The Best RV Roof Sealant
Owning an RV comes with a lot of responsibility and one bit you never should skimp on is the roof maintenance. Having an unexpected leak in the middle of the night is never fun. That’s why I’m reviewing the best RV Roof Sealant to use fro your travel trailer.
When we first got our RV, we were clueless. Sure we knew about basic maintenance but really, what could go wrong? Fast forward a couple of years when we noticed a small leak in the front.
Trying to track down the source of the leak was a process. Now we make sure to stock the roof condition multiple times a season!
With so many products like liquid rubber, RV roof magic and so much more, what is the best RV roof coating to use? Well, that’s a tricky one. But when it comes down to it, the best RV sealant all depends on the type of roof you have.
What is a roof sealant and why do you need to do it?
According to the manufacturers all of RVs, all seals should be checked every 90 days. This means the manufacturer will not guarantee seals in most cases. It’s up to you and your own routine maintenance to ensure there are proper seals everywhere.
A roof sealant can help prevent leaks and increase the lifespan of your RV. Sealing the seams between the roof and the walls can keep rain and snow from seeping in and causing damage. Additionally, a sealant can help prolong the life of your solar panels by preventing water from getting trapped on top of them.
This is part of regular routine maintenance. But for many, it’s a very intimidating project. For any RV owner, roof repair is a necessity to prevent water damage.
How often should you Reseal an RV Roof?
The roof needs to be resealed every two to four years. The length of time largely depends on exterior factors. Do you cover your camper? Is it exposed to harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures, rain, and other factors?
If you live in a climate like MN, we do a visual inspection after unwrapping the camper for the year. And once more before closing it up for the season.
To check your seals, do a visual check of all windows and roofing. Check the horizontal surfaces, screw heads, roof vent and air conditioners. Look for cracking and shrinking on existing seals.
If there are any gaps, you’ll need to use an RV caulk to fill them in. Depending on the size, the tape makes work better. And every few years, you may want to lay down a whole new layer with full coverage over the roof. There are some great products to help
What parts of your RV Roof needs should be resealed
Your RV roof needs to be resealed if it’s showing any signs of wear or tear. A sealant will protect the roof from weathering and help keep the roof waterproof. You can also reseal areas that have shown water infiltration.
The most common areas to be resealed are around corners, windows, air conditioning units, and other things attached to the top of the roof.
What types of roof sealants are there?
When it comes to sealants, there are multiple application processes for your RV’s roof. There are liquid sealants, tapes, and more. All of them create a waterproof seal. The best roof sealants are dependent on the type of roof you have, and the area of coverage you need.
Silicone Sealant
There are a few types of RV roof sealants that you may want to consider. One type is a silicone sealant. This sealant is non-toxic and water resistant. Silicone sealants typically last around three years and can be reapplied every three years if needed.
Polyurethane Sealant
Another type of RV roof sealant is polyurethane sealant. This sealant is also non-toxic and water resistant, but it has a longer lifespan, typically lasting around six years. It can also be reapplied every six years if needed.
Both silicone and polyurethane sealants are mildly adhesive, so they will adhere to most surfaces. If you have a TPO roof, you should only use silicon products.
Self-Leveling Sealant
Similar to what the name describes, this RV roof sealant will create a smooth and even seal as it levels out on surfaces.
Non-Sag Sealant
A non-Sag Sealant is the opposite of a Self Leveling product. It’s thicker and doesn’t drip. It’s great on location near the edge of the roof, and you don’t want to spill over the side.
RV Sealant Tape
RC Sealant tape is similar to duct tape in the application, but it’s built specifically for RV’s exposure to sunlight. It’s flexible and blends in perfectly with the existing camper roof.
Full Coverage
Every five to six years, it’s a good idea to provide an extra layer of production to the entire roof. This is great for preventative maintenance or a full RV roof restoration.
