A Closer Look at Liquid EPDM As RV Roof Sealant Applications

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Water is a serious threat to just about everything from your RV’s roof to your home’s foundation. Moisture can cause rust, mold growth, rot, and other forms of damage that can destroy seemingly impermeable materials including RV roof deck. The good news is that there are quite a few ways you can prevent moisture from wreaking havoc on your life. Liquid EPDM e.g. RV Liquid Roof is one of the better solutions to your needs. What should you know about Liquid EPDM applications, though?

What Can Be Coated?

If you take a look at the directions and application uses for most waterproofing products, they are pretty limited in terms of what you can apply them to but on the other hand Liquid EPDM RV Liquid Roof has a broad range of applications, including the following:

• Various Metal Roofing systems
• Weathered Aluminum
• Weathered Copper
• Any original epdm rubber roofing system
• Fiberglass
• Acrylic Sheet and any acrylic based products
• Weathered Vinyl
• Fleetwood models
• Alpha Rubber
• EPDM Roofs that were coated with a 3rd party roof coating

Benefits of Liquid EPDM Applications

Why choose Liquid epdm for your application needs? Actually, there are quite a few reasons that this should be your material of choice, including the following:

• Protection from Corrosion: Corrosive elements can quickly damage many types of materials, including metal and steel. A coating of Liquid EPDM helps to protect against this type of damage.

• Weatherproofing: RV roofs takes the toughest toll while on the road harsh UV light, wind, rain, sleet, snow, freezing temperatures, and more. This can cause some RV roof materials to expand and shrink, to become brittle, and to fail. But when ordinary roof sealants fail Liquid EPDM RV Liquid Roof application helps to create a durable, weatherproof surface that does not suffer from exposure-related degradation.

• Waterproofing: RV Liquid Roof water proofs the RV directly upon application and guard against water ponding all year around.

What About Priming?

Liquid EPDM RV Liquid Roof is a one coat system for your RV never needing a primer; however in some instances it does needs a primer as mentioned below.

• For Fleetwood models with ALPHA roofs or an Alpha Rubber roof you will need to use the ProFlex Primer. You will be able to refer to your manual to determine if you have a roof made by Alpha systems. These applications are not covered under the warranty.
• Although Liquid Roof may be used in conjunction with the ProFlex primer directly on wood it is not warrantied
• In the event anyone has put a 3rd party coating over the original epdm roof you would need to prime with the ProFlex primer.

Considerations with Weather Environments

Liquid EPDM applications are designed to be waterproof. However, it takes some time to cure depending upon the weather conditions. It normally takes about two days above 50 degrees for the material to develop a skin and then 7 days for a full cure. If the temperature drops below 50 you would need to add that time to the overall cure.

In Conclusion

Ultimately, Liquid EPDM has many potential applications, and it offers outstanding durability, protection from UV-rays and waterproofing capabilities. Whether you’re reroofing your RV or looking for a way to create seamless water proof membrane for your RV roof, this should be your material of choice.

RV Roof Leaks? Liquid Roof Sealant Can Help!

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Your RV is an important investment. It provides you with freedom and enjoyment, the ability to go where you want without having to worry about renting a hotel room, and more. It’s an incredible experience to own one. However, many owners find that their experience is eventually tarnished by a roof leak.

RV roofs are not like the roofs of residential homes – they’re thin and light and designed to provide protection while being easily mobile. They can be compromised by many things, ranging from falling tree branches to too much sun exposure. Thankfully, Liquid Roof sealant can help get you back on the road once more! Here’s what you need to know about fixing that RV roof leak with Liquid Roof.

Locate the Leak

First, you’ll need to locate the leak. This will require a visual inspection. It is often best to start inside the RV – look for signs of water leaks on the ceiling and the walls. These will appear as dark stains, often reddish or brownish in color. Once you’ve found such evidence, there is a good bet that the leak is somewhere nearby. However, that does not necessarily mean that the leak is directly above the stain, as water can leak through the roof membrane, and then run for a distance along the underlayment before it finally leaks into the interior.

