How I Cleaned And Protected My RV Roof

Of all of the parts of an RV that needs regular maintenance, none is more important than your RV roof. It needs to be cleaned and then protected from the damaging UV rays of the sun. Otherwise, you will shorten its life and spend a lot of unnecessary money to replace it. Find out how I cleaned and protected my RV roof to make it last a long time!
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Note: The best way to prevent any possibility of paint damage on the sides of your RV when cleaning the RV roof is to tape plastic material that covers the RV sides completely. Our method of washing the side of the RV as the roof was rinsed worked well on our rig, but you may choose to tape off the RV sides instead for better overall paint protection.
Also, make sure that you use the appropriate cleaner for your RV roof. A simple call to your RV manufacturer can often tell you what kind of RV roof you have.
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🔹 This channel for entertainment purposes only. I am not an RV, travel or renovation expert. I share my opinions based on my experience and what works for me, but you should do your own research.

[@daralen4232]

Thank you for sharing Duane. Awesome tips and instruction.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Glad it was helpful Daralen. I appreciate your positive feedback!

[@cristianstriblea792]

Wonderful videos with good info for us … Thank you sir 🙏

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

I'm glad you're enjoying my channel's content. Thanks for leaving some positive feedback!

[@dougfloch2348]

I just cleaned my GD Reflection fifth wheel with Murphy’s soap today and liked it . Used a soft bristle hand brush. Washed off and looks good

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Thanks for sharing Doug. Safe and happy travels to you!

[@ronmcdaniel1583]

Thanks Duane another great video! I have read the comments and have my question all ready answered! I will say this is not going to be a job that I'm going to enjoy doing! 12'6" may give me a nosebleed LOL THANKS SAFE TRAVELS

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

HaHa! Thanks for watching and contributing like you always do Ron. It's much appreciated!

[@robertrenner7804]

Great video Duane! This may be my next project. Sorry Lisa and I missed you and Cheri at the park. We just got back today. Assume you left today before we got there.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Hi Bob. Yes, we left today but we'll be back again next week. See you then!

[@quartzboye]

I have used Simple Green but with sad results. Thanks for the tips!

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

You are so welcome. Safe and happy RV travels to you!

[@InChristalone737]

Ready for class

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

LOL ..... Make sure you're ready for the pop quiz too! :-)

[@matthiggins7223]

Thanks Duane! Your credibility was instantly verified for me once I saw the New Balance shoes. Any advice for using a pressure washer for the roof and exterior as a washing solution?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Oh no! Have I destroyed my credibility by wearing Nike's now? LOL I personally don't see the need for using a pressure washer on an RV if you own the RV and keep it up regularly with the pole system and products that I use on mine. Here is a video about my method for washing and waxing my motorhome - kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipmQnmWKaq19nqs But if you must use a pressure washer be very careful. Make sure that you don't use it at high settings and keep the nozzle a reasonable distance away from anything that could break or be torn. I hope that helps Matt. Thanks for watching!

[@matthiggins7223]

@@RVInspectionAndCare Great advice. I'll be using your links to pick up some of the wash/wax cleaner you mention in your videos. If it's good enough for Air Force One, it should be adequate for our coaches. ;-) Safe travels!

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

@@matthiggins7223 I'm sure that you will love Wash Wax All Matt. I often alternate between using it and the Optimum No Rinse product I mentioned in the video I referenced in my last comment. And I get glowing comments about the appearance of my Newmar motorhome all the time. Let me know what you think.

[@daviscrt]

Great video. Can I use the same item on my bounder tpo roof? Thanks Don

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Hi Don. Here is what the Dicor website says about the use of their cleaner - "Formulated specifically for RV EPDM rubber roofing, TPO, vinyl, fiberglass and exteriors." So it appears that it can be used on TPO roofs. Of course, you should always follow the guidance of your RV manufacturer too.

[@machfive916]

Just bought our new TT a month ago. As my unit will unfortunately be stored outside, I am thinking that the twice annual cleaning & protecting (APR & OCT) will be my best bet. Thanks for the great video.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

That's not a bad idea! It never hurts to clean and protect your RV roof more often than annually.

