Maintenance - Chickery's Travels

RV Roofs – What You Need to Know

Are you the proud owner of an RV? Do you hit the open road every chance you get to explore new places and make wonderful memories with your loved ones? You know that feeling of being untethered, free, and ready for adventure – there’s nothing quite like it. But before embarking on your next RV journey, there is one important element that needs proper care: your RV’s roof. Having a well-maintained roof not only adds life to your RV but more importantly, ensures safety for everyone onboard; so let us examine what factors need special attention when caring for your RV’s roof!

Common Causes of RV Roof Damage

RV roofs are exposed to the elements, and over time this can cause damage. Some of the most common causes of RV roof damage include UV radiation, extreme temperatures, water and debris buildup, punctures, improper maintenance, and improper installation.

UV Radiation – RV roofs are constantly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV rays can cause RV roof materials to weaken or deteriorate over time, leading to cracks and tears.

Extreme Temperatures – RV roofs are also susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures. High temperatures can cause RV roofs to expand, while cold temperatures can cause them to contract, which can allow water and debris to enter.

Water and Debris Buildup – Over time, water and debris can accumulate on RV roofs. This can cause RV roofs to become weighed down, which can eventually lead to sagging or collapsing. Additionally, standing water on an RV roof can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.

Punctures – RV roofs can also become damaged due to punctures from tree branches or hail. It’s important to inspect RV roofs regularly for any signs of damage and repair any puncture immediately to prevent further damage.

Improper Maintenance – Performing regular maintenance on RV roofs is essential to prevent damage. RV roofs should be inspected for any wear or tear, and seals should be checked and replaced if necessary.

Improper Installation – RV roofs that are improperly installed can lead to leaks, sagging, or collapsing RV roofs, as well as premature wear and tear. Having RV roofs professionally installed is the best way to ensure long-term RV roof protection.

Water intrusion through a damaged RV roof can be an extremely dangerous problem if left unchecked. RV roofs are designed to keep out water, but when damage occurs, water can quickly begin to seep in and cause extensive damage. In extreme cases, water intrusion through RV roofs can potentially cause extensive corrosion of the RV’s frame, leading to structural failure.

While RV roof damage can be difficult to avoid, there are some steps you can take to protect your RV roof from damage. The first step is regular inspection of the RV roof: look for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks. First and foremost, routine inspections of your RV roof should be done every four to six months. During these inspections, watch for any signs of damage that may have occurred over time. Pay careful attention to RV roof edges, seams, and corners since they are more prone to wear and tear.

RV Roof Types

RV roofs come in various materials and styles, and it is important to be familiar with your RV roof’s construction and care requirements. RV roofs are typically made from one of four materials – rubber, fiberglass, aluminum, or a combination of these materials.

Rubber Roof

The most common is the rubber roof. There are two types of “rubber” roofs. One is TPO (Thermal Poly Olefin), and the other is EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer).

Rubber RV roofs are usually constructed from EPDM, a flexible, durable synthetic rubber membrane. This type of RV roof is known for its durability and resistance to the elements. The downside is that it can be difficult to repair if it gets damaged. The maintenance on a TPO roof is slightly different than an EPDM roof, so know which one you have to do the appropriate preventive care.

Fiberglass Roof

Fiberglass RV roofs are made from layers of fiberglass cloth impregnated with resin. They are lightweight and resistant to the elements but require occasional maintenance to keep them looking their best. I see this mostly on motorhomes, whereas the rubber roofs are on most trailers and 5th wheels. There are always exceptions, however. Fiberglass is much less maintenance than rubber roofs.

Aluminum Roof

Aluminum RV roofs are made from sheet metal and often have a plastic coating on the outside. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain. Aluminum RV roofs are a great choice for RV owners because of their durability and lightweight design. Like all RV roofs, however, aluminum RV roofs require regular maintenance in order to stay in good condition.

RV Roof Maintenance

No matter what type of RV roof you have, there are some basic maintenance tips that you should follow to keep it in good condition. Cleaning your RV roof regularly will help protect it from UV damage, as well as remove dirt, grime, and other debris. Make sure to use an RV-specific cleaning product designed for your type of roof for the best results. And, if your RV roof is made of rubber, ensure that you don’t use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing tools to clean it.