Once you’ve found evidence of a leak, you’ll need to get topside. Many RVs have a ladder built into them for just this purpose, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need to get a tall, steady ladder so you can climb on top. Here, you’ll need to carefully inspect the roof for signs of damage. It might be something obvious – a branch puncture through the roof membrane, for instance.

However, it might be something less conspicuous. Many times, small leaks around flashing and other rooftop seals can translate into big damage within the interior. Check for any loose flashing, or areas of damage around vents and the like. It could also be a leaking seam on the roof.

Repair the Leak

Once you’ve found the leak, it is time to begin the repair process. With Liquid Roof sealant, it should be quick and effective. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

  • Get your tools together. You’ll need cleaning supplies, as well as a paint roller or brush to apply the sealant. You will also need a razor knife. If you need to remove any old caulking, you’ll also need a scraper.
  • Next, you’ll need to cut or scrape away any silicone caulking. If there is a puncture through the roof, you’ll need to trim the edges so that they are not ragged.
  • Third, you must clean the roof. It must be practically spotless for the repair to work, so you will need a scrubbing pad and a good cleaner to remove dirt and debris.
  • Once you have the entire patch area clean, you can apply the Liquid Roof sealant. Roll it on in a single smooth coat and allow it to dry. It should be dry to the touch within minutes and it is waterproof as soon as you apply it. However, it will take time to cure completely.
  • When the patch has cured, test the repair with a water hose to make sure that the leak has been alleviated.

There you have it – simple, effective steps to repairing a minor RV roof leak with Liquid Roof sealant. As a note, you can repair larger sections with Liquid Roof, as well, up to re-roofing over the entire membrane if necessary, although you’ll have additional prep work for that.

RV Maintenance 101: Calculating Your RV Roof Reseal Cost

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RVs are a unique creation: part vehicle, part living space, and all of it requires routine maintenance and care that can be quite different from that of a car or a permanent structure. Even mobile homes, which are often similar to RVs in roofing materials and styles, still use different products and materials. That’s why the first step on your RV maintenance checklist should be to educate yourself on the proper materials and methods for handling things like the roof of your RV.

Resealing an RV roof is a standard part of maintenance that can give your roof years of additional life. Those who have EPDM rubber roofs don’t need to worry about this process because EPDM roofs are maintenance-free when applied correctly, aside from the occasional washing. Over time, however, it may be necessary to fill in cracks, replace worn or damaged seals, or even reseal the entire roof for a fresh start. The cost of the process will vary significantly, depending on a number of factors.

Do It Yourself to Save

Professional RV shops and dealerships do provide a number of maintenance services, including resealing. However, most places will charge over $1,000 for the job, with larger RVs requiring an estimated $1,500 to $2,000 for a full reseal. You can cut your RV roof reseal cost significantly by doing the work yourself. If you have the time, the tools and materials that you need are reasonably affordable on their own. Keep in mind that with the estimated costs provided here, the majority of the charge is in labor (many shops and dealerships charge $80-$100 per man hour). Doing the work yourself can cut the bill down to about 1/3 of what they charge.

How Big is Your RV?

As mentioned above, the larger the RV, the larger the cost of maintenance services like resealing. Even if you do the work yourself, your RV roof reseal cost is going to be affected by how big of a roof you have to reseal. Also factored into this is the style of RV roof you have, as well as how many fixtures are on it. If you’re dealing with a vent, air conditioner, satellite dish, skylight, and every other possible roof fixture, you are going to spend a lot more time and money on the sealing process, regardless of who does the work.

Don’t Cheap Out

Keep in mind that you get what you pay for with RV resealing, as with any professional service. This is a laborious process that involves removing all of the old sealant. That part can take hours, because a careful hand is required to remove the caulk or adhesive without damaging the fixtures or the roof itself. Remember that while a quote might seem expensive, these people really are putting in a lot of work.

On the same hand, when you do the work yourself, you have to do it right. You could save a lot of time by just caulking over the old seals, but that isn’t doing anyone any favors. All that will do is make it even harder to scrape and prep whenever you finally do get around to resealing the entire RV roof. You might spend 15 or 20 hours prepping and resealing your own roof, but you can save a fortune on labor costs and know that the job is done right.

