Water damage can quickly ruin your rig regardless of RV roof type. Regular RV roof maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks and keep your rig dry.
It means washing and inspecting the roof at least twice a year. Be sure to get up safely and pay special attention to RV roof vents, air conditioners, and storage racks.
Clean the Roof
Whether you have a fiberglass, aluminum, or rubber RV roof, it should be cleaned and inspected several times a year. Rain, snow, and ice exposure deteriorates rubber over time, causing cracking, rips, and sealant separation. Water seepage from the weakened roof surface ruins wall panels, damages insulation, and rots the framework. Wet areas also foster the growth of black mold, a dangerous fungus that can cause respiratory infections.
Scrub the RV roof with a medium bristle brush (or what the manufacturer recommends) and a cleaner that doesn’t contain petroleum solvents, harsh abrasives, or citrus ingredients. After scrubbing one section at a time, rinse the entire roof. Rinsing thoroughly prevents cleaners from running down the sides of your rig and streaking.
Once the RV roof is clean, consider applying a protectant to fiberglass roofs with slight oxidation. It helps guard the top against future oxidation and makes future washings easier. Rubber roofs don’t require anything further, but some RVers choose to wax their rubber RV roofs to make future cleaning and inspections even more effortless.
Inspect the Sealants
Examine each area of the RV roof carefully while you clean it. A rip or tear might let water inside the RV, leading to damage and mold or mildew growth. Patching kits are frequently available at most RV repair shop and can be used to patch up minor rips and tears.
Check for cracks in the caulking around the RV roof seams. Checking the seals on roof penetrations like vents, solar panels, and air conditioners is also brilliant. It is a good idea to consult the RV owner’s manual for recommendations regarding what types of sealants are compatible with your particular type of RV roof.
It is crucial to exercise utmost caution while walking on the roof of an RV. Wet surfaces are slippery, and an accident could easily result in a large repair bill. It is best to have a ladder or help from a friend when working on the RV roof.
Inspect the Underlayment
RV roofs are subjected to a lot of stress. They must withstand scorching sun, freezing snow, rain, and hail. Plus, the constant vibration and movement when driving shakes them up. Excessive weight or pressure can result in the formation of cracks and lead to the gradual deterioration of the underlayment.
You’ll need a ladder or other safe way to inspect your RV roof. If you don’t have a ladder, it is still possible to walk on the roof as long as you’re careful. Look for water stains, fungus or mold growth, and swelling around A/C units or roof vents. Also, listen to your RV for any strange sounds.
You should pay particular attention to the caulking and seams during your inspection. If you have a fiberglass roof, look for cracking, oxidation, or general wear and tear. If you have a metal roof, look for dents or chipping paint. It will help you identify areas that need to be sealed. Also, you should check the seals and seams around the attachment points for your roof vents, solar panels, and any other roof-mounted accessories.
Inspect the Vents
While inspecting the roof, check the seals around the vents and AC units. It is a common place for leaks to occur in RVs. If you hear squeaking or rattling, this can indicate water damage in the walls of the RV, which can be expensive to repair.
Look for cracking and general wear and tear on any caulking around the seams. The roof piece meets the RV’s sidewalls and front & rear caps in these areas. Also, look at other sites where the roof meets various attachments, like vents, solar panels, or A/C units.
It is an integral part of your routine RV maintenance to help prevent leaks and water damage. It’s crucial if you plan to use your RV often or during wet weather. Regular RV roof inspections can avoid costly repairs and keep your RV safe and comfortable for your travels! Good luck and happy camping!
