenario is that you won’t be able to use the shower or toilet. In the worst case scenario they will burst if they’re not insulated and the water can damage the flooring.

Ongoing costs

Pitch fees and service charges

If you are located on a caravan park, you will have to factor in your monthly pitch fees and service charges.

Gas checks

It is strongly recommended that the gas system is checked every year by a certified engineer. If you look after the caravan and deal with any small maintenance items when they come up, costs are very low.

Utilities

You will have the cost of your utilities just like any home and for a caravan gas will probably be the biggest expenditure. If you plan to have the caravan for a long time, treat yourself to a bulk LPG gas tank if you’re not connected to mains gas. These can hold 100-1000 litres and are filled up by a lorry. They’re much more cost effective and convenient than having to trek down to a Calor Gas dealer with heavy metal bottles every few weeks.

Boiler maintenance

If you’re lucky enough to be on mains gas, you will most likely need to have the boiler adapted to burn natural gas, as most caravan boilers are set up to burn LPG or bottled gas.

Rust protection

If you’re near the sea, unless you have opted for a chassis that is galvanised, rust will set in unless you paint and treat the metal chassis every year or so. Skirting in the caravan also helps keep the front out and salty sea air away from the chassis, but this is an additional cost.

Firstly, we need to look at the difference between a residential home, which is usually a park home but can be a lodge and a holiday home. Static caravans and lodges are usually holiday homes.

If you need more advice please contact us on 08002461206 or click here to email us direct.

Modern static caravans make fantastic homes all year round, and are even great for winter breaks if you’re looking for a holiday home in the colder months. However, there are some considerations a UK caravan owner needs to make as the temperatures start to drop, with the aim of protecting your static caravan from the elements and making it as comfortable as possible to stay in.

In this guide we take you through tips and advice to living in a static caravan in winter, and the best winter preparations to ensure you have a good season knowing you’ve done what you can to prevent damp, frozen pipes and irreversible damage.

Preparing your static caravan for winter

There are quite a few useful preparations you can make to have an enjoyable few months and enjoy those cosy evenings in.

Keep it warm

Just before you notice the temperature start to drop, invest in some thermal curtains, thick rugs, a portable heater, and thicker duvets and blankets for your bed. These items are great ways to add extra insulation to your static and to keep you from feeling the cold. They can also offer great value as static caravan owners can use them again and again each winter.

Another useful way to keep warm is to make sure no furniture is blocking your radiators, preventing the warmth from efficiently flowing through the rooms. This is less important in the summer when the heating will be on less, but you can really feel the difference in a cold snap.

If your budget allows and you don’t already have central heating, this would also help as a long term solution. Many static caravan owners now benefit from models with central heating designed in, and it is sometimes possible to upgrade an existing static.

We would like to introduce Sandra, Sales Director of Carnaby

Sandra, how did you originally get into the caravan industry?

I married into it my husband and I lived in Poole, My Husband worked for CI  caravan international , when the country hit a down turn we decided to go to a sister company in SA in 1980 , stayed there for 4.5 years came back to Poole and Rae started a job at BK where he eventually became director .

How did you come to work at Carnaby Caravans?

As you know the industry is a small cottage industry everyone knows each other , I was offered a sales role in 2006 where I was employed as an area manager.

What would you say are 3 things that motivate you the most?

I Believe in what Carnaby produce,  enjoy my role enormously, work with an amazing  team.

What are your Hobbies?

I have little time , as my home life has changed due to my husbands stroke, but I would say having quality time with grandchildren and entertaining at home when we can.

Covid was a trying time for all companies, what challenges did you / or the caravan industry face  and how did you overcome them?

It was challenging for everyone , but I would say Carnaby made a conscious decision to work to our strengths, we only took orders we could achieve, we were honest with our suppliers only placed orders for materials to complete orders, paid our suppliers on time to make sure when we got back to normal production they remembered who worked in partnership with them.

Why do you think Delta has remained so successful for so long ?

Don’t know about Delta but Carnaby has been going since 1976, I believe because we are privately owned we make the decisions based on what is right for Carnaby and our customers we are not, a company where computer says no, we value  each and every customer, we get to know them and their park, its important to us whether you have 10 pitches or a 100 pitches .

You get the same level of respect and service from our team.

How do you see the Mobile Home market changing in the next 5 years?

I have been around a number of years seen the highs and lows , this time is no different , its back to basics call on your customers listen to what is going on around you , work in partnership between park and manufacturer , the end user will always love a holiday home it is with out doubt  the one place a family feels safe with their children , from the minute you turn that key you are on holiday, this is priceless.

