Camper Roof Repair

Camper roofs should be thoroughly inspected and repaired.

Camper roofs occasionally need to be repaired due to being exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays or lack of regular roof maintenance. Water leaks in through seams and accessory openings in the roof, damaging the wood interior of the camper. Once the wood inside your camper starts to rot, the wood rot will eventually spread and cause extensive damage. It is essential to identify the leak on the camper's roof and repair it as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

• Stepladder
• Plywood strip
• Permanent waterproof tape
• Wire brush
• Broom
• Sponge
• Soap
• Water
• Putty knife
• Roof coating
• Self-leveling sealant

Instructions

1. Use a stepladder to climb up on the roof of the camper, and then lay a plywood strip across the roof to walk on. Thoroughly inspect all of the roof seams and vents to make sure the caulking is in good condition. Camper roofs should be inspected at least twice a year.

2. Patch up any roof leaks by covering them with a permanent waterproof tape. Apply the tape carefully, because once the adhesive backing sticks to your camper, it will not come off.

3. Use a wire brush to remove any loose or flaking roof coats, and then sweep the flakes off with a broom. Take a sponge and scrub the area with soap and water to prepare a clean surface for the new roof coat material.

4. Use a putty knife to coat and seal the seams with roof coating. Aluminum and fiberglass roofs require fiber roof coat material, while rubber roofs require self-leveling sealants.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove rocks from the soles of your shoes to prevent damage to your roof while walking on it.

References

• Are You Really Inspecting Your RV for Water Damage?
• RV Roof Inspection

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish