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How To Fix A Tear In Rv Roof

How To Repair A Punctured Rv Roof

How to Repair a Tear or Puncture in your RV Roof – RV 101

Although you might pay a professional to do a full roof replacement for your RV, there are many roof repair jobs that are easy and far cheaper if you do them yourself.

One of these is repairing a punctured or torn RV roof. To fix this kind of damage, all you really need to do is install a patch:

  • Thoroughly clean the area around the repair.

  • Remove any excess silicone.

  • Apply sealant or caulking to any recesses, and let dry.

  • Glue down any loose roof membrane, and add fasteners if needed.

  • Let it cure 24 hours.

  • Apply the patch so that theres at least two inches of overlap on all sides of the repair area, and cover any reinforcement fasteners.

  • Seal the patch and edges around it with RV roof coating.

  • RV roof tape or RV roof patches are easy to apply, with adhesive on one side that sticks to your RV roof and seals up the torn or punctured area.

    These patches are very durable, and provide a permanent solution to a tear or small hole.

    Its a good idea to keep some in your RVs emergency tool kit just in case something happens while youre out on a trip. You dont want a punctured roof causing leaks and creating water damage!

    How Do I Repair A Tear In My Rv’s Rubber Roof

    Our Allergo Motorhome has a tear in the rubber roof coating down to the wood. It has started leaking now and we need to know how to patch it in order to stop the leak. We have purchased a very large tarp and covered it at this time.How can we patch this rubber coating?Thanks for any and all help.Sincerely,Vicki & Mike MangesANSWER: Hi Vicki & Mike thanks for submitting your question on our Ask An RV Question Page.Sorry to hear that you are going through this. Luckily there is a product out there that you can use to permanently repair the tear in the roof of your RV without having to replace the whole rubber roof. The product is called Eternabond. If you can use a roll of tape you can use Eternabond to repair your RV roof.Since I do not know the exact size of the tear in your roof, I cannot tell you whether you should use the Eternabond Tape or an Eternabond Patch. Take a look at the video below to see how easy it is to use Eternabond to repair your roof.The video above shows how to use the tape and the patches are just as easy to use.Hope this helps.

    Rv Roof Repair For A Fiberglass Roof

    Fiberglass is less forgiving than other RV roofing materials when it comes to damage. Extensive damage likely requires professional assistance, which can be costly. Youre also at their mercy in terms of the repair timeline. If youre handy, its possible to fix minor cracks and blemishes in a fiberglass roof. Just know your limits and when to hire a professional to prevent future problems.

    For any issues you can repair yourself, clean the damaged area thoroughly, and let it dry. Sand the damaged area to provide a smooth surface for repair sealants. If youre confident, you can even use fiberglass resin, and fiberglass cloth if needed, to make the repair yourself.

    But for most minor damage, Eternabond is a great fallback, which just about anyone can apply.

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    First Step Cleaning The Roof

    First up, remove any temporary patches. In our case, this meant removing the gorilla tape that we had used as a temporary fix while we waited on the materials we ordered.

    Youll want to clean the area around the tear that you will be patching well. This allows the patch to properly adhere and will prevent future leaks.

    To clean the roof, use rubbing alcohol and either a rag or paper towels. Tucker went over the area 2-3 times to make sure it was cleaned really well. Let it dry completely before moving on.

    Can You Patch An Rv Roof

    8 of 19 RV roof Tear

    For larger cracks you cant close up with tape or sealant, invest in a patching kit made for RV roofs. These will include patching materials, similar to tape but which you can cut into a square, and liquid sealant that goes around the edge of the patching square.

    To use a patching kit, first ensure the roof surface is clean and dry. Next, cut a square of the patch large enough to cover the crack or gap with a few added inches around the sides. Youll need to peel off the backing but put the edge of the patch onto the RV roof as you do, pressing it into place while peeling the rest of the backing off.

    As you work, note that you do not want to pull the patch up after its made contact with the RV roof, as this can damage the patch and the roof. Work slowly, to ensure there are no bubbles or folds. Push the patch down with a flat palm as you peel the backing so it sticks to the roof completely.

    Once the patch is in place, use a folded cloth and start from the center of the patch, rubbing it outwards so it forms a tight seal with no channels or gaps that allow in water. Lastly, add a bead of the sealing caulk around the outside edges of the patch. Let it dry and then scrape off the excess for a flat, even line.

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    How To Repair An Rv Roof

    • Pin

    Every RV owner should know how to repair an RV roof, as even the smallest crack or gap can mean severe and costly water damage over time. Holes in the roof also let in bothersome insects as well as outside heat and humidity, while letting out your heated or cooled air from below. A damaged roof also lowers your RV resale value significantly!

    For smaller cracks and gaps, use fiberglass repair tape or sealants designed for your RV roof in particular, or a synthetic rubber roofing membrane for larger holes and tears. Gel coats can then be applied as needed to restore a roofs glossy shine.

