Caulk on RV Roof

Best Exterior RV Caulk for Roofs and Windows [2024 Sealant Review Guide]

Choose the Right Exterior Caulk for Your RV Roof and Windows

Looking for the best caulk for RV exterior repairs? RV owners understand the severity of leaking water due to a failing roof sealant. Long-time owners try to prevent any amount of water from penetrating their recreational vehicles.

They understand the effects of water damage in the long run. This is the primary reason you, as the owner, should only get the best RV caulk for exterior repairs when the time comes.

Ensure your RV roof is sealed and maintained properly to prevent severe damage to the inside of the RV. Also, an effective sealant should control molds from growing within your vehicle. Spending a few hours caulking your RV’s rubber roof edges, windows, skylights, air vents, pipes, AC units, doors, walls, RV roof maintenance, and venting systems will prevent you from spending lots of money on repairs down the road.

What’s the Best Exterior RV Caulk?

It’s tough to find the right RV caulk since the market is flooded with various caulks for indoor and outdoor jobs. Or what the best product for UV resistance and Waterproofing is? The problem with some of the alternatives is quality. Most of them are of low quality since some manufacturers are in the business for quick cash. Therefore, the customers must understand the RV market dynamics, enabling them to identify better quality products from lesser ones.

What Sealant Should I Buy for RV Roof and Window Maintenance?

This article will provide you with relevant information regarding RV window caulking products and roof caulks, from various essential factors, like where you should buy, to other crucial details that will enable you to make an informed decision. The content will help you review products to meet your expectations, and water damage will be a thing of the past.

It should be noted that not every caulk will be used on the RV. Caulks such as silicone caulks are not suitable for trailers, mainly because they are too brittle and they get too hard to remove. The other thing is that silicone doesn’t stick on everything, so it could just peel right off.

Many RVers ask whether an RV caulk can work on every RV material and fixture. Parts of campers that need a strong waterproof seal are windows, seams, gutters, roofs, and walls. The materials used to make the mentioned parts include vinyl, synthetic plastic, wood, and other metals. Caulks are designed to work on these materials, but not all of them. Some products are also optimized for vertical structures such as windows, while others are designed for horizontal structures such as roofs.

For your purchasing experience to be less stressful, this RV caulks review has prepared all the details of how to pick the right RV caulk for your trailer or camper.

What’s the Best Silicone Sealant Caulk for an RV Roof?

RV and Trailer sealant is formulated and optimized for campers, trailers, recreational vehicles, and motorhome exterior maintenance and repairs. They are made to seal and fill gaps and cracks. It helps to seal what causes water damage in rainy times to prevent major damage inside your RV.

Best RV Roof Sealant

Best Caulk for Your RV Exterior Reviewed

When it comes to shopping for the best Caulk for your RV exterior, it’s overwhelming how many options are available in the market. From self-leveling RV roof sealant to paintable caulk options. Since you will need it to seal your recreational vehicle to keep it new, finding the most durable, flexible, and high-quality sealant is a good idea. These sealants will work great for sealing your RV roof surface and prevent harmful water leaks when applied correctly.

Super Flexible Elastomeric Sealant from Pro-Flex

The Super Flexible Elastomeric Sealant is quite a good acrylic sealant you can get your hands on. The product claims to have a fifty-year life. Even if it is not true, the product may last you for several years with its lasting power. This sealant is flexible, which means you can apply it on a variety of surfaces. However, it is ideal for a metal roof, as it has a very tough texture. The best thing about this product is it will not look messy after you have done leveling. Instead, it will create a smooth and finished look after application.

Super Flexible Elastomeric Sealant from Pro-Flex

You can paint over it to hide its original color, and therefore it will not become prominent like other sealants. Note that you will need to cure this sealant for a couple of months. While these types of caulks are among the best ones, the only thing that some RV owners do not like is their smell. It has a powerful smell and can be unbearable for some people. Therefore, if you are using it to seal your RV parts, make sure to put a mask on your face to avoid its smell.

