EPDM Rubber 101: An In-Depth Look at RV Roofing Solutions

Posted on October 28, 2019 by Brian McCallister

EPDM was first introduced in 1962 as a single-ply roofing membrane system. During the 1970s, as the price and quality of asphalt-based roofing were affected by the oil embargo of the Middle East, this material became increasingly popular for RVs, mobile homes, and recreational vehicles. The material was a cost-effective solution that offered simple installation.

For the sake of RV roofing, EPDM has been enhanced and redesigned over the years to create an even more useful solution that still provides the convenience and quick application of the original product. Technology has even turned EPDM sheeting into a liquid product which offers another way to save more time and money on your RV roofing.

Weather the Elements with EPDM

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages to EPDM roofing is its superior resistance to extreme temperatures and weather elements. This rubber material is highly resistant to UV rays, hail damage, ozone, extreme heat and cold, ice, wind, and other elements. The synthetic compound holds up to environmental extremes much better than non-porous surfaces like fiberglass or aluminum roof sheeting.

EPDM Defined

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. Ethylene and propylene, the two main ingredients, are derived from natural gas and oil and combined with other ingredients to create a durable, flexible roofing solution for RVs and mobile homes. This material is available in black and white sheets, as well as black or white liquid roofing products.

Sheets are available for all sizes of RV roofs, with sizes sold from 7.5 feet wide all the way up to 50 feet wide. Plus, while the economical 45 mil thickness is fine, 60 mil sheets are available for added protection. New technology has even created a selection of 90 mil EPDM rubber roofing membranes for the ultimate in thickness and durability.

Installing an EPDM Rubber Roof

EPDM sheets can be adhered to the original roof surface with an adhesive or sealant. They can also be attached mechanically, although this can create opportunities for future leaks because you are perforating the membrane with screws or other hardware.

Liquid EPDM offers a pour-over style application, allowing you to use a roller or squeegee to spread the liquid EPDM over the entire roof. The process, on an RV, is quick and easy plus, liquid products are enhanced with a self-leveling additive that creates an even surface and helps prevent pooling.

Of course, both liquid EPDM and rubber sheeting are better options for RV roofing in terms of ease of installation, durability, and longevity when compared to other materials.

EPDM and Sealants

If your RV has an EPDM rubber roof, you will still need to add an additional seam sealant to your roof vent and other fixtures. There are typically two options for this:

Seam tape can be installed prior to installing or pouring the EPDM roofing material, creating a watertight seal for all fixtures and seams. This tape helps increase the quality of the seal, especially in problematic areas and with difficult angles.
Caulk-style sealants can be applied over the rubber roof material to add an extra layer of protection on the seams of all of your fixtures, including roof racks, air conditioners, and more. There are a number of different styles of this product, including sealants specifically designed for EPDM roofing.

EPDM for the Future

EPDM continues to evolve and offer better solutions for RV roofing. Even the latest 90 mil products, while limited in availability, are offering previously unheard of warranties because of their superior performance and protective ratings. This should be a good sign that if you are considering this type of roofing material, you are making a solid choice.

Replacing Your RV Roof with Liquid Roof Spray Roofing Material

Posted on September 24, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Liquid roofing for RVs is one of the most versatile and economical options for most people. There are a variety of Liquid roofing materials on the market today, including liquids that are painted on, rubber sheets that can be glued or mechanically attached to the roof, and liquid roof spray roofing that can be sprayed on like spray paint. All offer the same result: a flexible, yet durable roof that can withstand just about anything.

The Benefits of Liquid Roof Spray Roofing

Liquid roofing isn’t just popular because it is trendy. It’s popular because it works, and provides so many benefits that people have a hard time trying to find any disadvantages. A few of the biggest perks of liquid and spray rubber roof materials include:

Easy Application: Spray products make it even easier for anyone to replace a rubber roof on their RV, with minimal handy skills required. You can have the work done by a dealership or repair shop, but doing it yourself can save you hundreds in labor costs.
Low Maintenance: Rubber roofing doesn’t require much attention for the first 10 years or so after it is applied. Aside from routine cleaning and debris removal, installing a rubber roof provides a hassle-free solution.
Cost: Liquid roofing materials cost a fraction of other materials, in most cases. A single gallon of liquid roof can cover up to 45 square feet, and costs between $50 and $100, depending on the brand and style you choose. Even newer spray rubber products are relatively affordable when compared to other materials.

The Process

Installing, or applying, a rubber roof is fairly simple. If you’ve chosen the spray rubber route, you just need to prepare the roof surface and get the spray ready, then you can coat the roof and be done. Of course, there is a little more detail to it than that.

To begin, you need to sweep the roof to remove any debris. Then, give it a good washing with soap and water. Consult the rubber roofing product you are going to use for preparation instructions and pre-application requirements. Some products require a special primer or activating ingredient that must be purchased separately.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the roofing spray. Remember to be careful around fixtures. You will probably want to go back and seal them separately later so that you can access them for service. In the case of something like your roof racks or ladder, this may not be as important. The air conditioner and vent fan, however, should be accessible in the event that service is needed.

Liquid roof spray roofing typically dries to the touch in 4-5 hours, and will fully cure in about a day. The rubber continues to cure over time, creating a stronger seal. The one benefit to liquid as opposed to rubber sheeting is that liquid offers a more flexible finish that provides even stronger durability.

DIY vs. Professional Roof Replacement

Having a roof replaced by professionals was briefly mentioned above. If you are the handy type, it might not even cross your mind to hire someone for the job. With a product like liquid or spray rubber, after all, it’s a matter of a day’s work. If, however, you aren’t handy or you simply don’t want the hassle of doing the work yourself, you can have your liquid roof coating applied by a shop or a dealership. Just remember that you’re going to pay upwards of $100 an hour for labor.

Ultimately, liquid roofing is a great investment, regardless of who applies the product. It offers durability and full protection from all kinds of elements. Plus, it is a cost-effective option that is easy to install and even easier to maintain.

Protect Your Investment with RV Roof Protectant

Posted on August 20, 2019 by Brian McCallister

An RV roof, much like any roof, gets a lot of exposure to the elements and the sun. As a result, they are likely to degrade over time and need repairs, replacement, or a resealing in order to keep it working at its best. Technology has created many roofing materials specifically designed for RV use, with an emphasis on convenience and durability, affordability, and longevity. Still, nothing is going to provide 100% protection. One way that you can improve the longevity of any RV roofing material, however, is to use an RV roof protectant.

RV roof protectant products are specifically designed to assist in the prevention of damage caused by UV rays, water, extreme temperatures, dirt buildup, and more. They can help prevent issues like:

Fading
Oxidizing
Drying and Cracking
Peeling Seals or Caulking

Leading brands have an array of protectant formulas on the market, designed for all types of RV roofing materials. Many protectants are even capable of being used with all types of roofs, including rubber, TPO, fiberglass, and vinyl.

Make Cleaning and Maintenance Easier

While the average RV roof can last for up to 25 years, a product like RV roof protectant can extend that lifespan significantly. For starters, a roof that has an added layer of protective sealant will repel dirt and debris in the future. This can prevent costly damage and make cleaning easier because grime will wash right away.

A lot of manufacturers and even many in the RV community will tell you that if you have a good roof, you shouldn’t need an additional protectant. However, the reality is that replacing an RV roof is expensive and you really can use all of the protection that you can get. Unless the roofing material user manual specifically states that you cannot use protectant products on your roof, you are only going to benefit from this addition.

Proactive Steps Save Money

Like anything, your RV’s roof requires regular maintenance and care. By taking a proactive approach with products like RV roof protectant, you can save a lot of money on future repairs and maintenance needs. Rather than spending a fortune on repairing or replacing your RV roof, you can take the extra step of adding a protective sealant, which will only cost you around $20-$30 per gallon. It just makes sense to protect your investment as best you can, and especially when it is such a large investment like an RV.

Applying a protectant to your roof is a simple process that won’t take much of your time. Using a mop or a cloth, you can simply spread the formula evenly across the roof and allow it to air dry. If you do this when you replace or reseal your RV roof, you will give it a more durable finish so that you can spend your money on your excursions, and not keeping your RV in good shape.