There are a lot of elements that go into determining the average RV roof reseal cost. Materials, the size of your RV, and who is doing the work are going to have the biggest impact. Be sure to ask around and find out what others in your area are spending, and how they are saving, by making the most of DIY roof resealing.

How to Properly Seal and Repair Your RV Roof

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Taking care of your RV’s roof is a large part of RV maintenance. This is one of the most important parts of your mobile home-away-from-home, after all, and deserves a little TLC from time to time. Even the most durable roofing products are going to face damage and wear over time, so the best thing that you can do is to learn how to repair and seal your roof for the best chances of avoiding future issues. That starts by making an assessment of the roof to decide what your next steps will be.

What is the Problem?

Water damage is the leading cause of RV repairs, and it usually is a result of a leaky roof that was improperly maintained or incorrectly repaired. Before you do anything, you need to figure out what problem you are trying to solve. If, for example, you are looking to reseal all of the seams on your roof, you will be looking for the best RV roof seam sealant. If you need to repair cracks or fill in missing areas on a rubber roof, a liquid roofing product might be a better option.

Identify the problem so that you can choose the correct solution. After all, it doesn’t matter how well you know how to seal or repair things if you aren’t sure of exactly what needs done.

Choose the Right Products

The increasing demand for universal products has created a new place for brands that cater to RV owners with all types of roofing materials. However, there are still many repair and sealing products that are uniquely designed to work with a specific material or another. For example, you need to avoid petroleum oils and citric acids in products that you are going to use on a rubber roof, because these can cause irreparable damage.

Read the product information to find reputable brands. Look at repair kits, which might offer a better deal depending on the types of repairs that you are dealing with. Finally, make absolutely sure that the products you buy are compatible with your roofing material. A great deal on the supposed best RV roof seam sealant is no good if the specific adhesive is damaging to your fiberglass roof, for example.

Use Your Resources

Some people assume that they have to take their RV to a shop or dealership for a roof repair. The fact of the matter is that this simply isn’t true. In fact, the majority of resealing jobs, repairs, and even full replacements can be done by the average handy person, with the right information. Take advantage of online RV communities and articles that can help you learn the best products and methods for repairing and sealing your roof. Watch YouTube videos of tricky repairs or things you aren’t certain of so that you can follow along.

Preparation is Key

The biggest part of most RV repair and sealing jobs is removing the old sealant or damaged roofing material. Having a clean, smooth surface to place the patch, pour in liquid rubber, or install brand new sealant around all the seams is going to make all the difference. Repairs will last longer and seams will be stronger when the area is cleaned and prepped prior to applying the new materials.

Wrap Up

To sum it up, it’s all about preparation and knowing what you are getting into when dealing with RV sealants and repair jobs. Take the time to learn about the project ahead of you and find the best RV roof seam sealant or repair kit for the job. Remove all of the damage so that you can start with a clean slate, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If the job is too big or simply outside of your abilities, there are repair shops and dealerships that can help. Just make sure that you shop around to find the best service and rates before you schedule your service.

How to Choose the Best RV Roof Material

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Like structure roofing, RV roofing options are vast. There are a number of materials used to create RV roofs, including everything from liquid rubber to vinyl, fiberglass, and standard rubber roofing. Choosing the “best” material is a misnomer in this situation, although it is one of the most common questions asked by RV owners. Why is this question so difficult to answer, though? There isn’t just one right or wrong answer. Plus, while all roofing materials have their pros and cons to consider, modern products are fairly similar in terms of longevity and protective benefits. Therefore, it largely comes down to a matter of personal preference.

Liquid Roofing

Liquid products are the best RV roof material for a versatile, convenient, economical solution. These products are designed to fill in all cracks and crevices, and dry white to offer energy savings by reflecting sunlight. Liquid roofing products are also easy to apply with a brush or squeegee, and typically require little to no maintenance. Plus, they self-level, so you can ensure an even coat and avoid pooling that can lead to damage later on.