[@carlmichaelguzman5280]

Very informative, thanks! Is Formula 303 the same as the protectant you recommend or is it better to apply on top of A/C plastic covers & fans covers?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

I'm glad that you enjoyed the video and thanks for watching. 303 Aerospace Protectant is simply the best UV inhibitor product that I know of. It works great on anything that is rubber or plastic, the very compounds that get broken down by UV rays so easily. I apply it on anything on my RV that is made of rubber or plastic, including the A/C covers and fan vent covers that you mentioned. It really does make a difference!

[@Euskaltel0526]

Good video, especially addressing UV damage. My question is, what is the best technique to treat aTPO roof with solar panels? Very little clearance.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Solar panels create a challenge for roof care in many ways. Of course, the roof material underneath the panels does not get UV damage like the exposed part of the roof does. But the absolute best way of treating an RV roof is to remove the panels and treat the entire roof at once. Sometimes that's a difficult task though.

[@jerrytalley802]

QUESTION; I want to clean my roof, but am concerned getting up there with wet and cleaner, is it slippery/dangerous? I’m hoping this isn’t a silly question? I’m also guessing it needs to dry good first? If I missed your instructions on this, sorry. I’m also assuming since this is the same company that makes the sealer, it’s good products? I’m very handy and have common sense so just asking a few questions. Guessing the manufacturer supports cleaning, protection of these roofs? Part of me wishes they would use something like spray bed liner or liquid rubber instead of these fragile membrane roofs. The least little thing can cut or tear it, then leaks, rot, etc. Thanks for emphasizing the roof is so important, fair to say, the most of anything. Secondly, making sure sealed over windows/doors/etc. thanks

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Hi Jerry. Getting on an RV roof requires taking safety measures for sure. And cleaning it can get slippery. So be sure to wear shoes that grip the surface well. Of course, you can always hire someone to clean the roof for you too if it's a little overwhelming for you. And yes, all RV manufacturers recommend cleaning and inspecting your RV roof regularly. It's the only way to keep water intrusion at bay. Have safe and happy RV travels!

[@knutblaise9437]

Do you have any videos showing how to safely step onto and off of an RV roof?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Sorry, none so far.

[@granny65hummingbird21]

I go up ladder till at the top. Have someone hand up the bucket with all cleaners needed. Hand up brush or mop and all cloths or scrubbers. I put the hose through the next to top rung on ladder so it can't fall off roof. I loop it around the air conditioner I am working around. Make sure to move everything to back of roof as you go. Toss or drop down anything unbreakable to the lawn or hand stuff down to someone else. Back off camper on knees and make sure hands are dry and not slippery from any cleaners/wax used. Been doing it for 50 years and hope can continue for a lot more.

[@roydavis2242]

Know what material your roof is made of. It generally will be rubber, fiberglass, or aluminum. Make sure whatever product you use is safe to use on whatever type you have. I know someone who damaged his roof by using the wrong cleaner. I use a power washer every few months and inspect it monthly. The number 1 cause of water damage come from the roof.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Good point Roy. The Dicor website says that their products are ok for use on almost any kind of RV roof, but it's always a good thing to make sure beforehand.

[@granny65hummingbird21]

We have rubber roof and we're told NOT to use a power washer on roof or sides to clean. Do it all by hand with a brush.

[@knutblaise9437]

Some cleaners are not compatilbe with all RV roof types. How do you determine if a "rubber" roof is EPDM, TPO, or maybe some other type?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

That is true. The Dicor website says that their product can be used on " EPDM rubber roofing, TPO, vinyl, fiberglass and exteriors." But you should always make sure that you know what kind of roof you have on your RV. To do that, a quick call to the manufacturer often answers that question. Also, Mark Polk with RV101 made a nice video on this subject that you may find helpful. You can find it here - rv101.tv/2012/09/06/rv-101-how-to-determine-rv-rubber-roof-types/

[@granny65hummingbird21]

How did you keep from slipping and sliding all over the roof? I have tried ever kind of shoe and have to do it on my hands and knees. Tried knee pads once but was very rough on the knees. I do a section at a time like you did. After waxed it is even more slippery.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

I often get down on hands and knees when the roof is a little slippery. But if it seems unsafe the best practice is just wait until the roof is dry. However, if you have any kind of balance issues, it's best to be safe and let someone else take care of the roof problems and maintenance for you. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelvimazal5012]

Hi, The manufacturer of my Fleetwood recommends Murphy's floor cleaner to clean the TPO roof.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Whatever the manufacturer recommends is usually a very good choice to make Michael. Thanks for mentioning that idea.

