RV Roof Question

I have been asked a number of questions over the years about roof maintenance. A question I have received several times over the past few years, “Should I use Flex Seal on my RV roof? I saw several You-Tube videos where people recommended it for roof repairs.” Flex Seal is an amazing product with a long list of applications. I have used it for a variety of projects and have been impressed with how easy it is to work with. However, there are reasons why I have not tried Flex Seal on an RV rubber roof.

I visited the company's website to review the manufacturer's recommended applications for Flex Seal. The site details a broad range of substrates to which the product can adhere and seal, including wood, metal, tile, concrete, masonry, fabric, glass, plastic, aluminum, porcelain, drywall, cement, and more. However, the Flex Seal Guide notes that the product may not be compatible with certain plastics, vinyl, and rubbers. Notably, EPDM, TPO, and PVC are absent from the list of recommended surfaces. These materials are the most commonly used roof membranes in the RV industry, and many sealants fail to adhere to them, often peeling off after curing.

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind when using a product like this. What does the roof manufacturer recommend? A new roof can cost upwards of $10,000 to replace in a service center. Water damage inside the RV can range from minor water rings to ceiling or wall replacement. (Can you say, “cha-ching?”) Do you want to risk damaging your RV to save a few bucks or a little time?

Throughout my 25+ years of servicing RVs, I have observed numerous products that claim to perform as well as or better than the roof membrane manufacturer’s self-leveling sealant. However, I have often seen these aftermarket products initially appear effective, only to begin peeling over time, leading to water damage inside the RV.

Water intrusion is among the most detrimental issues that can affect an RV. While influencers may offer quick solutions with good intentions, it is advisable to rely on the recommendations of highly trained and experienced engineers who specialize in RV roofs and maintenance, rather than advice from online personalities.