10 Best RV Roof Coatings of 2022
Without a doubt, the roof is the most exposed part of your RV. It is the most vulnerable to harsh elements and weather conditions. Because of this, RV roofs are often compromised. Their structural integrity is impaired and sadly, it reduces the value of your rig.
Aside from that, you will also experience leaks and water and moisture can make their way into your walls, appliances, furniture, and other stuff inside your camper. It becomes uncomfortable to stay inside your travel trailer especially during the rainy season.
These scenarios highlight what a good RV roof coating and sealant can do for your camper. The best RV roof coating gives your roof protection from the harmful elements that you’re constantly exposed to whether you’re traveling or not.
Your roof must be able to deal with the UV rays, hot summer sun, heavy downpour, winds, hail, snow, dust, debris, leaves, twigs, and a whole lot of stuff. The least you can do is give it an added layer of protection to be able to withstand all these.
The best RV roof coating and sealant will give you that kind of protection. It will help you preserve your RV roof’s integrity and prolong the life of your camper.
This article will help you understand ore about the importance of RV roof coatings and sealants and we’ll be your guide in buying the best RV roof coating for your camper.
Reviews of the 10 Best RV Roof Coating of 2021
Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
 | Dicor RPCRC1 EPDM Rubber Roof Coating
| |
| Dicor Corporation Rpselrct1 Signature Extended Life Rv Roof Coating
| |
 | Dicor RP-MRC-1 Elastomeric Coating
| |
| Heng’s Rubber Roof Coating
| |
 | Geocel Corporation GC24201 Pro Flex RV Instant Repair
| |
 | Flex Seal Spray Rubber Sealant Coating
| |
 | Liquid Rubber RV Roof Coating
| |
 | Proguard F99911 Liquid Roof Gallon
| |
 | KST Coating KSRV08120-16
| |
 | Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating
|
Key Specifications:
- Acrylic Coating
- Provides superior weather ability and UV resistance
- Flexes very well
- Eliminates irritating roof rumble
- Requires less lifetime maintenance
- Saves over 25% in labour compared to similar systems.
- Quick drying time
- Requires two coats
- Coverage rate of 1 gallon per 125 sq. ft. per coat.
Dicor is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to RV roof coating. This bestseller has hundreds of excellent ratings from buyers who can’t stop raving about its ease of use, durability, adhesion, and value for money.
This roof coating will prolong the life of your rubber roof. It gives it protection from UV rays so that your roof top won’t crack or turn chalky. It also provides your roof with superb weather protection.
You need to use this together with the activator to make it effective. This acrylic coating requires 2 coats during application. It is quick to dry which makes the application process faster.
Pros:
- easy to apply
- makes your roof look good
Cons:
- needs an activator
Key Specifications:
- 100% acrylic resin coating
- gives roofs a super brown finish
- resists mildew and algae
- reflects the sun’s heat to help keep the interior cooler
- One gallon of Dicor Fiberglass RV Roof Coating will cover 350 sq. Ft. per coat.
Dicor gives RV owners another quality product with this fiberglass roof coating. It is getting high marks from buyers for its ease of use and adhesion.
It will not only protect your RV roof but also enhance its look by giving it a nice brown finish. This is also indicative of its protective elastomeric barrier to enhance the aesthetics.
Pros:
- resistant to natural weathering
- easy to use
Cons:
- You need to use this with a fiberglass cleaner to ensure its effectivity.
Key Specifications:
- For use on metal & Fiberglass RV roofing
- protects and beautifies metal, aluminum, steel, fiberglass and previously coated RV roofs
- 100% acrylic elastomeric resins
- brilliant white to provide a superior reflectivity
- Requires two coats for adequate protection
- Application rate of 1 gallon per 200 sq. Ft. Per coat.
If you have a fiberglass or metal roofing, then this Dicor elastomeric coating is worth considering.
This roof coating is made of 100% acrylic resin which makes it very flexible on your roof. It also helps make your rig look better by giving it a very bright white finish. This coating is also able to resist mildew and other unwanted particles which is helpful in extending the life of your roof.
This elastomeric coating is reflective so that the heat from the sun bounces off and the inside of your camper is made cooler. Even though your rig is under the sun for hours, your roof is still cool to touch.
Pros:
- superior reflectivity
- easy to use
- resists mildew
Cons:
- There have been reports about the coating peeling off after a few months.