[@knutblaise9437]

How do you handle roof maintenance for RVs without the attached RV ladder? My understanding is RVs without factory installed ladders are not rated for peopole walking on them.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Hi Knut. If the RV does not have a ladder you most likely shouldn't be walking on the roof. As always, be sure to check on what your RV manufacturer recommends on that subject. If you can't walk on the roof, many people use a ladder and extension poles to clean the RV roof from the sides. Again, always practice the best safety precautions though when using ladders or working off the ground.

[@stana2z]

Need to emphasize use of manufacturer recommended TYPE of sealant. Dicore is not always the answer.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Very true. Good point Stan!

[@dalefrye7728]

How important is it to get under solar panels? I see some people install their panels in such a way that removing the panels would be quite difficult.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Well, the good news is that the solar panel effectively provides a barrier to prevent UV rays from hitting the roof Dale. But the roof surface underneath the panels will still get dirty and grimy over time. It's best to remove each panel and clean under them. If you have the hardware that allows tilting each panel to get the most benefit of the sun's rays, it makes it easier to clean under each panel.

[@WLWHockey]

Did you touch up the caulking around the edges, a/c, fans, etc. before you put the protectant on?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

I didn't have to as the former owner had applied to Eternabond to those areas. But if you don't plan on using EB, you want to make sure that the sealant is good on all the roof equipment before applying the coating.

[@housesOTR]

​I called Henrys and they said not to use the Henrys 887 sealant on top of the Eternabond tape. I have the tape all around the edge and around all of the roof equipment. What did you do? Did you just coat up to the tape or over it as well? Thank you. ​@@RVInspectionAndCare

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

@@housesOTR I went ahead and applied the 887 product over the EB on my roof. And I know that many others have done so with no problem. But it's not something that I recommend for everyone. It's your choice. Maybe you could try it as a test in a small area and see what happens first before going further.

[@RickandDarcirvadventures]

Does dicore or camco type products hurt the paint on the sides of a painted motorhome?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

That's why I had my wife hosing down the sides of the RV as the gunk was rinsed off the roof. I had no problem with any paint damage on my rig because of that.

[@RickandDarcirvadventures]

@@RVInspectionAndCare I saw a video of another guy having to tape off the sides of his motorhome so he could clean off the roof and the chemicals would not get onto his sidewalls or front or back cap. My wife and I looked at each other and said what a hassle. But after watching your video I feel we can do it ourselves. How long did it take you?

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Yes, taping some plastic material over the RV sides is the best way to make sure that you don't have any possibility of paint issues. And everyone has to decide what level of comfort they have with the protection method they choose. We simply made sure to wash everything down the side as the roof was rinsed off and then wiped it dry. And all I can say is that it worked well for us on our RV.

[@lauravictorious4670]

What would be really helpful is a video where you show how you get up onto and down from various types of RV roofs. This is a safety issue and I can't find videos that show how to do it properly.

[@RVInspectionAndCare]

Thanks for the suggestion Laura.

[@granny65hummingbird21]

I have always crawled around the roof after wet. Can't find any shoes that were good for standing up and walking around. And careful not to clean roof on a windy day.

[@lauravictorious4670]

@granny65hummingbird21 I can stand on the roof but certain areas make sense to crawl. Need to do some work up there and I never feel 100% comfortable. Getting up and off are the worst but found a video that helped show a good way to do that.

[@Fisherguy01]

If you're uncomfortable using ladders to get up onto your RV roof you're better off hiring someone to clean it for you.

[@lauravictorious4670]

@Fisherguy01 I've found a way to deal with the situation and don't want to pay someone to do what I'm capable of doing. It's normal to be uncomfortable on a roof but there are safe ways to handle it.