Keeping your RV in tiptop shape is just as important as buying the right RV for you. One of the things that an RV owner should maintain is its roofing. As such, rubber roofs are often preferred over those made in aluminum and fiberglass because they are lightweight and cheap. Whatever you decide, you’ll want to make sure you get the best RV roof coating.
You must realize, however, that the initial layer on RV roofs will wear off over time, which is normal. And regardless of your roofing material, giving it a liquid coating is a must.
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The 7 Best RV Roof Coatings: Weatherproof Your RV For Less
- What other consumers liked about Heng’s Rubber Roof Coating
- Excellent quality – Some attest to the roof coating’s longevity even for RVs that are used in warm climates. The product holds up even after a year from its application.
- Economical value – As it is, it is very affordable at about $50. And for that cost which is equivalent to a gallon of this coat is enough to cover an RV that is over 20 feet in length.
- Waterproof feature – This coat being waterproof, it will help maintain the integrity of your RV roof and keep it leak-free for many years.
- Stickability – Even without a primer, the coat still gives good coverage and adheres to the roof surface nicely.
- Areas for improvement:
- Curing of the coat may take up to a week.
- The product has thin viscosity, like latex paint.
- What other consumers liked about Liquid Roof RV Roof Coating and Repair
- Highly effective in preventing leaks – There are those who have used this product on their RV roofs and are ecstatic to share that they have not had recurring leak problems anymore compared to when they were using other coating brands.
- Sticks on the surface very well – The efficiency of this coating does not stop at its single application. This liquid roof coat grips the surface like a magnet even with old caulking and seals it tight.
- Magically transforms an old roof into a new one – The amazing part is that even after more than a year from its coating, the roof still looks vibrant and fresh.
- Cleans without hassle – Maintaining the roof does not require much fuss as you can easily clean it with water using a hose or a pressure washer.
- Areas for improvement:
- The messy application can be tough.
- A bit more expensive than other good brands.
- What other consumers liked about Dicor RPCRC1 White EPDM Rubber Roof Coating
- Impressive coverage – Buyers of this product are happy that they are able to stretch its use with more surface area, but without compromising the quality when it’s done.
- Smooth application – Applying this coat on your RV was not difficult. And it creates a beautiful finish afterward.
- Areas for improvement:
- The cost is a bit high compared to Heng’s Rubber Roof Coating.
- Drying time takes quite longer than usual.
- Pros
- value for money
- all-weather
- high sticking ability
- 90% UV reflective
- durable, quick cleaning
- Areas for improvement:
- Actual coating is slimmer than anticipated.
- Quality of finish is not as good as the others.
- Pros
- versatile
- multi-purpose
- comes in bigger tubs
- prolongs roof lifespan
- beautiful finish
- UV reflective
- single coat
- seals leaks
- Areas for improvement:
- The coat is too fast-drying so you have to do it right with the first application.
- It is more expensive than other good roof coatings.
- Pros
- great rubber adhesion
- wide coverage resists cracks
- high protection
- environment-friendly
- good sealant
- Areas for improvement:
- It is short of some of the outstanding features of other top brands.
- You will need several applications to get a nice coating.
- Pros
- excellent adhesion
- resists mildew and algae
- protects from moisture
- aids in sound absorption
- UV reflective, affordable pric
- Areas for improvement:
- Setting time takes longer than usual.
- Product dissolves in water which makes using it a challenge under a low humidity temperature.
The 7 Best RV Roof Coatings: Weatherproof Your RV For Less
Keeping your RV in tiptop shape is just as important as buying the right RV for you. One of the things that an RV owner should maintain is its roofing. As such, rubber roofs are often preferred over those made in aluminum and fiberglass because they are lightweight and cheap. Whatever you decide, you’ll want to make sure you get the best RV roof coating.
An RV roof coating will give your roof a nice sheen and shield it from harmful ultraviolet rays and other harsh elements. It becomes a protective barrier, which will prolong the lifespan of your RV, making it more durable even with frequent use.
