How to Properly Clean and Maintain an RV Roof

Cleaning an RV roof can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it's a breeze. The most common type of RV roof is the rubber roof, which is prone to cracking and drying out.

To prevent damage, it's essential to clean the roof regularly, ideally every 3-6 months, depending on usage. This frequency helps to remove dirt, debris, and mildew that can cause damage.

The first step in cleaning the RV roof is to inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, tears, or soft spots, which can indicate a more serious issue.

A soft-bristled brush is a gentle and effective tool for removing dirt and debris from the roof's surface. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching the rubber surface.

For your interest: Soft Wash Roof Cleaning

Most travel trailers and fifth-wheels have rubber roofs.

Rubber roofs are made of a thin weatherproof membrane that is stretched across a wooden substrate.

Fiberglass roofs are molded and it’s best to keep them waxed so anything that lands on the surface will slide right off.

Some of the higher-end fifth-wheels have fiberglass roofs.

On a similar theme: Clean Fiberglass

Cleaning an RV roof can be a daunting task, but it's essential to keep it clean and maintained to ensure its longevity. You should ideally clean and condition your RV's rubber roof every 3-6 months if you use it frequently.

Wearing soft-soled shoes and using caution is crucial when working on the roof, as it can be slippery, especially when wet. Gently sweeping away loose dirt and debris with a broom is a good starting point.

Use a cleaner specifically designed for your roof's material, and avoid abrasive cleaners or those with petroleum distillates or citrus, as they can damage the membrane. Always follow the instructions on the cleaning product, and use a soft or medium bristle brush or a sponge to scrub away dirt and grime.

Here's a quick rundown of the cleaning process:

Remember to always clean the roof first, before washing the rest of the rig, as it can make a mess of everything else!

In addition to regular cleaning, it's a good idea to deep clean high-traffic areas every 6-12 months to remove dirt and grime that can damage flooring and surfaces.

Vacuuming and mopping are essential for maintaining clean floors, but they can also damage certain types of flooring if not done correctly.

Regularly cleaning doorknobs, light switches, and remotes can help prevent the spread of germs and keep your home hygienic.

Cleaning your refrigerator coils can increase its efficiency and reduce energy bills by up to 10%.

Changing your air filters every 1-3 months can improve indoor air quality and reduce allergy symptoms.

Remember to clean your windows with a mixture of water and white vinegar to prevent streaks and residue.

Maintenance is a crucial part of RV ownership. Regular cleaning and conditioning of your RV's rubber roof can extend its lifespan and ensure it remains in good condition.

You should clean your RV's rubber roof every 3-6 months if you use your rig often. This frequency may vary depending on your manufacturer's instructions and recommendations.

Wear soft-soled shoes and use caution when working on the roof, as it can be slippery, especially when wet. Loose dirt and debris should be gently swept away using a broom with soft or medium bristles.

Choose a cleaner specifically designed for your roof's material, avoiding abrasive cleaners or those with petroleum distillates or citrus, which can damage the membrane. Some popular cleaning products include Dicor Deep Cleaning Rubber RV Roof Cleanser Spray, Thetford Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner & Conditioner, and Valterra Rubber Roof Cleaner.

After cleaning, rinse the roof thoroughly and the rig's sides, front, and back, which may be a mess after cleaning the roof. Regular cleaning and conditioning can help prevent damage from UV rays and other environmental factors.

Here's a summary of the recommended cleaning products:

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for any cleaning products you use, and consider using a rubber roof protectant to repel dirt and protect the roof from UV rays.

Cleaning your vents is a crucial part of maintaining your RV. Take off the covers to check the sealant around them.

Use the same cleaner you used on your roof to clean the vents and look for any issues. We've had to replace a gear mechanism before.

The rubber seals on the vents can get sticky, just like the slide seals. Treat them with the same stuff you used on your slide seals, like Pledge.

Fiberglass Roof Care is a crucial part of maintaining your RV's integrity.

After cleaning, fiberglass roofs need a protectant to prevent oxidation, which causes a rough texture and white powder.

Applying a cleaner/wax or restorer/wax is a one-step process that removes slight oxidation, leaving the roof with a nice shine.

For more oxidized roofs, a polish with a mild abrasive is needed, but be cautious not to use rubbing compound unless you're experienced.

Painting the roof with a high-quality epoxy-based paint, like Imron, is the best long-term solution to prevent further oxidation.

Fiberglass roofs need a protectant after cleaning to prevent oxidation, which can make the surface feel rough and lose its shine.

Apply a cleaner/wax or restorer/wax to remove slight oxidation, using a circular motion and letting it dry to a haze before buffing it out.

For more oxidized roofs, use a polish containing a mild abrasive, and if necessary, add rubbing compound to the buffer pad.

Rubbing compound is harsh, so use it sparingly and with caution.

To prevent further oxidation, paint the roof with a good quality epoxy-based paint, like Imron, for long-lasting protection.

Some RV manufacturers recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant to protect the fiberglass from UV rays and give the roof a shiny luster.

However, be aware that a waxed roof can be extremely slippery when wet, making it a safety hazard.

Higher-quality products, such as Meguiar’s and Griot’s Garage, will last longer and provide better results.

Liquid acrylic products like Poli Glow and Zep Wet Look are also effective and easy to use.

If you need to repair a fiberglass roof, EternaBond tape is a great option, offering a permanent fix for tears and cracks.

To apply EternaBond, clean the area thoroughly, rough it up with a Scotch-Brite pad, and then press the tape into place with a small wallpaper-type roller.

The tape can be purchased in various lengths, from 4 to 50 feet, making it suitable for small repairs or major roof separations.

Protect All Treatment is a game-changer for RV owners with rubber roofs. It coats the roof in a tough polymer with anti-static properties, preventing grime from sticking.

This treatment is especially effective at reducing powdery roof chalk, which can lead to stubborn black streaks. It's like a shield for your roof, protecting it from road grime and other contaminants.

Protect All recommends applying the treatment every 3-6 months, depending on the climate where your RV spends most of its time. If you live in a sunny, hot, or humid area, you may need to use it more frequently.

One of the best things about Protect All is that it's biodegradable, non-abrasive, and non-toxic. This means it's gentle on your roof and the environment.

Here are some key benefits of using Protect All:

The warranty on your RV roof typically lasts 10 years if you take proper care of it, including regular cleaning and conditioning.

You should only need to clean your RV roof once a year to keep it in good shape. To do this, you can use a rubber roof cleaner and conditioner, which can be picked up at a local store.

Dave Solberg recommends keeping a close eye on cracks and indentations that might eventually lead to punctures and leaks.

For TPO roofs, you should only use part one of the Camco Pro-Tec RV Rubber Roof Care System, as using both parts can cause damage.

Dicor Guard is a must-have for any RV owner who wants to protect their roof from the elements. It's a spray that repels both water and dust, making it perfect for RVs with rubber roofing.

Dicor Guard is safe to use on all types of RV roofs, including EDPM and TPO. It's also free from petroleum distillates, oils, waxes, silicone, and glycerin, which means it won't damage your roof.

This product is a great idea if you're planning to apply a coating to your RV roof. It helps to prepare the surface and ensure a smooth application process.

To use Dicor Guard, simply spray it onto your roof and let it dry. It's that easy!

Here are some key benefits of using Dicor Guard:

The Camco Pro-Tec System is a two-step treatment designed specifically for rubber RV roofs. It's a great option for RV owners who want to keep their roofs looking their best.

Step one of the system cleans and conditions the rubber roof, removing dirt and debris that can cause damage over time. This step is essential for maintaining the health of your roof.

Step two of the system applies a substance that helps resist dirt, protects against UV rays, and reduces roof chalking. This provides an extra layer of protection against the elements.

It's worth noting that Camco recommends against using step two on TPO roofs, and only recommends using part one for TPO. This is something to keep in mind if you have a TPO roof.

Here are the benefits of using the Camco Pro-Tec System: