Coat RV Roofs
Many modern RVs use a thin, rubberized fabric roof stretched tightly over the top of the unit. The rubber on these roofs is prone to UV damage and deterioration. As RV owners know, removing and replacing rubber roofs is expensive and time consuming. If the roofing material is protected with Elastek reflective coatings, its life expectancy can be extended considerably.
Older, worn rubber roofs can be strengthened and renewed using a polyester roofing fabric and coatings in a procedure similar to refurbishing a conventional roof. (See Refurbish RV Roofs.)
Many RVs have a front roof cap made of molded plastic that should last a long time. Protective coatings should extend from the molding at the back edge of the roof cap to the molding surrounding the rubber roof at the back and along the sides. Special care must be taken to properly caulk all roof penetrations to ensure water resistance. The factory applied caulk seems to dry out over time and needs a coat of Elastek #103 Crack & Joint Sealant.
Technique
Use conventional roof coating techniques:
- Carefully wash the roof surface with TSP or TSP Substitute and water, using a stiff broom. Re-wash with a concentrated mix of TSP (or TSP Substitute) as necessary to remove all oxidized rubber. Rinse thoroughly.
Crack & Joint
- Caulk all roof penetrations with Elastek Crack & Joint Sealant. Apply at 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch thickness with a stiff paintbrush. Add reinforcing fabric if open cracks or moving seams are present.
- Apply one coat of Elastek High-Tek Basecoat™ and one or two coats of the Elastek topcoat of your choice. It is desirable to mask the perimeter moldings and roof penetrations first to ensure a neat cosmetic job. Use a 3/4-inch nap roller cover for applying basecoat and a 1-1/4-inch nap cover for topcoat. Apply at recommended coverage rates. You will need to use a brush to apply coatings along the edges of moldings and roof penetrations.
NOTE: Roof designs, flashings and moldings may vary.
Measure the length and width of your roof to determine its size in square feet. A dealer can take the information you supply from your inspection and recommend the materials you need. Dry, sunny weather over 60° is ideal for coating your RV roof. Avoid periods of cold nights when dew and frost can be a problem. Always allow coatings to cure before applying the next coat. (See Cool Weather Application.)
In extremely hot weather or on dark surfaces, start as early in the day as possible and get off the roof before temperatures become too high, causing coatings to dry too quickly.
Tools/Supplies Required
Heavy-duty roller frame, extension pole, 3/4-inch and 1.25-inch nap roller covers, sharp scissors, 3-inch or 4-inch utility paintbrush, masking tape, hose, bucket, broom, ladder, and polyester reinforcing fabric as needed.