Key Specifications:
- Designed for use over RV rubber roofs, at seams and tears and to seal vents, air conditioners, etc.
- UV resistant and expands and contracts with roofs
- Resists cracking and withstands impact
- Non-polluting and non-toxic
This rubber roof coating from Heng’s Industries is a bestseller. You can use this as coating for your rubber roof and a sealant for the holes and seams along your vents, antenna, and air conditioners.
It does a great job in protecting your roof because it is able to resist the harmful ultraviolet rays. Its properties also enable it to withstand impact and resist cracking in case something falls over your roof.
What’s great about this roof coating is that it is made of non-toxic ingredients so it’s guaranteed safe to use. You’re doing your part in saving our environment when you choose this product because you’re not contributing to the pollutants in the air as you’re applying it and later on, when it flakes off your roof, the peelings are not harmful to your surroundings.
Pros:
- weatherproof
- safe to use
- environment friendly
Cons:
- This is a thin coating agent.
Key Specifications:
- One-step application adheres to fiberglass and metal surfaces
- Fast curing, withstands foot traffic and is UV and mildew resistant
- Can be applied in any temperatures
- 25 year life expectancy
If you have a problem with a leaking roof, many RV owners recommend using Geocel Pro Flex Instant Repair. They swear by its effectiveness in stopping those annoying leaks immediately and permanently. No wonder they say it offers good value for your money because you don’t have to pay for costly repairs!
You can use this over fiberglass and metal surfaces. Application is easy as this only requires one step. You don’t need to wait for sunny weather as you can use this any time at any temperature. Cure time is fast so you can have a leak-free roof in just a short period of time.
This roof sealant is durable. Geocel says you can expect it to last for 25 years. It also offers great protection over UV rays and mildew.
Pros:
- repairs leaks
- durable
- easy application
- fast cure time
Cons:
- Some buyers say it isn't cost-efficient because one can is not enough to cover all the seams in their roofs.
Key Specifications:
- easy way to coat, seal, protect, and stop leaks fast
- seeps into cracks and holes
- dries to a watertight, flexible, rubberized coating
- stays flexible and pliable; lasts many years
- protects surface from corrosion, can be used on wet or dry surfaces
- weatherproof
Flex Seal is one of the most versatile products out there that’s why many RV owners love it. It has many benefits and can be used for different purposes not just to coat and seal your RV roof. You can use this for your arts and crafts projects, your PVC pipes, hoses, chimneys, asphalt shingles, bird baths, fountains, ponds, and many more!
Flex Seal starts out as a liquid coating and you just need to spray it directly over the area that you need to coat or seal. It comes in an aerosol spray canister that makes it easy to use.
After you spray it, it will seep into the holes, seams, and cracks and once it dries, it has a rubberized consistency which makes it durable and effective in sealing off the holes. No more water, moisture, or air can make its way inside your camper. Flex Seal also prevents rust and corrosion on your roof
You can also rely on Flex Seal to help you stop the vibrations and noise caused by loose portions of your RV. Say goodbye to leaks and noise, how cool is that? It just makes RV life so much easier! This is why it’s always good to have one or two cans with you wherever you go.
Pros:
- many uses
- effectively seals holes and cracks
- prevents noise and vibrations
- prevents rust and corrosion
Cons:
- It's hard to use on vertical surfaces.
Key Specifications:
- Water-Based
- Nature-friendly
- No solvents or VOC (volatile organic compounds)
- Usable indoors and outdoors
- Non-flammable
- Requires 2-3 heavy coats
- 5 gallons will coat up to 30 feet
The Liquid Rubber RV Roof Coating is a bestseller. Many buyers say that it is easy to install and use. This protective sealant can be used not just for your RV roof but also on gutters, fences, foundations, wood, concrete, and more!
It is super easy to apply. You can put it inside a paint sprayer or you can use your good ol’ brush and roller to spread it over the area that you need to cover. And if you don’t consume everything in one go, it’s okay. Your money won’t go to waste because you can keep it so you can use it later on when the need arises.
This roof coating can be used for all types of roofing material. But you need to use it with an EPDM primer if your have an EPDM rubber roof or use a multi-purpose primer when used over PVC surfaces to promote adhesion.
It is safe to use because it contains no VOCs, solvents and doesn’t emit harmful odors in your surroundings. It is safe for humans and for your furry friends, too. You can use this water-based coating for indoors and outdoors and you won’t need to use any special breathing apparatus when applying it.
