Bates Rv Blog

Keeping your RV looking New

posted by tommyc @ 8:49am, Thursday 29 September 2011.

We will base our discussion assuming that you have a new RV, and want to keep it looking like new.
Now don’t get me wrong you can use the tips to keep your used RV looking great, you just might have to do a little more work to get it in shape depending on the condition your used unit is in to start.

Start with the Roof keeping your roof maintained and clean will not only keep your RV looking great but with proper maintenance will keep it lasting for years to come. Now some will say why clean the roof no one will see it and the rain will wash any dirt off. If you have ever owned an RV before you know about black streaks, these streaks are from dirt and grime washing off the roof, and if not kept up with will stain the side of your RV.
Be careful on the roof it will get slippery when wet and soapy.


Keep the roof washed using a mild non-abrasive cleaner, read the label to find one that is recommended for your type of roof. There are many chemicals on the market just make sure you use a cleaner designed for your type of roof material. so for an example if you have a rubber roof use a product made for rubber roofs same goes for fiberglass roofs or any other type.

After cleaning the roof inspect the roof for any damage this includes all the sealants on the roof around the vents, skylights and any other items attached to the roof.

Once you have cleaned and Inspected the roof and resealed any areas that need resealing, you should apply a protectant to the roof, this not only protects the roof but most manufacture warranties will not cover any issues if proper mantaince is not done. And a leak in a roof can take a while to show up inside your RV.

Now that you have the roof cleaned, Inspected and sealed lets move on to the sides of the unit, when washing your RV start from the top and work down, Again using a non abrasive cleaner designed for the type of side you have i.e.. Fiberglass, Gel coat, aluminum ect.

A few tips on cleaning;

Use a soft bristled brush or soft rag when cleaning so not to scratch the finish.
Use non-abrasive chemicals designed for the type of material you are cleaning.
Rubbing alcohol is a good cleaner for windows that have bugs and /or tar on them rub with rubbing alcohol let sit and wash as normal.
Bugs and tar on painted surfaces can eat your paint try using cooking spray to loosen and wash as normal afterwards.
Use caution when using tire dressings some can be harmful to the rubber and dry them out.

Remember when washing the outside of your coach to wash the awnings too. After washing the awnings leave them open to dry prior to closing. Closing your awning prior to drying will let the material mold and stain and your warranty company will deny any claim made under these circumstances. Again there are chemicals designed for this.

Now that you have cleaned the outside of the RV inspect all sealant areas for cracking and reseal as needed, And keep all those receipts and make notes when sealing your coach this way if the manufacturer states it is not covered due to maintenance not being performed you can show them proof that you have been performing routine maintenance.

At least once a year I recommend twice a year you should wax your RV with a good quality wax to protect the finish.

Now that we have talked about Cleaning and protecting your unit, Go have fun camping and come back and check out our blog for more helpful tips and how-to’s also let us know if you have any good tips on cleaning like a good product or a home made product let us and other campers know.

If there is a topic you want to see covered or want more information let us know and we will get the information for you, Thanks for coming by and hope to see you soon…