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I have a low mile 1984 Southwind that the roof has started leaking on. It appears to be coming from the front seam between the rubber roof and the regular roof right above the cab. It also may be leaking around the windshield and there is some sealer around the front clearance lights that looks to be getting bad and needs to be redone. The main rubber or membrane type of roof appears to be in good condition and it was regularly stored indoors before we purchased it. I need to fix it and would like to try to do it right. It appears the seams and vent opening etc. need to be resealed. What is the recommended way of doing this.
Hi Lee, Scrape as much of the old sealant off as possible, (if it's stuck well leave it) be careful on the EPDM rubber roof tho'. CLEAN/scrub the surfaces with Simple Green or a cleaner that's not to caustic, NOT paint thinner or petroleum solvents. Use a sealant approved for EPDM rubber, such as Dicor self leveling lap sealant or equivalent. Lay a bead about 12 - 18" long and 1/4 - 3/8" wide at a time as it skins fast, wet your finger and smooth it into the joint. If you want you can put a layer of Rubber Roof Coating over it, seems to help it last a little longer. Good luck
P.S. You should probably remove the clearance lights and clean up and re-putty them. But if the putty seems ok, clean the area and use 100% silicone sealant(clear or whatever you prefer) around the lights, windows, doors etc. Don't use it on the roof area tho'. Long story, just advise don't do it. You only need to seal the top and sides of lights and about 1/4 way down on windows and doors. Leave the bottom open for any drainage. Good luck
Here is my followup. We have a very reputable RV dealer in our area and I called them to see if they had Dicor slef leveling lap sealant. BUT, my first question was if they had any interest in resealing the roof. The service manager explained that they would be happy to take care of it. He said they take all of the old sealant off, and then they use a product called Dicor self leveling lap sealant which is a very good product. When asked of the approximate cost he stated probably two hours maximum for labor which would be $60.00 and probably two tubes of sealer at $6.99 each. So guess who is going to be resealing my roof? Correct, they are. I dropped off the unit this morning and it will be done today. Bottom line. It was your advice that got me headed in the right direction.
Hi Lee, Thanks for the thanks! I don't know if a lot of stuff helps because most people don't bother to let the guys who offer help on this site know if their info worked or not. Your comment is appreciated! Good luck
Hi Lee, Pretty reasonable labor and sealant price! Most are $60 an hour or more. I don't blame you for letting them have the job. Glad to help! You're most welcome. Good luck. Keith
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