RV Roof Repair

A leaky roof is possibly the most persistent problem for many RVs. Whether it's caused by falling branches, freezing water, or some other source, it seems that water always finds its way into RVs. Unfortunately, water and RVs were not meant to live together, and even a small leak can lead to disastrous consequences in your RV. If you have a leak, it's best to fix it immediately. This short guide will teach you about the importance of fixing a leaky roof and will even show you a few tips and tricks for fixing leaks and holes in your roof. If the problem is severe, make sure to bring your RV by The Outpost RV in Middlebury, Indiana. Our highly trained technicians fix roofs on RVs of just about any make or model.

The Importance of Repairing Your Roof Early

It's all too common to feel the drip of a leaky roof in your RV. There are many causes for a leaky roof. Water can get through even the smallest gaps, and if it happens to freeze after this, the water will expand and make the problem even worse. Holes and leaks can happen when heat from the sun causes the roof material to warp or soften. Even small animals, debris, or damage from falling branches can cause leaks. Regardless of how the leak happens, once water enters your trailer, the problems will really start. Even small amounts of water can provide the perfect habitat for mold and mildew to flourish. If your RV isn't well-ventilated, the mildew will quickly spread and take over. This is why many older campers have a characteristic musty smell. If your RV features wood construction, the structure of the walls, roof, and floor could start to rot. Before you know it, you could have a problem that requires you to replace the furniture, decorations, and even structure of your RV. It's best to nip the problem in the bud.

Patches and Quick Fixes

For small leaks and holes, you might be able to repair the problem yourself. This won't have the guaranteed quality and workmanship of a professional job, but it can be very inexpensive. You'll need to start by finding a well-rated roof repair product. There are many different products on the market, from silicone sealants to tar products, and which product you choose will depend on the roof material of your trailer. In general, the application processes are pretty similar.

You'll need to start by preparing the area. Wash the entire roof of your RV to remove any debris, tree sap, dust, and other contaminants. A soft-bristled brush with a telescoping handle works well for this task. Mix up a bucket of water with a mild detergent (like dishwashing liquid) and apply with the brush. Make sure to scrub until you have all debris removed. Rinse with fresh water and then squeegee and towel dry. Once the area is clean and dry, locate the problem area. If it's a half-inch wide or less, or crack that's shorter than a foot long, you should be able to fix the spot yourself. Apply lots of sealant product, and scrape it thin to an inch away from the crack or hole using a putty knife. Adding this protective barrier will help prevent any future leaks. After the fix has been applied, make sure it can dry completely. Make sure to perform this fix on a day when there's no risk of rain!

Professional Roof Repair

At the end of the day, roof repair is often best left to the professionals. They'll be familiar with the construction of your RV and will have the necessary products to patch the hole. On top of that, they'll be able to diagnose the extent of any damage caused by the leak before you caught. Plus, you'll be able to have the peace of mind knowing the job was done right.

Bring your leaky RV by The Outpost RV and talk to our team of experienced RV technicians. We can diagnose the problem and find the best, most affordable fix. Whether your RV is brand new or decades old, we know how to work on all types of RV, travel trailer, and motorhome. If you live in Middlebury, Goshen, Elkhart, South Bend, or Fort Wayne, Indiana, we'd be proud to work on your trailer!