A Quick Guide To Your RV Roof

**Collaborative post**

Regardless of whether you have purchased a brand new RV, or if you chose to buy a second-hand vehicle that needs a little care, it’s important to recognise the different types of roofing materials and coatings. 

This is because you should understand how to maintain it and keep everything in good condition. Making sure that everything is functioning properly allows you to make the most out of your road trips. 

It is worth checking that your RV roof is completely waterproof and can withstand a great deal of regular wear and tear from weather conditions and general debris on the road. This is a quick guide into RV roof coating and the different materials that it could be made from. 

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) 

Firstly, EPDM is one of the most commonly used materials in RV roofing, and it has been made from recycled rubber types, slate and sawdust. This is an ideal material for somebody who is more conscious of their environmental impact, or who wants to save costs. 

EPDM is a highly popular material because it is one of the most affordable options. It can easily last twenty years on an RV roof with regular maintenance and sealing and is extremely lightweight as well as durable. 

The main drawback of EPDM is that it typically comes in black, which isn’t the ideal colour for an RV roof during warmer weather. While there is the option to purchase EPDM in white, it costs a little more for this. 

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

Another rubberised flat roof coating is TPO, which comes in white already. Unlike EPDM, there will be fewer additional costs when purchasing TPO for your RV roof. This is a huge plus because there are fewer extra processes that need to be done, and it is cheaper to cover a large area. 

It is also UV protected, which helps keep your RV cool during the summer. Because of this, TPO can easily be any colour that you like when you are purchasing the material for your roof. 

This material is less durable and resistant to general wear and tear in comparison to EPDM. This means that it doesn’t last as long as other materials. Although it is easy to repair and fit in sheets, TPO is more likely to need regular maintenance. 

Fiberglass

A considerably more durable option is fibreglass, which is resistant to rot, rust, and fire. It does not require as much regular maintenance once it is in place, unlike TPO and EPDM. However, fiberglass is much heavier than rubber roofing materials, as fiberglass roofs are considerably thicker than rubber. 

While they are highly durable and resistant to low-hanging branches and debris, fiberglass roofing on an RV can be more susceptible to leaking if it has not been fitted properly. Because of this, it is worth investing in high-quality sealant in order to prevent leaking. 

Fibreglass roofing will last a long time on your RV, and allow you to rest easy knowing that you are protected from harsh weather conditions when it has been fitted correctly. 

Another disadvantage of this material, however, is that it will add weight to your RV. This can add complications if you are travelling long distances, and even impact the engine’s use of gas. Fiberglass is also a little more expensive, which is why it is seen on RV roofs less frequently. 

Aluminium 

Finally, aluminium is a highly economical material for RV roofing. While it does add weight to your RV, aluminium roofing is considerably easier to install than fiberglass. This material is also durable and a great insulator for your RV’s interior. 

The main thing to be aware of when you want to install an aluminium RV roof is that it can make a great deal of noise during windy and rainy weather, so would not be the best choice for road trips if these conditions are predicted. 

Summary

As a general rule, EPDM is one of the best materials for RV roofs. This is highly durable, affordable, and easy to install. Whatever type of roofing you choose, it is important to check that everything is correctly sealed and installed. 

This ensures that your RV’s interior is protected from the elements and that there is a lower risk of structural damage caused by rain and harsh weather conditions. 

Maintain your RV roof using the link above for appropriate and durable tools, so that you can rest easy knowing that you are as protected from the elements as possible. 

The wonderful thing about owning your own RV is that you can travel anywhere and don’t have to worry about the hassle of booking a hotel – you’ve all the amenities you need to just hit the road.