Cleaning a Very Dirty RV Rubber Roof Membrane

[@carlosmendoza831]

The intro with the dog is the BEST!!!

[@brenthorner3141]

I just completed my roof last week. I purchased the trailer second hand and the former owner had not cared for the roof at all. I used the same cleaner in this video and a power washer. I spent 5 1l2 hours taking the old rubber off. It flaked just like in this video. It came off easily on the back end but it was miserable taking off the front half. Eventually got it dried, primed and coated. My advice? You don't see the roof but give it a look every year. Don't delay cleaning and coating fresh when you need to. This will save you the 5 1/2 hours I spent removing the old covering before I could put the new one on. Also, it makes a huge mess. Get ready to clean the trailer and the surrounding area. Move anything close to the RV away because it's going to get dirty. Be careful, the roof gets really slippery. I used a real sticky primer called Liquid Rubber EPDM and its an amazing adhesive. But once it's on you can't walk on it without losing a shoe or two. So, it's tough to manage putting it on and then the RV 4" sealing roof tape I put on after it. Maybe tape first, adhesive next? Then I rolled Liquid Rubber RV roof coating. Easy spread, used a gallon for the first coat and it covered over the primer adhesive really well. Used a ladder to roll it because as I said, I couldn't stand on adhesive coating (trailer is 29") so I could reach working off the sides. The RV tape (Telsitine Roof tape) I used worked very well - it's a little expensive but it's a great product. I used it on long seam lines and around some gear. It was a 50' roll and I used it all. So, it was an interesting 3 days getting all this done. Good luck with your RV and stay ahead of the work, you won't regret it. Btw, final thought. Whoever does the roof work like this n the repair shops deserves a medal and a raise. Whatever you paid them to do the work for you, it was worth it, believe me.

[@philw7174]

Good to see that Dicor works so well. Thanks James for the video. Happy trails!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@runroosterrun8296]

Thanks for another great video. I've been devouring your videos. They are really good. I just started doing some RV Wash and basic repairs etc. As someone who has always been handy it's been a great side hustle that is quickly gaining momentum. Your videos let me know I am doing things the right way. I was just in Apache Junction for a wedding. Wish I would have discovered your channel before I left. Very surprised that you do not have a ton more sub's . Please keep the content coming!

[@AZExpert]

Thank you. I'm doing my best to grow the channel. I'm told the best way is just to keep making videos and I'm happy to know you're enjoying them.

[@13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.51]

I just cleanned my roof the same way , the sides took longer to get the crap off than cleanning the roof ,,, great vid ,, happy new year

[@AZExpert]

I'm glad you had success, it's a cold time of year to be doing this. Happy New Year!

[@2-old-Forthischet]

My trailer is about 7 years old now and I bought it brand new. I really don't care what the roof looks like as no one really sees it anyway. I do maintain the seals. What I have done since new, was sweep and apply vinyl flooring wax once or twice a year. So far so good. I had heard via another video while using a pressure washer on the RV roof, the pressure should be less than 1200psi so pretty much no pressure washing on the roof.

[@AZExpert]

It is dangerous to use a pressure washer on a membrane roof, so I did take care. Thanks!

[@lkl5227]

Never done it before, thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for Watching!

[@guttermastersplus5613]

Love your videos actually explain things in layman's terms and everything you do turns out great I've learned a lot from you

[@AZExpert]

Awesome, thank you!

[@markstench4470]

I have a 2020 Winnebago micro Minnie and I'm in Florida, we have had a whole lot of rain , I clean my roof every 3 months per the book, and now I have black spots after I cleaned it this time around , looks like mold. Should I use that Dicor roof cleaner to get the black spots off. I figured if anyone would know it would be you and not steer me wrong , so WWJD( what would James do?) . Thanks for the awesome channel. So far I've used Best RV rubber roof cleaner and Camco RV rubber roof cleaner to no avail.

[@AstrologerJoe]

Another good video! I have rubber roof and its peeling in a few spots....I was going to clean and reseal with Henry's tropi-cool roof coat. Has great reviews. Any suggestions on prepping the roof? Cleaner or sealant so it sticks better.

[@AZExpert]

As with every product, I'd recommend following the instructions on the can. Of course clean the roof completely. Of course, I can't recommend any product not intended for RV rubber roofs. I'd be interested to hear how it goes. Thanks!

[@AstrologerJoe]

@@AZExpert you got it ...thx

[@claramunk7410]

It’s been 4 years since this video ~ have you used other products for roofs that may last longer

[@hector5404-b9o]

Not trying to sound snarky here but I don’t understand why it make sense to take so much roof material off just to make the roof look white as new. I keep my 9- year old “rubber” roof clean but I don’t worry about making it look like it just rolled off the line. I wash it with Dawn and a soft brush twice a year which keeps the roof looking good and avoids dirty runoff on the sides of my trailer. Is there any longevity advantage to doing a super clean instead? Thanks for the videos.

[@AZExpert]

The roof hadn't been maintained so the flakes were oxidized roof that were already "used" We wouldn't want to seal to loose or flaking sufaces, the power washer was just easier than brushing.

[@hector5404-b9o]

@@AZExpert Got it. Thanks!

[@JoshParkerWI]

Great info and video. Would this work on a mobile home with a rubber roof as well?

[@gladd651]

Care to divulge what you used to treat the roof with after you cleaned it?

[@rustusandroid]

I have an RV parked under a huge tree and it left brown leaf stains running down the side after it rained a couple times... Anything you can think of that would remove that? Pressure washing doesn't even dent it.

[@joeinopksw]

That was helpful; I now know to avoid doing this in my driveway, and that; the end game is not just a clean roof, but keeping the motorhome and surrounds clean as-well. Oh boy!!!

[@AZExpert]

Glad it was helpful!

[@manyfeather2knives423]

Used this several times and it’s not all it’s made out to be. Had to do the roof several times and in some spots scrub on my hands and knees.

[@lemons4lana]

Nice work! 👍

[@mauricerichard3611]

Thanks for sharing how to do and what products !!

[@AZExpert]

You are so welcome!

[@waynepurser1552]

How do I get the mirror down from the ceiling in my 2023 Royal in my Provost bus

[@michaelpharris7635]

What kind of UV protectant do you put on?

[@larryreno8293]

Nice job. The roof looks great

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@scottb5494]

Great video. I'm cleaning my roof for the first time this weekend on my 3 year old trailer. It has a rubber roof. Question...I've heard different things on coating with a rubber sealant. I've been told not to, and also told I should. Since it's only 3 years old with no leaking, should I avoid coating? It also has a 12 year warranty for the roof, so I don't want to void the warranty.

[@AZExpert]

A coating is only to add a few years to a bad roof and not part of any maintenance schedule. Just use soap and water to clean it and look for peeling sealant and any damage

[@scottb5494]

@@AZExpert ..Thanks for the info.

[@snicklefritzthetab8411]

I would never use a pressure washer on a rubber roof. All those white flakes....what do you suppose they are?

[@AZExpert]

the zinc oxide layer to protect the rubber, it self sacrifices to protect the rubber

[@hayyarbrough]

I need to figure out what kind of roof is on top of my lifestyle 2015 fifth wheel... but that looks awesome good job

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 👍

[@marilyngatson2289]

I was wondering what pressure you use on the pressure washer. I heard it can damage your rv roof. Your roof looks so much better clean.

[@jerrybowers3174]

Use the Black Soap nozzle, or the White Nozzel, and don't get too close to the surface. Stay 6 inches away if you can.

[@izziel.5518]

If you simply rinse the trailer as soon as you're done with the roof will you still have that mess left to clean up? thanks

[@AZExpert]

This was a bad case for sure, but I did rinse the rest of the trailer off unfortunately, I had to clean it anyway. Thanks!

