Dove to clean roof?

[itat]

Originally Posted by TURBS

Do you have documentation ?

What documentation are you asking about, Turbs? The TT is in storage so I don't have it handy, but I do recall reading that Murphy's Oil Soap is recommended for the Alpha Systems TPO membrane. There is a link to the cleaning instructions on Alpha System's "Product Care" web page but the link isn't working right now.

[TURBS]

Originally Posted by itat

What documentation are you asking about, Turbs? The TT is in storage so I don't have it handy, but I do recall reading that Murphy's Oil Soap is recommended for the Alpha Systems TPO membrane. There is a link to the cleaning instructions on Alpha System's "Product Care" web page but the link isn't working right now.

Yes that is what I was looking for, I also seen the alpha link is down or not working on the site.

[5picker]

OK folks,
After getting the 'Server Error in '/' Application" on the Alpha web site for their cleaning instructions, I made a call to Alpha's Customer Service.

They have taken that info down and are implementing new recommendations.
The gal I spoke with wouldn't elaborate on why, other than mentioning she believes Dawn has "too many variations of their product" (ie: Ultra Clean, Platinum, Foaming, etc) to recommend its use.

Here is what they sent me via email... take their advice, or don't....

CLEANING AND MAINTAINING THE ALPHA SYSTEMS
ROOF MEMBRANE


Proper care and maintenance of your Alpha Systems roof membrane is critical for years of trouble-free performance. Normal maintenance is simple, easy and requires no special materials. Periodic cleaning (three to four times per year) is the primary maintenance required. Alpha Systems recommends using a non-abrasive household cleaner, such as Top Job or Spic-N-Span, and a medium-bristled scrub brush. Do not use any harsh or highly-abrasive products during cleaning. When finished cleaning, remember to thoroughly rinse the roof and sidewalls in order to remove any soap residue and to prevent streaking.

CARE SHOULD BE EXERCISED WHEN WORKING ON TOP OF YOUR UNIT! THE ROOF MAY BECOME SLIPPERY WHEN WET. DO NOT USE ACETONE, OR ANY OTHER PRODUCTS CONTAINING PETROLEUM DISTILLATES, ON THE ALPHA SYSTEMS ROOF MEMBRANE. USE OF THESE PRODUCTS WILL DAMAGE THE MEMBRANE.

Periodic inspection of the roof, during cleaning, is highly recommended. Check the membrane for signs of damage. Check the caulk/lap sealant used in all termination areas, and around all accessories and fasteners, for signs of cracking or voids. The roof membrane can be cut or punctured by sharp objects. Caution should be used when placing any articles on the roof. If damage does occur, the membrane can usually be patched. Alpha's membrane is quite inert and will resist weathering well. It does not require the periodic application of products to protect it from ultra-violet light or ozone. In fact, these products can often cause damage to the roof membrane.

If you have any questions, please contact Alpha Systems at 574-295-5206

[cwppwc]

May I ask, does anyone use Dicor roof cleaning or protectant products? Thoughts?

[NMWildcat]

Any of the roof cleaning products (like Dicor Roof cleaner from wallyworld) I have tried in the past will leave streaks down the side of your rig. They definitely take the wax off, and some will even discolor decals.

Plus they are expensive, especially compared to Dawn

Never used the roof conditioners on any of my rigs, have been told by several techs it's a waste. Just keep the roof clean and sealed.

[howie70]

Spic-n-span is what I have been advised to use. It was in the paper work with the camper I do believe.

[cwppwc]

I tried blue Dawn dish soap on the first half and Murphy's Oil Soap on the second half. From my perspective, working on my trailer roof, the blue Dawn dish soap was much more effective. The Murphy's did well but took a lot more scrubbing on my 2 year old dirty roof. I'm sure Murphy's would have been excellent if I had got up there every six months like I should have. But for me, blue Dawn from now on, every six months.

[TURBS]

Yep dawn


2008 2500hd Duramax
2015 Columbus 320RS
2016 nights camped "2"
2015 nights camped "34"

[itat]

Originally Posted by cwppwc

I tried blue Dawn dish soap on the first half and Murphy's Oil Soap on the second half. From my perspective, working on my trailer roof, the blue Dawn dish soap was much more effective. The Murphy's did well but took a lot more scrubbing on my 2 year old dirty roof. I'm sure Murphy's would have been excellent if I had got up there every six months like I should have. But for me, blue Dawn from now on, every six months.

