Community Forums

seaweedbc · 10-31-2019, 09:30 PM

Hello RV'ers

So, I have finally dipped my big toe into RV ownership. My first RV is arriving tomorrow, and I am both excited, and anxious. I got an incredible deal. $800 CDN for a 32 foot 5th wheel that has been owned by one couple its entire life. Its 30 years old, but every repair has been made by an RV tech, everything is in perfect working order, fridge, stove, heat, toilet - etc.

The intention for this unit, is to park it on our property for my oldest son to stay in (and to use as a guest house). It is not insurable so it needs to be moved by a tow truck each time we move it, but it fits our needs perfectly.

I want to continue on with taking excellent care of it - though I cant really afford an RV tech. I am pretty handy and with my sons, we should be able to manage any work that needs to be done on it.

Already we have set up a spot, packed 2 inches of crushed gravel and are awaiting delivery.

My next big concern is the roof, and joints. Ensuring everything is sealed up well so no water gets in. I also need to be extremely mindful of the budget.

I have looked into rubber roofing sealants and the like, but wonder if there isnt a better/less expensive way for an RV that will essentially be in one spot for the rest of its life (maybe one more move when I retire - if its still around)

What ideas do you guys have? The place I purchased from had built a roof over it (as you can see from the pictures) but that is too big of a project to complete before the island rains start (and dont end until may)

Thanks so much for your time, and having this forum.
SW

Kahoona · 11-01-2019, 10:27 AM

Nice! Welcome here. Glad to have you aboard.

Persistent · 11-01-2019, 02:38 PM

So heavy rain is your main concern. The plan should be a careful inspection of the roof. Get up there and look very close at every square inch.

The most likely places and the first leaks to appear are at seams, edges, around roof vents, air conditioner, and other fittings.
Next go over the "rubber" surface closely looking for cracks or tears. If there are no "rubber" cracks or tears any fix will be easy and low cost. Use DiCorp self leveling sealant on any cracks in existing sealant. It comes in caulking tubes. I had to buy 6 tubes even though I only needed a couple of ounces, but it is the best for sealing over every crack.

There are other products and they may be good or bad. There is EternaBond tape for RV roofs. I only know about the DiCorp self leveling. Here is the DiCorp website where you can find instructions for use. You can buy it from many on line RV stores.
https://dicorproducts.com/product-ca...roof-products/

Don't use hardware store caulking and especially not silicon products. Silicon is to strong and will eventually tear the "rubber" at the edges of the silicone bead. If silicone or other caulking has already been used, I think it must be completely removed before resealing.

Google "RV roof repair" for extensive results.

aguablanco · 11-01-2019, 02:46 PM

I just redid my roof with the Dicor 2 part coating for under $200. Tape the seams, caulk the perimeter and all openings like roof vents and AC etc, then apply the Dicor. No matter where that was stored it will, at the least, need to be resealed. Don't forget to check the openings on the sides like the fresh water fill port and city water connection port to be sure you won't get water in the walls as well.
RichH