In this short guide, we will answer the following question: Can you use silicone on RV? We will tell you what to use and how to re-seal an RV and discuss the best sealant for RVs.

Can you use silicone on RV?

It is not advisable to use silicone on RV. You would only make your work harder and create an ideal situation to accumulate dirt and grime as you travel.

Before you start sealing your RV roof, make sure you have the right products for the job. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to properly caulking your vehicle. Be sure to seek expert advice on the right product for your RV and the places you visit.

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:

Sealing the roof of your RV

RV roofs are often prone to leaks as they are exposed to the elements over long periods of time, including UV rays, animal droppings and tree sap. This decaying material will build upon your roof and eventually eat away at the membrane.

Not only will cleaning your roof regularly prevent damage from sap and animal droppings, but it will also help you spot wear damage.

Once the roof has been cleaned, we recommend that you look for a product like Lap Sealant for rubberized membranes. It comes in many different colours and it equalizes on its own. It will be installed in all corners of the roof to offer good protection against water infiltration.

Also, inspect and touch up the caulking around the vents on the roof.

Sealing the sidewalls of your RV

Be sure to inspect every joint between the walls, floor and roofs. Putty should be used under the moulding while the edges are then caulked. This should also be the case for any area where a hole has been drilled in the RV, such as storage compartments, air vents, windows and doors.

The putty will eventually dry out as well. So, to plan your tasks properly, we recommend that you remove the moulding to redo the putty first. If the casting peels off to reveal rusty screws, this may be a sign of water infiltration.

Tips for applying an RV sealant

On newer RVs, it is not necessary to remove the old sealant before applying a new one, unless it comes off. You can simply touch up the affected areas just above the old product.

Get a caulking gun and then apply it sparingly. A thin line is usually sufficient for the purpose. Do not hesitate to ask for help!

If you don’t feel comfortable re-caulking your RV on your own or if you want to save time, call the professionals! Make an appointment with your RV dealer for an annual inspection. Above all, don’t let water damage ruin your next camping trip!

We know that all sealants have a lifetime. Over time, they will dry out from enduring exposure to UV rays, the stirring induced by the travel will cause cracks which will eventually mean that the water will eventually seep in.

So what are the two most important factors in preventing water damage from caulk failure? Vigilance and cleanliness.

The best way to prevent water infiltration could not be simpler: inspect your RV regularly and keep it clean as a new penny! By keeping the exterior of your RV clean, you will be able to easily spot problems quickly, since the build-up of dirt on your vehicle will mask the deterioration of the sealant.

Inspect it rigorously twice a year: For example, if you store your RV in the winter, get into the habit of inspecting and cleaning it before and after storage.

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.

Conclusions: 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.

On the plus side, silicone holds 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.

Overall, silicone is extremely hard to remove and accumulate dirt and grime along the road. Our advice: Don’t do it. There are many other great sealers (mentioned in this articles) that will make your job easier and quicker.

What type of sealer do you use for your RV roof and sidewalls? Please feel free to contact us should you have any comments, questions or tips on the content.

FAQ on Can you use silicone on RV?

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.

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 RV 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.

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.

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Can you use silicone on RV? (RV maintenance tips)