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.

Properly Fixing Your RV Roof Leaks

Posted on June 7, 2013 by Brian McCallister

Roofs spring a leak from time to time that is no surprise it is even common for RV roof leaks to occur. One thing you need to know is how to fix your roof leak quickly and efficiently so that the interior of your RV does not end up getting damaged from the leak or leaks that you may have. One of the best ways to fix your roof leak is by using EPDM. There are many benefits to this.

What is EPDM?

EPDM is a liquid chemical that hardens over a period of three to five days. One should understand though that the time it takes to cure is based on the temperature during the time that it placed on to the roof and the temperatures in the days following. In some temperatures it can take long and in others the time might be a bit shorter. For example you can apply it in cold temperatures but it will not sure until the temperature is able to get above 55 degrees. It will also need oxygen to help with the curing process.

Benefits of EPDM

There are many benefits of using EPDM for you RV roof leaks. Some of the benefits are as follows:
* Reduces Heat
* Most surfaces need no primer
* Application only needs one coat
* Resistant to acid and alkali
* Resistant to freezing
* Properties of waterproofing are able to be experienced right away
* Efficient when it comes to energy
* Effective on many types of roofing
* Resistant to ozone and UV

As you can see there are many benefits that you can experience by using EPDM for your roofing leaks. You will find that some of the roofing surfaces you can use this on are: metal roofing that is weathered, sheet rubber roofing that is weathered, urethane and asphalt foam modified and weathered roofing, and steel especially if it has been exposed to an environment that is salty. If you are going to use it on an asphalt surface however this is one of the rare cases where you would want to make sure that you use a primer before applying the EPDM to the RV roof leaks that you have. You can also use EPDM on a concrete roof deck.
Noticing a leak in the roof of your RV can be stressful but it is beneficial to know that it can be fixed quickly and easily using EPDM which is a product that offers more advantages those other products on the market. It is also simple to apply and is sure to protect your roof and cure the leak that you have. This is great news because it will not be difficult to fix the leak and is not going to break the bank either. Your RV roof is sure to be leak free so that you can again enjoy your RV without the need to worry about whether the rain might leak into your RV causing further damage that could end up costing a great deal to fix depending on the damage caused.