Roof maintenance questions

[GilnJo]

Hello all, My 2012 Shamrock 23SS is now about 8 months old, and has fared well through our mild winter and about 10 trips out. I would like to get up on the roof and take a look around. What should I be looking for? I've had no leaks or other roof issues so far, but are there any telltale signs of impending trouble? General maintenance tasks? What's the best (and safest) way to get up on the roof? Any areas on which I shouldn't be standing (or knealing)? I presume it's designed to withstand a person's weight, but I recall reading that laying down a piece of plywood might help distribute the load a bit while I'm up there. And for those of you out there with the quick wit - cutting back on the cold brews and dropping a few lbs. is not an option. Thanks all in advance for the help.

[donn]

As long as your not some 500 pound monster and climbing up on the roof and working in high places does not bother you you should be OK to get on the roof. Just be sure your shoes do not have gravel in them, do not walk real close to any openings and you should be OK. As for what to look for? Anything and everything that can leak. All openings in the roof material should be inspected two to three times a year. Any thing that does not look absolutely water tight should be recaulked with the correct caulking.

[Labzy]

If you are going to wash the roof, just be aware that it can get pretty slippery.
I do not stand on the roof when washing but instead go on my knees or behind, because that whole combination of water, soap, vents etc.., plus a hose to trip on, just spells trouble IMHO.

[TURBS]

gilnjo read this .http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...oof-16851.html

[Willis]

Originally Posted by GilnJo

And for those of you out there with the quick wit - cutting back on the cold brews and dropping a few lbs. is not an option. Thanks all in advance for the help.

OK, but make sure you aren't wearing your high heels. Those things just don't go with RV roofs.

*

[capucine]

If I have to walk on the roof I set up a piece of carpet indoor outdoor. As for washing the roof I use a yatch mop and run around on a step ladder. Like that you can wash your roof without walking on it. The less you walk on the roof the better for your trailer.

[Triguy]

Lots of good advice above. Here's what I do. Keep in mind two things:

1) Not only does the manual recommend periodic checks, but its a requirement that you maintain the roof for warranty purposes. 2) Your Shamrock has a TPO roof.

Get a tall ladder and climb up on roof (It will support your weight). Use a board if you want to (I don't) and step clear of A/C, vents, skylight, etc.

Inspect all seams, gaskets, and any place that the roof material has been cut or drilled. Check closely around A/C, vents, antennas, sewer vent, and all side seams. Look for any signs of bubbling in the membrane and any tears (damage from tree branches, etc).

I use Dicor 501 Self Leveling or a similar Alpha product for sealing cracks in the existing caulk. Do not use silicone. You shouldn't have to remove the old caulk unless something is really wrong with it.

If you want to clean the roof, Alpha specifically recommends Murphy's Oil Soap for their TPO roofs. Its safe. You want to stay away from anything with petroleum in it.

Hope this helps!

[GilnJo]

Thank you all for the great advice. We're looking forward to the warmer weather and more outings. Safe travels to everyone.

[Herk7769]

Originally Posted by Labzy

If you are going to wash the roof, just be aware that it can get pretty slippery.
I do not stand on the roof when washing but instead go on my knees or behind, because that whole combination of water, soap, vents etc.., plus a hose to trip on, just spells trouble IMHO.

I can not agree more. After my first bout of "bloody knees" I bought tile setter's knee pads. HIGHLY recommended and you don't need to travel with them () just keep em with your cleaning supplies.

[GilnJo]

Thanks for the tip Lou. As it happens I already have tile setter's knee pads from when I set the new tile in my kitchen.