Pros

  • It can fasten to most materials.
  • You can paint it to create a smooth appearance.
  • It is a high-quality sealant that will last for longer.
  • Boasts impressive contractions and expansion properties
  • An ideal option for metal surface

Cons

  • It comes with a strong smell.
  • Curing time is longer than other RV caulks

Self-Leveling RV Caulking Lap Sealant from ToughGrade

This is the second-best product on our list because of its quality and features. It works excellently in sealing venting systems, air con, roofs, and other items. Since it is ideal for marine applications, you can rely on this sealant to protect your RV from rainstorms. It cures robustly and creates a firm layer of sealing on the surface. You can use this sealant on screw heads and vent covers too.

Self-Leveling RV Caulking Lap Sealant from ToughGrade

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While it is a UV stabilized product, this sealant can protect your RV parts from deterioration and discoloration. Because of its versatility, you can use it for various surfaces and on different types of materials. From mortar, concrete, and aluminum to wood, vinyl, and galvanized surface, you can use this sealant on any material to protect your RV. It does not damage the color or cause any stain on the material. This Self-leveling RV Lap Sealant from ToughGrade can protect your vehicle roof from extreme weather conditions. Overall, it is a durable and flexible option.

Pros

  • You can use it on horizontal surfaces
  • It comes in different packaging and sizes
  • Seals screw heads, air conditioners, and venting systems
  • Prevents deterioration and discoloration

Cons

  • May cause nose and skin irritation

Self-Leveling Roof Lap Sealant from Dicor

If you are looking for a rubber roof sealant, you should opt for this amazing Dicorlap lap sealant. It secures your roof efficiently and protects your recreational vehicle from harsh weather. The RV roof is susceptible to damage by outdoor elements like snow, wind, and rain cause. Moreover, the cold temperature can damage your RV roof. Such elements may cause cracks on your RV roof, and you may have to spend hefty amounts on repairs.

Self Leveling Lap Sealant from Dicor

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However, this lap sealant not only saves your money but also protects your RV against extreme weather climates. This sealant is ideal for EPDM sheeting. You can use it safely and conveniently for your RV roof. It offers strong adhesion to wood, galvanized metal, concrete, vinyl, aluminum, and mortar.

Because this sealant remains flexible, it will not crack over the years. Additionally, you can clean this sealant easily. Overall, this sealant is the best option for sealing your RV, as it will not stain or discolor any material.

Pros

  • Prevents water from leaking into the Air conditioner unit and vents
  • Works effectively on EPDM sheeting
  • Offers excellent adhesion to different materials
  • It offers high flexibility and does not crack over time
  • Protects recreational vehicles from water leaks

Cons

  • It Will does not work on vertical surfaces as it is self-leveling

Self Leveling RV Sealant from Rec Pro

If you are looking for a product to feature amazing weather resistance, you should go for this RV Sealant. Because it includes high-quality materials, this sealant will ensure to withstand rough weather quite easily. This product will prevent you from the common woes that may come with the worst temperatures or weather changes. This sealant will also protect your RV on rainy days.

Self Leveling RV Sealant from Rec Pro

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It will not wash away or damage even at -40 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the best product to resist extreme conditions. Additionally, the product offers excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces. When it comes to durability, you will not need to worry about its tearing or peeling when applying a paint coat on your RV roof.

That means, if a person is painting their RV roof, they will not need to apply another coat of this sealant. This sealant’s self-leveling capabilities are good, so they will not need to put extra effort into leveling up the sealant.

Pros

  • Works efficiently on a variety of surface conditions and edges
  • Offers high resistance against UV rays and freezing temperatures
  • Fasten excellently to RV surface
  • Features high durability
  • Easy application
  • Outstanding resistance to oil, fuel, and grease

Cons

  • It comes with high sticking power

Crystal Clear RV Flexible Sealant from ProFlex

The Crystal Clear ProFlex RV Flexible Sealant from Geocel is one of the most versatile sealants available in the market. You can use it for a vast range of applications. Whether you have a small recreational vehicle or a big motorhome, Geocel sealant works effectively on different RVs models.