[@surferjoehangten]

Recommend spray down a 50/50 solution of Simple Green & Bleach wait a few minutes and then pressure wash off using a 40° fan spray at least 8-10" (depending upon PSI) away from the EPDM roof then let dry 24 hours. The next day, reseal top edges of all the edge trim pieces with non-leveling DICOR sealant, reseal all cracks with DICOR Self-Leveling lap sealant and/or use eternabond (only where it's really needed) then coat the entire roof with HENRY's Tropicoll 100% Silicone roof coating. It's really that simple!

[@sab5017]

Hey I just looked up your videos. I have been doing rvs almost a year now and absolutely love it. I use only brush and arm grease lol but my question is is it ok to use pressure washer? I have always been told no. So what’s your input

[@AZExpert]

it can tear a roof if youre not careful but I have used one.

[@bradoliver3916]

I really like your videos and think you are a great expert, is this your favorite roof cleaner product?

[@AZExpert]

Thank you so much. My absolute favorite cleaner is dawn soap or Fabuloso, but for really dirty rubber or TPO roofs this is a great cleaner.

[@bradoliver3916]

@@AZExpert Mine has dark streaks on the sides going to the gutter. I will try this, I need something strong they want come off.

[@L2theWcarscoffeelife]

wish I saw this before buying the camco cleaner it didnt do anything for a 1 year old roof that spends its off time in a garage I am sold on the Dicor wow

[@AZExpert]

Good Choice

[@joyce7892]

How do you know if your roof is rubber or not??? Instead of a pressure washer, which I do not have, a hose with a power nozzle...will that do the same thing? thanks

[@AZExpert]

the easiest method is to remove a vent trim from the ceiling and look for black on the bottom of the membrane of the roof

[@joelc7476]

Really nice cleaning job. I bet it looked spectacular after sealing. I'm sure your customer was very pleased. Did you use dicor sealant or some other brand? I watched another youtuber who used a sealer product from Henry, I think he said it was silicon based. It looked fantastic when he finished. I wonder if you're familiar with that Henry sealant, and if you are, what is your opinion of it?

[@AZExpert]

Thank you very much. The clean was Dicor rubber roof cleaner. I just used the standard acrylic Dicor lap sealant to seal. The UV protectant was just a mop on clear product. In general, I do not like the roll on roof coatings of any type as they provide a unearned sense of security to the owner and when all is said and done, either the membrane is failed and should be replaced or it hasn't and should be cleaned and monitored. Thanks!

[@PrimativePuertoRican]

Thank you, great video!

[@AZExpert]

You're welcome.

[@patrickpeterman4890]

Thank,s for a very useful video; what u.v. protector did you use after cleaning?? PATRICK.P

[@AZExpert]

www.campingworld.com/protect-all-rubber-roof-treatment-gallon-13745.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwzIH7BRAbEiwAoDxxTjFxwhNghwEdU44W9_tfkesrv3Lw9KmbYnhgEy_F7Y0HgI9mTOdgERoCX1MQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[@robertrenner7804]

Thanks for a great video. I know this video is a couple years old at this point , but wondered what your thoughts are on the Dicor cleaner and the potential to damage paint. Most instructions I've seen say to tape off and plastic mask the sides of the coach to prevent damage to paint. Big pain...hence the reason I haven't used it.

[@donaldfafard]

I was thinking the same thing but then I figured I'd have an assistant spray the sides of the coach down while I was doing the roof. My second idea is just to use the pressure washer alone.

[@annagraham6204]

It could be the company is being overly cautious. Purple Power for example says it’s great for entire exterior of vehicle. Then it states not to use on certain parts of exterior ie wheels. Maybe if rims were painted, product undiluted and long dwell times it’s a problem.

