How to Install a Rubber Roof on a RV Trailer

How to Install a Rubber Roof on a RV Trailer

rv,motorcoach image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com

A rubber RV roof is an alternative to a metal roof. Both will seal out rain and snow as well as provide protection against wind and direct sunlight. Rubber roofs are easy to install and require only a few simple tools. You can do the installation process alone, but it is best to have an assistant. Once the rubber roof is installed, you are ready to go camping.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Band saw or metal shears
  • Electric sander or sandpaper brick
  • Measuring tape
  • Masking tape
  • Paint brush
  • Glue
  • Rubber roof
  • Ladder
Step 1
Remove the metal roof with a band saw or metal shears.
Step 2
Sand the decking with an electric sander or sandpaper brick. If you do not have an electric sander, you can use sandpaper. Begin sanding with a coarse grade of sandpaper, and, as the decking becomes smoother, switch to a finer grade. When sanding, move back and forth or side to side to prevent over-sanding and to maintain a consistent appearance of smoothness.
Step 3
Measure the length and width of the roof. Double-check the dimensions for accuracy.
Step 4
Use masking tape to cover vent holes (seams). Be careful not to step into a vent hole once the tape is in place.
Step 5
Use a brush or roller with a handle to apply a thin coat of glue to the roof. Lay the rubber over the perimeter of the roof. Press down on the rubber to secure the adhesion. Start at one side, and work your way to the next, pressing down as you go. Allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tips & Warnings

 
Have an assistant help you carry the rubber roof to the top of your RV trailer.
 
Glue fumes can be dangerous when inhaled over a long period.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

    5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

    Springtime brings a sense of new beginnings and new life as flowers begin to bloom and fill the air with their sweet and pleasant fragrance. Luckily we can see wildflowers all summer long, since spring hits at different times throughout North America. See flowering cactu...

    More National Parks...
  • Popular Article

    National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

    National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

    Coping with crowds at national parks can get tiresome, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to escape from the herd, or just take a breather from the bustle of bigger attractions, the United States has plenty of less-visited but still worthwhile spots t...

    More National Parks...
  • Featured Destination

    Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

    Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

    When you're hiking you're going to want to make sure you stay found. What I mean by that is that you've put an itinerary in the car, you know the area that you're hiking to, you know the route and the trail you plan on being on, you know what the trail markers are going ...

    More Camping Basics...

Hotel Finder

Destination
Check-in
Check-out
Adults (18+ yrs)
Children (2-17 yrs)
Get Rates and Availability

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword