Rubber Roof Upkeep?

[PJRNM]

I have a 2013 Apex 258RKS. It's just now a year old and is stored outside, not covered. Is there any need to apply a rubber roof maintenance product? What exactly do these products do for the roof?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Brother Les]

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[slide5r4fun]

We keep our trailer in covered storage and we still clean and condition our roof twice a year. We use Protect All products from camping world for cleaning and treating. Treating it provides UV protection and reduces chalking of the rubber membrane. Definitely something you should consider especially since your rig is stored outside.

[Kenz]

I agree. Clean once or twice a year will all but eliminate black streaks. Also I have a habit of taking a tube of lap sealant every spring and checking/recalking anything that looks suspicious. All part of the maintenance/upkeep.

[PJRNM]

Thanks for the information! I decided to clean with a sponge and mild cleaner before using Thetford cleaner/treatment. My suggestion to those who have not tackled this job yet, go directly with the cleaner/treatment. It works a lot better than any mild cleaning products, I was very surprised by the degree of cleaning that it accomplished. I also just finished washing/sealing the TT exterior, wow was that fun!!

[Kenz]

Just a tip I learned at a Coachmen rally seminar put on by Dicor years ago. Never use a petroleum based cleaner on the rubber roof. the Petroleum will eat and break down the rubber membrane. Not good. Also when done washing the roof, wash the camper right away. That residue from the roof cleaning when it dries is more difficult to wash off.

[PJRNM]

Originally Posted by Kenz

Just a tip I learned at a Coachmen rally seminar put on by Dicor years ago. Never use a petroleum based cleaner on the rubber roof. the Petroleum will eat and break down the rubber membrane. Not good. Also when done washing the roof, wash the camper right away. That residue from the roof cleaning when it dries is more difficult to wash off.

That's true. I only waited approx. 24 hours, and it made it more difficult to get the drainage off!