EPDM and TPO (Standard Rubber Roof)

Rubber is the most common roofing material used on RVs. Unlike liquid products, traditional rubber membranes offer a sheet-style application. EPDM and TPO refer to the two types of rubber materials used to make RV roofing, and each has its own pros and cons. EPDM is more affordable and offers a low-maintenance solution, while TPO is a synthetic that is ideal for flat roofs with few fixtures or attachments. Each type of rubber has different maintenance requirements, so make sure that you know which one you have.

Fiberglass

Although they add weight to the RV, fiberglass roofs are the best RV roof material for less maintenance. These roofs are significantly more expensive than rubber roofing and other materials, but they do offer a high-quality, hard-top solution that some people prefer. Fiberglass roofing may require more frequent resealing because the sturdy material doesn’t provide an additional layer of flexibility like a rubber roofing product.

Vinyl

Vinyl roofing shares a lot of the same properties with rubber RV roofing products. This is a more flexible material that is cost-effective when compared to fiberglass. Minor tears or rips can even be easily repaired without a full replacement, which makes this the best RV roof material for affordability and durability. Usually, the vinyl roof is chosen due to manufacturing costs, and isn’t that much different than EPDM or TPO in terms of maintenance and care.

What Really Matters

Now that you better understand the different types of roofing materials available for an RV and what they have to offer, you can decide which one best suits your needs. When it comes to a long-lasting, durable RV roof, the material is less important than things like:

● Routine inspections and cleaning. RV roofs should be inspected and cleaned                 at least 2-3 times per year, depending on how often it is used and whether or                   not it is covered while in storage.

● Use of proper protectant and sealing materials. The wrong materials can cause              a lot of damage to your RV’s roof and even affect its resale value. For example,              using a petroleum-based protectant or sealant on an EPDM roof will create a                  bubbling effect and can cause permanent roof damage. Make sure you care for              your roof with material-specific products and maintenance tasks.

● Ozone, extreme temperatures, and UV rays. All roofing materials are prone to                deterioration over time due to these elements. Some materials feature built-in                  protective coatings to reduce this wear over time. Others require regular                         application of an additional roof protectant, which may be a step you don’t want               to have to deal with.

The bottom line? Choose the best RV roof material based on your own personal preferences. Also, remember that when you are buying an RV, the type of roof that it has doesn’t necessarily make one model better than another. Liquid roofing certainly has a lot of perks, but with the right care, any roofing material can give your RV the protection that it needs.

Why More RV Owners are Considering Liquid Roofing

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Rubber has been used as a roofing material for RVs for over 25 years. It provides a durable, flexible surface that can add strength to the seals around seams and fixtures, and it is much more affordable and easy to install than other roofing materials. To increase the benefits and convenience of this material, EPDM liquid roofing was developed. This liquid possesses all the qualities of EPDM sheeting membranes, but when it dries it provides a more flexible, durable finish.

Liquid Roofing Dries White

Although choosing a roof material is about more than aesthetics, it does matter. In fact, it matters a lot to many RV owners who avoid rubber roofing because they assume that it will be black. Not only is this not as visually appealing on a white or off-white RV, but it can attract more heat and doesn’t offer as much energy efficiency, despite its strong, durable sealing power.

However, liquid roofing products have been uniquely formulated for this exact reason. The formula goes on as a black liquid, but as it dries and cures, it turns white. The white finish will reflect heat and harmful UV rays, and offer a better-looking finish on RVs of a similar color scheme.

Liquid Roofing Offers Full Protection

Liquid EPDM is engineered to protect your RV from more than just UV rays. In fact, this product can resist ozone elements, freezing and extreme heat, snow, acids and alkalis, and even saltwater. No matter what climate you live in or where you take your RV, you can trust that your roof will be better protected with a liquid product than other roofing materials. Plus, the liquid will get into every single crevice and crack on your roof, ensuring a watertight seal across the entire surface.

In case that isn’t enough, liquid roofing has self-leveling properties. While you do have to spread it during application, you don’t have to worry about getting it perfectly even. It will finish leveling out as it dries, giving you a flat surface that won’t be prone to pooling water and other potential damage or leaks as a result of an uneven application.

