RV Roof Maintenance Tips to Help Protect Your Vacation Vehicle

Consider following these cleaning, protection and inspection activities as part of your routine.

While you're cleaning, stocking, and organizing your RV for your next vacation, watching the leaves change in the fall, going fishing, or just taking a weekend getaway, don't forget an essential task: roof maintenance. RV. Neglecting proper maintenance and inspection can lead to problems down the road, such as serious water damage.

It is important to note that not all RVs have the same type of roof. Some of the most common are rubber, fiberglass, and aluminum. When you decide it's time to maintain your RV roof, consult your owner's manual to use the proper cleaners and materials for that type of roof. A few simple steps can help you keep your roof in tip-top condition and extend the life of your RV.

Cleaning and protecting your recreational vehicle

Clean three or four times a year:

This will help prevent deterioration and staining caused by tree sap, bird droppings, and algae and mold buildup. If you keep your RV parked under trees, you may need to clean the roof more often.

Be careful:

Check your owner's manual to see if you can walk on the roof. If you use a ladder , watch where you step. Use extreme caution when walking because there are many things you can trip over and wet surfaces can be slippery. If you don't feel comfortable working on the roof, contact an RV service company to have it done for you.

Use appropriate cleaning materials and methods:

Check your owner's manual to see what type of soap or cleaning materials are recommended for RV roof maintenance. Do not use cleaners containing petroleum solvents, harsh abrasives, or citric-based acids on rubber or vinyl roofs.

First, spray the ceiling. Use clean water to remove any loose dirt or debris.

Second, apply the cleaner and scrub in a circular motion. Use a sponge, medium bristle brush, wash mitt, or cloth to clean the entire surface. It may be a good idea to work in 3' x 3' areas. Rinse it well with clean water.

Third, keep the sides clean by rinsing them. This will prevent soap scum, streaks, and any damage to the decals, graphics, and paint finish. If the roof is extremely dirty, it may be a good idea to cover the sides with plastic sheets to save you cleaning time later.

Finally, apply a protective treatment. If your roof is made of rubber, like most modern roofs, applying an additional treatment can help protect it from UV rays and dirt buildup. Wait until the roof is dry before application.

RV Inspection Tips Before Hitting the Road

There are a variety of sealing and gasket materials used in the RV industry and it is important to remember that they will all deteriorate when exposed to the elements and thermal expansion.

Do a review every six months. Most RV manufacturers recommend inspecting the joints thoroughly every six months. Check your owner's manual for specific information on your model. A small crack in the seam can, over time, turn into an expensive repair that may not be covered by an insurance policy.

Examine all the joints. Check the entire roof for cracks, lifted or peeling areas, scratches or possible punctures, or any other signs of deterioration.

Look for tears or cuts. Rubber roofing also tends to have tears in the roofing material itself caused by tree branches or things like that.

Inspect the accessories. Check the refrigerator roof and storage tank vents for damage or obstructions, and check the air conditioner cover for damage and proper mounting.

Consult a professional. If you see any signs of cracks in the caulk joints or are concerned about other damage, contact a licensed professional to discuss repair options.

Prepare a repair kit. Even if you maintain your roof regularly, it's a good idea to have a repair kit on hand in case of an emergency. Some items to have in your repair kit are: roof cleaner and patches, joint roller, sealant, primer, and a caulking gun.

Don't let a small tear in your RV roof turn into something more serious and expensive. Wash and inspect your RV often and fix any problems as soon as possible so you don't have to worry about the roof preventing you from driving safely on the road. Also, RV mobile tech services can come to you and repair or replace your AC, refrigerator, awning, pop-out / slide-out, appliances, floor repair, roof leaks and more. We offer preventative maintenance as well as pre-buy consultations.