Good old fashion quality time with your loved ones and friends, to this day regardless of any financial gains you may have , a caravan holiday is still one of the easiest stays, hassle free holidays you can have.

At The UK Caravan Centre we have a wide range of New Carnaby homes available, click here or call our Sales Team on 0800 2461206 to find out more.

Another great British summer is upon us. With the school holidays underway, it’s time to get out and explore the best our nation has to offer, whatever the forecast might have in store.

Whether you’re looking for a day at the beach or to stretch your legs in the fells, our guide to spending your summer holiday in Britain has it all. We reveal the top destinations, campsites, hotels and things to do – from north to south, shoreline to summit, come rain or shine. If you’re looking for quieter inspiration we even reveal the secret to crowd-free and cheaper holidays in Britain and the quirky corners of our nation yet to be discovered by holidaymakers.

The best national parks

The UK is blessed with 15 showstopping national parks – these protected wild spaces come into their own in the summer months

But planning the perfect trip to any of the national parks can be overwhelming – where should you stay, which activities should you try and how do you get there smoothly? If you’d rather avoid baking on your beach towel this summer, our local experts lift the lid to help you make the most of the nation’s natural gems in our dedicated guides.

The best beaches and islands

Forget rolling countryside, do you want ice cream, sandcastles and sea breezes instead? The best place to start would be our expert guide to Britain’s 20 greatest beaches, from Cornwall to the farthest reaches of Scotland. If remote and untouched is more your vibe, check out one of these little-known strips of sand instead.

Britain’s coastline is brimming with delights away from the sand, too – including some of the nation’s most beautiful seaside villages and hotels. Offshore, our native islands are hidden treasures for holidaymakers – whether they’re beautiful or car-free, our experts have visited them all, so you can find the right fit.

If you’d rather avoid the crowds at the coast, but still fancy a dip, our experts reveal the nation’s top lidos and outdoor pools. Or give wild swimming a go at one of our top choices.

If you’re simply planning a family picnic to pass the time, we reveal the top spots across Britain to unfold the gingham.

The best walks

If there’s a better way to enjoy the long summer days than with a walk through picturesque surroundings to a characterful pub, we’ve not discovered it. To help you put your best foot forward this summer, our expert on everything related to rambling and real ale has chosen his favourite routes starting and finishing at a great pub.

If you’re looking to clock up the miles, our choice of crowd-free alternatives to the UK’s most popular routes is further inspiration, or why not trade in the mountains for the coast, with the nation’s best trails with sea views?

The best staycation hotspots

Aside from beaches, mountains and national parks, Britain is brimming with wonderful regions and cities to spend the summer exploring.

Our experts are all insiders and have written knowledgeable guides to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether it’s finding the best restaurants, a refreshing pub, a cool new attraction for a rainy day or a local brunch spot, we’ve got it covered in our destination guides, from the Pembrokeshire to Cornwall, and Edinburgh to Bath.

The best alternative destinations

Beyond the big names there are abundant secret British hideaways yet to be discovered by holidaymakers. If you’d prefer to spend your summer exploring beyond the beaten track, our insiders lift the lid on faded seaside towns that are worth visiting and corners of the nation tourists (wrongly) forget, including the unsung appeal of our AONBs.

To help you discover the best of Britain we’ve also mapped 150 of these weird and wonderful places – below you’ll find the stories behind some of our favourites.

The best campsites and hotels

Once you’ve chosen where you’re going and what you’re doing when you arrive, the final piece of the holiday puzzle is where you’ll stay.

From coastal campsites and luxury glamping, to seaside hotels and pubs with rooms – Check out our Park Locator here: Holiday Parks – UK Caravan Centre

Credit to MSN/Telegraph :  The ultimate guide to spending your summer holiday in Britain (msn.com)

Using a static caravan as annexe accommodation in your garden can be a practical and cost-effective solution to create extra living space. It is becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners who need additional space for guests or family members, especially those who have additional needs such as elderly parents or disabilities, and those who are facing difficulties as first-time buyers.

It has been widely reported that the ratio of house prices to average earnings is so high that it has become prohibitive for those looking to enter the property market, and demand for rental properties has outstripped supply so heavily that in some areas there are over 20 applicants for each rental property.  The supply-demand imbalance has led to a rise in homeowners purchasing static caravans as an affordable and practical solution.

Here are some key points to consider:

PLANNING PERMISSION:
Before you proceed with placing a static caravan in your garden, you should check local regulations and planning permissions. In some areas, there may be restrictions on the use of caravans as permanent living spaces, and you may need to obtain specific permissions from the local authorities (for example if you are within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty AONB).  However, in most cases, planning permission is not required, as per s29 of the Caravan Sites and Control Development Act 1960 (which specifies the characteristics of a caravan) and Section 55(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (which specifies whether there is an element of ‘development’ or change of use of land and/or buildings).