When cleaning your RV roof, use a soft-bristled brush or RV-specific cleaner to gently scrub away dirt or debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasives that could damage the RV roof material.

RV roof sealants designed for your type of RV roof should be applied regularly to protect your RV roof from water intrusion and UV rays. Sealants are also great for filling any gaps that may have formed due to expansion and contraction on warm days. Check the RV roof manufacturer’s recommendations for how often sealants should be reapplied.

RV Roof Replacement

When it comes to RV roof maintenance, replacing your RV roof is often the last resort. However, there are some instances when the damage is too severe and RV roof replacement may be necessary. Here is what RV owners should know about RV roof replacement and when it might be time to consider it.

There are several signs that indicate RV roof replacement might be necessary. If your RV roof is sagging, blistering, or bubbling, or if there are visible tears or signs of water damage, RV roof replacement should be considered. Additionally, RV roofs that are significantly cracked can also indicate a need for replacement.

In addition to visual inspections and maintenance, it’s important to pay attention to your RV roof warranty. RV roofs usually come with a warranty that states how long they should last and under what conditions. If the RV roof is damaged due to normal wear and tear, it may still be covered by the RV roof’s warranty. In most cases, RV owners can replace their RV roof themselves, but it’s important to follow the RV roof manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.

Replacement Cost

The cost of RV roof replacement depends on several factors, including the RV type, age, and condition, as well as the materials used. For example, replacing a fiberglass RV roof with a new one may cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more. Replacing an aluminum RV roof may cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 or more. RV owners should consult a professional RV roof replacement expert for accurate price estimates. All RV roofs come with a warranty that covers normal wear and tear but RV owners should read their warranties carefully to make sure they know what is covered. Additionally, RV owners may be able to save money on RV roof replacement by researching RV roof repair companies and RV roofing materials.

Final Thoughts

No matter what type of RV roof you have or what condition it is in, regular maintenance and inspection can help extend its life and keep your RV safe from water damage. Know the RV roof material you have, check it regularly for damage, use RV-specific cleaners and sealants, and follow the RV roof manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance.

Taking care of your RV roof will help ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Remember, ask a professional RV technician for advice and guidance if you have any questions or concerns. With the right maintenance and care, you can enjoy many years of RV living!

The bottom line for RV roofs is to know what type you have and how to take care of it.

Safe travels. Enjoy the RV lifestyle. And don’t forget to check your roof! 😉

Happy RVing!

10:00 pm by Julie Chickery

How to Reduce the Likelihood of Tire Blowouts on your RV

Tire blowouts can be more common on RVs than on “standard” vehicles for three reasons:

RVs typically carry more weight than cars. Additional weight puts more stress on tires.
RVs are often used for long journeys. This can cause a buildup of heat, and therefore pressure, in tires.
The variation of terrain that RVs are often driven on (sometimes in a single day) means that matching the right terrain with the vehicle can be challenging.

Since tire blowouts can be disastrous, particularly if they happen somewhere remote, here are the ways that you can reduce the chances of your RV (motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer) suffering a tire blowout.

Do not overload your vehicle

The more weight put on your tires, the more likely they are to fail.

While RVs are designed to carry more “additional weight” (weight that is not built into the vehicle itself) than a standard car, there are still limits to what any vehicle can carry before its tires become prone to blowing out.

You can discover the maximum weight that your RV can safely carry in its vehicle manual. The figure that you want to look at is the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This refers to the maximum amount of weight a vehicle can carry including passengers and cargo.

If you are worried that your vehicle is overweight, then you can weigh it at a truck weighing station. These tend to be dotted along highways. A quick Google search should show you your nearest one.

Ensure that your tires are fully inflated

Underinflation is the most common cause of tire blowouts.

Typically, vehicles lose 2 PSI of tire pressure for every 1,000 miles traveled. This can be higher for RVs since they are heavier than most other vehicles.

It’s generally recommended that you should check your tire pressure every 30 days. If you’re traveling long distances most days then this should be done weekly. You can obviously check the tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge, but for regular RV travelers, we highly recommend a tire pressure monitoring system. This will automatically warn you when your tires fall below their recommended inflation levels. At 25% underinflation, your tires are twice as likely to suffer a blowout as they are if they are fully inflated, so an automatic pressure monitoring system is well worth the investment.