Watch Out for Dangerous Chemicals

Despite their dangers to your RV, there are some cleaning and maintenance products on the market that claim to be designed for use on RV roofing even though they contain harsh chemicals. Substances like citric acid and petroleum oils can seriously damage rubber roofing, for example, and should be avoided at all costs. Regardless of the brand or type of RV roof protectant and cleaning products you buy, make sure that these chemicals are not on the ingredient list.

To a newcomer, RV roof maintenance might seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, with products like roof protectants, it is easier than you think. An RV is an expensive investment, but you might be surprised at just how affordable regular roofing maintenance can be. Take advantage of things like roof sealants and protectants to get more life out of your RV’s roof.

Tips for Choosing the Best RV Roof Repair Products

Posted on July 30, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Did you know that the leading cause of major RV repairs is water damage? Most of this damage is caused by a leaking or damaged roof, so it is important to make sure that your RV’s roof is in good shape at all times. Being proactive can save you a lot of time and money on major repairs and help you get more life out of your RV. Those who travel or live in the seasonal areas of the country are more prone to roofing issues due to the freezing and thawing patterns during the winter months. Regardless of the climate, though, there are plenty of things that can go wrong with your roof. Knowing which products to use when it is in need of repair will make all the difference.

Tip #1: What type of roof does your RV have?

RV roof repair products are designed for use with specific types of roofing materials. Rubber and fiberglass roofs are the most common on motorhomes and recreational vehicles, but these are not the same rubber roofing products used on a brick-and-mortar home. Plus, there are different types of rubber roof materials that are used, and each requires its own special products for proper maintenance and repair.

Tip #2: How big is the area that needs repaired?

Some repair products are sold in kits that are designed for a certain amount of square footage or a limited application. Make sure that you know how much sealant and other materials you need before you get started, as this could impact your buying decision when shopping for repair products and materials. If the job is too big, you might even consider skipping the DIY products and calling a professional RV roofing specialist. Think about what’s best for your investment.

Tip #3: Don’t forget prep materials.

Typically, most roofs will need a little preparation as a part of the repair process. This could include removing old materials, adding a prep solution to the roof before repair products, and so forth. Typically, RV roof repair products will advise as to whether they require any special steps prior to application, but that may not always be the case. Do your homework so that you know what you need to do the job right.

Tip #4: Know when you need serviceable seals.

On a traditional home, the roof seals are typically installed with the intention of providing a permanent seal. RVs require many of these seals, but also have certain access panels and areas that may require a temporary or flexible seal. Products like butyl sealing tape are specifically designed to create strong, air-tight seals that aren’t permanent. This may be necessary in the case of roof vents or other parts of your roof that may need replaced or accessed for service from time to time.

Tip #5: Never use non-specific repair products or materials.

The best RV roof repair products are the ones specifically designed for the job. You might think that you can save a few bucks by purchasing a basic rubber repair kit that is designed for multipurpose use. Or, perhaps, you might not realize that there are specific cleaners, primers, and sealants designed for your RV roof. These products aren’t on the market to bilk you out of your money. They exist because every RV roof requires specific products and materials for repairs, sealing, and cleaning. Make sure that you use them to keep your RV’s roof in the best shape possible.

If you’re a new RV owner, it can be hard to keep up with all of the new information regarding maintenance and care of your RV. Fortunately, there are a lot of useful resources out there to help you along the way. If your RV is in need of repair, keep these tips in mind to find the best products for your needs.

Customer Testimonial

Posted on June 26, 2019 by Brian McCallister

We would like to thank Dennis for his application picture. Looks like it turned out great. One coat adds another 15-18 years to your rV’s roof. for more info visit us at http://www.epdmcoatings.com or call us at 855-281-0940

Folks just wanted to say what a great product this is. We have used others but nothing can compare to this hands down. Easy to apply and it performed exactly how the customers on your site said it would. very satisfied ! rv-4

Protect the Roof Over Your Head with RV Roof Repairs and Maintenance

Posted on June 24, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Like the roof on your home, the roof on your RV is going to require maintenance and repair from time to time. Staying on top of these things is the key to getting the most out of your roof, no matter what material it is made of. If you have a rubber roof that is either EPDM or liquid roof, you are probably in a better position than most. These roofing materials require the least amount of maintenance and provide the most durable solution.

