How To Pressure Wash Your Camper Roof Safely

Owning a camper or RV is a great way to travel without the expense of hotels. However, it's important to keep your vehicle clean and well-maintained. While pressure washing your camper roof may be tempting, it's not without its risks. Pressure washing can damage the paint, seals, and caulking of your camper, and may even force water inside. However, with the right precautions, it is possible to pressure wash certain types of camper roofs, such as rubber roofs, without causing damage.

What pressure setting should you use?

When pressure washing a camper roof, it is important to be cautious and not use a high-pressure setting as this can cause damage. The pressure setting you should use will depend on the material of your roof.

If your camper roof is made of rubber, it is recommended to set your pressure washer to a lower pressure setting of between 1000 and 1500 psi. This will ensure that you do not damage the rubber, as well as any chrome or plastic vents and caps. It is also recommended to avoid power washing around any vents, antennas, solar panels, or air conditioners.

If your camper roof is made of fiberglass, it is advised to avoid using a pressure washer altogether as the high pressure can damage the fiberglass, as well as any decals, seals, and caulking. Instead, it is recommended to wash a fiberglass roof with a soft-bristled, long-handled brush and a mild soap or fiberglass cleaner.

In general, it is important to be cautious when using a pressure washer on any surface, as too much pressure can cause damage. It is always a good idea to test the pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it will not cause any damage.

Additionally, when pressure washing a camper roof, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. The manual for your camper may provide specific guidance on the safest way to clean your camper roof, including the appropriate pressure setting to use.

What roof materials are safe?

Pressure washing is not recommended for cleaning roofs, as it can cause damage. However, if you are going to pressure wash your roof, it is important to know what materials are safe and what precautions to take.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that the effectiveness and safety of pressure washing depend on the type of roof material. Some materials are more vulnerable to water pressure and can be easily damaged, while others are designed to withstand higher pressure levels.

For instance, asphalt shingles are made to handle heavy rainfall, but they may not be able to withstand the concentrated beam of water from a pressure washer. Using a pressure washer on asphalt shingles can potentially cause more harm than good, as the high-pressure water can damage the shingles themselves and the adhesive bond holding them together. It can also seep into and harm the roof's fabric underlayment.

On the other hand, certain types of shingles may be safer to clean with a pressure washer. For example, according to Homeguide, clay roof tiles can be cleaned with a pressure washer set at 1200 psi. This indicates that clay tiles have a higher resistance to water pressure.

If you have a rubber roof, it is recommended to exercise caution. A rubber roof is a coating of EPDM (a type of synthetic rubber) that comes with a fabric layer. Using a pressure washer with high-pressure water can damage this fabric layer, leading to leaks and other issues. Therefore, if you have a rubber roof, it is advisable to use a pressure washer with reduced pressure or opt for hand washing instead.

Additionally, if your roof has features such as vents, skylights, or solar panels, you should be cautious. Applying high-pressure water around these features could compromise the seals that keep them watertight, resulting in potential leaks.

In general, it is always recommended to consult the manufacturer's guidelines or a professional for advice on the best cleaning methods for your specific roof material. Taking the necessary precautions and understanding the unique characteristics of your roof material will help ensure a safe and effective cleaning experience.

What are the risks of pressure washing?

Pressure washing can be a risky endeavour, especially for those who are untrained or inexperienced. Here are some of the risks associated with pressure washing:

Bodily Harm

The powerful spray emitted by pressure washers can pose a serious hazard to the user, bystanders, and even pets. Injuries from pressure washers can include lacerations, bruises, punctures, and eye damage, some of which may require medical attention. The force of the water is strong enough to damage skin on contact, and even a small break in the skin can allow contaminated fluid to penetrate deeply into the tissue, leading to severe bacterial infections.

Property Damage

Improper use of a pressure washer can result in damage to a variety of materials and surfaces, including siding, wood, walkways, paint, plants, and decorations. For example, using a pressure washer on an RV roof can impact the paint and seals, causing leaks and other issues inside the vehicle. The high pressure can also affect vents, air conditioners, and other mounted fixtures, leading to costly repairs.

Water Damage

Pressure washing can cause water damage to your property, especially if seals are broken or damaged. This can lead to the growth of mildew and mould, and the breakdown of certain materials. Water can infiltrate joints and connections that are sealed with waterproof material, leading to leaks and potential structural issues.

AC Damage

The use of a pressure washer can absolutely destroy an air conditioning (AC) unit attached to a structure. The high-pressure stream of water can cause extensive damage to the AC, requiring costly repairs or replacements.

Structural Damage

The force of a pressure washer can cause structural damage to your property, especially if the stream is concentrated to a single point for too long. Even wider-angle nozzles can cause damage if the pressure is too high or if the stream is directed at weak points in the structure. This can result in holes, cracks, and other issues that compromise the integrity of the building.

In summary, while pressure washing can be an effective cleaning method, it is important to approach it with caution and be aware of the potential risks involved. It is always recommended to follow safety guidelines and instructions provided by the manufacturer to minimise the chances of injury or property damage.

What is the best way to wash an RV roof?

The best way to wash an RV roof will depend on the type of roof your RV has. The most common types of RV roofs are rubber membrane roofs (EPDM/TPO), PVC roofs, and fiberglass roofs.

