5 Best RV Roof Cleaning Methods RV Owners Must Know in 2024

Regularly cleaning your RV’s roof is essential for its longevity. It prevents damage and keeps your vehicle in good condition. This guide will cover the best practices and top products for effective RV roof cleaning in 2023.

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Types of RV Roof Cleaning Methods

When cleaning the roof of your RV, there are several methods to choose from, each differing in complexity, effectiveness, and cost. Three common types include power washing, chemical treatments, and manual scrubbing.

Power Washing

Power washing is a popular and effective method for cleaning RV roofs, eliminating stubborn dirt and stains. This process utilizes high-pressure water to blast away grime.

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However, caution should be exercised to avoid damaging certain types of roofing materials, especially rubber-based ones like EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) and TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin).

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments involve the use of specialized cleaning solutions designed to break down dirt and grime on the RV’s roof. These solutions often contain substances that not only clean but also condition the roof, enhancing its durability and resistance against environmental elements.

Note that it’s crucial to choose a solution compatible with your specific type of roofing material to avoid potential damage.

Manual Scrubbing

Manual scrubbing is a traditional and straightforward method of cleaning an RV roof. It involves the use of a soft-bristle brush and a bucket of soapy water.

One popular choice for this method is the Carrand 93086 10″ Bi-Level Soft Fiber Car Wash Brush, which is gentle on all surfaces, including rubber roofs.

This method requires more physical effort but provides you with the control to thoroughly clean your RV roof without using harsh chemicals or high-pressure water.

Top Picks for the Best RV Roof Cleaners in 2024

The market offers a variety of RV roof cleaning products, each with unique features and benefits. Here are the top picks for the best RV roof cleaners in 2024.

Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant

Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is a highly recommended product for the maintenance of RV roofs. It’s designed to create a secure secondary seal along the roof’s edges, air vents, vent pipes, and screw heads.

This sealant is compatible with EPDM sheeting, offering excellent adhesion and flexibility.

Dicor 551LST-1 Rubber Roof Kit

The Dicor 551LST-1 Rubber Roof Kit is another excellent option for maintaining your RV’s roof.

The kit includes a cleaner/activator necessary for preparing the roof surface and an acrylic coating that provides a protective barrier against the elements. This product is particularly useful for EPDM rubber roofs.

Dicor 501LSW-1 RV Rubber Roof Sealant Self-Leveling Caulk

Dicor 501LSW-1 RV Rubber Roof Sealant is a self-leveling caulk designed to provide excellent adhesion to an array of roofing materials, including aluminum, mortar, wood, vinyl, galvanized metal, and concrete.

It’s especially renowned for its ability to offer superior water resistance and flexibility.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV Roof Cleaner

Choosing the right roof cleaner for your RV requires considering several factors. Here are three key factors to consider when shopping for an RV roof cleaner.

Price range and effectiveness

While budget is a significant factor, it’s crucial to balance cost with effectiveness. A cheaper product may not provide the desired results, leading to more frequent cleaning or even damage to the roof. Look for products that offer good value for money.

Application method and ease of use

The application process can significantly affect your overall experience with the product. Consider whether you’re comfortable with manual scrubbing or would prefer a formula that can be applied and rinsed off without much scrubbing.

Compatibility with different types of roofs

Not all cleaners can be safely used on all types of roofing material. Ensure the cleaner you choose is suitable for your RV’s roof. For instance, EPDM roofs require non-petroleum-based products to prevent damage to the material.

What is the best thing to clean an RV roof with?

The best thing to clean an RV roof with ultimately depends on the type of roof material and the nature of the dirt or stains present.

However, a general recommendation is to use a non-abrasive, non-petroleum-based cleaner. For instance, a Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner mixed with water can effectively clean an RV roof without causing damage.

How do I get black off my RV roof?

Black streaks on an RV roof are often caused by dirt, grime, and mildew. These can be effectively removed using a good quality RV roof cleaner and a soft-bristle brush.

After applying the cleaner, scrub gently with the brush and rinse thoroughly with water. Repeat the process if necessary. To prevent future black streaks, consider using a protectant like Dicor Roof Guard RV Roof Protectant Spray after cleaning.

What is the best cleaner for rubber roofs?

For rubber roofs, particularly those made from EPDM or TPO, a cleaner that’s gentle yet effective is ideal. Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner is one such product designed specifically for rubber roofs.

It not only cleans but also conditions the roof, enhancing its durability and resistance against environmental elements. Another option is Camco Pro-Tec RV Rubber Roof Care System, a two-step treatment that cleans, conditions, and protects rubber roofs.

Can you use Dawn to wash the RV roof?

Using Dawn dish soap to clean your RV roof is a common and cost-effective method. It effectively removes grease and wax, leaving the surface clean.

However, it’s crucial to rinse thoroughly after cleaning and apply a protectant to safeguard the roof material from the elements. Keep in mind that while Dawn is a good cleaner, it does not provide any additional protection for your RV’s roof.