An example of this occurred in February 2019, when a LDC (Lawful Development Certificate) was issued confirming that the siting of a mobile home within the grounds of a dwelling in Kent was lawful, provided it was occupied by the elderly parents of the occupiers of the house.

The council was opposed to the certificate being issued having regard to its size, the facilities it would contain, its connections to services and its ability to provide independent living accommodation. However, the inspector noted that it fell within the definition of a mobile home under the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 and did not exceed the size limits prescribed under the Caravan Sites Act 1968. It would be sited close to the house and would not have a separate curtilage. The elderly relatives required assistance with their day-to-day living and they would share the main house for meals and family socialising. Consequently, it would not result in a material change of use.

PURPOSE:
Determine the purpose of the static caravan. Will it be used as a guest house, an independent living space for a family member, a home office, or something else? Understanding its intended use will help you plan the layout and amenities accordingly.

SIZE AND LAYOUT:
Consider the size and layout of the static caravan. Depending on the number of people who will be using it and its intended purpose, you may need a larger caravan with multiple rooms or a more compact one if it’s just for a single individual.

UTILITIES
Check whether your garden can accommodate the necessary utilities for the static caravan, such as water, electricity, and sewage connections. You may need to consult with local service providers to ensure proper connections.

FOUNDATIONS AND STABILITY:
A solid and level foundation is essential for the stability and longevity of the static caravan. It is recommended to construct a concrete base to ensure the caravan remains safe and secure.

AMENITIES AND COMFORT:
Determine what amenities you want to include in the static caravan. This could range from necessities like a bathroom and kitchenette to more luxurious features like heating and air conditioning.

SAFETY AND REGULATIONS:
Ensure that the static caravan meets safety and building regulations. It should have proper fire safety measures, ventilation, and comply with other relevant building codes.

ACCESS AND PRIVACY:
Consider the access to the static caravan, and you may want to plan for some privacy measures like hedges or fences, depending on your preferences and any local regulations.

INSURANCE:
Check with your insurance provider to understand how the presence of a static caravan in your garden may affect your home insurance policy. You might need additional coverage for the annexe accommodation.

MAINTENANCE:
Like any structure, a static caravan requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Make sure you are prepared for this upkeep.

It is worth noting that should your needs change at any time, there is always buoyant demand for pre-owned caravans, and we are able to assist in these situations.

Remember that using a static caravan as annexe accommodation is a significant decision, and should be approached thoughtfully and responsibly. Here at The UK Caravan Centre we can provide valuable guidance throughout the process, and help you to find the right mobile home for your needs and budget.

Please get in touch by calling 0800 246 1206 or fill in your details below:

The majority of static caravans are fitted with aluminium cladding as standard (especially in the more budget-conscious ranges); however, other great options include thermoplastic, rigid vinyl or wood. Cladding is a particular type of material applied over another to provide a skin or layer and used to provide a degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance, and to improve the appearance of the structure.

Upgrades to your cladding can seem costly at first, but will undoubtedly save you money in the long run. One of the most popular choices for upgrades is CanExel high-density wood composite fibre, often considered to be the ultimate in static caravan insulation. The hard surface is very resistant to impacts and scratches, unlike aluminium, and is easy to clean. No regular maintenance is necessary, compared to wood-based cladding which requires surface treatment on a recurring basis, and it is of course moisture and pest resistant.

CanExel is a type of cladding material that is commonly used in the construction of buildings, including static caravans. It is a brand name for a specific type of engineered wood siding that offers both aesthetic appeal and durability.

Here are some key features and characteristics of CanExel cladding:

Composition: CanExel cladding is made from wood fibers, resins, and wax. These materials are combined and compressed to create a strong, stable, and weather-resistant product.

Appearance: CanExel cladding is designed to resemble natural wood siding, providing a warm and authentic look to buildings. It is available in a variety of colors and textures, including options that mimic the appearance of cedar or other wood species. In some locations, whether it be on a holiday park or residential park or on private land, there may be specific rules governing the exterior colour of a caravan or lodge eg. specifying that only ‘environmental’ colours such as greens or browns are permitted, to blend in with rural surroundings.  In these situations it is quite common that the aluminium or PVC cladding options do not meet the colour requirements, often leading to an upgrade to a product such as CanExel.