Rubber Roofs

Rubber roofs are made of a thin, weatherproof rubber membrane stretched over a wooden substrate. They are very durable but can be damaged by certain chemicals. To avoid damaging your roof, it is important to avoid using abrasive cleaners, acidic (often citrus-based) cleansers, and any products containing petroleum distillates.

To clean a rubber roof, follow these steps:

• Sweep off all debris, paying special attention to the areas around the roof fixtures.
• Rinse the roof with a hose, also hosing off the sides and front of the RV to prevent streaking.
• Spray rubber roof cleaner directly onto the roof.
• Using a long-handled sponge mop or medium-bristled brush, scrub the roof in small sections (3 feet by 3 feet) using a circular motion.
• Rinse as you go, being careful not to slip and fall.
• Be mindful of vents and air conditioners that you could trip over.
• Standing on a ladder, use a long-handled brush to reach the roof if it cannot support your weight.
• Treat the surface with a quality protectant to make future washing easier and to provide additional protection against the elements.

PVC and Fiberglass Roofs

PVC and fiberglass roofs can be cleaned in the same way as rubber roofs, but instead of using a rubber roof cleaner, use a healthy amount of Murphy's oil soap. If your fiberglass or PVC roof has a stubborn stain, you may need to use a specific cleaning product designed for this purpose. After cleaning, it is important to apply a protectant to fiberglass roofs to prevent oxidation and rust.

Pressure Washing

While pressure washing can be an effective way to clean your RV roof, it can also cause damage if not done properly. If you choose to pressure wash your RV roof, take the following precautions:

• Turn the power down on the pressure washer and use a nozzle that lessens the pressure point. Stay below 1200 psi, as anything higher can cause damage.
• Stay away from seals, vents, and the AC unit.
• Close all windows, vents, and doors, and inspect for chipping paint or cracks in the rubber finish on your roof before beginning.
• Do not go too slowly or focus on one point for too long.
• Stay away from decals or painted areas.

General Tips

• To prevent leaks and expensive repairs, regularly inspect your roof for rips, tears, cracks, and caulking separations.
• Clean your RV roof at least four times a year, especially if it is often parked or stored under trees or in areas that are warm and moist, which can lead to mold.
• Before cleaning, make sure your roof can support your weight. If not, clean, inspect, and repair your roof from the safety of a ladder.
• After cleaning, apply a protectant to your roof to make future cleaning easier and to protect against the elements.
• Always wear gloves and goggles when working with cleaning products to protect your skin and eyes.
• Wash the body of your RV with a mild soap and a soft brush, and rinse with low-pressure water. Avoid using harsh brushes.
• Wash awnings gently to avoid damaging the fabric.
• Use recommended products specifically made for cleaning wheels and rims.
• Sweep the roof dry before washing to remove any debris or dirt and make the rest of the process easier.
• Try waterless washing with an RV washing product that does not require water. This is an eco-friendly option, but it may not be effective for tough dirt.

Products

There are many products available specifically designed for cleaning RV roofs. Here are some examples:

• Wet & Forget Outdoor Multi-Surface Ready-to-Use Cleaner: Effective on various surfaces, including asphalt, canvas, clay, fiberglass, and aluminum. Removes algae, mold, mildew, and moss, but may cause skin irritation.
• Camco 41453 Pro-Tec Pro-Strength Rubber Roof Care System: Includes both a cleaner and a protectant, providing UV protection and dirt resistance.
• Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner: Versatile and effective, removing dirt and debris from any RV roof. Affordable and easy to use, but requires a rinse.
• Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner: Proven to remove grime and roof chalk. Biodegradable and simple to apply, but the cleaning process is time-consuming.
• Gel-Gloss RV Wash Wax: Works on all surfaces, including awnings, and can also be used on boats or cars. Affordable, biodegradable, and does not cause streaking or water spotting, but there have been issues with leaking packaging.

Remember to always consult your RV manual for specific instructions and recommendations for cleaning your RV roof.

What cleaning products should be used?

When it comes to cleaning products for your camper roof, it is important to use the right ones to avoid damage. The type of roof you have will determine the best products to use.

Rubber Roofs

For rubber roofs, it is important to avoid abrasive, acidic, or citrus-based cleaners, as well as anything with petroleum distillates. These types of products can damage the rubber. Instead, opt for a rubber roof cleaner, which is designed specifically for this purpose. You can also use a mild soap or a product like RV Wash and Wax, which cleans and waxes in one step. If your roof is particularly dirty, with mud or bugs, it is a good idea to wash that off first before using the RV Wash and Wax.

Fiberglass Roofs

If your camper has a fiberglass roof, avoid using a pressure washer as it can damage the material. Instead, use a soft-bristled, long-handled brush and a mild soap or fiberglass cleaner. Again, RV Wash and Wax is a good option as it is designed for this purpose.

General Tips

When cleaning your camper roof, it is important to start by sweeping off any debris and inspecting the caulking for cracks. Then, rinse the roof with a hose or spray it with a rubber roof cleaner. Use a brush to scrub the roof in a circular motion, working in small sections. Rinse each section as you go, and be careful not to slip! Finally, allow the roof to air dry out of direct sunlight.

To protect your roof and keep it looking new, it is recommended to apply a UV protectant roof guard after cleaning. This will provide an extra layer of protection from the sun's rays. Regular cleaning and maintenance will also help to extend the life of your camper roof.

Frequently asked questions