Forum Discussion

HappyjackGum's avatar
HappyjackGum
Explorer
Sep 20, 2019

Rubber roof cleaning

What is the best (inexpensive) way to clean my 1996 companion 18r rubber roof?

I hear "Dawn" dish soap works good. That is what I plan to use this weekend. Any ideas?
  • Mildew, moss, algae or pine sap would the only things I'd ever clean a roof for. Since I never get those things, I haven't cleaned mine in 15 years. Looks great.
  • wildtoad wrote:
    Dawn will clean it, but it also can remove wax on the sides of the RV. Spic and Span is good. For the mold/mildew, add some Clorox bleach to the bucket of wash water. ( I use a 2 gallons yard sprayer). Spray it on the roof, use a medium bristle brush to scrub, not too hard. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes for the bleach to work, rinse it off, really well. Go over the heard to clean spots.


    I started using (Lysol all purpose cleaner) and it worked great until my wife flipped out and said that would hurt the rubber.
    anyone used Lysol all purpose cleaner in the yellow bottle?

    https://www.amazon.com/Lysol-Purpose-Cleaner-Breeze-2X32oz/dp/B07HB6YRQB/ref=asc_df_B07HB6YRQB/?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid={creative}&hvpos={adposition}&hvnetw=o&hvrand={random}&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl={devicemodel}&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583726545497113&psc=1
  • Dawn will clean it, but it also can remove wax on the sides of the RV. Spic and Span is good. For the mold/mildew, add some Clorox bleach to the bucket of wash water. ( I use a 2 gallons yard sprayer). Spray it on the roof, use a medium bristle brush to scrub, not too hard. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes for the bleach to work, rinse it off, really well. Go over the heard to clean spots.
  • 2012Coleman wrote:
    I was given CamCo roof cleaner available at Walmart. It sat on the shelf for a long time, but then I went to clean the roof and didn't have my usual Spic & Span so I used it. Was not enthused while cleaning, but the rinse water was brownish. But when it dried, boy what a difference - very white and bright. Here is a picture I used for selling it taken after cleaning it and laying down caulk.

    Don't use anything that lists petroleum distillates in the contents.


    thank you very much for the advice.


    I hear other people using Spic & Span. Is that better than "Dawn" or is CamCo roof cleaner even better?
    Just trying to save a buck but still wanting the best product.

    The roof really is not dirty. except some mildew. Since 1996 not one thing has been done to this trailer. so I'm removing all the caulk and then after everything is reseated, then I'm redoing the coating on the rubber.
  • I was given CamCo roof cleaner available at Walmart. It sat on the shelf for a long time, but then I went to clean the roof and didn't have my usual Spic & Span so I used it. Was not enthused while cleaning, but the rinse water was brownish. But when it dried, boy what a difference - very white and bright. Here is a picture I used for selling it taken after cleaning it and laying down caulk.

    Don't use anything that lists petroleum distillates in the contents.

  • Why are you cleaning the roof? For repairs? Maintenance? Solar install? Otherwise leave it alone IMO.