RV Exterior Maintenance: How to Keep Your RV Looking and Performing at Its Best

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

RV Roof Maintenance

Your RV’s roof is constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions, including sun, rain, and snow, which can lead to leaks and damage if not maintained properly. Regular roof inspections and maintenance are critical.

Roof Maintenance Tasks:

• Inspect for Cracks and Leaks: Check the roof for cracks, punctures, or any signs of wear, especially around vents, antennas, and seams.
• Clean the Roof Regularly: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove dirt, mold, and mildew buildup.
• Apply Roof Sealant: Reseal seams and areas around vents or skylights every 6-12 months to prevent leaks.
• Use a UV Protectant: Apply a UV protectant to reduce sun damage and extend the life of your roof.
• Check Roof Material: Ensure the material, whether rubber, fiberglass, or aluminum, is in good condition, and repair any damage immediately.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Exterior Wash and Wax

Keeping your RV clean not only improves its appearance but also protects the paint and exterior surfaces from oxidation and dirt buildup.

Exterior Cleaning Routine:

• Wash the RV Regularly: Use an RV-specific cleaner and a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint or decals.
• Wax the RV: Apply RV wax at least twice a year to protect the paint from UV rays, oxidation, and dirt. This will also make future cleaning easier.
• Clean Windows and Mirrors: Use glass cleaner on windows and mirrors, ensuring they’re free from streaks and smudges.
• Check for Rust: Inspect metal parts, such as the hitch and bumper, for signs of rust, and treat or paint over any areas to prevent further damage.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Seals, Gaskets, and Caulking

Seals and gaskets around windows, doors, and storage compartments can deteriorate over time, leading to water leaks and drafts.

Seals and Gaskets Maintenance:

• Inspect for Cracks or Deterioration: Check around windows, doors, and vents for cracked or worn-out seals and gaskets.
• Replace Damaged Seals: Use RV-specific weatherstripping or gasket material to replace worn seals.
• Caulk Seams: Reapply caulk to seams, joints, and edges around windows, doors, and other fixtures to maintain a watertight seal.
• Lubricate Rubber Seals: Use a rubber seal conditioner or lubricant to keep seals soft and prevent them from drying out.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Exterior Lighting and Electrical Components

Your RV’s exterior lighting and electrical components are essential for safety, especially when driving or parking at night.

Lighting Maintenance Tips:

• Inspect Exterior Lights: Check all exterior lights, including brake lights, headlights, turn signals, and clearance lights, to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Replace Bulbs as Needed: Carry spare bulbs and replace any that are burnt out.
• Check Light Seals: Ensure the seals around lights are watertight to prevent moisture from entering the light housing.
• Test Electrical Connections: Inspect electrical connections for corrosion or wear and clean or replace as necessary.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Awnings and Slide-Outs

Your RV’s awnings and slide-outs are exposed to the elements and require regular maintenance to keep them functioning smoothly and avoid damage.

Awning Maintenance:

• Clean the Awning: Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, mildew, and debris from the awning fabric.
• Inspect for Tears or Damage: Check the awning fabric for any tears or holes, and repair with awning repair tape if needed.
• Lubricate the Awning Arms: Apply silicone spray or a similar lubricant to the moving parts of the awning arms to ensure smooth operation.
• Secure the Awning in Windy Conditions: Always retract the awning in strong winds to prevent damage.

Slide-Out Maintenance:

• Inspect Seals: Check the rubber seals around the slide-out for any cracks or wear and replace them if necessary.
• Clean and Lubricate Tracks: Clean the slide-out tracks and apply a lubricant to keep the mechanisms working smoothly.
• Check Slide-Out Operation: Regularly extend and retract the slide-out to ensure it moves smoothly without any obstructions.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Windows, Doors, and Vents

Windows, doors, and vents should be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and not allowing water or drafts into the RV.

Window and Door Maintenance:

• Inspect Window Seals: Check around all windows for gaps or cracked seals and apply new caulking or sealant as needed.
• Clean Window Tracks: Remove debris from window tracks to ensure smooth opening and closing.
• Check Door Hinges and Locks: Inspect door hinges and locks for wear, and lubricate them to prevent squeaking or sticking.
• Vent Covers: Inspect roof vent covers for cracks or damage and replace them if necessary to prevent leaks.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Tires and Wheel Care

Tire maintenance is critical for safe driving and preventing blowouts on the road.

Tire and Wheel Maintenance Tips:

• Check Tire Pressure: Regularly monitor tire pressure and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
• Inspect Tread Wear: Look for uneven tread wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues.
• Rotate Tires: Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
• Protect from UV Damage: Use tire covers when your RV is parked to protect the tires from UV exposure.
• Torque the Lug Nuts: Ensure that all lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid wheel issues.
• Inspect Wheel Bearings: Grease and inspect the wheel bearings annually to avoid failure.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Exterior Storage and Compartments

RV exterior storage compartments can collect dirt, moisture, and even pests if not properly maintained.

Storage Compartment Maintenance:

• Inspect Seals and Latches: Ensure storage compartment seals are intact and the latches are functioning properly.
• Clean the Compartments: Regularly clean out the storage compartments and check for any signs of moisture or pests.
• Lubricate Locks and Hinges: Apply lubricant to locks and hinges to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Protecting Against Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion can damage metal components of your RV if left unchecked.

Rust Prevention Tips:

• Inspect Metal Surfaces: Regularly check metal surfaces, including the chassis, hitch, and steps, for any signs of rust or corrosion.
• Apply Rust Inhibitor: Use a rust inhibitor spray to protect metal surfaces from further rusting.
• Touch-Up Paint Chips: Repair any chipped paint on the exterior to prevent rust from forming on exposed metal.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Exterior Accessories

Many RVs are equipped with exterior accessories, such as ladders, bike racks, and roof racks, which also need regular attention.

Accessory Maintenance:

• Inspect Ladders and Racks: Check ladders, bike racks, and roof racks for stability and secure mounting.
• Tighten Loose Screws: Regularly tighten any screws or bolts that may have loosened over time.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a lubricant to any moving parts on your exterior accessories to prevent rust and keep them operating smoothly.

EXTERIOR MAINTEANCE

Key Takeaway: Keep Your RV Exterior in Top Condition

Properly maintaining the exterior of your RV ensures that it looks great, stays protected from the elements, and functions safely on the road. By following this guide and scheduling regular inspections and cleaning, you’ll extend the life of your RV and avoid costly repairs.

RV Expeditioners Pro Tip: Take time to create a maintenance schedule and set reminders for regular inspections and tasks. By staying on top of exterior maintenance, your RV will remain in excellent condition and ready for your next adventure.