Which tape for sealing an RV roof is best?
You got an RV for the freedom of the open road, but RV life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. One perk that many RV owners find is the opportunity to learn maintenance skills they wouldn’t have otherwise. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of sealing your RV’s roof, you’ll be happy to know that using sealant tape can be an easy and intuitive process. To get yourself back on the road, pick up some RV Roof Sealant Tape.
What to know before you buy tape for sealing an RV roof
How extensive are your sealing needs?
Most sealant tapes are 4 inches wide by the number of feet in the roll. This width is likely enough for your needs, and all you have to concern yourself with is a long-enough roll of sealant tape. If you need more than 4r inches of width, consider a liquid sealant option or seek the help of professionals.
Type of sealant
You can use standard seal tape on its own, but a butyl tape option acts best as a second layer behind a self-leveling or non-sag sealant. That being said, for more minor needs, you can use a good butyl tape by itself.
Make sure you know what your roof is made of
Most RVs have rubber roofs that are compatible with most sealant tapes. However, depending on age, make and model, your roof could be fiberglass or metal. Whatever your material, make sure your sealant is compatible with it. If you have a leak or opening in your roof, make sure you choose a heavy-duty sealant and use an RV cover when possible to protect it from long-term sun exposure.
What to look for in a quality tape for sealing an RV roof
UV ray-resistant
While sun resistance isn’t as crucial as waterproofing, a UV resistance is good for protection against long-term wear and tear if you plan to use this tape as a long-term solution. A combination of UV and water over the seasons will wear down your insulation, leave you colder, and also present the possibility of structural issues, such as water damage.
Warranty
While sealant tape is made for long-term wear and tear, getting one from a brand that offers a warranty will give you extra peace of mind. Since there isn’t a huge variance in prices of different tape offerings, it’s likely worth the few extra dollars to buy from a brand that offers a robust (or even lifetime) warranty.
Ease of application (and removal, if necessary)
If you aren’t an avid DIYer, this may be your first foray into the sealant. Get a beginner-friendly option if you’re doing it yourself. Beginner-friendly tapes will be easy to apply, have plenty of instructions, and be easy to remove, should you get it wrong a couple of times.
How much you can expect to spend on tape for sealing an RV roof
Sealant tape is a budget-friendly RV repair option. Depending on type and size, most RVers will spend between $10-$30, though it can get up to $50.
Tape for sealing an RV roof FAQ
Can I use tape sealant without a roller?
A.This comes under the category of you can, but you shouldn’t. Lots of tapes will come with a roller included, but not all do. If you don’t have one, it’s worth the extra cost to get a separate roller and do the job thoroughly.
Is RV sealant tape an excellent long-term solution?
A.If you buy quality sealant tape, it’s built to last. A good waterproof and UV-proof tape, properly installed, can be a very viable and budget-friendly, long-term solution for your sealant needs.