It has great reflectivity which means it helps protect your roof from the harsh rays of the sun and at the same time, it helps keep the inside of your rig cooler. It is durable. Its membrane has more than 1000% elongation which assures you that it will stay glued to your roof no matter how many twists and turns you make in your rig.
Pros:
- versatile
- easy to apply
- safe to use
- reflective
- durable
Cons:
- requires multiple coatings to achieve effectivity
Key Specifications:
- One-coat application
- 100% EDPM rubber
- five year warranty
- withstands temperatures from -60 deg. F to 300 deg. F.
- One gallon kit covers 42 square feet and includes a catalyst
This Liquid EPDM Roof Sealant from Proguard can be used this when you install a new rubber roof or need to do some repairs over your existing rubber roof.
It is easy to use as it just needs one coat to be effective. It can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from negative 60 degrees to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Proguard offers a five year warranty to back up its claim.
Seasoned RV owners say that Proguard lasts longer than any other sealant and coating that they have used. Based from their experiences, it has stood the test of time and it requires little maintenance.
Pros:
- long lasting
- weatherproof
Cons:
- Some experienced bubbling up.
Key Specifications:
- Kool Seal Elastomeric RV Roof Base Coat
- Color Light Gray
- Reflects heat and protects against the elements
- Renews most roofing substrates
- Use warm, soapy water to clean
The Kool Seal Reflective Roof Coating is a highly recommended product. Buyers said that this acrylic roof coating was good value for your money. It prevents leaks and offers protection for your roof for an affordable price.
It has a very good reflective capability. It helps keep the interior of your camper cooler and protects your roof against the harmful rays of the sun. You will notice that your roof is cool to the touch even being exposed to the hot summer sun. Aside from this, it gives your rig a nice new and shiny look!
This acrylic roof coating is very easy to use and maintain. It is very spreadable as it flows very well. You can use a roller to help you with the application. You can clean the surface using warm soapy water. It is a good way to maintain your RV roof.
Pros:
- affordable
- good reflectivity
- easy to use
- easy to maintain
Cons:
- Some say you need to do multiple coats to achieve optimum effectiveness.
Key Specifications:
- Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coatings Product
- Insulating, Ceramic Properties Great for Roofs and RV Roofs
- EPA Energy Star Rated, Resistant to Aging and UV Exposure
- Low VOC, Excellent Elongation
- Spread Rate: 60 sq ft/gal at 20 imperial mils
The Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating is another bestseller and highly recommended product. Its buyers are raving because they are satisfied with its thickness, durability, ease of use, and they say it is good value for your money.
It is easy to apply. You can use your roller or trowel to spread it over your roof and it also has a short cure time so you can benefit from its excellent quality right away.
It is great to use for RV roofs because it can withstand extreme temperatures and UV exposure, it resists moisture, and retains its elasticity and flexibility for a long time. It expands and contracts as you move your rig. It also resists ponding water so you won’t be worried about your roof when there’s heavy downpours.
Pros:
- easy to use
- weatherproof
- resists moisture
- elastic and flexible
Cons:
- Some say you need to apply multiple coatings to be effective.
There you have it, the 10 best RV roof coatings and sealant in the market today. We’re sure you can’t wait to try out these products on your RV roof so that you can bask in the benefits that they offer. But of course, it is better for you to know more about RV roof sealants and coatings so that you can choose the right one for your rig.
What is an RV Roof Coating or Sealant?
An RV roof coating or sealant is a product that you use for the roof of your RV to give it a new shine. It adds an extra layer of protection to an already completed roof which helps in extending its life.
An RV roof coating is a monolithic fluid that is fully adheres to your RV’s roofing membrane. Most RV roof coating are elastomeric which means they are thicker than paint yet flexible. They can be stretched and still go back to their original shape without incurring any damage.
This property of RV roof coating helps make your RV roof weatherproof. It protects your roof from various weather conditions that’s why an RV roof coating or sealant is considered an essential part of the maintenance of your camper
An RV roof coating makes your camper’s roof shinier, makes it look better, and restores it into a good condition. The RV roof sealant prevents water and moisture from getting inside your rig thereby helping ensure that your appliances and everything else inside your camper are safe and secure.
RV roof coating and sealants can also be used for your roof vents, skylights, walls, and other parts of your rig that need to be secured.
How Does RV Roof Sealant or Coating Work?
