One-day procedure works best

In coating your RV, it is important that the whole cleaning and coating procedure be done in one day. For example, when coating EPDM roofing, the Cleaner/Activator not only cleans the roof surface, it also opens the pores in the EPDM membrane for about five to six hours.

Once the Cleaner/Activator is rinsed off the roof, the roof needs to dry completely. The coating needs to be applied while the pores are open so that the two-coat application imbeds itself in the old roofing and bonds together for a solid, tight seal (we love bonding). Remember, before applying the second coat, be sure the first coat is dry.

Find a day when you can be sure it’s not going to rain. I recommend starting right after the morning dew has dissipated. Begin with step one, the cleaning procedure letting it dry completely. Next apply two coats of the coating material (remember to let the first coat dry) then let it sit to dry and set up before the evening dew. I prefer the second coat be applied with three to four hours of sunlight left in the day. Lastly, make sure you have covered every inch of the roof and not cut any corners.

Cure time

Once applied, roof coatings take 24 to 48 hours to fully cure and strengthen its bond with the roof. Refrain from doing anything else with the RV during this time and avoid rain and other hazards as best you can. Factor these things into your planning as well.

Remember, with planning and prevention, you can stop bad things happening, and enjoy your RV more.

Roof coating plan

Preparation phase
1-2 weeks prior Do any required lap sealant touch-up and replacement
1-2 days prior Apply any required peel & stick patches
Coating Day
Do not begin until roof is completely dry from dew/rain
1st Hour Mask walls/caps and sweep all loose material off the roof
2nd Hour Apply Cleaner/Activator to roofing
Rinse and let the roofing completely dry
3rd Hour Apply first coat of Roof Coating
4th Hour Let coating completely dry
5th Hour Apply second coat of Roof Coating
6th Hour  
7th Hour  
8th Hour Allow 3-4 hours between coating and sunset
(and possible onset of dew)
9th Hour  
10th Hour  
Sunset
24-48 hours after coating — Do not use RV while the coating is fully curing

Use the right tools

  • A power washer with the correct nozzle (use a wider pattern, not a concentrated stream) and a long enough wand is a great tool for cleaning and rinsing your RV roof.
  • A medium nap roller is the best way to apply the coating material.