I have recently acquired a 1973 Holiday Vacationer which needs some extensive water damage repaired. I know the ceiling vents need to be replaced but I also feel I need to seal the roof. The problem is the PO used roofing tar on all of the seams and I am not sure what I can use in conjunction with the tar or what can be done to remove the tar. Does anyone have any advice for me? Maybe some kind of new "skin" over the old roof?Kevin

What is the roof material, aluminum? If so, I used a wire wheel on a 4" right hand grinder, followed by mineral spirits and lacquer thinner. If the roof is EPDM (rubber membrane), it is advisable to replace it.

Being a "1973" and its EDPM, its time for a new roof replacement anyway. If wondering, EDPM sheets and underlay glue can be purchase as "special order" from many RV dealers. Lots of great DIY You-Tube videos showing the install as well. If replacing roof surface, remember to fully inspect its underside wood sheets as well. If needed, do upgrade thin 1/2" plywood sheeting with much better tongue / groove 5/8" sheets. Its much stronger in the long run.If not into DIY mini-projects like this, then ask a few technical schools in your area if their students are looking for special projects. A few technical students would love a DIY project like this. I'm sure they could re-cover aluminum roofs as well (assume you supply the needed materials).

Very probable that the water caused corrosion of Alluminum. I'd re-skin it.

Since aluminum...Remove the black tar (that previous owner applied)Clean roof with appropriate cleaner (varsol or ???)If existing Aluminum is good, then apply liquid Rubber on it. re: - Click Here 1 - or - Click Here 2 - Note: Before buying, do call EDPM company to confirm if RV EDPM (in orange can) or normal EDPM (in blue can) should be used on existing Aluminum material.Is re-skin with new aluminum or simply cleaning and coating with EDPM better? Not too sure. I'd probably go with new vents / new covers, then coat with EDPM liquid rubber.

Sealing a TT roof | Good Sam Community

13 Replies

2broke2ride
Explorer
Jun 12, 2013
The roof is aluminum.

Kevin
spike99
Explorer
Jun 12, 2013
Being a "1973" and its EDPM, its time for a new roof replacement anyway. If wondering, EDPM sheets and underlay glue can be purchase as "special order" from many RV dealers. Lots of great DIY You-Tube videos showing the install as well. If replacing roof surface, remember to fully inspect its underside wood sheets as well. If needed, do upgrade thin 1/2" plywood sheeting with much better tongue / groove 5/8" sheets. Its much stronger in the long run.

If not into DIY mini-projects like this, then ask a few technical schools in your area if their students are looking for special projects. A few technical students would love a DIY project like this. I'm sure they could re-cover aluminum roofs as well (assume you supply the needed materials).
westend
Explorer
Jun 12, 2013
What is the roof material, aluminum? If so, I used a wire wheel on a 4" right hand grinder, followed by mineral spirits and lacquer thinner. If the roof is EPDM (rubber membrane), it is advisable to replace it.

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Sealing a TT roof

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