Many people are never sure after they purchase a brand new or used RV exactly how to care for their roof, well that's about to change because here is the help you need!
When buying a NEW RV, you must look at the roof. Do not take your salesmen's word on the condition of the roof.
Why? Many things can happen in transit from Elkhart, Ind.
When you are inside the new RV, look up. See any faint discoloration on the ceiling? Along the sides? Is the ceiling around the lights discolored? If so, there is a roof problem.
If not, go on the roof. Do you see the membrane stretched correctly and fastened to the side molding and caulked? Is there any gaps? Even the tiniest gap in the membrane can balloon into a HUGE roofing problem by driving down the road or windy days ahead.
How is the caulking around the piping and vents? Cracked?
If any of the above is seen, you need to look at a different RV or point it out and have the dealership fix the issue prior to the sale. Not AFTER. Prior. It is common on some dealerships to say they "fixed" the issues but either did nothing or did a minimum repair.
Take picture of before and after the repair and prior to pulling it off the lot.
Same applies for a USED RV. Look for the same issues when speaking with the owner of the RV or a dealership. Private owners usually sell "as is" but on occasion some will give you an adjustment on the price to cover a new roof.
Congratulations on your purchase! Now how do I care for my roof?
1) If NEW:
Check every year and clean the membrane (top of the roof) with a simple oxy clean & water solution. Dump on the roof and with a light bristled broom, sweep the solution on, not to puncture holes in the membrane, then spray off with water.
Make sure your caulking is ok around the seals, AC. vents, pipes, down the side molding.
If any cracks, just touch up the caulking.
2) Every 3 years, check how "spongy" the wood is on the roof, if it is bad, you are in need of a new roof. If the wood is fine, a re-coat may need to be done to keep things sealed.
3) If USED:
Same applies for the cleaning of the roof, check the caulking, and if unsure when the last time it had been re-coated, you may want to do a re-coat. The wood is the key here.
If the wood is bad, you may need a complete re-roof.
That's it. Now you have the knowledge to keep your investment clean and up to date.
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