DIYers Love the Easy Application

If you’re looking for a weekend project for your RV, a new roof or roof coating could be a great choice. With liquid roofing, it’s as easy to apply the coating as it is to paint a wall. Using a brush, roller, or squeegee, you can apply the liquid product in a short amount of time and let it air dry for a full cure in less than 24 hours. Plus, this convenient material can be applied to almost any surface. So long as the surface is clean, liquid roof can be applied to:

  • Fiberglass
  • Sheet Rubber
  • Fabric
  • Plywood
  • Metal or Aluminum

The liquid roof will cure to a flexible finish on any of these surfaces, providing optimal protection and easy application regardless of your existing roof material.

The Bottom Line: The Bottom Dollar

Perhaps the most popular reason that people choose this option for their RV is how cost-effective it is when compared to other roofing options. The cost of replacing your roof can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, but you can typically expect to pay a repair shop around $300 per linear foot to replace other types of RV roofing.

Liquid roofing, on the other hand, can be done in a matter of hours by anyone with basic painting skills. A gallon of liquid EPDM ranges from $50-$100, and will cover as much as 45 square feet. Depending on the size of your RV, you can get the job done for a couple hundred bucks over the course of a weekend.

RV Roof Replacement: Know When Your Roof is Beyond Repair

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For the most part, choosing whether to repair or replace your RV’s roof is a personal preference. However, there are going to be some situations when a full RV roof replacement presents the better, or even necessary, option. Knowing when that is can save you a lot of stress and help you avoid causing further damage to your RV’s roof and the structure underneath.

Here are some signs that your roof is probably ready for replacement, rather than another repair:

  • The repair is more expensive than a replacement. Although obvious, this is the primary reason that owners choose an RV roof replacement as opposed to a repair. After all, you are looking for the most affordable way to protect your investment. If a new roof is cheaper, it doesn’t make sense not to go that route.
  • The damaged area is too extensive. This is slightly subjective. However, if the damage on your roof covers more than 30% of the roof, it might be in your best interest to at least get quotes on a full replacement. If you aren’t certain, you can get an estimate from the professionals. You don’t have to let them do the job, but they can give you an idea of the costs involved and which option is better.
  • The structure underneath the roof or the fixtures (such as vent fans or hatches) are damaged. In this situation, you can’t really repair the areas that need it without removing the old roofing material first. Therefore, a replacement is the only thing that makes sense.
  • The age of the roof is a good indicator. A roof that is only 10 years old, for example, might be fine to repair even if the damage is significant. A 20-year-old roof, on the other hand, will be better to replace regardless of what repairs are needed. Most RV roofs last a maximum of 25 years, so keep that in mind when considering your options.
  • Whatever damage or issues your roof is facing require a long-term solution. Repairs are typically a short-term solution, and may not always get the job done. You might think you are saving money by doing a small repair now, but when you have to repair it every six months, you might think again. In this situation, a replacement offers a better long-term solution for any kind of roof damage or deterioration.
  • You already have multiple layers of roofing materials. Although it is usually fine to have a layer or two of rubber roofing and/or sealants on an RV, you don’t want too much to build up. This can put unnecessary strain on the roof and add too much weight to the vehicle. If you’ve already done a lot of repairs or cover-ups, it might be time for a full RV roof replacement.

Replacement Time: Consider New Materials

Humans are creatures of habit. If their RV has a rubber roof, the chances are high that they will look specifically into a rubber roof replacement. Although there are multiple types of roofing materials available for RVs today, people are not always aware of all of the options. Do yourself a favor since you are replacing the roof anyway, and explore the materials available to see which ones best suit your needs.

A popular option for versatility, convenience, and durable longevity is the liquid rubber roof. This product is easy to apply, levels itself during application, and will air-dry to a flexible, watertight seal in a matter of hours. Plus, it adds an extra layer of protection around seams and fixtures that you don’t get from materials like fiberglass or TPO, which are much more solid, sheet-like products.

Regardless of what you choose, trust that you are making a solid investment in your RV by replacing the roof when it is necessary. There is a time and place for minor repairs, but they might not always do the job. Keep these tips in mind when deciding what to do with the roof on your RV.

Are You Planning on Doing RV Roof Waterproofing?

