If you have a recreational vehicle, you are bound to have some parts that need replacing or repairing every once in a while. While major troubles that affect your driving are best left to an auto service, there are other repairs that can be done yourself. If you have water leaking in your vehicle, it may be a problem with your rubber rooftop. Here are some instructions you can use to clean and repair your RV's rubber roof.

Assess The Situation

Your RV's roof should be inspected at least once a year to prevent leaks from occurring. Get a ladder and take a close look at your roof to see if you notice any areas that are cracked where water can get inside. RV rubber rooftops are made out of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). This material usually has a warranty that lasts for at least ten years, making it a rather hardy substance.

If, however, your roof gets scraped by a tree branch or a rock that is kicked up while driving, it can become damaged. The top of your roof may have a chalky look on the surface of the rubber roof. This is normal wear and not an indication of a problem. Get close to the surface to look for areas that appear shredded or torn. Look for small holes as well.

Using sealant on all seams will help keep water from getting inside your RV. Check the existing sealant for areas that are cracked or where sealant is missing. These can be patched at the same time that you fix any holes.

Clean Your Roof

Taking the time to clean your rubber roof regularly will help you find areas that are decayed or ripped, and it will keep your RV roof looking clean and new. To clean, put a cup of mild laundry detergent into a bucket of warm water and mix well. Use a non-abrasive sponge to apply the mixture to your rubber roof top. Scrub any areas that have noticeable dirt or grime. Rinse completely using a garden hose or pressure washer and allow to dry before making any repairs. 

Make The Repair

After you have found an area that needs repair, go to your local hardware store or RV supply store to get a roof repair kit. This will come with a piece of rubberized patching material that can be placed over the affected area. It will be affixed using the accompanying adhesive. After it is stuck in place, use the enclosed sealant to make sure water does not get underneath the patching. Place sealant on any seamed area that has old or missing sealant to help protect your interior as well.

For more information, speak with experts like Auto-Truck Services Inc.