EPDM Roof Leak

I'll be sure to rough it up before applying the adhesive. Thanks for the heads up.

I think git rot is acetone plus epoxy. The acetone is to dry out the wood - replace moisture and then evaporate. The epoxy is the strengthen the wood back up. You may want to see if the glue will stick to the epoxy or if it will stick to the the epoxy if rough sanded.

After reading all of the suggestions, I have formulated a plan. I have cut the rubber roofing back so that I can get air to the wood. Today I move it to a sunny area to help the drying. I will remove the top layer of plywood that bulged up. Then apply 'Git Rot' to strengthen the wood that's still good. After it completely cures I will glue the roofing back down and let that cure. Then apply enough patch material from Dicor to cover the area. The last step will be to apply lap sealant where the seams are and around the perimeter of the patch. I know this whole process will take weeks to complete so that each step completes its curing process. In the end I think I will have a strong and lasting repair. Thanks to all that helped me with this challenge. You are very much appreciated.

There is a product called" Get Rot " that is used on wooden boats for just this purpose . It is some kind of epoxy mix , you apply and it dries and hardens the wood . I have used it many times on boat decks , turns wet wood into some kind of " plastic '.

facory wrote:
I have cut a large 'X' and pulled the roofing back. It is very damp, however the bulge is coming from the top layer of the plywood. The weather here is a light breeze with partial sun and I'm letting it dry out before I proceed further. I like the suggestion of the 'Git Rot' application. If it turns out to be something I can use it would sure make the job easier.

I think that you are on the right track.

Unless you are planning to have a dance on your roof, it is not likely that anyone will fall through this tiny section of weakened roof. If it was 2' square, I would worry about it, and find a fix.

A EPDM patch, or what you have ordered from Dicor will work to close up the roof. Of course wait for it to dry for a while.

Do you have a plastic tarp - in case it starts raining tonight? A cardboard box next to the soft area, then cover with tarp (so there is a lot of air flow near the damp spot - or use a small fan) and then use bricks or something to keep the tarp in place in case the wind picks up.

Just remember not to walk on that section of roof. Afterall it is only a few inches square.

After making this area water tight, you might want to do a full blower test. This is where you pressurize the whole RV with a wet/dry vacuum, and then spray the outside with soapy water. This will give bubbles around the leaks!

Use a small chemical pressure sprayer. . .

Fred.

Good luck,

Fred.

I have cut a large 'X' and pulled the roofing back. It is very damp, however the bulge is coming from the top layer of the plywood. The weather here is a light breeze with partial sun and I'm letting it dry out before I proceed further. I like the suggestion of the 'Git Rot' application. If it turns out to be something I can use it would sure make the job easier.

westend wrote:
If the damaged roof sheathing is the size of a softball, I wouldn't cut it out. Instead, I would use an epoxy made to penetrate rotted wood. Something like Git Rot would be the product. Cut your EPDM, apply the epoxy, put adhesive under the EPDM, and apply your patch. A softball sized piece, even if swelled, will not effect the longevity of the roof and it will be some work to get a new piece installed correctly if you cut it out.

Good point, I agree. IF, the damage is only the size of a softball + -.
The OP won't know until he does surgery.

If the damaged roof sheathing is the size of a softball, I wouldn't cut it out. Instead, I would use an epoxy made to penetrate rotted wood. Something like Git Rot would be the product. Cut your EPDM, apply the epoxy, put adhesive under the EPDM, and apply your patch. A softball sized piece, even if swelled, will not effect the longevity of the roof and it will be some work to get a new piece installed correctly if you cut it out.

Very obvious benefits of aluminum structure! I would guess your roof is 5/8" rather than 3/4". Consult a local dealer to be sure. Cut out the rotted pieces, make sure insulation is dry and allow the ceiling to thoroughly dry out. The roof sheathing and interior ceiling surface are most likely to be separate structures mounted to the aluminum structure.

Slowly drill a couple test holes and check the thickness of the plywood.