Skip to main content

How to Inspect and Maintain Your RV’s Exterior Seals


Inspect your RV’s exterior seals at least every six months and roof seals at least every 90 days. Look for cracks, gaps, shrinkage, and separation around seams, windows, doors, and exterior attachments. Repair deteriorated areas promptly using the sealant specified for the surface and existing installation to help prevent water intrusion.

Why Do Exterior Seals Need Maintenance?

Sunlight, weather, temperature changes, and movement during travel can cause sealants to deteriorate. Small openings can allow water into the roof or walls, where damage may develop before a leak becomes visible inside.

Routine inspections help you identify these openings early. Sealant maintenance is an ongoing part of RV ownership, even when the surrounding components appear to be in good condition.

Where Should You Inspect Exterior Seals?

Work systematically from front to rear and top to bottom. Check:

  • Roof Seams and Attachments: Roof edges, vents, skylights, and other areas where sealant is used
  • Windows and Doors: Joints between frames and sidewalls, including compartment door frames
  • Exterior Moldings: Corner moldings, roofline trim, awning rails, and other sealed trim
  • Wall Attachments: Lights, grab handles, water connections, vents, and access hatches
  • Slide-Outs: Seams, moldings, and attachments on the slide-out room and around the wall opening

Look for missing sealant, cracks, gaps, pulled edges, or areas that have separated from the surface. Also check inside for water stains, dampness, or soft material, particularly after rain.

Keep designed drainage openings, such as window weep holes, clear. Do not seal them shut.

What Tools and Materials Do You Need?

For a minor sealant repair, you may need:

  • Caulk gun
  • Manufacturer-specified exterior RV sealant
  • Compatible cleaner
  • Shop towels
  • Non-marring sealant-removal tool
  • Protective gloves and eye protection

Alcohol may be suitable for some surfaces, but it is not a universal cleaner. Confirm compatibility with the finish, component, and sealant before use.

How Do You Repair a Small Sealant Gap?

Step 1: Confirm the Correct Repair and Sealant

Identify the surface and the sealant originally used. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for touching up a small gap versus removing and replacing a deteriorated bead.

Do not assume household silicone is appropriate for every exterior joint. Keystone specifies that silicone products must not be used on the roof membrane. Alpha roofing systems require the specified Alpha sealant.

Avoid applying a different sealant over the existing bead unless compatibility is confirmed. Products that do not bond properly can leave a path for water between them.

Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Area

Remove loose or failed material as directed without damaging the surface or disturbing sound seals unnecessarily.

Clean away dirt and residue using an approved cleaner, then let the area dry. Do not apply fresh sealant over moisture, contamination, or damaged material beneath the joint.

Step 3: Apply and Finish the Sealant

Apply a continuous bead according to the product instructions, covering the repair area and bonding to the prepared surfaces. Tool or smooth it only as directed; self-leveling roof sealants may require a different application method from sidewall products.

Check for gaps or missed areas and allow the specified curing time before exposure to water or travel.

When Should You Have a Dealer Inspect the Seals?

Contact your dealer or an authorized service center if:

  • You find interior leaks, dampness, staining, or soft areas.
  • Sealant failure is extensive or repeatedly returns.
  • A frame, molding, or attachment is loose.
  • You cannot identify the correct sealant or repair method.
  • Roof access or working conditions are unsafe.

A new surface bead may not correct a failed underlying gasket or water damage. Have the cause evaluated rather than repeatedly covering the same area.

For model-specific care and maintenance guidance, refer to your Keystone Owner’s Manual.

Schedule regular exterior seal inspections and address new gaps promptly.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.