The Inexpensive “DIY” Ways To Seal Your RV Roof

The easiest way to lose your hard-earned investment on RV is to assume that the roof on RV will last forever without maintenance and repairs. The reality is water is the major culprit in damages done to all types of RVs. If there a way water will find it seeps through it. Water from rain showers or melted snow seeping through a seam will result in ruining insulation, wall panels and even root the framework of the roof. When it comes to RV roof leaks, prevention is better than cure.

The essence of prevention RV roof leaks lies in two things:

•          Inspect your RV regularly for leaks and damage
•          Timely repair the leaks with appropriate sealant

When choosing a roof sealant make sure it is specifically designed for use in RVs. A sealant designed for residential or commercial buildings will not work on RVs. Another thing to consider is to make sure the sealant material is compatible with your RV roof surface.

Most RVs have EPDM rubber or TPO roofs which means they require different ways to manage them.

EPDM Rubber Roofs

EPDM roofs don’t require maintenance for initially ten years after installation. Even after that a mild wash once in a while and easy re-coating is good enough. Don’t use harsh chemical or petroleum products on rubber roofs as they will cause non-repairable damage. Over the period of time when your rubber roof shows some sign of wear and tear than its time to repair the roof with a multi-purpose sealant. RV Roof Magic makes some highly durable products for RV.

TPO Rubber Roofs

TPO roofs are different from rubber roofs as they are more shiny, rigid and plastic-y. Unlike EPDM rubber roofs, TPO roofs won’t oxidize and get a chalk like outer surface. An occasional washing with some mild soap and a mop is all that you’ll need to do to care for a TPO roof.

RV roof maintenance is an integral part of maintaining the motor-home. The life of an RV can be enhanced by keeping the roof clean, debris free and applying a multi-purpose roof sealant. To get the best return on your investment be sure to do regular maintenance. Cleaning the roof bi-annually will also help to maintain its durability and longevity.