Flex Seal On Epdm Camper Roofs: A Good Idea?

Flex Seal is a brand of adhesive products that come in liquid, paste, tape, and spray forms. It can be used to fix leaks in RVs, including those with EPDM roofs. However, opinions vary on whether it is a good idea to use Flex Seal on EPDM camper roofs. While some people swear by it, others have been unimpressed and consider it only a temporary solution.

Flex Seal is not UV-stabilized, meaning it may not last long in sunny environments. It is also made from silicone, which leaves a residue that can make future repairs challenging. Additionally, Flex Seal may not have the same flexibility and expansion/contraction characteristics as an RV roof, making it more prone to cracking and separating.

There are alternative products on the market that are specifically designed for RV roof repairs and are recommended by professionals and manufacturers. These include Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant, EternaBond Tape, and Surebond SB-140. These products are well-proven, effective, and compatible with EPDM roofs.

Therefore, while Flex Seal can be used on EPDM camper roofs in emergencies or as a temporary fix, it is not recommended as a long-term solution.

Flex Seal is a temporary fix for EPDM camper roofs

Firstly, Flex Seal is not UV-stabilized, which means that its protection will not last long in sunny environments. Without UV protection, the product will dry out and crack, leading to potential leaks. There are numerous complaints about Flex Seal cracking and failing due to its lack of reliable UV stabilization.

Secondly, Flex Seal is made from silicone, which leaves a residue that nothing else can stick to, including more silicone. This will make future repairs challenging as the new sealant will not adhere properly.

Thirdly, the flexibility and expansion/contraction characteristics of Flex Seal may not match those of the other materials on your EPDM camper roof. This mismatch can lead to cracking and separation, leaving your camper vulnerable to leaks.

Fourthly, the constant movement of a camper challenges the holding power of Flex Seal. The silicone-based Flex Seal may not have the required holding power to withstand the vibrations and movements of a camper.

Finally, there are better products on the market specifically designed for EPDM camper roofs. These products are recommended by RV manufacturers and technicians and have been proven to be effective over many miles and decades. Examples include Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant, EternaBond Tape, and Surebond SB-140.

In conclusion, while Flex Seal can be a quick fix for small leaks and tears on your EPDM camper roof, it is not a long-term solution. It is essential to use products specifically designed for EPDM roofs to ensure effective and long-lasting protection against leaks.

Flex Seal is not UV-stabilized

There are hundreds of complaints about Flex Seal online, and its lack of reliable UV stabilization is likely a contributing factor. Remember that RV manufacturers are well aware of the importance of UV protection and are unlikely to recommend a product that doesn't offer it.

Flex Seal is UV-resistant, but this doesn't mean it's UV-stabilized. The distinction is important: UV-resistant materials are designed to protect themselves from UV rays, but they don't necessarily protect the surfaces they're applied to. On the other hand, UV-stabilized materials are designed to protect both themselves and the underlying surfaces from UV damage.

Flex Seal's own FAQ states that the product is "not intended for use by Professional Roofers." If it worked as well as they claim, why wouldn't professionals use it?

In conclusion, while Flex Seal can be used on RV roofs in emergencies, it's not a suitable long-term solution. Its lack of UV stabilization means it will dry out, crack, and peel over time, potentially causing more damage to your roof and voiding your warranties.

Flex Seal is made from silicone

Flex Seal is a brand of adhesive products that can be used for various purposes, including repairing leaks in RV roofs. While some people have found Flex Seal to be effective for temporary repairs, others have reported that it becomes brittle, cracks, and peels off over time, especially when exposed to UV light. Therefore, it is important to recognise that Flex Seal is not a permanent solution for roof repairs.

Now, to answer your main question, Flex Seal is indeed made from silicone. It is a silicone-based product that cures when exposed to oxygen or nitrogen. Silicone is known for its ability to crosslink and form a watertight, flexible barrier, making it useful for sealing and caulking various surfaces. In the case of Flex Seal, the silicone-based formula allows it to be applied without a caulking gun, making it a convenient option for quick fixes.

