Tips to Finding a Water Leak on a Class C RV

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To find water leaks on your Class C RV, sometimes referred to as a mini-home, you are going to have to get on your hands and knees and inspect. Class C RVs are known for leaks around the cab-over sleeping area, according to Prevost RV. Water damage to your RV reduces value, increases risk of illness due to mold and mildew, and erodes the interior of the RV. Take the time to get down and dirty and find the water leaks in your Class C RV.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Stepladder
1-by-1 foot plywood, 2 pieces
Large handheld magnifying glass
Grease pencil

Step 1

Climb the stepladder to the roof of the RV. Bring the two pieces of plywood to place under your knees or feet as you move over the roof. This displaces your weight over the wood, preventing dents or roof damage from your body weight.

Step 2

Inspect the areas around vents and other openings on the roof. Use the magnifying glass to inspect the edges and the caulk or sealant. Look for cracks, dry rot or erosion around these areas. Then, starting at the end of the RV roof, go left to right with your hands, pushing down on the roof looking for soft spots, cracks or rips. Use the grease pencil to circle any soft spots or rips.

Step 3

Enter the Class C RV. Start your inspection at the cab-over sleeping area by removing the bed cushions and foam mattress. Look for discoloration and press the ceiling, edges and corners, looking for soft spots, bubbles or water damage. Use the magnifying glass at the corners to see if the seams are still intact.

Step 4

Go into the bathroom and inspect areas around the tub, ceiling vents and intake valves for tubing. Use the magnifying glass to look at the caulking. Look for cracks, dry rot or shrinkage on the caulk, exposing areas where water may leak in.

Step 5

Push up the entire ceiling, going in one direction, then sliding your hands from left to right. Feel for soft spots, bubbles, water damage and erosion. Circle any spots you feel with the grease pencil, so repairs can be made. Check around vents, windows and corners where the RV walls come together. Inspect the corners with the magnifying glass. Remove all cushions and pillows to check the benches and areas over wheel wells, as water leaks develop in these regions.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

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