This Proflex sealant can withstand even the worst weather. Additionally, you will not need to worry about its durability, as it will not wash away on rainy days. It boasts great contraction and expansion properties, due to which it can handle temperature changes and joint movements easily.

Crystal Clear RV Flexible Sealant from ProFlex

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It does not matter if your RV surface is damp, oily, or frozen; this sealant will bond with the materials efficiently and give you the best results ever. Because of its flexibility, you can fasten caulking lap sealant to a wide range of surfaces. Pro-Flex is highly resistant to cracks and ultra-violet rays. Unlike other sealants, this sealant will not create an unfinished look when applying it to your RV. The best thing about this product is that you can reseal it.

You will not need any assistance to apply the sealant. Instead, you will be able to apply it on your own. It is a non-stringing formula, which is quite easy to apply. If you want to use a sealant for wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or steel surface, it will be the best option to seal and protect your RV from leakage.

Pros

  • Available in different colors
  • Ensures the maintenance and quick repair
  • Can reapply to the previous application
  • Works on a variety of surfaces
  • Mildew-resistant, water-resistant, watertight seal
  • Easy to apply on surfaces
  • Crack-resistant

Cons

  • It may not work effectively on potable water installations, EPDM, and TPO.

What to Consider When Buying RV Caulk & Sealants

Before you just randomly pick your waterproof filler, you should review some factors. Below are some aspects you should look for when buying the best sealant caulk for repairs:

Ease of Use and Application

The product should be easy to use and apply. Also, the caulk shouldn’t need a lot of time to accomplish the given task.

Compatibility with Various Materials 

Is the commodity more consistent and useful in many material surfaces? Have a look at the materials used to make it; this will give you a clue whether it’s the right product.

Concerning application, it should be versatile when working on sealing screw heads, roof edges, pipes, venting systems, doors, air vents, and air conditioners. Also, it should be easy to apply when sealing gaps or cracks as a roof sealant.

RV Caulk Price

When buying anything, affordability should be a factor. Buy a product that’s within your reach.

Brand and Type

Buy a brand that’s recognized globally. Such brands show that the product is trusted because it offers top performance, delivers high quality, and is affordable.

To factor in the type of caulk, you need for your camper or RV, familiarize yourself with the materials you’re going to seal. Some caulks are effective on some elements, while others are not active on other components. The material should guide you.

Top Performance

A high-quality product sticks and works well on the applied surface. More so, the best quality adheres better with age. The product should also be paintable and resealable, which means that it can be re-applied on itself.

Moisture and Temperature

Moisture and temperature are essential when making a choice. For instance, if the problem area is moist and wet, you should consider a waterproof caulk to resist mildew and molds. On the other hand, if the domain is prone to excessive heat and coldness, you should pick a caulk to accommodate all weather conditions.

Water Repellent & Blocks UV Rays

It should be waterproof, meaning it can prevent your RV from rainwater damage and other moisture. Check its compounds to know the capability.

Benefits of Sealing Your Roof with RV Caulk

Why use the Best Caulk for Exterior Repairs?

  • Fill cracks to prevent leaks

When the rain falls, water penetrates through your camper cracks and air vents, creating damage. To prevent leaks, you need to seal off all the cracks properly for water not to pass through. That’s why a good roof sealant is needed to secure your property efficiently.

  • Curtails molds growth

When water settles in an enclosed and warm space, mildew and molds thrive. This is one of the dangerous things since breathing in mold can be deadly. A good sealant tape or caulk will keep you safe.

  • Keeps out insects

Camping takes place in various places; it can be on an open field or thick woods. Once you’re in these kinds of situations, you’re exposed to multiple types of insects. Mosquitoes and bugs are common insects, and you know the risks you’re exposed to when these insects bite you.

