Basics of RV Roof Coating Repair

Finding out that you have a leak in your RV roof that is causing damage to your RV is one of the worst feelings in the world. If you are like many people, the first thing you are going to think about is just how much this is going to cost to fix. If you let it continue to worsen, you will eventually need a new roof, and you may need to make replacements to some of the interior elements of your RV. This could cost you many thousands of dollars. However, you do not have to let it get to that point. Instead, you can head off the problem as soon as you find it – or even as a preventative measure – when you use a permanent RV roof coating.

It Needs to Be Clean

The first thing you need to do is examine the roof of your RV. You want to be sure that you check the roof for any areas that might be leaking. It could be a problem with the vents, or it could be a hole in the roof, for example. Do a thorough examination and note all of the potential problem sites.

At that point, you will need to make sure you clean the top of the roof properly before getting started with any repairs. This requires cleaning the oil and grease away if there is any on the roof, along with silicone sealants and waxes that may have been used. Make sure you remove the dirt and wash the roof with water to get it prepared for the rest of the repairs. Power washing is possible if you have a large RV roof, but it can also be done by hand. This tends to be how many RV owners prepare their roofs.

Patching and Adding the Coating

Once the roof is clean, you can then go through and add patches to any of the areas that will need it. For example, if there are a couple of large holes or cracks, patching them before adding the Liquid Roof is a good idea. Simply follow the instructions from the manufacturer for applying the patch.

After the patches have been added, you can then use the Liquid Roof to continue with the RV roof coating repair. Again, you will want to follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Fortunately, it is easy to take care of the application on your own. It goes on similar to paint, and you will only need to add one coating. When you are applying it, try to make sure that you have an even coat. You can use rollers and paintbrushes to ensure that you get all areas of the roof.

With the coating on the roof, you can then rest a little easier knowing that it will go to work protecting the roof from leaks and sun damage right away. The curing times will vary based on the weather and temperature, but the protection starts immediately.

The process of getting your roof protected and back in shape is not always as complex as many think. If you are able to catch any problems early, the coating should help to provide you with all the protection you need. For those who have severely damaged roofs, or who need to have interior repairs made to the RV, it is best to consult with a professional. The sooner you take care of your RV roof problems the less it will cost. After all, issues with the roof are not simply going to go away on their own.

7 Things You May Not Know about RV Roof Repair Coatings

While your RV might allow you to enjoy the freedom to travel anywhere, anytime, you do need to maintain it. You’ll need regular oil changes, and to invest in new tires every now and then. You’ll need to wash and wax it, and replace the wiper blades from time to time. You’ll also need to resurface the roof periodically to prevent water leaks and systemic damage. RV roof repair coatings made from EPDM are the best solution here, but just how familiar are you with these products? Here are a few things you might not know about these coatings.

They’re the Same Material as Your Roof

You might assume that the material your RV’s roof is made from and the material roof repair coatings are made from are different. After all, one’s a solid, and the other is a liquid. However, chances are good that they are both EPDM, which is a type of rubber. It is the most common material for RV roof construction in the United States, although fiberglass and aluminum are sometimes used.

They’re Synthetic Rubber

The material you use to coat your RV’s roof and prevent leaks is made from rubber, but not the natural type. It’s a synthetic polymer, called EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene monomer. Why synthetic rubber, though? There are plenty of compelling reasons. It offers much better UV resistance than natural rubber. It also adheres much better, and is longer lived. In short, it’s a superior solution in just about every way.

They Require Just One Coat

Roof repair coatings made with EPDM can be applied with just a single coat, just a few mil thick. That offers a number of benefits. First, it ensures that just a little bit of liquid EPDM can go a very long way. In fact, a single gallon can cover up to 200 square feet. Second, it means that you spend less time resealing your roof. Of course, it also helps you save money, too.

They Are Waterproof Immediately

Roof repair coatings made with advanced EPDM rubber are waterproof from the second they are applied. Unlike other materials on the market, EPDM coatings are impervious to water, although they do take a few hours to dry to the touch.

They Can Be Applied on Your Own

There is no need to worry about professional installation with roof repair coatings. As long as you are physically able to get on the roof of your RV, you can apply it yourself and save both time and money.

They Don’t Need Primer

With most roof sealants, you need to apply a primer first to ensure good adhesion. That’s not the case when applying an EPDM sealant to an EPDM roof. All you need to do is make sure the roof is thoroughly cleaned, and the material will adhere immediately. However, if you’re using EPDM roof coatings on a non-EPDM roof, you will need to use primer.

They Help You Keep Your Cool

Finally, roof repair coatings help you keep your cool. They reflect heat and UV rays back into the atmosphere, lowering the ambient temperature within your RV and reducing the need to use the AC. They also help to reduce the effect of heat on the substructure of your roof, prolonging its life and saving you money over time, as well.

As you can see, there are quite a few interesting things about EPDM RV roof sealant. Easily applied on your own, completely waterproof, incredibly durable, these coatings embody next generation technology and ensure that you’re able to protect your investment.