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The weather is starting to get nice and you’re beginning to get the itch. It’s time to get the RV ready for another season of camping. You always perform a thorough inspection before and after each season, and today, you noticed that the roof is looking a little rough. It’s been years since you’ve done anything to the roof, so maybe it’s time to do some RV roof waterproofing. What’s the first step?

Are You Planning on Doing the RV Roof Waterproofing Yourself?

The first thing that you’re going to want to consider is whether you’re comfortable going up onto the roof and doing the work yourself. There’s no shame in hiring a competent roofing professional to do the job for you. Most of them are insured and will guarantee their work, and because the area of an RV roof is relatively small, the cost of hiring someone shouldn’t be too high. Many of them will allow you to supply the materials, so you can shop around and take advantage of sales promotions, further reducing your costs. If you do decide to do the job yourself, please be careful! Falling from the roof of an RV can cause serious injury or even death. RV roof waterproofing is not a complicated process and can usually be done on a weekend, weather permitting.

Which Waterproofing Sealant to Choose

When choosing an RV roof waterproofing material, there are a number of factors to consider, such as the material that your roof is made of and how you use your RV. Most RV roofs are made from either metal, fiberglass or EPDM synthetic rubber, so be sure to choose a waterproofing material that will work on your unit. Liquid rubber sealants work effectively on most RV roof surfaces, which makes them a popular choice for do-it-yourselfers. You may not think that the way in which you use your RV is a factor when choosing an RV roof waterproofing material. If your unit is parked at a camp ground year round, a liquid rubber sealant will give you the protection that you need. An RV that is constantly moving around will require a liquid roof material because it will better tolerate movement.

Wash, Rinse, Repeat

An RV roof waterproofing material will adhere well only if the underlying surface has been thoroughly cleaned, so it’s time to get out the bucket and brush. Before washing the roof, sweep or blow off all of the debris and loose material. You can wash the surface with warm soapy water; ordinary soaps should work fine. Scrub the roof well with a brush, removing all dirt and mildew. Next, rinse it thoroughly; you can use a pressure washer or garden hose. If you can’t seem to get the results that you want with regular soaps, there are cleaners specifically designed to clean RV roofs. Some detergents can leave a film behind which will keep the rubber sealant from adhering properly, so the point about rinsing thoroughly can’t be over-stated.

Applying the Sealant

It’s probably taken hours to sweep and clean the roof’s surface and now you’re ready to apply the sealant. Some people don’t do the work themselves because they think that it will be too difficult. The reality is, if you can paint a wall, you can seal your RV roof. Start by applying the sealant around the vents with a brush, and then do the rest of the roof with a medium nap roller. Let it dry and you’re ready for a summer of fun. Happy camping!

Some RV Roof Sealant Tips for You to Consider

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When it comes to maintaining their RVs, many people confuse time-consuming with difficult. Properly maintaining your coach, if done on a regular basis, is not that difficult, but can take a bit of time. Most RV owners however, are more than willing to expend both the time and effort required to keep their unit in great condition, because they realize that their RV represents a large financial investment from which they derive enormous pleasure. The part of every RV requiring the most scrutiny, whether the camper is always on the road or parked at a campground year-round, is the roof. That’s because the roof is the part that is most susceptible to damage from the elements, and just as importantly, any failure in the roof’s integrity will eventually translate into damage in another part of the trailer’s structure.

RV Liquid Roof

RV Liquid Roof

The Most Important RV Roof Sealant Tip is: Safety First.

It’s only natural to want to save money, and doing your own scheduled maintenance on your RV roof can save you a lot. However, and this is important, if you’re not comfortable working on the roof, please hire a professional. You’re not going to do your family any good or save money if you get hurt from a fall. Most professionals are licensed and insured and will warranty their work. Having said that, if you’re confident that you can safely do the roof sealing work yourself, you will save a significant amount of money that can be spent on other things.

Take Your Time When Performing the Inspection.

Another important RV roof sealing tip is to take your time when doing the inspection on your roof. If done properly, a roof reseal with the correct products will last for many years, so it’s important to take the time to make sure that every area is examined before proceeding. Check along the outside edges of the roof and look for any separations in the seam material. Pay particular attention to the caulking around all of the roof vents, looking for cracks and peeling. If you have to repair any areas, be sure to use a caulk that is specifically designed for use under a liquid EPDM rubber roof sealant.