  • Debris can’t seep in

If there are cracks on your trailer, like water, debris will fall inside. Debris can come from trees, air, and anywhere around you. The trash in your camper will make your camper dirty; this will force you to do extra duties. Seal it regularly to prevent such situations.

  • Increases the value of the RV

You can decide to sell your camper at one point. If your camper has holes or leaks, its value decreases drastically. To fetch good money, maintain your RV using the best RV sealants on any cracks and holes.

Types of RV Caulks for Exterior Maintenance

There are so many types of caulks in the market to feature. But which is the best RV Exterior caulk that suits your needs? Below are some of the pros and cons of the most popular RV caulks available for exterior repairs and upkeep.

Acrylic Caulk

This is the most common in the market.

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Effective in smaller jobs such as wall or ceilings, small cracks, and slits
  • Works well on drywall and woods

Cons

  • Not effective on big breaks

When you talk about caulk, everybody relates it to silicone caulk. This is because silicone caulk is an ancient silicone sealant, and it has been used for many years.

Pros

  • Mold and mildew proof

Cons

  • Too brittle
  • Too hard to remove
  • You can’t stick other silicone sealants on top of it.

Adhesive Caulks

These products are naturally sticky and stick very well on surfaces.

Pros

  • Easily sticks parts together.
  • Watertight seal for bad weather conditions

Cons

  • Once you open them, ensure you apply them immediately. Otherwise, they lose their sticking prowess.

Vinyl Caulk

This sealer is similar to acrylic.

Pros

  • Lasts longer
  • Works better outdoors

Cons

  • Not flexible

Fireproof Caulks

These are red-colored caulks that are fireproof.

Pros

  • Prevents fire from entering through the sealed cracks

Cons

  • They are not necessary since the principal value for caulks is sealing campers from water penetrations.

