How to Clean a Fiberglass RV

How to Clean a Fiberglass RV
Fiberglass RVs are treated with a hard resin polyurethane coating known as a gelcoat which protects the fiberglass from scratches and minor damage while giving the RV a smooth and glossy appearance. When you clean your fiberglass RV, you need to show special care to this gelcoat in order to maintain and extend the life of this protective barrier. The chemicals necessary for this process can be purchased from RV supply stores and some home improvement stores.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Broom
  • Laundry detergent
  • Water
  • Sponge
  • Garden hose
  • Rag
  • Methyl ethyl ketone
  • Rubber gloves
  • Fiberglass polish
  • Clean cloths
  • Fiberglass wax
Step 1
Sweep any leaves or other debris off the roof of the RV with a broom. Wear soft-soled shoes if you need to stand on the roof to complete this task to avoid causing damage.
Step 2
Mix 1 cup of liquid laundry detergent into 1 gallon of water. Wash the RV from the top down with the soapy water applied to a sponge or a wash mitt.
Step 3
Rinse the RV with a garden hose to remove all of the detergent. Allow the surface to air dry.
Step 4
Soak a rag in methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) or acetone and use it to wipe down the surface of the RV while wearing thick rubber gloves. Reapply the solvent as necessary to keep the rag dampened. These chemicals will help remove any grease or oil from the surface of the fiberglass.
Step 5
Polish the RV with a fiberglass polish only if the RV seems dingy or dull. Fiberglass polish is an abrasive and will remove a very thin layer of the surface of the fiberglass. If you do need to polish the RV, apply the polish to a clean cloth and rub it into the surface in a circular motion until the fiberglass has a glossy appearance.
Step 6
Apply fiberglass wax to a clean dry cloth and rub it onto the fiberglass RV using a circular motion. Allow the wax to dry and then buff the surface by rubbing a soft cloth over the RV to remove any excess wax.

Tips & Warnings

 
Always wear gloves when using methyl ethyl ketone or acetone because these chemicals can cause skin irritation.

Article Written By Kittie McCoy

Kittie McCoy has been a freelance writer since 2008. She is also a part-time personal trainer and licensed entertainer in Las Vegas. She enjoys sharing her love of physical fitness and experience in the entertainment industry via her writing.

Write for Trails.com
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