Durability: One of the primary advantages of CanExel cladding is its durability. The engineered wood composition helps protect against rot, moisture, and insect damage, making it a suitable choice for exterior applications. It also has resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling, which helps maintain its appearance over time.

Low maintenance: CanExel cladding requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional wood siding. It does not need regular painting or staining, reducing the overall maintenance effort and costs associated with the cladding.

Installation: CanExel cladding is typically installed using a tongue-and-groove system, allowing for easy and secure installation. It can be fitted horizontally or vertically, depending on the desired aesthetic.

Energy efficiency: CanExel cladding often includes built-in insulation properties, contributing to the energy efficiency of the building. The insulation helps reduce heat loss, improving the thermal performance of the structure.

Environmental considerations: CanExel cladding is generally considered an environmentally friendly option. It is made from wood fibers, which are a renewable resource, and the manufacturing process typically involves using sustainable practices.

It’s important to note that CanExel is a brand name, and other manufacturers do produce similar engineered wood cladding products under different names.

Here at The UK Caravan Centre we offer a wide range of exterior colour options for your home, so if you want an upgraded look for your home by choosing a custom cladding exterior, with different colour window frames, or if your home needs to blend into its surrounds, we will have an option to suit.

At the forefront of lodge & holiday home design and meeting the demands for a better quality and more practical product to replace the traditional aluminium cladding, we offer a wide range of different cladding options using the latest technology to bring benefits by way of lower noise transfer, lower maintenance, better insulation and higher durability.

Please get in touch with one of our team to discuss your requirements via telephone on 0800 246 1206 or simply fill in your details below:

Static caravans, also known as mobile homes, holiday homes, park homes, or lodges, are constructed in a factory using a combination of materials that provide strength, insulation, and durability, before then being transported and installed at the customer’s desired location. The prefabrication process and exact materials used (which may vary depending on the manufacturer and specific model) make them a much more affordable choice than a traditional brick-and-mortar home in many instances. Here are some common materials used in the construction of static caravans:

Steel chassis: The base of a static caravan is usually a steel chassis, which provides a sturdy foundation and structural support. Many manufacturers also offer the options of a galvanised or pre-galvanised chassis, although in most cases & locations this would not be a necessity.

Timber frame: The main structure of the caravan is often made of timber, such as treated softwood or lightweight engineered timber. The frame provides the framework for the walls, floors, and roof.

Wall panels: The walls of static caravans are typically constructed using a combination of materials. The exterior side may consist of materials like weatherboard cladding, vinyl siding, or aluminium panels. Some manufacturers also offer optional upgrades to cladding such as CanExel which is a popular low-maintenance engineered wood cladding (made of wood fibres, resins & wax) with both aesthetic appeal and durability, and comes in a selection of colours to suit your surroundings and style.

On the inside, the walls may have plasterboard or other wallboard materials for finishing. For a smooth finish, the narrow vertical gaps between the wall-boards are usually fitted with a trim known as a ‘knock-in’.

Insulation: To provide thermal insulation and improve energy efficiency, static caravans often have insulation materials installed within the walls, floors, and roof. Common insulation materials include expanded polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, or rigid foam insulation.

Roofing: The roof of a static caravan may be constructed using materials like metal, asphalt shingles, or fibreglass. It is designed to protect the interior from weather elements. Whilst the roof may look like it is constructed of individual ‘tiles’, this is not usually the case and is typically large sheets fabricated into a tiled-look finish.

Windows and doors: The windows and exterior doors of static caravans are typically made of uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) frames, which offer good insulation and durability. They are often double-glazed to enhance energy efficiency.  The interior doors are now typically the very same type of timber doors that one would find in a regular bricks-and-mortar house.

Interior finishes: The interior of a static caravan may have various finishes, including wooden or laminate flooring, gypsum plasterboard walls, and ceiling panels. The specific materials used for these finishes can vary depending on the manufacturer and the desired aesthetic.

Furniture & soft furnishings: Most caravans now come fully furnished, including lounge and dining furniture (some may be fixed seating, whilst others may be free-standing), beds and fitted wardrobes, fully fitted kitchens (usually including appliances such as domestic twin-cavity ovens and hobs, and sometimes with additional options such as dishwashers, washer-dryers, integrated fridge-freezers, integrated microwaves etc.).  Depending on the manufacturer there may be options to choose the bespoke finishes to suit your taste.

It’s worth noting that the materials used in static caravan construction may evolve over time as new technologies and advancements are introduced.

Our team at The UK Caravan Centre can guide you through the varying options to help you choose the caravan that best suits your needs and budget.  Please give us a call on 0800 246 1206 or fill in your details below: