Can I use Flex Seal on my RV roof? (a guide)

By Elaine Knight
Page last updated: 21/10/2021 | Next review date: 21/10/2023
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Elaine Knight
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In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Can I use Flex Seal on my RV roof? We will explain how to use Flex Seal for your RV roof, why it is important to seal the RV roof and how to waterproof it. 

Can I use Flex Seal on my RV roof?

Yes, you can safely use Flex Seal on your RV roof. Flex Seal Sealer, allows to stop liquid or gas leaks in roofs, drains, skylights, ventilation systems, ducts, trailers, among others. It can be used on wet or dry surfaces. It is made with black liquid rubber that helps cover fissures, cracks and holes from any angle.

Flex Seal will adhere to almost any surface including wood, metal, aluminium, plastic, fibreglass, rubber, or vinyl or just about any dry surface ( or even wet). It works best on dry surfaces, but if you are dealing with a leak in rainy weather, you can still stop the leak.

The best roof coating can be applied to a roofing system using many different techniques including spraying or laminating. Silicone coatings are available in many colours, including reflective and translucent white.

Some of the best RV roof sealers are:

How do you apply the Flex Seal on your RV roof? 

Flex Seal is designed for metal, copper, concrete, wood, SBS, APP, EPDM, TPO, PVC, as well as multilayer substrates and asphalt shingles. It is particularly suitable for applications requiring an elastomeric caulk, such as installing stop bars, or infiltration points around hose clamps. 

FlexSeal can be used in cold weather installations, provided the material is stored properly and the substrate is dry prior to application. It is quite easy to use the Flex Seal for your RV roof, and here’s how to do it step-by-step:

  1. Inspect the roof for cracks and gaps that could cause leaks.
  2. Look over the roof and remove all debris and reattach any screws protruding from the roof.
  3. Wash the roof thoroughly with a garden hose.
  4. Cover all seams and edges of the flashing with patch cement using a stiff bristle paint brush.

Why use Flex Seal on your RV roof?

Here are just a few of the benefits of Flex Seal:

  • Extremely flexible and durable
  • Ideal for stop bars, guardrails, stepped flashings or metal edging
  • Durable and UV resistant; will not crack, crack, chip
  • Maximum seal clearance capacity of ± 25%
  • Adheres to many types of substrates, including metal, copper, concrete, wood, SBS, APP, EPDM, TPO, PVC, as well as multilayer substrates and asphalt shingles.
  • Can be painted.

How often should the RV roof be resealed?

Ideally, an RV roof should be resealed every year and entirely replaced after 10 years of use. Not taking proper care of your RV roof will lead to water leaks, high damp levels and even mould inside the motorhome. 

The sealant that RV manufacturers use to keep RV skylights and roof vents from leaking can gradually dissolve over time. Sunlight, alternating hot and cold temperatures, and even heavy rain can take a toll. 

If you notice even a small amount of water coming through the skylight of your RV, it is most likely time to replace the sealing caulk. Before jumping into action, however, make sure that the water you are realizing is nothing more than condensation that forms on the cold surface inside the skylight.

A roof sealer is essential to prevent leaks, leaks and moisture; as well as the accumulation of fungi and bacteria. It is very important to apply it, especially in areas where humidity is frequent, where rainy seasons are very long or where weather conditions are very adverse. 

What do you seal an RV roof flashing with?

Renewing turn signal seals by shredding old mortar and caulking along edges of the turn signal. Use a special masonry caulk to seal the joints between the flashing lights and the chimney. Seal the seam between the bonnet and the flashing step with a urethane roofing compound of cement-based or silicone caulk, as shown at right.

How to waterproof my RV roof?

Here are some easy ways to waterproof your roof and make sure your motorhome is safe and sound.

  • Remove all dead leaves and branches.
  • Prune trees near the roof.
  • Replace missing, wavy, or damaged shingles.
  • Add insulation to your attic.
  • Cover the seams with duct tape.
  • Add a water repellent layer.
  • Add heat tape to gutters and more.

Is silicone roof coating worth it?

Silicones are hardened by moisture and humidity can even help them harden. In some applications, the use of silicone can eliminate the need for a primer. 

Pluses: Silicones hold up better than other coatings with almost no erosion and they don’t get hard or brittle. Silicone is also good in standing water situations.

Conclusions

The sealant that RV manufacturers use to keep RV skylights and roof vents from leaking can gradually dissolve over time. Sunlight, alternating hot and cold temperatures, and even heavy rain can take a toll. 

Flex Seal will adhere to almost any surface including wood, metal, aluminium, plastic, fibreglass, rubber, or vinyl or just about any dry surface ( or even wet). It works best on dry surfaces, but if you are dealing with a leak in rainy weather, you can still stop the leak. Make sure you inspect, clean and reseal your RV roof at least once a year, to avoid serious damage and expensive repairs!

If you have any questions or comments about this content, please let us know.

FAQ on Can I use Flex Seal on my RV roof?

How to seal the roof of an RV?

To seal the roof of an RV, follow these instructions: With the double-sided tape in place, the original roof edges are repositioned as stretched as possible, pressure must be applied to activate the Eternal Bond tape. Finally, the resulting crack is covered with one-sided tape, and pressure is reapplied with a roller.

How to fix a roof leak?

A good alternative to repair leaks from inside the house is to apply one of the so-called roof patches with a spatula. Once the leak is located, it is only a matter of plugging the opening well with the patch and then sealing it with putty. 

How often should the RV roof be resealed?

Ideally, an RV roof should be resealed every year and entirely replaced after 10 years of use. Not taking proper care of your RV roof will lead to water leaks, high damp levels and even mould inside the motorhome. 

Should I seal my RV sunroof?

Yes, you should seal your RV sunroof as well. The sunroof on your RV can be prone to a great deal of leakage, especially if it is not properly maintained. These leaks can damage the interior of your car and cost you more money to repair. To prevent this from happening, you can seal your car’s sunroof in a few simple steps. 

References

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