Leak Prevention

(Jacksonville FL)
One of the most important maintenance items to do is prevent leaks in an RV. I knew when I purchased Tardis that it was due for the roof to be resealed. I tackled that chore this past weekend.

There are two options for this task. One is to strip the old sealant and replace with new caulking. It is then good for another 5 to 8 years. Another is to cover the existing old seams with Eternabond tape which is warrantied for 15 years. I chose the tape method for it’s easy installation and reputation as a durable fix.

Here are some before and after pictures of sections of the roof. As you can see, while it was not leaking, it was ready to be redone. Better too soon than too late!

Note that Lazy Daze uses a single sheet of aluminum over plywood on the roof. The only cuts are for the vents, and outer edge, so seams are at a minimum. I’m also adding covers for the exhaust vents so they can remain open while traveling or when it is raining.

Roof after taping with Eternabond

Cleaning the seams and applying the tape only took part of a day, with many breaks to rest my bones from all the bending and kneeling. It was well worth the effort to be sure there will be no leaks in my new home.

For more posts that show other mods to the rig see the Tardis page.

Camp: At a friend’s place
Scene: Residential neighborhood