How to apply a roof sealant
Before applying any sealant, you’ll want to clean the roof. It can usually be done with regular soap and a bucket. Because RVs tend to sit out in the sun longer, you can buy a Rubber Roof Cleaner baked on dirt and debris.
Each type of sealant is a little different. From roll-on to tubes of sealant that go on like caulk to tapes. For quick repairs on the go, the tape might work depending on the location. It also works well in small areas. Caulk gun silicones are best for tight spots, like around air conditioner units. Larger applications over the entire roof can go on with a paint roller. All provide a watertight seal and peace of mind.
Give your roof a good cleaning before applying any product. This will allow your sealant a waterproof seal. We use 303 Rubber Roof Cleaner. It safely removes build-up on the Rubber Roofs of RVs.
What Type of Roof Do I Have?
In the RV and Travel Trailer world, there are two basic types, A EPDM and TPO. In higher-end RVs, they make with fiberglass, aluminum, and other material.
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from a polymer film. It is often considered to be a more durable roofing material than TPO roofing, and it can also be more expensive. EPDM roofing has the advantage of being able to flow water and air well, which can make it less prone to damage from weather fluctuations.
Check your user manual to see what type of seal works best for your particular roof type. If necessary, calling with the manufacturer.
- For EPDM Rubber Roof, use a Polyurethanes
- For TPO Roof, you should only use Silicone based products.
Best Type of Roof Sealants
Before putting products on your RV, always check with your manufactures recommendations. Putting the incorrect type of product on an RV roof can cause damage. The best product for my roof, may not work the best for yours. When it comes to different types, here are my top pics for RV roof repair.
Ziollo RV Flex Repair
Roof Type: TPO
Applications Available: Caulk, Tape, and Paint On
Cost: $24 – $100
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If you have a TPO roof you should be using a Silicon Based product. According to our manufacturer, it’s the only type of product you should use. That is why I use the Ziollo brand of products. Ziollo is the brand that boasts a 100% silicon-based product. While the others claim to be safe, this is the only one I’m comfortable using. Plus they are super simple to use.
They make a wide variety of products, from Lap Sealant Caulking, Roll Seam Tape, and even full coverage paint varieties.
Caulking, self-leveling
Tape
Paint on
Dicor Rubber Roof Coating
Roof Type: EPDM
Applications Type: Roll On and Caulking
Cost: $9-$120
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The Dicor Rubber Roof Coating is a great product to increase the life of your EPMB Rubber foot. acrylic coating. This product provides excellent waterproof protection and also offers superior weatherability and UV rays resistance. Additionally, the quick drying time means that you can get your job done quickly and without any hassle.
Roll on the coating just like you would paint it on a wall. If your roof is wearing down, this is a great way to extend its life. Or use their Lap Sealant for smaller cracks. Dicor Products is a trusted name in the RV World.
EternaBond Tape
Roof Type: EPDM &TPO
Applications Available: Tape
Cost: $60
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Best for Cracks in TPO Rubber Roofs. If your roof gets scratched by a branch or has a tear in it from other unforeseen factors, an EternaBond tape is the easiest fix. It creates a patch that goes on like tape. Its aluminum backing combined with a layer of MicorSealant, creates a waterproof barrier with no need to add additional sealant to it. Its white color and UV resistance make it an easy application process anyone can do. The best part is it blends right in. The
Flex Seal Products
Roof Type: Any Type
Applications Available: Roll on, Spray, Caulk
Cost: $16 – $100
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Flex Seal is a very versatile product. It works great on any time of roof and creates a durable long-lasting seal on cracks and gaps. The product was designed to work on all roof types: Concrete, glass, brick, stucco, masonry, wood, copper, plastic, tile, fabrics, wires, vinyl, fiberglass, ceramic, porcelain, metal, aluminum, and natural stones, foam, asphalt, EIFS, TPO, PVC, EPDM, CSPE, Hypalon polyurethanes and so much more.
What I love about Flex Seal is that they make it in a bunch of different applications. If you have extra, you can use it around the house on the projects!
Caulking
Paint On
Spray Can