However, going to the store to buy one can be daunting, especially if you don’t know what you should be looking for in the first place. It is important to determine which qualities must be taken into consideration before grabbing the first tub that you see.
What you need to know
I have come up with the following tips that could help you ensure that you are buying the right coating for your RV roof.
Check what your RV roof is made of
Does your RV have a rubber roof or a fiberglass one? Knowing your roof material is the deciding factor in choosing the appropriate liquid coating.
Roof coating composed of TPO (or Thermoplastic Polyolefin) or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer) is suitable for rubber roofs. Then there are liquid coatings that are formulated with polyester to cater to other types of roofing like fiberglass as well as aluminum.
Fiberglass roof is heavier just like an aluminum roof, but more expensive. Both types, however, require low maintenance compared to rubber roofing.
Check the roof coating’s DIY factor
When you see the liquid coating in the store, which resembles a paint coating, you’d want the same application process as well. In other words, you can apply it like you’re just painting over a surface.
So you will be looking for a roof coating that can be applied using an extended brush, squeegee, or a roller. Sometimes just like with regular paint, a primer will be required for a smoother finish. Ultimately, you should be able to do the task yourself and it’s important that it should be an easy application.
Check the insulation and reduction of thermal flux features on your roof coating
As you know, RVs are often exposed to the sun’s rays especially during summer. It is best if your roof coat provides additional insulation and can also reduce heat flow from roof to ceiling. This will make your stay inside as cool and comfortable as possible.
Another benefit of this feature will be on your AC’s efficiency. When you get extra insulation from your liquid coating, your AC will not have to work extra hard to cool the cabin. This will mean savings on electricity or gas depending on your AC’s power source.
Check how fast the coating will cure
Curing is critical. When your RV roof has observed the proper curing time, you will have a good, solid coating that’s ready to rock and roll. You definitely don’t want to mess this up.
Essentially, cure times will vary among different brands and types of liquid coating, which will range from 2 days to as long as 7 days. You must note that weather can be a factor, too.
Summer is a good time to apply a roof coat because it can dry much faster compared to any other season. You will be left with a shiny and beautiful coating that will last longer.
After reading all there is that you need to know about RV roof coating, it’s time to check out the brands you can choose from. There’s just too many in the market so I have narrowed it down for you with only the best. Let’s get right into it.
You must realize, however, that the initial layer on RV roofs will wear off over time, which is normal. And regardless of your roofing material, giving it a liquid coating is a must.
Other roof maintenance tips for your RV
For you to get the most out of your RV, create a habit of inspecting your RV especially before storing it in your garage or embarking on a road trip. Aside from giving it a fresh coat, regular checks on the roof, in particular, are necessary so problems, if any, can be caught in their early stages.
- Get a visual of your RV roof surface by using a ladder instead of just climbing on top of it so that you’ll be able to hose any dirt off. This is because it can be slippery as the roof material can’t support any considerable weight above it. Cleaning the roof surface should be done at least every 3 months, or more if your RV is always parked under a tree.
- Before anything, don’t forget to refer to your RV manual to determine the cleaning procedure recommended for your roof. It is not uncommon to stay away from the harsher chemicals like those that contain citric acids, abrasives, and solvents, which cannot be used on rubber surfaces. Once you have picked the right cleaning agent, scrub using a sponge or soft brush and rinse off until no trace of cleaner can be found.
- Give your roof a careful scan for any cracks, punctures and any sign of deterioration and seal them right away. Doing this will keep moisture away from your RV, which otherwise can bring mold and mildew that can be health hazards as well.
Conclusion
I hope you have learned a lot from the above for you to make an informed decision. Ultimately, any RV owner will like to enjoy their vehicle for a long time, making many memorable trips in the process. So never take your roof maintenance for granted to make this possible. Go and pick out the right roof coat for your RV.
