How do you clean a pop-up camper roof?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the following question: How do you clean a pop-up camper roof? We will explain how you can clean a pop-up camper roof without the risk of damaging it. We will also discuss what are the best products to clean and maintain your pop-up camper roof.
How do you clean a pop-up camper roof?
To understand how to clean a pop-up camper roof, you have to know how to recognize the types of stains on the camper roof. The pop-up camper exterior is subjected to climatic conditions, to the sun, to rain, to temperature variations, to pollution… It is especially subjected to leaks throughout its life. Your pop-up camper roof can also stain over time.
It is not uncommon to notice the following on your pop-up camper roof:
- Black moisture stains;
- Mould;
- Clusters of organic matter: leaves, pollen, etc;
- Pine resin;
- Rust spots.
There is a cleaning solution for most problems that may arise.
What products should I use to clean a pop-up camper roof?
To clean a pop-up camper roof, it is essential to use the right products. There are several “miracle” products for cleaning the roof:
- Black soap: Mix black soap in a bucket with water. It is an efficient solution for any type of task, economical and ecological.
- White vinegar and washing up liquid: Combine the washing up liquid, vinegar and clear water in a bucket. For the proportions count, 10% dishwashing liquid, 10% white vinegar and 80% water. For persistent stains, increase the quantities of products.
- Bleach: Bleach is a very effective product but it is a bit aggressive for the canvas fabric. Leave on the stain for a few minutes then rinse with water. Do not use it too often and only on very difficult to remove stains. Bleach works great on mildew stains.
How to clean a pop-up camper roof step-by-step
To clean a pop-up camper roof, you have to carefully proceed step by step. The outer canvas and the inner canvas of the pop-up camper must also be cleaned!
- Unfold the pop-up camper;
- Set it as low as possible for easier cleaning;
- Wet the roof with a jet of water;
- Apply the product of your choice following the directions;
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water;
- Let the pop-up camper dry completely!
Note: To keep your pop-up camper roof in good condition for as long as possible, you need to have a few simple actions on a daily basis and during winter storage. The proper maintenance of a pop-up camper is essential to make it last over time.
Here are the few things to do to keep a pop-up camper roof in good condition:
- Avoid parking under pine trees in summer;
- Don’t let leaves and pollen accumulate on the camper roof;
- Never close the camper with leaves or pollen inside;
- Fold up the camper in case of heavy rain;
- Never store the camper with a wet canvas;
- Apply once a year when cleaning the WD40 to the roof mechanism;
- Apply a waterproofing product to the roof and pop-up camper canvas to protect it from water and humidity.
5 pop-up camper cleaning products to have on hand
The rigorous maintenance of your trailer will help you have a good time on vacation without breaking your head. You just need to have the right products on hand to service your trailer. Here are 5 products that you absolutely must have at home to carry out the maintenance of your pop-up camper or trailer.
- A product for the maintenance of the pop-up camper awning. The awning of your trailer deserves regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. To do this, it is recommended to use a mild soap that will clean the dirt on the awning canvas without damaging the colour of the awning. By choosing a specialized product for the maintenance of a trailer awning, you will help extend its life.
If the awning canvas is broken or too worn, be aware that it is possible to replace it with a custom awning canvas or a universal canvas.
- A maintenance product for the pop-up camper roof. It’s no longer a secret: maintaining a trailer roof with the appropriate products is a must. The roof requires special care. Note that silicone does not adhere to the roof membrane.
Dicor brand sealant is certainly one of the best-selling products for trailer roof maintenance. It is mainly used at the start of the season, during de-winterization, and at the end of the season for winterizing trailers. It is also recommended to apply it throughout the summer, as needed, to help waterproof the roof of your trailer. An essential maintenance product for all trailer owners!
- A maintenance product for the pop-up camper joints. In addition to the roof, the waterproofing joints of your trailer must be treated at least twice a year: at the beginning and at the end of the season. A small gesture that could save you from possible water infiltration and many problems during the summer!
Remember to bring a plastic scraper, a cleaner-degreaser and a sealer to maintain the joints of your trailer. There are several sealants and maintenance products for trailer joints.
- A maintenance product for pop-up camper toilets. The toilet of your trailer and the toilet of your residence each require special maintenance. To avoid inconvenience while camping, it is recommended to use cleaning products specifically designed for trailer toilets.
These products promote better decomposition of solid waste and paper, allowing easier emptying. Gentle and effective, trailer toilet cleaners also help protect the environment. A significant challenge for camping and outdoor enthusiasts!
- A maintenance product for the exterior of the pop-up camper. Maintaining the exterior of your unit depends first of all on the exterior siding of your trailer. Is your trailer made of aluminum or fibreglass?
Painting on fibreglass trailers is similar to painting an automobile. It does not flake and requires less shoe polish. Painting on aluminum trailers may require more rigorous maintenance. But in both cases, it is strongly recommended to favour the use of specialized products for the exterior maintenance of trailers to keep your unit in good condition over the years.
There are of course other maintenance products to ensure the longevity of your trailer. Come see us in store for personalized advice based on your trailer. Best of all, don’t forget to download our free guide to help you keep your trailer in top condition. Enough to make your investment profitable for years!
Final thoughts
Besides cleaning your pop-up camper, it is also important to regularly inspect it for tears, holes, and fix the damage as soon as possible. Also, remember to clean the rubber seals with a sponge soaked in water, without bleach or vinegar.
Please feel free to ask any questions you may have on the content!
FAQ on How do you clean a pop-up camper roof?
Can you pressure wash a pop-up camper?
It is not recommended to pressure wash a pop-up camper, as it can damage the canvas, as well as the fibreglass. Likewise, pressure washing can damage the gaskets and caulking around your pop-up camper vinyl windows. If you pressure wash your RV, you might accidentally force water in it or even remove the decals.
Can you pressure wash a pop-up camper?
It is not recommended to pressure wash a pop-up camper, as it can damage the canvas, as well as the fibreglass. Likewise, pressure washing can damage the gaskets and caulking around your pop-up camper vinyl windows. If you pressure wash your RV, you might accidentally force water in it or even remove the decals.
How do you get mould off a pop-up camper vinyl?
To get mould off a pop-up camper vinyl, you can use one part vinegar mixed with two parts water. After cleaning the vinyl, make sure you dry it well. Also, check your camper canvas for holes, tears and water leaks.
How to remove the musty smell in a camper?
To remove the musty smell in a camper, use a saucer filled with lemon juice and baking soda. Regularly refresh the air in your camper and clean it as often as possible.
What to do if my pop up camper smells bad?
If your pop up camper smells really bad, the best thing you can do is clean it. Ideal for cleaning and eliminating odours on board motorhomes and caravans, vinegar disinfects and removes limescale and is therefore ideal for cleaning sanitary facilities, the kitchen unit, but also the refrigerator.
Other FAQs about Pop up campers that you may be interested in.
Do I need a weight-distribution hitch for a pop-up camper?
How do you fix a sagging roof on a pop-up camper?
References
- How to Clean & Care for Your Pop Up Camper Exterior
- How to clean the outside of a pop-up camper ( tent trailer ) – YouTube
- How to Deep CLEAN Your Pop Up Camper Canvas & Vinyl (Inside …