RV Roof & Window Caulking FAQs

Is silicone caulk right for RVs?
It can be used, but it’s less flexible, doesn’t stick easily, and can’t be removed easily. All you need is a sealant that stretches to cover the entire crack.
How often do you need to reseal my RV roof?
Are you wondering how often to reseal your RV roof? The answer is every year you should do a roof inspection for any cracks or peeling caulk or RV roof sealant. Whether you’re an occasional RVer or full-timer, ensuring your RV roof is properly sealed will keep your RV lasting longer and your resale value higher.
How much does it cost to reseal RV roof?
How much it costs to reseal your RV roof depends on if you’re doing a DIY RV roof reseal job or hiring a professional to reseal your roof. Also the surface area of your RV roof would play a factor as well. If it’s DIY job, obviously it’ll be much cheaper. You’ll need to purchase a light cleaning detergent to use when you scrub your roof clean. Then the cost of the self-leveling caulk you buy to reseal areas that are peeling or missing caulk. This can be a relatively cheap process costing only around $20-30 dollars if there’s not currently any water damage. Compare that to around $1,000 you’d be charged to have a pro do it. What you ultimately decide on will depend on your ability to get on your roof and do the work yourself.
How do you seal an RV metal roof?
First, you will want to sand your metal roof so it’s shiny making sure any rust spots are completely removed. Use two coats of primer on any areas you needed to sand away rust. Then get a Dicor lap sealant to use around any fixtures on your rooftop like vents. Get Dicor roof coating ready tape to seal around all the joints and seams. Now you’re ready to use a paint roller to apply two coats of your metal RV roof coating. Make sure weather won’t be a factor in this process by coating on a warm sunny day if possible. Check the coating label for the ideal temperature to apply your metal RV roof coating. It’s usually above 50 degrees.
Can I use Flex Seal on my RV roof?
Flex Seal can be used on RV roofs to act as a waterproofing agent. Flex Seal is basically liquid rubber in a spray can. However, there is also Flex Seal tape. Flex Seal can be applied to many types of surfaces but make sure to read the can to ensure your surface is suitable for the job.
How long does flex seal last?
Flex Seal rubber sealant can last several years without cracking or peeling. However, you’ll want to inspect it every year to make sure it’s holding up as climate and sun exposure can take their toll differently.
What’s the difference between sanded and unsanded caulking?
Unsanded caulking is used for smaller joints and sanded caulking is used for larger joints. This is because unsanded caulking shrinks when dry and adding sand prevents shrinkage allowing for better adhesion in larger gaps.
How do you caulk RV windows?
First, remove the old caulk from around the window. Then with a caulking gun and put a new strip of caulk around the entire window. Be sure not to block any water drainage holes found on some RV windows. For a more extensive caulking job, you might consider removing your window and replacing any existing window adhesive with new butyl sealant tape. Then replace and recaulk the window.
Should I use caulk or silicone around RV windows?
Regular caulk may be too rigid for RV windows. Silicone sealant is more flexible making it a better solution for RV windows which put up with lots of movement and harsh climates.
How do you remove silicone caulk from RV?
To remove silicone caulk from your RV window you can use a dull putty knife/spackling tool to scrape off existing silicone while trying not to scratch your roof or siding.
Why do RV windows leak?
RV windows leak when wear and tear plus weather and time start to break down existing adhesives and caulking around your window. Once caulking begins to crack or peel, water will start to seep into your RV damaging your structure.
What kind of caulk should I use on my RV?
For RV roofs, a self-leveling silicone sealant will prevent leaks when applied correctly. People also use RV roof sealant tape for water sealing as well.
How do you seal RV seams?
To seal RV seams on your RV roof, you can use a self-leveling caulk after removing any caulk that is currently there. Use can also use RV roof sealant tape as a waterproofing sealing agent if you’re doing a complete roof renovation.
Is caulking and silicone the same?
Silicon is more rubbery than caulk. Caulk can dry harder and is more rigid than a silicone-based sealant.
Can RV caulk work well with other materials apart from RVs?
Mostly they can work with every kind of material, but it’s not advisable to use the products for other purposes apart from RVs. Besides, some RV caulks can work for all materials while others can’t.
RV caulk stays on the applied surface for how long?
How often are you using your RV? The more use, the more sun and weather exposure it’ll get. However, It’s advisable to re-caulk any least once a year. If you’re a seasonal RV’er, cover your RV when it’s in storage. Then reseal your roof before you start your next journey so you don’t have any mishaps on your travels.
How do you caulk an RV rooftop?

This is a simple task if you’re nimble enough to get on your roof. Just follow the below steps to seal your RV roof and be careful while you are up there:

Ensure there’s no snow or rain in the forecast when caulking
Clean the roof with a solution of water and soap
Thoroughly dry it off
Find the holes and cracks
Pull out the caulking gun and cut the tip
Apply the caulk to the holes and cracks
Smoothen it
Wait for it to dry off

Get the best RV Caulk for the exterior of your RV

RV caulk is essential for any camper to protect their property in any weather condition. To be on the safe side, you need the best product. Otherwise, you’re bound to run into problems down the road. There are various aspects to review when buying caulk for the best RV caulking, resealing solutions and RV winterizing tips for your RV, but it’s worth buying a caulk that saves your effort, time, and money.

I hope you were able to benefit from these tips about RV caulks. You don’t want to wait until you notice a leak before taking action. Be proactive and you’ll enjoy many more years out of your motorhome.

Charley Waters

I've traveled to 49 states and 3 provinces in Canada living in my RV full-time over many years. I've stayed just about everywhere possible. National parks, state parks, parking lots, BLM land, Independent RV parks and friends and family's driveways. I lived through a crazy Derecho windstorm in Iowa. I got stuck in a winter freeze in Texas.

Living on the road in your RV can be challenging at times. But the good times make up for the bad. I'm here to share my experience and help fellow RVers good decisions while enjoying the great outdoors and vast camping opportunities this country has to offer.

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