what are the best types of caulk to seal RV sides ?

[Sir Traveler]

Hello everyone



I recently took my RV out of storage after 10 months. and noticed major cracks, delaminations , and separations all around the sides and roof edges of the RV, after it rained water got in some of the outside storage compartments. I posted pics below as it is easier to show these issues, as I do not think I am using the precise terminology for these ( cracks and separations ) and would appreciate any tips of what is the best approach to fix them ( any specific types of caulk? do I need to fill the pockets with epoxy or any other material I can inject in there ?



FYI I am in southern California, so it is very hot and dry during the summer, and it did rain a lot lately which is unusual for this area





thank you for taking the time to read this post

[US1]

I use OSI Quad Max sealant. Can be bought from Lowe’s or the likes. The trim molding screws have pulled away from whatever they were screwed into. Getting those pieces reattached will be your 1st course of action.

[sibe]

You need more than chauling,, some new trim, lots of cleaning the old stuff and weather stains to allow any new chault to stick.. you may find eternabond a help also..

Dicor, pro floex and the others from lowes work well,,

[hamm2018]

Don't know how far from Yuma you are located. But there is a store, Wally World, in Yuma. It has allot of RV items in stock.
In February 2022, I purchased 2 filter canisters, mounting bracket and fittings for under $25.00.
Try Wally World for what you need for the trim and other items.

https://wallysworldonline.com/

[David 70]

Your problem is the rotted wood under all those loose pieces. Nothing, like screws etc. will hold in that. In the second and fifth picture you can see the rot. I hate to tell you but I think your camper is on life support.

[Gary RVRoamer]

Agree with David 70. The RV needs a lot more help than caulk, high quality or otherwise.


But to answer your question, top quality caulk choices include Geocel Proflex RV, 3M Body Seamseal, and Dicor Ultra 651. There are many more good products that could be added to the list. The quality of the workmanship is more important than the brand of caulk.

[egwilly]

I agree with the others, and add that your tires look like they have aged out as well.

Lots of repairs await you, Big box stores can get you the caulk you need. Clean out all of the old caulk as best you can first, then clean well with soap and water.

That was a big rain storm with a blessing helping put out the fires in LA.

Good luck.

[Sir Traveler]

I am thankful for all the responses and suggestions. Now I understand that it requires more work. But for now I will try my best to seal any cracks and fill any pockets at least to prevent any rain water from causing more damage, till I come back in few months to replace some of the walls.

[dlearl476]

Last fall as I was putting up my new (to me) 2000 Dutch Star, I noticed the seal between the front and rear caps was damaged. I spoke to Mike at Newmar yesterday and he sent me this. Looks like the factory recommendation is Sikaflex 505UV for my coach.