Material Matters: Why Our Campervans Are Built to Last
When it comes to designing and building campervans, not all materials—or methods—are created equal. At Serene Vans, we take material selection seriously. Our goal is to create campervans that are not only beautiful but also durable, sustainable, and built for the long haul. Every material we choose and every joint we make reflects that philosophy. Here’s what sets our builds apart.
Thoughtful Material Selection
We’ve carefully chosen premium materials known for their strength, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Each material plays a key role in ensuring your campervan can handle the rigors of life on the road while minimizing its environmental footprint.
• Plyboo Bamboo Plywood: Bamboo is one of the most sustainable building materials available. Plyboo is strong, lightweight, and visually stunning, with a warm, natural grain that makes every campervan feel like home.
Bamboo galore, finished with Rubio Monocoat. Richlite countertop finished with Osmo PolyX.
• Richlite: A highly durable paper-based composite, Richlite is perfect for countertops and surfaces. It’s incredibly tough, has a rich texture, and resists scratches and moisture—ideal for van life.
Richlite is lightweight yet highly durable and strong while providing timeless aesthetics. Even at ¼ inch thick it has incredibly spanning capabilities. It is also highly impermeable and temperature resistant up to 350f.
• Baltic Birch Plywood: Known for its superior strength and stability, Baltic birch provides a reliable foundation for cabinetry and interior structures. Its clean, modern look is a bonus.
• Aluminum Framing: Lightweight yet strong, aluminum forms the backbone of our builds. Unlike traditional all-wood framing, aluminum offers superior durability without adding unnecessary weight.
Aluminum framing is crucial for durability and longevity. Run, don’t walk, away from any builder or manufacturer not using aluminum framing or rivnuts.
Finishes That Protect and Shine
Durability shouldn’t come at the expense of beauty or health. That’s why we use Osmo PolyX and Rubio Monocoat finishes, which are:
• No-VOC: Safe for you and the environment.
• Durable: Designed to withstand daily use and abuse.
• Easily Refinished: No need to strip layers of paint—our finishes can be touched up with ease, keeping your van looking fresh for years.
Superior Craftsmanship: The Hidden Details
Our materials are only part of the story. The way we put everything together makes a world of difference in quality, strength, and longevity.
• Aluminum Frame Secured with Rivnuts: The aluminum frame is the foundation of every build. Using rivnuts, we secure the frame directly to the van’s chassis, creating a solid, reliable structure.
• Wooden Joints with Domino Joinery: Instead of relying on screws or glue, we use precision Domino joinery for all wooden connections. This method results in stronger joints, cleaner aesthetics, and fewer failure points.
How We’re Different from the Competition
While some competitors may focus on aesthetics alone, we go much deeper. Superficially, many van builds might look nice—but under the surface, the difference is clear:
• No Aluminum Framing: All-wood framing is heavier, less durable, and more prone to movement and warping over time.
• Screws Instead of Joinery: Screws may seem secure, but they loosen and weaken with vibration and use. Domino joinery ensures a long-lasting, rock-solid connection.
• Heavier Builds: Ironically, some competitors’ all-wood builds are heavier and less durable, which impacts fuel efficiency and handling.
Built to Last, Built for You
Every Serene Van is a blend of artistry and engineering. We build for durability, functionality, and beauty, ensuring that your campervan will take you wherever your heart desires—without compromise.
Whether you’re hitting the open road full-time or planning weekend getaways, you can trust that your Serene Van is designed to stand up to the challenge, year after year.