Regardless of the material on your RV roof, however, it does require regular care. You should visually inspect the roof at least twice a year. If you travel regularly, live in the RV full-time, or travel through a lot of wooded areas or places with overhanging debris, more frequent inspections might be recommended. This allows you to check on all of the seals and the surface of your roof to identify potential issues before they become a big problem.

Do You Need an RV Roof Repair Sealant?

There are a number of products on the market designed to assist with, and even help prevent, roof damage and the need for repairs. From cracked seams to tears in the roof surface, RV-specific roofing patch kits, RV roof repair sealant, and other products are available to help you get your roof back in shape, no matter what kind of issues you are having. When, though, can you benefit from a sealant? Here are a few instances:

If you have a rubber roof and are looking for a way to reinforce or add extra protection to seams and fixture edges, an RV roof repair sealant can help. There are caulk-like tubed products available as well as liquid and pour-over sealants on the market, so be sure to explore what each offers in terms of reinforcing your RV’s roof.
Is there water damage as a result of a leak in your roof or a seam/fixture? Usually, people notice water damage before they notice a crack in a roof seam or seal. Unfortunately, by that time, the damage to the roof may be a bit more extensive. As soon as you notice water damage, you’ll want to add a sealant to your list.
If your RV has a TPO (synthetic membrane) or fiberglass roof, a sealant is a necessary part of routine maintenance. RV roof repair sealant products are designed specifically for this application, and should be applied annually for the best protection. This can be time-consuming, but it is an important part of maintenance for non-rubber roofing materials.

Other Ways to Protect and Repair Your RV Roof

In addition to a sealant, there are a lot of products that can help you add life and durability to your roof. Liquid roofing products, for example, can be a great solution when you need more than a basic patch kit or small tube of sealant might offer. With a liquid roof, you can usually pour right over the existing roof surface (once it has been properly cleaned and prepared, of course). This allows you to handle a slew of repairs by essentially creating a whole new roof. Plus, it’s simple, affordable, and doesn’t take a lot of time.

When you install your roof, the first thing that you should do is to apply a roof protectant. Even if it isn’t required for the type of material that your roof is made of, it is still going to be to your benefit. A protective formula can help repel dirt and debris, make it easier to keep clean, and allow you to have fewer issues with tears, cracked seams, and other signs of wear.

Camper Roof RV Repair: DIY vs. Professional Repair Services

Posted on May 21, 2019 by Brian McCallister

If you’re an RVer, you are probably also a bit of a do-it-yourselfer. Thus, when things like roof repair come up, it might be second nature for you to do the work yourself. Those who are new to RV ownership or not as mechanically inclined may not feel the same way. Regardless, there are definite pros and cons to consider when it comes to choosing whether you will entrust your RV to the professionals or do your own roof repairs.

DIY Saves Money for Small Jobs

The RV community has taken to the internet, creating a wealth of resources and information for other RV owners who need assistance figuring out repairs and learning how to maintain their own RVs. Doing the work yourself can save a significant amount of money, as most dealers and shops charge as much as $100 per hour for labor. In the case of a large project like resealing your camper roof, that can lead to a bill of well over $1,500 depending on the size of your camper. Doing the work yourself could cost less than $500 for materials, depending again on the size of your RV as well as the materials that you need.

If, however, you don’t have 20 hours to dedicate to a camper roof repair or resealing project, it might be worth it to pay someone to do the work. In most cases, though, after a little reading, you will feel quite prepared to handle most roof repairs on your camper without professional assistance (or a huge repair bill). Look at the job you’re facing and how complex it is. Compare the cost of paying someone to do the work to figuring it out for yourself, and see what is in your best interest. If you do decide to consult the pros, feel free to shop around and compare rates to find the best deals.

Some Repairs Require a Professional Touch

There are certain situations and repairs that may require the assistance of professional roofing specialists or an RV dealership. For starters, if you aren’t versed in RV roofing or just aren’t all that handy, you might want to consider letting someone else do the work. Saving money is useless if the repairs are incorrectly done or if you don’t know what you are doing. Your camper’s roof is one of its most important parts, and you need to keep it in the best condition. Minor camper roof repair may seem simple enough, and it might be. However, you have to remember that there is a time and place for professional roof repairs or replacement.

