How do I Seal Leaks on Camping Trailers?

motorcoach,motorhome,rv image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com

You can seal leaks on camping trailers using several different methods. The most common leak areas are on the roof and along the seams. Different trailers are constructed of different materials, which will determine the sealing technique you use. Different types of sealants are easy to find and most will have labels to indicate the materials for which they are compatible. Sealing requires you to work in a garage or on a dry day. Working in the rain can complicate the process and compromise the new seal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Drill
Bit
Lacquer thinner
Tape measure
Sealing tape

Step 1

Locate the leak by searching for damp areas on the trailer interior. Move to the exterior and expose the compromised area by removing corresponding side or roof panels. Many trailers have panels screwed down that you can easily remove with an electric screw bit. If you cannot expose the area, use a blow dryer or electric heat source to force evaporation.

Step 2

Leave the leaking area exposed until it is completely dry. The more airflow, the quicker it will dry. This will prevent mold from developing inside the trailer. Replace the panels when dry.

Step 3

Clean the exterior of the leaking area with a light layer of lacquer thinner. Allow the lacquer thinner to dry for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4

Measure the entire seam that is leaking. Cut a section of sealing tape that matches the seam. Expose the end of the tape by removing a short section of the paper cover. Place the end of the tape against the end of the leaking seam and use pressure to make it bond.

Step 5

Continue to peel the paper cover and press the tape against the seam until you have used the entire piece of tape.

Tips & Warnings

You can use the tape on all of the roof seams on old trailers to prevent future leaks. Carry the tape on road trips for emergency leak repair.

Do not use sealing tape if you plan on having professional repairs. The tape provides a permanent seal that is difficult to remove once in place.

Resources

EternaBond Sealing Tape

Article Written By Zach Lazzari

Zach Lazzari is an outdoor writing specialist. He has experience in website writing as well as standard newspaper writing. He wrote an outdoor column for the Silver World in Lake City, Colo., and articles for Colorado-mountain-adventure.com. Lazzari is currently completing his bachelor's degree online through Arizona State University and lives in southwest Montana.

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