Ultimate Guide to RV Roof Repair
Contents
Your RV deserves proper care, including adequate and effective RV roof repair. Here, we examine how to repair your RV roof and what signs indicate leaks, plus how to prevent worsening problems and costing repairs.
Types of RV Roofs and How to Repair Each
RV roof leak repair depends on the roof type. The different methods used for trailer roof repair include the following.
RV Rubber Roof
For RV rubber roofs:
- Use EPDM repair kits containing EPDM rubber and adhesive, sealant, roof cleaner, seam primer, and seam tape.
- Clean the affected area.
- Apply sealant.
- Add fasteners to reinforce.
- Cure for at least 24 hours.
RV Metal Roof
For metal travel trailer roof repairs:
- Clean the area with a non-corrosive detergent.
- Apply a metal-safe RV sealant such as acid-free silicone rubber sealant.
- Allow to cure.
RV Fiberglass Roof
Repair this RV roof type with these steps:
- Clean the affected area with acetone.
- Apply reinforced fiberglass mat layers mixed with catalyzed resin.
- Allow the repair to harden.
- Sand with 200-grit sandpaper to blend in with the existing fiberglass.
- Apply gel with a felt roller.
- Apply boat wax and let dry.
- Buff to shine using a clean rag.
RV Roof Leaks: Signs to Look Out For
Some signs indicating an RV roof leak:
- Brown and black spots indicating mold, mildew, or algae
- Ceiling water stains and discoloration
- Cracked sealant and caulk
- Damaged flashing
- Delamination
- Gaps in sealed areas
- Ripples or irregularities in the roof’s shape of the fiberglass
- Soft spots
Materials and Equipment Needed for RV Roof Repair
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is the most common RV rubber roof repair material. This single-ply synthetic rubber has a reinforcing scrim, making it durable and flexible enough for repairing flat roofs. TPO is also UV-stable. The cost ranges from $5.50 to $6 per square foot.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is an incredibly durable synthetic rubber used in mobile home roof repair. Its cost-effectiveness makes it popular, costing $4 to $8 per square foot.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is more durable but less popular for camper roof repair due to its higher cost and weight. It withstands snow, hail, and heavy rain, reducing mold growth, mildew, rot, or rust. Typically, fiberglass costs $2 to $4 per square foot.
Aluminum
Aluminum is the least common among RV roof repair materials because of its weight. However, RV brands like Airstream utilize aluminum roofing because it’s non-toxic and low maintenance. Aluminum is also quite affordable, costing approximately $3 per square foot.
Contact Us Now!
Timely RV roof repair prevents additional damage, saving you from costly repairs and replacements. Kirkland RV Sales offers an extensive range of used RV sales from leading manufacturers, including Monaco, Thor, Coachmen, and Winnebago. Our economically priced used RVs are free from manufacturer-line overhead pricing.
Contact our friendly sales team online or call (425) 318-7613 to discuss available options. We proudly serve Everett, WA, and nearby Seattle, Olympia, Bellingham, Tacoma, and neighboring cities along the Canadian border.
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