    Since keeping your RV roof in good repair is so vital for the overall condition of your trailer or motorhome, you might note some added tips for how to repair an RV quickly and easily. Its also helpful to note some maintenance tips for an RV roof, to help avoid otherwise unnecessary repair and keep your RV in good condition for as long as possible.

    RV owners should also know when its time to call the pros, as some larger cracks and other such damage need more than patching or sealing. Scheduling professional RV repair as needed ensures that your trailer or motorhome is damage-free, safe for use, and comfortable on the inside!

    How To Reseal Or Recaulk An Rv Roof

    When to seal your roof: self-leveling sealant no-sag sealant

    • Remove old sealant. The cleanest solution is to remove old sealant with a plastic putty knife or trim remover tool . Tip: Using a heat gun or hairdryer can help you remove stubborn sealant. Note: You can apply new sealant over the old sealant without removing it first, as long as the old sealant is still adhering to the roof. If the old sealant is in good shape, clean it , dry it, then apply a layer of new sealant.
    • Apply new sealant around roof accessories and trim pieces.Dont forget to also seal around your windows, latches, and any other potential entry point into your RV!
    • Let the sealant dry 24-48 hours before you travel or get it wet.

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    Repairing A Rubber Rv Roof

    While rubber roofs tend to last longer compared to metal or fiberglass roofs, they are prone to becoming brittle over time. If your rubber RV roof has holes, the best product on the market is ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber membrane coatings. When you use EPDM products, you will be able to have a solid and durable RV roof that can last you up to 10 years. However, make sure that you only wash it with mild soap, as petroleum-based cleaners can damage the structural integrity of EPDM roofing materials.

    After applying the EPDM membrane, you need to apply a sealant on top to prevent the EDPM from oxidizing when it rains. If you do not apply the sealant, the EDPM will develop a chalky appearance with streaks running through the membrane.

    You also need to seal the roof joints to ensure that your roof is watertight. Caulk is a good material to use to help prevent water damage to your roof.

    Get A Great Roof Over Your Head While You Travel With Rv Roof Repair

    How to Repair a Torn or Punctured RV Roof

    When you own an RV, you want to be able to take it out and about on your many adventures! So many of us want to use our RVs as a second home, but its hard to have a proper home when you are worried about the roof over your head. If your RV is starting to suffer from wear and tear and sunshine, then we here at Triad RV Repair LLC would like to take a look with our RV roof repair services.

    Damage to your roof can happen in a lot of different ways. Many RV roof repairs need to be completed due to problems that stem from a lack of maintenance, accidents, or simple weather wear and tear problems. These issues can start to compromise the integrity of your RV roof, causing small leaks or tears to form and then grow. When we at Triad RV Repair get ahold of your RV roof repairs, we take a look at not only what the issue is, but how we can ensure that you dont encounter this problem again.

    When you come to us in the Lexington, North Carolina area looking for an RV roof repair service, you will be impressed by our quick turnaround time. This is because we value our customer time, since many of our customers are passing through! We keep an open line of communication to ensure that we can complete your repairs as soon as possible and all up to your discerning standards.

    If you are looking for someone who can complete an RV roof repair, complex or simple, we are here to help you! Give us a call today to learn more.

    About Triad RV Repair LLC

    Hours of Operation

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    Investing In A Rv Roof Cover For Durability

    In addition to all of the maintenance you should do to maximize the lifetime of your RVs roof, you may want to consider a cover for your camper or just for the roof.

    Its optimal to store your RV indoors, but this is often very expensive and might be out of budget for most RV owners.

    An alternative is a waterproof and UV-resistant RV cover or an RV roof cover.

    These come in a wide range of measurements, so the trick is to get one that is specifically designed to fit your camper or its roof.

    However, even RV covers have their disadvantages. A good quality RV cover will allow moisture to evaporate, but it also prevents airflow from circulating around your RV underneath it, so mildew can grow.

    So, its best to give your RV a break and only cover it during storage season.

    Note: Tarps are even worse than RV covers at allowing mildew and mold to grow in a short period of time, so only use these as a short-term solution.

    Eternabond Tape For Gouges And Tears

    Eternabond tape is a long-lasting, easy repair for gouges or tears in an RV roof. Eternabond tape is made with resins and rubbers and infused with its own primer. Its easily applied with a small roller that removes any air bubbles and presses the sealant into tears or cracks.

    Eternabond is a go-to for RV roof repairs. It lasts for years and can also be painted over. A 4-inch wide, 50-foot roll costs about $50-$60 but is a great investment for quick repairs while on the road.

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    How To Inspect Your Roof For Holes

    No matter what roofing material your RV uses, its very important to regularly inspect your RV roof for leaks, cracks and degrading or damaged sealants. Many RV manufacturers recommend checking all seals every 30-90 days. Catching holes and potential leaks early is the key to minimizing repair time and costs.

