You put a lot of time into planning your adventures in your RV, from creating a packing list to mapping your route to booking KOA sites; don’t let all that hard work go to waste by neglecting a crucial RV maintenance item: exterior care.
One of the first items on your RV exterior maintenance checklist should be washing the exterior to remove dirt and road grime. Begin by rinsing the surface, gently scrubbing it with soap and water, then rinsing thoroughly before applying a protective coat of wax. In addition to keeping your RV clean and looking its best, this routine gives you an excellent opportunity to inspect the exterior for signs of wear, such as cracked, deteriorated or missing sealant.
When moisture penetrates your RV, it can lead to a series of problems, including mold and mildew growth and, in severe cases, structural wood rot. The most common points of water intrusion are around roof vents, end caps, doors, windows and roof seams. By regularly inspecting these areas, sealing any gaps, and replacing worn or damaged sealant, you can help prevent costly moisture damage and extend the life of your RV.
Choose the Right Sealant
RVs on the road today range from rustic classic models to the latest modern units with all the bells and whistles. The type of sealant you need to use depends on the surfaces you’re applying it to.
Wood surfaces expand and contract differently than fiberglass, and aluminum reacts differently to hot and cold than composite materials. Choosing the right sealant for each surface protects against water intrusion. When you choose correctly, your unit will be protected through years of road vibration and temperature swings.
Don’t Forget the Awning
One RV maintenance item that is often overlooked relates to the awning. It gets plenty of use over the summer months, which means it takes a beating from the sun, wind and rain. Staying on top of your awning maintenance routine will help you avoid having to replace it.
Clean the fabric with a mild detergent to prevent mold and mildew development. After you rinse off the soap suds and grime, make sure to let the fabric fully dry before you roll it up. A wet awning that has been stored is prone to mold, which leads to odor and deteriorating fabric.
While you’ve got your awning out, lubricate the moving parts. The arms, hinges and roller mechanisms will operate more smoothly after lubrication and it’s a good way to prevent rust.
Vent Best Practices
Summer temperatures can hit 130 degrees inside your RV if you’re not using proper ventilation techniques. Hot interiors can lead to the breakdown of vent seals, gaskets and plastic housing. The best RV maintenance tips for this issue is to keep your vents clear of debris and run your roof vent fans during the hottest days. This will circulate the air and reduce the strain on the most vulnerable materials.
Whether your RV is getting on in age or you just want assurance that it’s fully protected, contact us at Gray Diesel & Equipment Services. Our expert team will fully inspect the exterior components of your RV and identify any maintenance or repairs needed to prevent water intrusion and protect your investment.