Watch the video below of our tire pressure monitoring system.

You can usually inflate your tires at most gas stations, but it can get a little tricky with a large RV. We recommend purchasing a VIAIR Compressor to keep with your RV. That way you’ll have it with you no matter where you are, in a campground, boondocking, or on the road. If you know that your tires need inflation, it may be worth calling up nearby gas stations on your planned route to find out if they offer this. Google Map profiles are not always updated that regularly and are therefore unreliable for finding out this information.

The only time that you might want to be riding on underinflated tires is if you are driving on dirt or grass roads. Underinflated tires offer you a bit more give when it comes to bumps, and therefore can protect your suspension on unpaved roads. That being said, this should only be done if you are driving on off-road tires.

Take regular breaks to avoid overheating your tires

As you drive on tires, the friction causes the inside of the tire to heat up. This causes the pressure in the tire to increase.

If this pressure builds up too far, then tires can literally “burst” on the road.

Tires are designed to be able to withstand pressure above their recommended inflation levels, so overheating to the point of blowing out can only happen in a few, relatively rare, circumstances. These are:

Driving at a high speed (over 70 MPH) for more than four hours straight.
If a tire has been driven off-road for more than one hour (far more friction is generated during off road driving).
If you are traveling during a hot day (over 90 degrees Fahrenheit).

Taking a one-hour break can allow your tires to cool off to the point where they can be safely driven on without risk of a blowout if you ever find yourself in one of these two circumstances.

Choose the correct tires for your terrain

Different tires are designed for driving on different terrains. If tires are driven on the wrong terrain, then they can cause too much friction which can lead to shredding, burning or blowing out.

Here is a quick list of the best tire to use depending on the terrain that you will be planning to drive on:

If you are planning on driving almost exclusively on freeways then go for low rolling resistance tires. These offer the least amount of grip necessary for driving on these types of roads, thereby reducing the friction which can contribute to blowouts.
If you are driving off road, then use 10-12 ply tires. These tires have additional layers that make them more durable when being driven on uneven surfaces.
If you are driving on a combination of terrains then go for all-terrain tires.

Watch out for signs of dry rot in your RV’s tires

Over time, tires lose their moisture and become dry and brittle. Tires in these conditions are more prone to blowouts due to reduced elasticity.

The dry rotting process is sped up when tires are not driven on for an extended period of time. It is therefore particularly prone to happening in RVs that you only use in certain seasons every year.

Signs of dry rotting include:

Developing a greyish colour that does not come off when tires are cleaned
Visible cracks appearing on the tread and sidewall of the tire
Tires becoming very hard to the touch and losing their “rubberiness”.

If you notice this, then take your RV to the mechanic to get your tires checked out. Early-stage dry rot is treatable, but after a certain level of degradation, you will need to replace your tires.

Dry rot is more common in hotter climates, so be more vigilant of this during summer.

Summary

You have a lot riding on your tires. Don’t take unnecessary risks with your lives or belongings. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations and the tips in this article to ensure your tires are in tip-top shape.

7:00 am by Julie Chickery

Easy DIY RV Care and Maintenance

We all know what a valuable investment your RV is. And, of course, there’s the cost of maintenance — or worse, the repair costs if you let your regular RV maintenance fall by the wayside.

Fortunately, RV maintenance and repair are some of the easiest costs of RV ownership to defray. Namely, by doing as much as possible yourself. This is so important because of the rate of growth in the RV industry has outpaced the growth of trained repair technicians. In fact, the RVIA estimates that each certified RV tech is responsible for servicing 658 RVs.

What does this mean for us RV users? Possibly long waits to get maintenance performed. When you want to use your RV, you want it to be ready. And if you are a full-time RVer, having service done can really be inconvenient if you have to wait for it, or even worse give up your home.

Start with these preventive maintenance basics, and you’ll get more familiar with your RV and more confident in working on it. That may lead to tackling bigger projects and saving even more money.

If you’d like to have easy-to-follow video tutorials for these tasks and more, check out Fix It Yourself, a self-guided online course where certified RV tech Ed Wilcox walks you through all the steps you need to know to properly maintain your rig and fix problems when they come up.

Create a Schedule

The best way to take care of your RV is to create a preventive maintenance schedule. If you purchase a new RV, you’ll get a big bag of books. That is because aside for the structure of the RV itself, just about every component was made by someone else. For example, we have an Arctic Fox Fifth Wheel made by Northwood Manufacturing, the refrigerator is a Norcold by Dometic, the stovetop & oven is a Furrion, the entry steps are made by MorRyde, the air conditioner is a Coleman, and so on.

The only way to know what preventive maintenance needs to be performed is to read these documents. If you purchased your RV used, you can find just about any manual online. Each manual typically includes a preventive maintenance schedule. We made a master schedule using Google Sheets. You could also add the items to your calendar and set reminders so you don’t forget.

Batteries

First, we’ll discuss the regular maintenance that you should perform monthly on your house batteries. There are a couple of different types of batteries that you may encounter in an RV, lead acid (flooded or AGM/gel) and lithium. Since lithium batteries require pretty much zero upkeep, we’re going to discuss lead acid here. If you’re interested to know more about lithium batteries and why we choose to convert to them, click here to read about our power upgrade.

Regardless of the type of lead acid battery you have, flooded or gel, it is important to know that you should never discharge them below a 50% charge. If you do, your batteries will lose energy-carrying capacity. A few other things you need to do include:

Maintain water levels in flooded-cell batteries. The least expensive (and therefore most common) type of lead acid battery is called flooded-cell. Over time, flooded-cell batteries lose water with each charge cycle, and this water needs to be replenished. You must use distilled water to help reduce the formation of sulfate crystals when the battery plates are exposed to air. You should check the water level at least once per month.
Clean battery terminals. Typically a wire brush is all that is needed to perform this task, however, you can also use a mixture of baking soda and water or a commercial battery contact cleaning product.
Perform maintenance even when stored. Lead acid batteries self-discharge even when not in use. Be sure to keep an eye on this or set up a trickle charger. If you don’t keep your RV at home, it might be easier to at least remove the house batteries and take them home with you. This makes it simpler to check the charge, fluid level, etc.

Generators

Motorized RVs and larger fifth wheels will come with an on-board generator. Many RVers choose to purchase portable generators for their travel trailers and smaller fifth wheels. Regardless of what type you have, there are two main things you can do to keep it running well.

Exercise it. Your generator should be run on 50% load for 2 hours each month.
Change the oil, filter, and fluids. You can purchase a kit with everything you need for your particular generator like this one on Amazon.

Water Tanks

When it comes to RV water tanks, let’s first talk about getting water into your RV. You’ll either fill your fresh water tank and use your water pump for water when traveling or will be at a campground where you can be hooked up to “city water.” No matter which method, you’ll want to have two very important pieces of equipment at the water faucet: a water pressure regulator and a water filtration system. Click here to read more about the importance of water filtration and to see our DIY water filter system.

Fresh Water Tank –You’ll want to sanitize this periodically. We do it at least twice per year. The simplest way is to bypass the water heater and add ¼ cup bleach per gallon of water or one ounce of bleach for every eight gallons. Allow it to sit for 12 hours before draining. Then run fresh water through your tap until you can’t smell bleach any longer.
Gray Water Tank –This is the wastewater holding tank for the sinks and showers in your RV. Since the wastewater already has soap in it, there isn’t much maintenance required. The most important thing you can do is have a drain catcher for hair in the shower and food particles in the kitchen sink. This will keep it from getting clogged and prevent odors.
Black Water Tank –This is where the waste from flushing the toilet goes. The most important thing you can add to this tank is water. You need to be sure you have some water in the tank before using it the first time, then be sure to use plenty of water when flushing. This will ensure that everything flows out of the tank when dumping. Also, never leave the black tank release valve open even when hooked up to the sewer. This is what causes the dreaded poo pyramid. Click here to see our step-by-step process for maintaining an odor-free black tank.

Another task that should be completed a couple of times a year is flushing your water heater.

Tires

There are several things you can do to maintain your tires:

Slow down. Many RV (and especially trailer) tires are not rated to be driven over 65 mph. Check your owner’s manual to verify the maximum speed recommended for your tires.
Conduct a visual inspection regularly. Check the tread and sidewalls for wear and cracks.
Keep them properly inflated. This is so important that we use a Tire Pressure Monitoring System to monitor the pressure and temperature while driving. We feel so strongly about it, that we have an entire article dedicated to this topic.

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