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To avoid significant water damage in your RV, it is essential to keep up with roof seal maintenance. A tiny leak may not seem like a big deal, but it can create a very dangerous situation for you and those using your RV. Before you know it, mold could take over, or water damage could ruin your RV's interior and exterior walls. So today, let's go through everything you need to know about your RVs roof sealant.
How Often to reseal
According to our RV manufacturer, the roof should be inspected every six months to catch minor problems before they become large, expensive problems. I look over the sealants every time I get on the roof about once a month.
However, you don't need to reseal your RV roof that often. Typically the sealant will need to be completely removed and replaced every 8-10 years. Ruby, our 35 foot motorhome, is getting close after seven years. We will need to remove all the sealant sometime next year to prevent significant water issues down the road.
Deciding which sealant to use
Many RV Roofs exist, including rubber, metal, and even fiberglass roofs. So it is essential to choose the best sealant for your specific roof. Using the wrong sealant on your RV roof can damage seals and cause a bigger problem. Always check with your RV manufacturer to see what sealant they recommend.
The area and size of the repair will be a factor in determining which sealant to use.
Another thing to consider before choosing your sealant is will you need rigid or flexible sealant. Flexible sealant can handle expansion and contraction with high temperatures. Rigid sealant is not flexible and is prone to crack.
Finally, UV resistance should be a consideration. It will prevent your sealant from being damaged by the sun’s heat and UV rays.
Types of sealant
There are a couple of options that you can use when sealing an RV roof. One of the most popular types is a liquid sealant. A liquid sealant often comes in a tube and needs a caulking gun for application. This sealant is an easy way to address large and minor fixes. Check with the brand of sealant for instructions.
Another popular option is sealant tape. This tape forms an airtight bond to help prevent water from penetrating gaps. A sealant tape is great for roof repairs but also preventative maintenance.
sealants we’ve used
Eternabond
Roof seal repair tape for punctures, tears
Bonds to aluminum, wood, fiberglass, rubber, vinyl and more
Creates waterproof seal
Remains flexible in extreme temperatures
UV resistance
Easy to use
Recommend as temporary fix
Self leveling sealant
Easy to use
Remains flexible
UV rated
Bonds to vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, & metal
Creates a secondary seal along the roofs edges, air vents, vent pipes and screw heads
Apply with caulk gun
Adhesive type sealant
Bonds to may surfaces including rubber, fiberglass, metal and more
Withstands extreme temperatures
Easy to use
Apply with caulk gun
supplies needed
Below are a few of the supplies that will be needed to replace your RV seals.
Denatured alcohol
Mineral spirits
Painters tape
Plastic scrapers
Box cutter
steps to replacing seals
We will take you step by step through the process in the video below.
can’t get on the roof
Even if you cannot get on the roof, it should be inspected regularly. You can find an RV technician to inspect your roof through the RV Technician Association of America’s RV tech locator. Once on the website, type in your current city and state, and it will show you all the certified RV technicians in your area.
Wrap up
RV sealants are an important part of your overall RV maintenance. While sealant maintenance and repair may seem mundane and time consuming. Making the time and effort to inspect and maintain your RV sealants, will save you money in the long run. Most importantly, it will extend the life of your RV and keep you on the road!
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About the Author: Meet Stacy! Stacy and her husband, Phil, are a wanderlust couple who have been roaming the great USA for an epic 5 years! They ditched the daily grind to embark on thrilling adventures and inspire fellow dreamers to chase their travel dreams. Curious about how they do it? Check out their awesome youtube channel, Today is Someday, where they're spilling all the secrets to living a life on the move. Get ready to pack your bags and join them on this incredible journey.
