RV Roof Maintenance: Pro Tips for Inspection and Upkeep

Unlike tent camping, where you’re exposed to the elements, RV owners enjoy the comfort and protection of a solid roof overhead. However, keeping that roof in top shape requires regular upkeep.

The only way to ascertain the health of your roof is to inspect it, inside and out, and use the best RV maintenance tips. Look for the following:

• Carefully inspect the seams and seals, focusing especially on sealant and caulking, which can crack and crumble with age.
• Look for mold and mildew, which are signs that moisture is getting through damaged areas.
• On the roof’s membrane, check for punctures, cracks and tears. The smallest cracks might seem insignificant, but they can lead to internal damage.
• Do you see water stains inside your RV? That’s a sure sign that you have damaged areas where moisture is coming through.

Clean Your Roof

The frequency with which you clean your RV depends on your environment. Generally, it is recommended to thoroughly wash your RV at least twice a year. RV maintenance jumps up considerably if you’re in areas where your vehicle is exposed to more dirt, grime and tree sap. It is recommended to avoid parking under trees known to drop sap, as it is incredibly difficult to remove.

Before you clean your roof, you need to know what material it is made from. The most common are rubber (EPDM or TPO) roofs, fiberglass and aluminum. For EDPM, use a non-abrasive soap and water mix, including any of the common dishwashing soaps, but avoid citrus-based soaps, as they can damage the material over time.

For TPO roofs, use a mild soap and water mix. You can also find TPO-safe cleaner, including one made by Thetford, which does not include harsh chemicals, but feature a UV-resistant coating for added protection.

You can use the soap and water mix on fiberglass roofs, but there are also non-abrasive fiberglass cleaners on the market, such as Meguiar’s Car Wash and Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner that work well.

Aluminum roofs, which are susceptible to oxidation, can be cleaned with warm water and a mild detergent. You can also use an aluminum cleaner/polish called Bio-Kleen Aluma-Kleen. Avoid acidic cleaners, as they cause metal to corrode.

When to Call in the Pros

There are many RV maintenance tasks you can manage, even if you’re a new RV owner, but when you notice significant damage, it is time to call in a professional to assist. Rather than risk doing further damage by trying to tackle a difficult fix on your own, schedule an appointment with your local RV specialist. They will diagnose the problem and fix it so you can hit the road with confidence.

At Gray Diesel & Equipment Services, we’re experts at managing all your RV maintenance needs, including roof repair. Bring your RV to us and rest assured that you’re in good hands.