My astute dealer installed Max Air Vents on my new travel trailer. Rather than attaching them to the metal lipping on the vent, the tech shot 'self-tapping' screws through the rubber roof - 16 screws total, without any caulking.I went on the roof this morning, backed out the screws, applied some self-leveling caulk. A couple of the screws stripped.I don't think this is going to leak, but I am not 100% certain. I am concerned that if I cover the top of the self-tapping screws, with the caulk, the indentation in the top of the screw is so small, I might never be able to remove the screw.So, should I take screws out and just fill the holes with the self-leveling caulk? And then adhere the Max Vent to the metal lipping, as should have been done? Or leave as is?Any help you can offer will be appreciated.

Why in the world wouldn't you go back to the dealer who screwed it up?

Despite the post above, you did the right thing. No, a couple of stripped screws will not be a problem assuming you put some caulk (hopefully, Dicor) in the hole before screwing it in and then some caulk over the top. Not sure why they would do what they did but you have done the right thing to ensure you will not have issues down the road.

I agree with Bill, but I would sure let the dealer know you're not happy that his tech apparently couldn't read and follow the simple installation directions.

Dutch_12078 wrote:I agree with Bill, but I would sure let the dealer know you're not happy that his tech apparently couldn't read and follow the simple installation directions.X2Show that dealer what he did Or that same guy will continue to drill holes in every RV he gets his hands on. What a moron. :R

I agree and I should have added that disclaimer. If you do nothing, the same stupid tech will continue to do the same stupid thing.

Dealers Screwed Holes in The Roof - HELP | Good Sam Community

30 Replies

JC2
Explorer
Aug 12, 2016
gbopp wrote:
Could you apply strips of Eternabond over screw holes and then attach the vent properly?

Ask the dealer for enough E/bond to repair their screw up.

I would definitely let them know you're not happy with their poor installation.

And, you can post your experience on RVServicereviews.com

(I still didn't figure out how to make a link on a Kindle)

http://www.rvservicereviews.com/
jeeperdude10
Explorer
Aug 09, 2016
I can relate, as I also had a dealer put 12 holes in my roof as well doing the same thing. I voiced my disapproval to the dealership AND wrote Maxxair telling them who/which the culprit dealership was. They (Maxxair) sent me the 'clips' for authorized attachment AND said that they were responding to the dealership by sending instructions on installing. Sometimes I wonder where these technicians/installers come from......not everything is QUICK AND EASY, at least it should not be.
The only thing the dealer offered was a ONE TIME ONLY water/leak test.......which I declined.
rhagfo
Explorer III
Aug 04, 2016
12th Man Fan wrote:
If they used self tapping metal screws, I would replace them with wood screws. Use plenty of dicore.

I am a little lost on this thought, very hard to find pan or round head "Wood Screws". Using flat head screws to secure bracket is not best practice. If it were me I would get some shorter 3/4" to 1" hex head screws same as used to secure 99 percent of the trim on RV's.

I would also use "enough" Dicor, not plenty as that usually ends up with a mess.
12th_Man_Fan
Explorer
Aug 04, 2016
If they used self tapping metal screws, I would replace them with wood screws. Use plenty of dicore.
rhagfo
Explorer III
Aug 03, 2016
Bill.Satellite wrote:
Chaz59 wrote:
Thanks guys, but the dealer does not care, so I hate to take it back there.
Can I put dicor over the eternabond, the dicor is very bumpy, so the tape may not lay down.
Whats the easiest way to to get the dicor up.

never buy from a dealer with bad reviews, just because the price is great...live and learn, I should be smart by now..lol

Dicor, screws, Dicor. You really don't need to do anything else! You have done the right thing and you should not let this haunt you.

X2
Been following this post, and WOW talk about a lot of freaking over a simple matter.Look at your roof the next time you are up there, likely on a 30' to 32' unit 50 to 100 screws holding stuff down.

All covered with Dicor, and well sealed. That and the vent covers prevent direct rain getting on those screws.

How many of those stating OMG have solar on your roof??

Yes, shame on the dealer for not sealing at all, but the fix is simple.
M_R_E_
Explorer
Aug 03, 2016
I always used Max Aire vents. This time I bought a Fantastic vent cover which I am returning for a MaxAire because they want you to remove screws covered with sealer and drill for bigger screws. No way.
CharlesinGA
Explorer
Aug 01, 2016
gbopp wrote:
Could you apply strips of Eternabond over screw holes and then attach the vent properly?

Ask the dealer for enough E/bond to repair their screw up.

I would definitely let them know you're not happy with their poor installation.

This makes the most sense of all. Re do it correctly and repair the holes (correctly).

If you are capable of getting on the roof, and have enough tools to remove the screws, you have the ability to install the vents, per the instructions. I would not let that shop touch it ever again.

I am a total DIY'er and always have been. Mounting of tires on rims, front end alignments, thats as close as anyone ever gets to anything I own.

Charles
Bill_Satellite
Explorer II
Jul 27, 2016
Chaz59 wrote:
Thanks guys, but the dealer does not care, so I hate to take it back there.
Can I put dicor over the eternabond, the dicor is very bumpy, so the tape may not lay down.
Whats the easiest way to to get the dicor up.

never buy from a dealer with bad reviews, just because the price is great...live and learn, I should be smart by now..lol

Dicor, screws, Dicor. You really don't need to do anything else! You have done the right thing and you should not let this haunt you.
BarneyS
Nomad
Jul 27, 2016
Chaz59 wrote:
Is four inch eternabond the standard size I should use for a vent?
thanks

That is what I would (and did) use. :)
I purchased two rolls from this place. They had the best prices when I was shopping for it.
Barney
Chaz59
Explorer
Jul 27, 2016
Is four inch eternabond the standard size I should use for a vent?
thanks