    If your RV doesnt have an attached ladder, youll need a way to gain access to your RVs roof, such as a folding step ladder, or a collapsible extension ladder. Once you get up there, do a broad visual sweep of the surface, looking for scuffs, rips, tears, or dents, followed by a detailed inspection of every potential source of leaks.

    Of course, you should only go up onto your RVs roof if youre comfortable that you can be safe up there. If youre not physically able to climb up there, then dont. And be especially careful if your roof is wet so that you dont slip and fall off!

    A quick check of the sealant around vents, fans, solar panels, air conditioners, and antennas every 30 days or so keeps our RV roof in great condition, avoiding potentially costly leaks. This Dicor sealant has cracked severely enough that it could easily be allowing water to penetrate through the roof and needs to be cleaned and re-sealed.

    How To Patch A Rubber Roof

    Repair a Tear in your RV Roof

    If you can get your hands on some EPDM rubber, this is a quick and easy way to patch up your RV’s roof.

  • Take a piece of EPDM rubber membrane and use a razor knife to cut a patch 2 inches larger than the damaged area. Round the corners and leave no jagged edges.
  • Center the patch over the damaged area and use a pen or pencil to draw a line around the patch, marking its location on your roof.
  • Lift the patch and use a scraper to remove any old caulking stuck to the damaged section. Clean the area using a clean cloth and a touch of rubbing alcohol or some Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner. A scrub pad may be used on stubborn dirt, stains, sap, etc. Clean the bottom of the patch too.
  • Apply an even coat of EPDM adhesive to the bottom of the patch and to the damaged area outlined on the roof. Once the adhesive is dry, press the patch into place. Lay down a bead of Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant over the edge the patch. Once dry, your job is done and your RV’s roof should be ready for rain.
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    Materials Needed For An Rv Roof Repair

    You only need a few items to repair your camper roof.

    As you can see, you dont need to purchase many materials and they are relatively inexpensive. We had everything on hand already except for the Dicor Lap Sealant and the Externabond Repair Tape which cost us less than $45 total.

    Much cheaper than taking our RV to the shop for repairs or even an RV roof replacement!

    Rv Roof Repair: How To Fix Holes In An Rv Roof

    • May 20, 2021

    This post may contain affiliate links.

    Some RV repairs can be temporarily put on hold, but an RV roof repair is not one of them. Failing to repair your RV roof can cause a frustrating and expensive set of circumstances that will only grow worse with time.

    Because roof repair is such a critical piece of RV maintenance, in todays post well share with you some important tips for finding and repairing holes in an RV roof. Lets get started!

  • 8)Stay Ahead on Maintenance
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    What Is The Best Sealant For An Rv Roof

    The best sealant for your RVs roof is one made for its materials and that will withstand area weather conditions. You also want a sealant thats easy to apply! Note a few suggestions for high-quality RV roof sealant you might choose for your trailer or motorhome.

    • Dicor 501LSW Self-Leveling Lap Sealant. This sealant is known for holding up against harsh weather conditions and especially UV rays, and for lasting for many years before it needs replacing. Dicor lap sealant can also be used around air conditioners, vents, and other obstructions that create gaps in the roof. Dicor lap sealant can also be used on a number of materials, including fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and much more.
    • EternaBond RSW-4-50 RoofSeal Sealant Tape. EternaBond is an excellent choice for overly warm and humid weather as it adheres even in tropical weather. EternaBond is also somewhat flexible, so it can move easily as your RV hits bumps in the road and the roof takes dips and dives. Its only downside is that EternaBond is a bit pricier than other options.
    • Dicor BT-1834-1 Butyl Seal RV Roof Tape. This thin, long tape allows for easy application even for longer cracks and gaps. It can also be used to seal air conditioners, window frames, and other such areas, both in the RV and in the home!

    Lap Sealant For Sealing Gaps And Replacing Old Sealant

    How to Repair RV Roof Rips and Tears

    Lap sealant made for RV roof repair is the ideal material for sealing gaps and replacing old sealant. Silicone caulking commonly found in the hardware store is waterproof but dries out and shrinks rather quickly. Lap sealant is UV stabilized, so it remains pliable and watertight longer.

    To repair a gap, clean it first, then fill it with self-leveling lap sealant. Be sure to fill the gap so that the lap sealant overlaps the gaps edges, which will keep water out.

    Even lap sealant, over time, can lose its effectiveness. When the sealant around the edges of the roof, vents, antenna bases, and the like looks shrunken or cracked, remove it with a scraper and replace it with fresh sealant. When removing old sealant, be careful to work around the edges until the sealant begins to loosen. You dont want to damage your roofs rubber membrane.

    The best way to know when to replace sealant is to inspect it often. How often? If you think you may have scraped the roof with a branch or have any other reason for concern, get on the ladder and take a look. Otherwise, its a good idea to inspect your RV roof at least every six months.

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