Forum Discussion

N-Trouble's avatar
N-Trouble
Explorer
Dec 09, 2014

Branches vs rubber roof

I was up on my roof the other day and noticed that on each side of the trailer where the roof rolls over the side a few inches just behind the front cap I have several large scratch marks that extend back a few feet. This is the tallest section of the trailer and seems to take the most abuse. While they appear to be on the surface and have not compromised the rubber I would like to avoid any tears in the future.

I was wondering if another layer of rubber or something else could be applied in that area as a protective/sacrificial layer for the actual rubber roof. Has anyone done anything like this? I know the best thing to do would be to stay away from branches which I try to but it seems inevitable that some of the places we camp that were just going to get into them.
  • MartyMoose's avatar
    MartyMoose
    Explorer
    Dec 11, 2014
    Great post and idea on the tape. I went to clean my roof before I put my cover on for winter and found a small hole and many scratches along the edge line which I patched and looks like I caught it in time.
    I will be adding this next spring to my TH.
    Thanks
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Dec 10, 2014
    I camp mostly in SPs, and in most of them, very little tree trimming is done. I would like to think this is due to keeping things natural, rather than lazy park employees.

    I try to camp during the week, as most parks in my area, are reserved sites only, and full every weekend, or holiday. My site choices are good, but often limited by low branches.

    I see many FWs taller than my 12' 6", just drag the branches over the roof, or down the sides. I may be too cautious, but I will always settle for a less desirable site, than risk the damage.

    I guess the taller rigs, do the trimming, for the smaller ones.

    Jerry
  • path1's avatar
    path1
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2014
    Some type of shield would be a great product for RV industry.
  • retispcsi's avatar
    retispcsi
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2014
    My last fiver had a rubber roof. I used Earthbond more then once. Mostly on the roof edges. That is where it seems to get the most damage from branches. The first time I damaged the roof I went to an RV dealer and bought some Earthbond and the dealer recommended to use a sealer caulk also around the edges. I cleaned the surface and use caulk then the tape. Had those seals on there for ten years and when I traded the unit they were still waterproof. I live in SW Fla. so the roof went through many years on heavy rain.
  • TurnThePage's avatar
    TurnThePage
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2014
    I actually have 2 layers of Eternabond in a few places along the roof edge. I'm not gonna stop going to my favorite places.
  • kennethwooster's avatar
    kennethwooster
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2014
    Got caught in a place I could not get out of. Got between vehicle and a large evergreen tree. I should have ask him to move the pickup and service trailer, but thought I had plenty of room. Watched very close to make sure I missed the truck and trailer, however; when I looked on the other side, I realized the no move limbs of the evergreen tree were rubbing the roof. I stopped and took a look and knew I was in trouble. It was the end of the season so went straight to RV dealer. He said it would take new roof as well as wood decking. Also required some paint on the rolled portion. Progressive was very good, and I only paid 250.00. Just was 3 months before they finished. So watch where you pull into. I learned not to go into places I was not acquainted with.
  • army_guy1's avatar
    army_guy1
    Explorer
    Dec 10, 2014
    Eternabond tape is a great fix. Also works if you do get tears in the rubber roof.
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Dec 09, 2014
    N-Trouble wrote:
    I know the best thing to do would be to stay away from branches which I try to but it seems inevitable that some of the places we camp that were just going to get into them.
    Yes it would. I won't go into places that are overgrown.

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