Choose the Right Product for the Job.

You’re familiar with the phrase; ‘penny wise and pound foolish’. That phrase refers to people who buy inferior products that aren’t meant for a particular job, thinking that they’ll save a few dollars. What inevitably happens is they end up spending more in the long run when they have to redo the whole thing. Most people today are using EPDM type sealants on their RV roofs because they are fairly easy to apply, don’t require professional installation, can be installed in a weekend and provide long-lasting results on a variety of roof surfaces like metal, fiberglass and rubber.

RV Roof Sealant Tips Thee Ps

Don’t forget about the three Ps of RV roof repair and sealing; prep, prep and prep. Even if you choose the top-of-the-line liquid EPDM rubber sealer that only requires one coat, you still need to make certain that all repairs have been made and the surface is really clean. If any dust or detergent film remains on the roof’s surface, it could keep the liquid roof sealant from adhering properly. The little bit of extra time that you spend now doing the job properly, will pay huge dividends down the road when you’re able to enjoy your RV without having to worry about damage from a leaky roof. Happy Camping!

Using an RV Liquid Roof Treatment

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Your RV is a Big Investment

After your house, your RV is perhaps the biggest investment that you will ever make. It’s your home away from home when you’re on the road, and just like your house, you want your RV to be clean, comfortable and trouble-free. Regular inspection and maintenance play a big part in keeping it that way. The single biggest factor in keeping your coach in good shape is the condition of the roof. An RV roof is subject to the worst that Mother Nature has to offer; rain, sleet, snow, hail, and wind; the list goes on and on. Over time, the integrity of the roof’s surface deteriorates and small defects will appear. If left untreated, these seemingly minor flaws can develop into much bigger damage which will spread to other parts of the RV and compromise the structural integrity of the unit. Detecting and fixing problem areas of the roof when they first appear by using an RV liquid roof treatment can help ensure that you will enjoy many years of trouble-free camping.

RV liquid Roof

RV liquid Roof

Perform Regular Inspections

Thoroughly inspect the surface of your RV roof at the beginning and end of each season. If you’re using your coach for extended periods of time, a monthly inspection is warranted. If you don’t feel comfortable going up on the roof yourself, it is best to hire a professional. Look for minor cracks or splits in the roof’s surface. Inspect around the outside seams, taking special note of any separations. Check around all roof vents, antennae and the air conditioning unit. Are there any splits in the caulking? Does it appear to be pealing? Take your time when doing the inspection and never adopt the attitude that a problem isn’t that bad, that it can wait. Any defect in the integrity of the roof will only get worse over time. The sooner the problems are addressed, the easier and less expensive they’ll be to fix. After you’ve identified the areas that need to be treated with an RV liquid roof treatment, it’s time to prepare the surface.

Preparing the Problem Areas

Before you can apply an RV liquid roof treatment, the roof must be prepped. Start with a thorough cleaning of the surface. All loose dirt and debris must be swept or blown off of the roof. Next, thoroughly scrub the surface of the roof. You can use regular soaps as long as they don’t contain any petroleum or citrus products. It’s extremely important to thoroughly rinse the soaps and cleaning solutions, as any remaining residue can keep the RV liquid roof treatment from adhering properly.

Choose the RV Liquid Roof Treatment That’s Right for You

It is recommended that you use RV liquid roof treatment for a number of reasons. After several years, the surface of the roof isn’t going to be perfectly flat, especially if any repairs have been made to it. A liquid will fill in and coat even the smallest splits, cracks and defects. Also, a liquid will cover and coat any raised surface areas like repair sites, the caulking around the base of vents and antennae, or the lip around the roof’s edge. If you’re only sealing smaller repair areas, be sure to overlap the edge of the repair by about 3 inches. Lastly, because repair and prep work can be time intensive, you’ll be wise to use an RV liquid roof treatment that only requires one coat. It’ll save you hours of time that would otherwise be spent waiting for a first coat to dry.