How to remove lap sealant from TPO roof?

Question

Grand Design has a bit of a reputation (deserved or not) for not getting their roof membranes glued on very well.

I'm currently trying to remove the OEM solar panel from my Imagine XLS trailer in preparation for a new solar system. The lap sealant is impressively stuck on. As I try to remove it with a putty knife, the TPO is lifting and stretching, and the lap sealant is just not letting go.

If it wasn't under warranty I would seriously consider literally cutting out those sections and patching with Eternabond.

Any suggestions?

joelc · Answer

Don't know if it will work but WD-40 removes a lot of problem glues and pine pitch.  It might work.

ken56 · Answer

Hair dryer on high setting. Heat it up and soften it and then use a plastic scraper to lift it off.

stonedpanther · Answer

Grand Design uses Alpha Systems Superflex roofing, now a Lippert company. You don't get the lap sealant off of Superflex without destroying the Superflex itself, which is what the OP is running into. That's why they make "patch kits" available for an overpriced amount on the Lippert online store. If you get lap sealant off of Superflex without stretching it or tearing it you're Superman.

The way you would repair those areas is cut around the lap sealant and remove it and the piece of membrane under it, then patch the membrane back in using the material that comes in Lipperts overpriced patch kit.

PATCH KIT

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How to remove lap sealant from TPO roof?

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