The Dawn definitely did a great job. I'll have to try that experiment on mine, too. I only wash it once a year and it doesn't get that dirty but my back doesn't like all the bending over to scrub it.

How much do you dilute it in water?

EDIT: I may try the liquid Spic-n-Span, too, while I'm experimenting.

[Wolverine 1945]

Originally Posted by cwppwc

I tried blue Dawn dish soap on the first half and Murphy's Oil Soap on the second half. From my perspective, working on my trailer roof, the blue Dawn dish soap was much more effective. The Murphy's did well but took a lot more scrubbing on my 2 year old dirty roof. I'm sure Murphy's would have been excellent if I had got up there every six months like I should have. But for me, blue Dawn from now on, every six months.

Attachment 106475

Sure looks good !!!

[cwppwc]

Originally Posted by itat

How much do you dilute it in water?.

I didn't really measure. Squirted maybe 6-8 tablespoons of dawn and filled the 5 gallon bucket half way. I wanted it "strong" because my roof was so dirty. I used the strong formula on the Murphy Oil bottle. I think it was a half cup per gallon but verify if you want to try Murphy's.

[cwppwc]

Originally Posted by itat

"but my back doesn't like all the bending over to scrub it."

Oh, and my back would have killed me too but I used this brush and it workd wonderful.

http://smile.amazon.com/Superior-Per...ilpage_o07_s00

[slide5r4fun]

I use Murphy's oil soap and scrub the roof with a soft bristle brush on a telescoping pole. FWIW, Dawn will strip the wax from gelcoat/paint. Boils down to a personal preference I guess. As much work as it is to wax a 35' fifth wheel, I'm not going to use something to clean the roof that strips the wax off everything it touches. Dove, on the other hand, doesn't have the degreasers like Dawn so it would not strip the wax. Still wouldn't use a dish detergent for this job.

[spierce617]

It sounds like most people use the blue Dawn. Seems to work good. I know I will get many answers but:
What brush would one use to clean a rubber roof (EDPM) ? I have heard a stiff brush and a medium brush.

[Wolverine 1945]

Originally Posted by slide5r4fun

I use Murphy's oil soap and scrub the roof with a soft bristle brush on a telescoping pole. FWIW, Dawn will strip the wax from gelcoat/paint. Boils down to a personal preference I guess. As much work as it is to wax a 35' fifth wheel, I'm not going to use something to clean the roof that strips the wax off everything it touches. Dove, on the other hand, doesn't have the degreasers like Dawn so it would not strip the wax. Still wouldn't use a dish detergent for this job.

I am with you Kevin !!!

[cwppwc]

Originally Posted by slide5r4fun

Dawn will strip the wax from gelcoat/paint.

Great point! I'll only clean the roof when I plan on waxing the TT. Dawn did a much better job of cutting through my dirty roof but now that it IS clean, maybe the Murphy's will be all I need if I clean it every six months like I should have. I'll give it another try in October. Never too old to learn.

[Wolverine 1945]

Originally Posted by cwppwc

Great point! I'll only clean the roof when I plan on waxing the TT. Dawn did a much better job of cutting through my dirty roof but now that it IS clean, maybe the Murphy's will be all I need if I clean it every six months like I should have. I'll give it another try in October. Never too old to learn.

No but,,, sometimes we get to old to do !!!
LOL !!!

We no longer have an RV with a Rubber Roof,,, but I am thinking I may wash ours with a car washing soap,,, or maybe Murphy's ???
I will be attempting to do from a ladder,,, and not from the roof !!!

[Filterman]

Originally Posted by bikendan

I guess you're asking if Dove soap is good for roof.
I go with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Mine recommended Murphys.

I have used Dove in the past but because of its grease cutting ability I wonder if it messes with the wax on my front nose cap? Try to keep it well waxed to keep from staining. Any thoughts?

[NMWildcat]

Originally Posted by Filterman

I have used Dove in the past but because of its grease cutting ability I wonder if it messes with the wax on my front nose cap? Try to keep it well waxed to keep from staining. Any thoughts?

Some folks in this thread seem to think that dawn strips the wax but I haven't found that to be the case. Perhaps I use a more diluted solution? I just squirt a few table spoons in a 5 gal bucket and fill with water. Read the whole thread for more 'insight' 😉

[Wolverine 1945]

I guess some people use Dove & some use Dawn ???
Murphy's works pretty good for me !!!