[@Breezywindow]

Quick question, is it safe to stand on the roof for a while? Will it damage it putting your full weight on it? I’m looking into doing this in the next couple of weeks

[@AZExpert]

generally the roof will tell you if it's safe. Some roofs are very thin and youhave to find the rafters, otherwise most roofs are safe to stand on

[@Littlervrentals]

Have you ever seen a rubber roof membrane so bad it leaked with no visual cuts? or are leaks always caused by seams around vents and such? Also What's a good indication that a rubber roof is beyond repair? Thanks :)

[@AZExpert]

A standard EMPD RV roof has a whit elayer over the rubber black layer. Once you see the black layer, it's time to replace for sure. Other roofs TPO and PVC do not have a black layer and just disintegrate. It should not be possible, and I have not seen any membrane type leak without a cut. It's almost always the front and rear cap seams that like and skylights cracks.

[@JoisyGal69]

Sir, where are you located? I will like to schedule an appointment so you can came out to check my trailer

[@AZExpert]

@@JoisyGal69 The shop is in Apache Junction AZ off of Ironwood and Guadalupe. What is going on with your trailer?

[@clarencewiles963]

One good job can be seen 😎

[@richardbauernfeind672]

becareful using a pressure washer. can do more damage if not used correct

[@AZExpert]

absolutley you are correct!

[@dianewilson2582]

What did you use to clean the body of the trailer?

[@AZExpert]

Just a standard liquid car wash and wax. Thanks!

[@angelrivera5477]

That caulking is horrible you need to get that done fast

[@sevanson1]

I think your patterning for pressure washing needs a little attention! Most folks would remove all covers first. Then, start at one end and evenly and completely work to the far end with the spray wand....

[@AZExpert]

I'm not sure what other covers you would have removed. The sprayer has limited length of hose and I felt the pattern I chose was the safest and quickest. Thanks!

[@sevanson1]

@@AZExpert You did put forth a lot more than most of us other's in that you're trying to assist us. Thank you for that! My comment is directed at 00:42 and subsequent where you are spraying and spraying and it isn't until 7:00 that you speak of getting the covers and antenna clear of your way for your continued labors! :-) Your spraying pattern from the start is simply misting the exposed surfaces with water. I think you refer that as "rinsing". Why not "rinse" the entire surface, covers removed?

[@Tonyyyzx11]

Great job….

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Tony!

[@BenjaminHansen]

Does this work for both EPDM and TPO roofs? I take your "Rubber" as a generic term. I just purchased a new pressure washer, that is why I am asking. I think I have a EPDM on my '08 Keystone Lerado 5th wheel. Love your vids btw. I started following you last year.

[@mmmhhh.]

use a protective formula for the roof

[@AZExpert]

yes, UV protector is a great idea too

[@saharts]

They should develop a factory roofing system that is designed to last 20 years.

[@AZExpert]

I can understand the desire, but RV's only average 10-15 years of life or use. RV manufactures find that the "geewhiz" finishes and floorplans sell RVs and buyers will not pay for substantially better quality- all things being equal. Thanks!

[@tmaq9726]

Well enclosed cargo trailers seem to be far superior on build than rvs all around..

[@arodiacero8383]

excelent video!! really helpful! how can I contact you if once a need some advise?

[@AZExpert]

[e-mail]

[@garycumings5733]

Appreciate your videos. I have a 2016 A.F. with Hehr double pane windows, should I caulk windows? the butle that squeezed out started flaking off,I have been cleaning around windows looks sloppy. Never has been caulked. No leeks bought new.

[@jimplilweed6488]

In your video, you say that it is dangerous to use a pressure washer on an EPDM roof. However in Dicor's video at kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4C0c36CbL-SmrM they say to use a minimum 2000 p.s.i. pressure washer held within 12" from roof surface. What was the p.s.i. of the sprayer you used in your video? Would a portable 1,200 p.s.i washer do the job?

[@loujohnson6143]

Shouldn't use a pressure washer.

[@AZExpert]

It is very risky

[@icast.2388]

Please please please please please don't use pressure washer on RV..

[@AZExpert]

Why?