The silicone in Flex Seal gives it several desirable properties. Firstly, it is a super-thick rubber sealant, meaning it can fill gaps and form a sturdy yet flexible layer. Secondly, it can bond to a wide range of surfaces, including porcelain, tile, metal, glass, fibreglass, wood, and even fabric and upholstery. This versatility is a significant advantage when dealing with various materials in RV construction.

Additionally, Flex Seal is easy to use. It can be applied at a 45-degree angle, and you can smooth it out with your finger to work with it as desired. It forms a tacky coating in about 20 minutes and fully cures within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity.

While Flex Seal has its advantages, it is important to follow the instructions and precautions for optimal results. Surfaces should be clean, dry, and free from dirt, grease, and oil before application. It is also recommended to use Flex Seal in a well-ventilated area to avoid any potential issues.

Flex Seal's flexibility doesn't match that of an EPDM camper roof

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber roofing material used for campervan roofs. It is valued for its superior flexibility, allowing it to easily contour to unusual roof shapes. This flexibility, along with its high strength, makes it a popular choice for camper roofs.

Flex Seal, on the other hand, is a brand of adhesive products that dry to form a rubberized coating. While Flex Seal is an excellent temporary solution for minor leaks and repairs, its flexibility does not match that of EPDM.

EPDM's flexibility is evident in its ability to be sold in sheets and easily installed without the need for special skills or equipment. Its flexibility allows it to conform to various roof shapes, making it a versatile option for camper roofs.

In contrast, Flex Seal is a temporary fix and not a long-term solution. While it can be used to patch small leaks and repairs, it is not suitable for repairing an entire roof. Flex Seal products, such as Flex Seal Liquid and Flex Seal Spray, are intended for spot treatments and are not designed to cover large roof areas.

Additionally, Flex Seal has limitations when exposed to UV light. It can become brittle, crack, and eventually peel off when exposed to sunlight for extended periods. This is a significant drawback for a product intended for use on roofs, which are constantly exposed to the elements.

EPDM, on the other hand, is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. While it may oxidize over time, it typically requires minimal maintenance for the first ten years, making it a more reliable option for camper roofs.

In summary, while Flex Seal can be useful for minor repairs and leaks, its flexibility and durability do not match those of EPDM camper roofs. For a more permanent and reliable solution, it is advisable to consider other options specifically designed for EPDM roofs or consult with a professional RV repair service.

The movement of a camper challenges the holding power of Flex Seal

The movement of a camper can challenge the holding power of Flex Seal. Flex Seal is a liquid rubber sealant coating that can be used on almost any surface, including wood, metal, plastic, and rubber. It is perfect for quick fixes while on the road until a more permanent repair can be arranged. While Flex Seal is an excellent product for repairing leaks, it is important to note that it is not a permanent solution and should not be used to repair an entire roof.

Flex Seal has its limitations and is not designed for RV roof repairs. It is a temporary fix and will not withstand extreme pressure or heat. The product will become brittle, crack, and peel off when exposed to ultraviolet light for extended periods. Therefore, it is crucial to use Flex Seal as a temporary solution and not as a permanent fix for a leaky RV roof.

To ensure the longevity of Flex Seal on a moving camper, it is essential to follow the proper application instructions. The surface should be clean and dry before applying Flex Seal. The product should be applied in a well-ventilated area, and the can should be shaken vigorously before use. It is also important to feather the edges and allow sufficient time for each coat to dry and cure completely.

Additionally, Flex Seal should not be the only product used for RV roof repairs. It is recommended to use it in combination with other products, such as EternaBond tape, Dicor self-leveling sealant, or Liquid RV Roof, to ensure a more permanent and effective solution. By using Flex Seal alongside other products, you can create a stronger and more durable seal that can withstand the movement and vibrations of a camper.

Frequently asked questions