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Your RV roof is one of the most important parts of your rig. It’s what shelters you from the sun and keeps the rain off your head no matter where you roam. Because of this, it’s super important that you take good care of your RV roof.
Here’s what I’ve learned about RV roofs and how to care for them over the years. Use this info to keep your roof in excellent shape for many miles to come!
Learning About Your RV Roof
It’s incredibly important that you know some key things about your RV roof. These include what your roof is made of and whether or not your RV roof is walkable. Knowing these things will help you take proper care of your RV roof so it will last for years to come.
RV Roofing Materials
RV roofs are commonly made from materials such as…
- Rubber (EPDM or TPO): Lightweight, flexible, and weather-resistant.
- Fiberglass: Durable, easy to clean, and resistant to leaks, but heavier for it.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and durable, but prone to dents and corrosion.
Each material has different maintenance needs, so it’s important to know your RV roof type. You can figure out which type of RV roof you have through observation. An aluminum roof will be pretty obvious, and a fiberglass roof will be smooth and slick. Meanwhile, a rubber roof will feel like rubber.
You can determine whether your rubber RV roof is EPDM or TPO by removing the interior trim on a roof vent. This will give you a peek at the underside of the rubber roofing material. If the top is the same color as the bottom, you have a TPO roof. Otherwise, your roof is EPDM.
Determining Whether Your RV Roof is Walkable
Many RV roofs are designed to be walked on, but it depends on the construction of your RV. Generally, if an RV has a ladder on the back, the roof is walkable. That said, it’s best to check your owner’s manual or call the manufacturer to see if your roof can handle the weight.
If it can indeed withstand being walked on, use caution to avoid damaging roof components like vents and solar panels. If your roof isn’t rated for walking, use a ladder or scaffolding to access it safely.
Cleaning Your RV Roof
You’ll want to clean your RV roof every couple of months to ensure it stays in tip-top shape. This is something I could do a better job of staying on top of myself, but it really isn’t all that difficult.
First, you’ll need to gather your supplies:
- Use a mild soap or a cleaner specifically designed for your roof type. (Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or petroleum-based products, which can damage the material.)
- Grab a long-handled, soft brush for scrubbing away spots.
- A water hose connected to a spigot is also needed.
- You’ll want a ladder to help you reach certain spots.
To clean the roof, follow the steps below:
- Park on Level Ground: Ensure your RV is parked on a flat, stable surface, and use the parking brake to prevent any movement.
- Inspect the Roof: Before starting, check for any cracks, holes, or weak spots that may need repair.
- Rinse the Roof: Using a garden hose or power washer (on low pressure), gently rinse off loose dirt, leaves, and debris.
- Apply Cleaner: Spray or apply the roof cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down dirt and stains.
- Scrub the Roof: Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the roof gently. Pay attention to seams, vents, and other fixtures.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the roof completely to remove all cleaner and dirt.
- Dry the Roof: Allow the roof to air dry, or use a towel to dry off any remaining water.
- Inspect Seals: Once the roof is clean and dry, check for any damaged seals or areas that may need resealing.
Maintaining Your RV Roof
Cleaning your RV roof is just one aspect of RV roof maintenance. It’s also important to protect your roof in any way you can. The tips below will help you do just that.
Inspecting Your Roof
It’s recommended to inspect your RV roof at least twice a year—ideally in the spring and fall—or more often if your RV is exposed to harsh weather conditions. Look for cracks, tears, loose seals, or any signs of wear that could lead to leaks.
Resealing Roof Seals
If you find that some of the seals are coming up or cracking, it’s time to reseal the roof:
- First, clean the area with dish soap and water to remove any dirt or debris, allowing the area to dry completely before the next step.
- Next, apply an RV roof sealant compatible with your roof material, ensuring you focus on seams, edges, and around any rooftop fixtures.
Even if your seals look totally fine, it’s best to go over them at least once a year to prevent damage due to leaks.
Repairing Holes and Tears
Sometimes tree branches scrape the top of your RV, causing damage to the rubber put here. This has happened to us multiple times over the past decade, but we’ve never had any extensive damage. Instead, we’ve just had small rips and holes that were very easy to repair.
My favorite way to repair these holes is by using EternaBond Tape. That said, some people prefer RV roof patch kits. These kits usually include a patch and adhesive, which can be applied over the damaged area after it is cleaned and prepped. Either way, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for the best results.
Avoiding RV Roof Damage
Of course, it’s better to avoid damage altogether if you can. While this isn’t always possible, there are some steps you can take to prevent damage to your RV roof.
Preventing Sun Damage
Using an RV cover or parking under cover can protect your roof from UV rays, thus helping to extend the lifespan of the roof. If you opt for a cover rather than covered storage, be sure to use a breathable cover to prevent moisture buildup underneath, which could lead to mold or mildew.
Preventing Damage from Branches
When parking or driving, be aware of overhanging branches that can scrape or puncture the roof. Use an RV cover when storing the vehicle to protect against falling debris. You can also install a roof guard or vent covers to shield vents and skylights from damage.
Preventing Snow Damage
If you’re in a snowy region, it’s important to remove snow and ice buildup from your roof, as excess weight can cause damage or leaks. Use a snow rake with a soft blade to carefully remove snow without scratching the roof. Avoid walking on a slippery, snow-covered roof.
Replacing Your RV Roof
No matter how well you take care of your RV roof, it will eventually need to be replaced.
The lifespan of an RV roof depends on the material and how well it’s maintained. Rubber roofs (EPDM or TPO) typically last around 10–15 years, while fiberglass and aluminum roofs can last longer, up to 20 years or more. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and resealing can help maximize the lifespan of your roof.
Signs that your roof may need replacement include:
- Persistent leaks despite repairs
- Large cracks or significant damage
- Bubbling or separation of roof material
- Extensive water damage to the interior ceiling
If you determine that your roof does indeed need to be replaced, it is possible to do this on your own, but you will need to be very handy and have lots of tools, patience, and friends to help out.
The video below will help you get a better understanding of the process.
If this doesn’t seem like something you can tackle (I know I certainly couldn’t), you’ll need to hire a professional to replace your RV roof for you.
As you can see, there is a lot to know about the care and keeping of your RV roof. Fortunately, once you get into a groove, taking care of your roof is actually a cinch—and by staying on top of maintenance, your roof should last for years to come!
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