A good quality RV roof coating or sealant works by reducing the transfer of heat into the roof of your camper. It also lessens thermal shock which is caused by the expansion and contraction of the membrane of your RV roof. By doing this, it protects your RV roof and extends its life.
This roof coating for RV will help mitigate leaks in your rig. It will make sure that all seams are covered so that even if there’s a heavy downpour, no amount of water or moisture can make its way inside your camper.
Your RV roof coating also enhances the overall look of your rig. Reflective coatings or sealant also lessen your energy costs.
How well an RV roof sealant or coating performs its job will depend largely on which material your RV roof is made of and the type of roof coating that you choose. The best RV roof coating is one that is compatible with your camper’s roof material so that it can do what it’s supposed to do.
For example, you have a roof that’s made of metal, you can use a liquid or rubber roof coating for RV. If your roof is made of plastic, then it is recommended that you get a rubber coating. This is why it is important to know more about the different types of RV roof coating and sealant and how each one works with a particular type of material used for RV roof.
Types of RV Roof Sealant & Coating
There are various types of RV roof coating and sealant. You have to have a basic understanding of each type when choosing the best RV roof coating. As mentioned earlier, the performance of a specific type of RV roof coating would depend on its compatibility with the material used for your rig’s roofing so you have to be careful in choosing the right type of roof sealant and coating.
Rubber Coating
Rubber roof coating is the most common RV roof coating used by RV owners. There are 2 variants of rubber roof coating: one is made from thermal poly Ofelin and the other is made from ethylene propylene monomer.
These 2 variants differ in terms of their application and maintenance that’s why you need to check the product info to know how to use the particular variant of rubber coating that you’re getting for your roof.
Acrylic Coating
A more affordable option for RV owners that still provides good protection for the roof is the acrylic coating. This type of coating has good reflectivity and gives adequate protection from leaks and moisture.
Acrylic coating is resistant to harmful UV rays. In order to get this kind of protection, you need to apply two coatings – one for the primer and the other for the reinforcer.
However, there have been instances when acrylic coating failed in handling ponding water over the roof which leads to peeling or degradation of the RV roof coating and eventually, there were leaks inside the rig. So if you frequently travel to very wet climates, this might not be the best option for you.
Silicone Coating
Silicone RV roof coating is a more expensive option for RV owners but the price is worth it because of the benefits that it offers. It is sold on a per gallon basis.
You just need a single coating of a silicone RV roof coating which makes up for its price. You don’t need a primer for this as a single coat is enough to get the job done. This also means it consumes less time during the application process.
Silicone RV roof coating is weatherproof, has a high reflectivity and wind degradation. It also resists ponding water and is able to retain its elasticity for a very long time. You can be sure that it won’t easily become brittle or hard and can stand the test of time. With these qualities, it is a very good investment and provide good value for money in the long run because of its excellent performance.
Liquid Coating
A liquid RV roof coating is naturally resistant to water. This property makes it reliable in preventing corrosion.
Many RV owners also recommend this type of roof coating because it is very easy to apply. You apply the coating in the same manner that you paint your walls. Or you can just pour it directly over your roof then spread it evenly with the help of a rolling brush.
Liquid coating also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your RV’s roof and provides it with good protection from UV rays. That is why you can rely on it to help prolong the life of your camper.
Fiberglass Coating
Fiberglass RV roof coating is a good choice because it requires less maintenance compared to other types of RV roof coating. However, its application on your roof requires more effort. It is also more expensive. This type of coating adds more weight to the roof of your rig so it might cause some issues if your roof’s structural integrity is already compromised to begin with.
Urethane Coating
Urethane coating is more durable than acrylic and silicon coatings. It has properties that make it reflective and resistant to UV rays. It can also withstand pools of water on your roof. It is also perfect to use on the road because it has a good resistance to impact. You don’t know what might fall on your roof as you travel so it’s good to know that your urethane coating will protect you from these elements.
The downside to this type of RV roof coating is that it is expensive. It also has a strong odor. You have to install it in a place where there aren’t many people around so that they won’t be exposed to the unwanted odor.
As you can see, there are different types of RV roof coating that you can buy in the market. There are advantages and disadvantages in choosing one type over the other. But in the end, you have to choose the best RV roof coating that suits your rig and will give you the most number of benefits.
Benefits of RV Roof Coatings or Sealant
Some might think that their roof is already complete even without a coating or sealant. But here are the main advantages of getting an RV roof coating or sealant.
Extends the life of your RV roof
An RV roof coating can prolong the life of your RV roof as it gives it an extra layer of protection from harsh elements and various weather conditions. This includes UV rays, rain, snow, wind, sleet, dirt, twigs, and leaves that you encounter along the way.
Without the help of a good quality sealant or roof coating, you might find yourself having a miserable time at camp because of the leaks, drafts, and energy loss that you’re experiencing.
An RV roof coating or sealant has properties that’ll help protect your roof from damage. This way, you can rely on your roof’s optimum performance come rain or shine. You will be assured that your roof will be damage-free for a longer period of time.
Prevents leaks
A good quality roof coating prevents leaks by ensuring that all seams and sides are properly covered. Without an RV roof coating or sealant, you might experience leaks that can damage the interiors of your rig. Leaks will also reduce the value of your camper and cause discomfort to you and your companions.
Or if you are already experiencing leaks in your camper, you can use a sealant or roof coating to stop them. This will help you save on costly repairs to damages on your roof and you will have peace of mind in knowing that your interiors are safe no matter what the weather is outside.
Promotes a more comfortable environment in your RV
There are certain types of RV roof coating that have reflective properties. One example is silicone coating. This is important in providing users with a more comfortable environment inside the camper.
The reflectivity of the RV roof coating helps keep the rig cool despite the hot summer sun. It is also helpful during the winter season as it prevents your rig from heating up. In other words, the reflective property of the RV roof coating is useful all the time. It provides you with a more comfortable experience on the road.
Protects your roof
Thanks to RV roof coatings and sealants, you have an extra layer of protection for your roof. It protects your investment on your recreational vehicle. When you have a roof coating, it is your first line of defense against all the harmful elements threatening to damage your RV. It will take the beating and if ever it gets damaged, you can just apply a new layer of coating and still save your roof and interiors.
You see, there are just so many benefits that you can get a kick out of when you apply a layer or two or the best RV roof coating or best RV roof sealant.
Features to Look for in RV Roof Sealants
With the added protection that RV roof sealants and roof coatings provide to your rig, for sure you’re very excited to get the best RV roof coating and best RV roof sealant in the market. But what makes a best RV roof coating? Here’s our guide to help you choose the best RV roof coating for your rig.
Type of RV Roof Sealant & Coating
As mentioned earlier, there are various types of RV roof sealants and coatings. The most common RV coatings in the market are rubber, silicone, acrylic, fiberglass, urethane and liquid coatings.
Each one has distinct properties and come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Choose the one that offers more benefits for your situation.
Your Roof Material
RV roofs can be made of different materials. These can be EPDM rubber, aluminum, fiberglass, or rubber TPO. What your rig’s roof is made of will determine which kind of roof coating and roof sealant you can use on it.
So you better check what material your roof is made of before you buy the best RV roof coating for your rig. Check your RV manual or the manufacturer’s website for more information.
If your RV roof is made of aluminum, it rarely needs a new coating because it already has innate weatherproof and durable properties.
You have to make sure that your chosen RV roof coating will work well on the material of your RV roof. You can be assured that there’s a strong bond between them and you’re not just wasting your money.
Durability
Durability means how long the roof coating or roof sealant will last before you need to reapply another one. It must have the elasticity and tear resistance to be able to stay glued to your roof no matter how many twists and turns you make.
You can check the product information regarding the recommended application. There are some manufacturers that will advise you to reapply the coating every 2 years while there are some that need to be reapplied every 6 months.
This tells you a lot about the durability of the product. The longer it takes to reapply another coating, the more durable it is.
Application of the roof sealant or coating can take a whole weekend and it is not something that you’d want to do frequently when you can use that time for camping and enjoying the outdoors. So you’d want to choose a more durable RV roof sealant or coating.
UV Resistance
The roof of your RV is exposed to the sun for a long period of time. You can’t always put a cover on it to shield it from the harmful rays of the sun and over time, this constant exposure to heat will cause wear and tear on your camper’s roof.
Without a good quality roof coating, this wear and tear will happen sooner than you want. Applying a roof coating should be a part of your maintenance for your RV. And it would help a lot if your coating comes with UV protection.
You can get this information from the product description. In case the manufacturer doesn’t mention this in the product info, then it would be to your interest to avoid buying that roof coating. The best RV roof coatings offer good resistance against ultraviolet rays and give your roof the protection that it needs.
Ability To Repel Water
A good quality RV roof sealant and coating must have a water repelling property. You can’t help it when the raindrops keep falling over the roof of your rig. Most of the time, water will tend to accumulate creating a pool on your roof.
This is bad for your roof because it will cause peeling of the paint and coating. Water and moisture will also find their way inside your rig causing more damage to your interiors.
This is why you need to invest in a good quality roof sealant and roof coating which can repel water. The best RV roof coatings have an excellent natural ability to resist wetness because it is what they have been designed to do.
You can read the customers’ reviews about the product to get an idea regarding the roof coating’s water repelling property. The experiences of the consumers will let you know the effectiveness of the product because it is only through experience that you will know if the roof coating is really up for the job.
Ease of Application
By ease of application, we mean the time you need to spend on applying the roof coating or sealant. It also refers to the number of coats you need to apply to achieve its optimum level of performance. A roof coating is also easy to apply when you can just use a paint roller or squeegee to spread it evenly on the roof.
There are some roof coatings that would require you to put a primer first or other solution before applying the roof coating. This is done to ensure that the coating will bond securely with your roof. Other roof coatings require 2 or more coats to be able to provide you with the protection that you need. This will also have an impact on the overall cost of coating your roof.
Of course, you’d want a roof sealant or coating that would require minimum amount of time and quantity to get done.
Chemical Composition
It is important to consider the chemical composition of the roof coating or sealant that you’re buying because you need to know that it’s safe to use. Manufacturers also state the safety precautions needed when applying their product.
You would want a roof sealant or coating that uses non-toxic chemicals so that you can be sure that it’s safer and easier to use. It is also a big plus when the chemical composition of the sealant and coating is environment-friendly. This way, you don’t contribute to pollutants in our surroundings when applying the coating and when the coating flakes off the roof.
Cure Time
This refers to the amount of time that it would take for the coating or sealant to completely dry or set on your roof s that you can use your rig again.
There are roof coatings that only take 2 to 3 days to complete the application process while some would take a whole week before you can take your rig on the road again.
Cure time depends on the weather conditions and the type of roof sealant and coating that you want. When the weather is hot, curing time is usually shorter. So it’s a good idea to schedule your roof coating during the summer.
Wrap Up
Getting a good quality roof coating and roof sealant is an essential part of your RV maintenance. It will help prolong the life of your roof and also your camper as a whole. This is why you should get the best RV roof coating so that you can protect your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is An EPDM Rubber Roof?
An EPDM rubber roof has been a trusted choice for over 4 decades now among RV manufacturers especially those making low-slope roofs. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene monomer. The main ingredients, which are ethylene and propylene, are derived from natural gas and oil.
It is a synthetic material that’s available in the market in strips usually with a thickness between 45 to 60 millimeters and length ranging from 7.5 feet to 50 feet. When putting up an EPDM rubber roof, the edges need to be secured by using a specially formulated tape or liquid adhesive.
How To Apply An RV Roof Coating?
Different types of roof coatings and sealants have different requirements for their proper application. You need to follow these steps carefully to ensure a long lasting bond between your roof and the sealant.
The first thing you have to do is determine the area of your roof. You need to measure how much square footage it covers so that you know how much roof coating you need to buy.
Take note also of the application requirement of the roof coating that you will buy. If it requires two coats, it means you need to double the measurement of your roof so that you will have enough supply for the entire application process.
Before applying the coating or sealant, you need to prep your RV roof. If the old coating or sealant on your RV’s roof is already flaking, you should remove it carefully. Make sure your roof is clean and free from dirt so that nothing will get in the way when you apply the coating. This will help ensure the effectiveness of the sealant.
You can have your roof power washed or you can scrub it with soap and water to remove all the dirt on top of it. Then you have to wait for it to be completely dry before you apply the roof coating or sealant.
RV sealants or coatings may contain flammable properties so make sure that you remove any items that can be a possible source of ignition to avoid danger.
When you’re ready to apply the coating, take off your shoes as they can also be a source of dirt and debris. You can just wear your socks or use shoe covers when you go up the roof to start applying your coating.
Start by applying a light coat on your roof. The goal here is for you to cover first all the seams, depressions, and other bumps and humps on the roof including the skylights, pipes, and vents.
You should also apply a light coating on those areas which would be hard to reach when using a roller brush. As for the vertical parts and rounded edges of your roof, you can use a brush to put on a light coating on these surfaces.
