What to Use to Seal a Pop-Up Camper Roof

The best product for sealing a pop-up camper roof is an RV-specific elastomeric lap sealant matched to the roof material. For most roof seams, vents, roof fixtures, pipe openings and screw heads, use a compatible RV sealant rather than ordinary household silicone.

Before buying anything, identify whether the roof is EPDM, TPO, fiberglass, aluminum or another material. The correct sealant also depends on the type of damage: a seam or vent joint needs sealant, while a puncture or tear usually needs a compatible roof patch followed by sealed edges.

Best sealants for a pop-up camper roof

Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant

Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is designed for horizontal RV roof surfaces, including roof penetrations, vents, edges, pipes and screw heads. Dicor states that compatible lap sealants work with EPDM and TPO roof membranes.

Use the self-leveling version on relatively flat, horizontal areas. It spreads across the joint and is not the right choice for vertical sidewalls or steep edges, where a non-leveling sealant is more suitable.

Dicor Ultra Sealant System

The Dicor Ultra Sealant System is intended for RV roof edges and rooftop accessories. It is available in self-leveling and non-leveling versions. Check the roof membrane type before selecting the product, particularly on newer TPO roofs.

Sikaflex-715

Sikaflex-715 is a semi-self-leveling sealant intended for RV roof membrane applications. Sika lists compatibility with materials including EPDM, aluminum, steel, coatings, ceramics and plastics. Confirm compatibility with the specific roof material and existing sealant before applying it.

Sikaflex-504 SL

Sikaflex-504 SL is a semi-self-leveling STP sealant for roof sealing. Sika lists fiberglass, EPDM, metals, coatings and plastics among compatible materials. Testing adhesion on the actual roof substrate is recommended, especially where stress cracking could occur.

What to use for a tear or puncture

Sealant alone is not a substitute for repairing a damaged roof membrane. For a puncture or tear, use a compatible RV roof repair membrane or repair tape first, then seal the patch perimeter.

Dicor EPDM Rubber Roof Repair Membrane is a self-adhesive patch designed for tears and punctures. According to the manufacturer, it can be used on EPDM, TPO, metal and fiberglass roofing. Apply it to a clean, dry surface and cover the perimeter with compatible lap sealant.

Self-leveling or non-leveling sealant?

• Self-leveling: horizontal roof surfaces around vents, skylights, pipes, fixtures and screw heads.
• Non-leveling: vertical edges, sidewalls and joints where the sealant must stay in place instead of flowing.

Using the wrong type can result in sagging on vertical surfaces or poor coverage on horizontal joints. Always follow the product instructions for the particular roof material.

How to reseal a pop-up camper roof

1. Inspect the roof and locate the actual leak path, including seams, corners, vents, fasteners and roof accessories.
2. Identify the roof material before choosing a sealant.
3. Remove loose, cracked or failed sealant without damaging the roof membrane.
4. Clean and dry the surface thoroughly.
5. Repair any puncture or tear with a compatible RV roof membrane or repair tape.
6. Apply the correct self-leveling or non-leveling sealant to the joint and patch perimeter.
7. Allow the product to cure for the time stated by its manufacturer before exposing the repair to rain.

Do not apply a new product over loose old sealant or a damp surface. If the roof is delaminated, extensively damaged or has hidden water damage, a surface bead may not provide a lasting repair.

When professional roof repair is the better option

A roof leak may have already affected the ceiling, insulation, walls or floor. Professional inspection is especially useful when the leak source is unclear, the roof material cannot be identified, or the camper has widespread cracking, soft areas or water damage.

Custom way repairs and renovates RVs and camper vans in California, including RV roof repair and water damage repair. The company serves Orange County, Los Angeles and Riverside County and is located at 17223 Roseton Ave, Artesia 90701. For a roof inspection or repair inquiry, call +1 840-205-7314 or email customway.ca@gmail.com.

For a simple intact seam, an RV-compatible lap sealant matched to the roof material is usually the appropriate product. For a tear or puncture, patch the damage first and seal the patch edges afterward.