What Causes RV Roof Leaks and How to Fix Them – For Good!

Posted on April 24, 2019 by Brian McCallister

When you first bought your RV, you likely envisioned years, or even decades, of fun, travelling around the countryside and visiting family or friends. You expected your investment to last you a very long time. So when you first suspected that your RV roof leaks, you likely felt more than a bit put out. Those issues can crop up much faster than anyone expects, and they can get worse in just a few days if they aren’t promptly taken care of. Wondering what causes that sneaky leak in the first place, and how you can fix it?

Causes of RV Roof Leaks

RV roofs can be damaged in many ways. Whether your roof is made of metal, rubber, or polymer, it can develop leaks. Most commonly, leaks are seen around fixtures, such as skylights or vents in the roof. But that doesn’t mean that you won’t see leaks elsewhere, especially around the edges where the roof meets the wall of the RV. Here are some common causes of leaks and damage:

Sun exposure
Falling limbs
Rain, snow, or hail
Extreme temperature changes
Time

Yep – basically, everything that your RV roof faces every time you leave home with it, is what causes leaks. But don’t worry. While you can’t exactly avoid sunlight and time, you can do things to make your RV roof much tougher than it is. You can do this before you notice any leaks, or use these steps to address RV roof leaks when you do notice them.

How to Fix RV Roof Leaks

If there are holes in your RV roof, you’ll need to seal those. A liquid sealant acts like a glue to piece your rubber roof back together, and can be used around fixtures like skylights and vents.

But more importantly, applying a protective coating over a roof once the holes are sealed up, will help ensure that it withstands damage in the future. Liquid rubber, or EPDM, is a paint-on substance that anyone can put on their RV roof. Leaks will be a thing of the past for at least a decade when this is done correctly. This product adds a durable protective layer against falling limbs or hail, resists water, reflects UV rays, and expands and contracts with temperature changes to prevent cracking in the roof membrane. Liquid EPDM can be used to address RV roof leaks in any material, including metal, rubber, and polymer. And it takes just a weekend to apply this yourself. Simply paint it on and let it cure in dry, sunny weather for a couple of days. Easy as pie!

It is a drag when you realize that your RV roof is leaking, but once you learn how affordable and easy it is to protect your roof, you’ll wonder why you worried in the first place. And as a bonus, applying this protective coating can also make it easier to heat and cool your RV! Hit the road with confidence in your RV roof.

Using Liquid Roofing over an RV Roof

Posted on March 25, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Why Use Liquid Roofing over an RV Roof?

You’ve had your RV for a lot of years and you bought it used, but it doesn’t matter, she’s your baby! You’ve put a lot of work into it and made a few special modifications of your own. You wouldn’t trade her for the world. At the beginning and end of each season, you climb up on the roof and perform a thorough inspection, because you understand that even the smallest defect in the roof’s surface, will eventually become a bigger problem that can affect the entire structure of your coach. You’ve made a number of repairs over the years and during the last inspection, you notice some pealing and separation around the edges of one of them. It’s time to apply liquid roofing over the RV roof, because your research has taught you that only a genuine EPDM liquid rubber roof coating can provide the kind of lasting result that you’re looking for.

Liquid Roof RV Repair

Which One to Choose

There are so many roof coating and sealing products to choose from, each promising to be the answer to all of your problems. One of them even claims to provide life-time protection. You’re too smart to fall for that, their warranty has more holes in it than a fishing net. It can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for. You know for sure that you want to use EPDM liquid roofing over your RV roof even though the current material is metal. EPDM liquid rubber roofing will adhere nicely to the metal and can stand up to the RV’s constant moving and swaying when you’re driving. Liquid rubber will help insulate too because it isn’t affected by extremes in temperature, so you’ll stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Getting started

You’ve always done your own work on the roof, but it’s time to admit that you’re not as young as you once were. There’s a local roofing crew that comes highly recommended; they’re licensed and insured and will warranty the install. They arrive early and begin by sweeping and blowing all of the loose debris off of the roof. Next, they thoroughly wash and rinse the surface, rough-sand the metal to ensure good adhesion of the rubber, replace the caulk around the antennae, vents and air conditioner, then rinse the whole thing and break for lunch while it dries. Now it’s time to apply the liquid roofing over the RV roof.

Managing Your Money

When you first talked to the roofer, he recommended a roof coating that requires two coats. How good can that product be if it can’t do the job well with one coat? Then there’s the wasted time of waiting for the first coat to dry and the expense of paying the crew to apply a second coat. You insisted that they use genuine EPDM rubber liquid roofing over the RV roof because it provides excellent coverage with just one coat.

Finishing Up

In a few hours the roofing crew finishes up and you climb the ladder to take a closer look. The roof of your RV looks better than new and you’re very happy because this new surface will last for many years and you can enjoy camping with peace-of-mind.

Every trailer can benefit from genuine EPDM liquid roofing over the RV roof. Be aware though, that some original roof materials may require a special primer before an EPDM coating can be applied. Ask your dealer to recommend the combination of products that’s right for you.

Are You Ready To Attempt a Travel Trailer Roof Repair?

Posted on February 22, 2019 by Brian McCallister

Your travel trailer is your home-away-from-home. It’s where you eat, sleep, cook and relax when you’re on the road. That’s why it’s so important to regularly inspect, maintain and repair your unit before taking it anywhere. One of the areas of your trailer that is especially susceptible to wear and damage is the roof. Consider for a moment all of the elements to which it is regularly subjected: rain, wind, snow, hail, dust, dirt, mildew and harsh sun. If your trailer roof is not properly maintained, you may find yourself relaxing, with pots and pans scattered around, collecting dripping water. Travel trailer roof repair is not as expensive or complicated as you might imagine, so don’t let the thought of attempting it frighten you. Here are some things to remember.

Carefully Inspect All Areas of the Roof.

Liquid Roof Repair

If you decide to go up on the trailer roof, please be extremely careful! You want to spend your time camping, not recuperating. Travel trailers are almost always on the road, unlike larger RVs which often remain stationary for extended periods of time. The continuous movement poses a unique set of concerns. It’s important to take your time when inspecting your trailer roof. If done properly, a roof repair can last for years, so the extra time that you invest now will pay dividends down the road. Look for any obvious cracks or breaks in the roof’s surface. Next, inspect the areas around the roof vents, watching for separations and loose caulking. Don’t forget to look closely at the roof edges too. After you’ve identified any problem areas, it’s time to begin your travel trailer roof repair.

Preparing the Surfaces Before Beginning a Travel Trailer Roof Repair

It is extremely important that the prep work be done carefully so that the repair materials will adhere properly. As with the inspection, the extra time that you spend now will go a long way toward ensuring a lasting repair. You’ll need to begin by sweeping the loose dirt, leaves and debris off of the roof. Next, you’re going to want to thoroughly wash the areas to be repaired. If your roof’s surface is metal or fiberglass, rough sand to 3” out from the edge of the repair area and rewash as necessary.

Repair Material Options for a Travel Trailer Roof Repair

There are a lot of different companies offering a variety of repair solutions, so which one is the right one to use for your travel trailer roof repair? Keeping in mind the amount of movement that a travel trailer undergoes, it is highly recommended that you choose a repair material that will hold up well under any conditions. Many people prefer a repair material and sealant made from synthetic rubber. Often referred to as EPDM material, this rubber repair can be applied to most roofing materials and will withstand years of punishing conditions.

Performing the Actual Travel Trailer Roof Repair

For metal or fiberglass repairs, cover the repair area with butyl adhesive tape. Next, place polyester reinforcing fabric over the butyl tape. If you want a straight edge finish, place regular masking tape around the outside perimeter of the area. Finally, apply the liquid roof material with a paint brush and allow it to set. You can remove the regular masking tape in about 24 hours.

There you go! You now have a beautiful travel trailer roof repair that will last for years. For best results, always inspect the roof of your trailer before and after each camping season. Happy camping!

Author Archives: Brian McCallister