Let it dry for about 3 hours. Then, with the help of a nap roller, you can put on more coat on the whole surface of your roof. Let it dry for 48 hours. After this, you can apply a finishing coat (only if needed) using a longer nap roller. Wait for it to dry completely before taking your RV on the road again.
How to seal a camper/trailer/RV roof?
This is a good DIY project for RV owners. It is a relatively simple process that’s why you can definitely o this on your own.
Before buying a roof sealant, you should also check with your dealer or your manufacturer’s website which RV roof sealant is compatible with your rig.
The first thing you have to do is make sure that your RV roof is completely free from any kind of dirt, debris, and unwanted particles. You can use water with soap for cleaning. Then, allow it to dry completely.
Then, carefully scrape off any old rood or debris that you find on your roof. Take extra care not to cause a hole or tear in your roof.
When applying the roof sealant, you should wear your gloves. Use a paint brush or trowel to apply the sealant on your roof evenly.
You should seal anything that sticks through the roof of your RV. This includes your antennas and vents. Make sure that all the holes and seams are covered completely or else they will cause leaks later on as water makes its way through those tiny holes.
Do not just focus on the damaged parts, make sure you apply the sealant on each hole and seam on your roof. This is how you can prevent leaks from happening.
If a portion of your roof is ripped or torn, use a fiberglass repair tape before you apply the roof sealant over the patches.
Is Flex Seal good for RV roofs?
Yes, Flex Seal is good to use on RV roofs. Flex Seal is a versatile product that you can use for your roof, skylights, vent pipes, and roof gutters.
It has properties that make it capable of adhering to different kinds of roof materials. But Flex Seal is recommended to be used on RV roofs made of fiberglass or metal. If you have an EPDM rubber roof, you better stick to rubber coatings to guarantee its effectiveness.
Flex Seal has a natural ability to seep into holes and cracks and seal them shut. Once it is fully dry, it retains its elasticity very well that’s why it is very flexible. It is also durable and water resistant. This is what makes it so effective and a trusted product by many RV owners.
How do you clean an RV roof before sealing?
As mentioned earlier, you can either have your roof power washed or you can also clean it by yourself by using soap and water. Make sure you remove all the dirt, debris, and unwanted particles that can be found on your roof so that they won’t affect the effectiveness of the roof sealant.
Can you walk on the roof of an RV?
It depends on the material used for your RV roof. If it is made of fiberglass, then yes, you can walk on it. Fiberglass is strong so it won’t break or bend when you walk over it. Just be careful because it can get slippery when it’s wet.
Be careful because some manufacturers use thin plywood for the roof so that they can cut back on the cost and weight. If your travel trailer happens to be one of these, then it is not safe for you to walk on your roof.
How often should RV roof be resealed?
This is really a case to case basis as there are RV roofs that are made of more durable materials than others. It would also depend on your travel conditions and the impact of all the outside elements on the roof of your RV.
But in general, it is recommended that you have your RV roof resealed every 5 years to ensure that there are no leaks and your interiors are protected from water and moisture.
How much roof coating do I need?
This would depend on the particular roof coating that you’re getting. Some products require just one coat while others need multiple coats to achieve their optimum level of performance.
You need to determine the area covered by your roof. Measure the actual square footage then check with the product information on the RV roof coating that you will buy. Some coatings are available in one gallon, four gallons, or five gallons. Manufacturers state how much area each gallon is capable of covering so you can calculate how much you need for your roof.
How to repair an RV roof?
The best way for you to repair your RV roof is to conduct regular maintenance on this portion of your rig. This is one of the most vulnerable parts of your camper as it is always exposed to different elements and weather conditions.
So make sure you check on it on a regular basis so that if ever you see any sign of wear and tear, you can do the necessary repair on the particular area right away rather than waiting for the damage to get bigger wherein you will need extensive and costly repairs.
Make it a habit to check your roof for any signs of cracks and repair it immediately before it worsens and causes more significant damage to your roof.
You should also have your roof resealed every 5 years so that it will be in top shape whenever you use your rig.
It is important that you check your RV’s manual to make sure that you’re not doing something that might invalidate your warranty claims. If you want to make the repairs by yourself, make sure you have the skills to accomplish the task properly. Should there be an extensive issue on your roof that would require major repairs or replacement, it is better to call for professional assistance who have the expertise on the matter.
