RV Roof Assembly: Maintenance Tips and Common Concerns

In most cases, the roof assembly consists of the interior paneling, a truss system, insulation, roof decking (plywood or OSB), and roofing material (TPO) glued to the roof decking. Because of the manufacturing process, air pockets and/or visible spots may be seen in the roof material. These visible spots can be caused by debris (wood, staples, screws, etc.) that is between the roof material and decking or by imperfections occurring during the roof material's manufacturing. In most cases, these are considered cosmetic in nature and seldom require any corrective action.

Should I Be Concerned About Bubbles or Debris?

• Bubbles in the Roof:
• Generally, these are cosmetic. However, monitor any changes for potential underlying issues.
• Small Debris Under the Roof Material:
• This is usually not a concern, but if debris leads to significant bulging or moisture retention, further evaluation may be needed.

Maintenance Requirements

• Durability of TPO Roof:
• The TPO roof will not rust or corrode and is very strong and durable. Other than periodic washing, the roof material itself does not require maintenance or coatings. However, any attachments, seams, or joints in the roof material require maintenance every 90 days.
• Sealants:
• Alpha sealants must be used on an RV with the Alpha system. These can be obtained from your dealership. Roof sealants will deteriorate, which can lead to leaks. Deterioration can be accelerated by heavy sun exposure, changes in climate (expansion/contraction), and cold climates. Once the RV leaves our manufacturing facilities, we can no longer maintain the sealants; this responsibility falls to the owner.
• Inspection:
• Inspect the roof at least every 90 days, focusing on seams, joints, and attachments. Look for cracks, shrinkage, and gaps in the sealants. Clean and reseal as necessary, using the same sealant as originally installed. Avoid using any silicone products on the roof material.
• Repair Options:
• If there’s any doubt in your mind before performing maintenance, please contact your local dealer to have it done. Minor punctures or cuts can often be repaired with patch kits available from your local dealer. Full replacement of the material is seldom necessary.

Proper maintenance of your RV roof assembly is crucial to prevent leaks and extend the life of your RV. Regular inspections and prompt attention to sealants can help you avoid frustrating and expensive repairs. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for care and operation.

For further information on care and maintenance, please refer to the manufacturer's instructions or visit Alpha Systems.

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.