After much research we purchased an older RV which was in good shape, low mileage and a newer roof. The dealer didn't mention what the small bump out lines were in the exterior carriage walls. After further research we found out that it is the exterior walls that got wet before the new roof was installed. Can you tell me if this should be a worry at this time or will the rusting become dormant since the water has been removed?
Carmel
rjenkins said
07:44 PM Jul 15, 2010
If it was truly removed I would say it has become dormant. This is out of a wikipedia I found on the website. Take note about the absence of water towards the end: "The reddish-brown crust that often forms on iron and steel objects comes from changes that take place in the outer surface of the metal itself. This crust, called rust, is caused by the mixture of the metal with oxygen from water in the air.
When moisture from the air, or from anywhere else, reaches an object with iron in it, oxygen in the water combines with atoms of iron to form molecules of a compound called iron oxide.
The iron oxide particles remain suspended in the water, but when the water evaporates, the particles remain, forming a reddish coating on the surface of the iron. Without the presence of water, objects cannot rust.
Other metals besides iron and steel can rust when exposed to moisture, but not all rust is “rust-colored.” For instance, when copper or bronze rusts, it turns green. The green crust is called a patina."
The Bear II said
08:47 AM Jul 16, 2010
If you can easily get to the rust use a rust converter on it to kill the rust and prevent any possibility of spread. Rust converters can be found at auto supply and home improvement stores or online.
I've used them for years on many different types of vehicle/metal. They work well.
Carmel said
04:36 PM Jul 16, 2010
Thanks for the quick replies, I don't know how extensive the rust is, all I can see is the bumps in the wall framing from both the exterior and in some places from the interior. I just don't know is it will continue or if it will stop where it is since the water has stopped.
Carmel
"The reddish-brown crust that often forms on iron and steel objects comes from changes that take place in the outer surface of the metal itself. This crust, called rust, is caused by the mixture of the metal with oxygen from water in the air.
When moisture from the air, or from anywhere else, reaches an object with iron in it, oxygen in the water combines with atoms of iron to form molecules of a compound called iron oxide.
The iron oxide particles remain suspended in the water, but when the water evaporates, the particles remain, forming a reddish coating on the surface of the iron. Without the presence of water, objects cannot rust.
Other metals besides iron and steel can rust when exposed to moisture, but not all rust is “rust-colored.” For instance, when copper or bronze rusts, it turns green. The green crust is called a patina."
Check your PM.