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SECTION 3 — EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE
CAMELOT 2007
Roof Care & Seal Inspections
Wherever there is something afxed to the
motorhome, such as the “beltline” or vent
attached on the roof, there is a seal preventing
water intrusion. There are many types of
sealants and each has a specic use. While the
beltline uses a silicone or urethane base sealant
to prevent water intrusion, roof openings use
an acrylic based sealant. Moisture intrusion
can occur at any time for a number of reasons.
Therefore regular sealant inspection and
maintenance will greatly reduce the likelihood of
moisture intrusion and costly repairs.
The motorhome is sealed at the factory.
However, extreme weather conditions can
shorten the life of the sealant while harsh road
conditions can compromise sealant integrity.
Maintaining sealant integrity is part of regular
motorhome maintenance. Inspect all joints,
seams and openings at least once every 6
months. While sealant integrity may appear
ne, a small void under the right conditions can
quickly cause major damage. Make a full interior
inspection for signs of moisture intrusion every
two weeks if the motorhome is in storage.
CAUTION
Inspect exterior seals, seams and joints
for sealant integrity at least twice a
year. Make a full interior inspection for
water leaks every two weeks while the
motorhome is in storage.
INSPECTING
Surface must be clean and dry. Inspect
seal for voids, cracks, bubbling, peeling
or pulling away. Sealant that looks fine
without imperfections is acceptable
for continued service. Sealant that is
old, cracking, flaking or bubbling will
allow moisture intrusion and must be
repaired.
WARNING
Inspecting sealant will require use of
a ladder or scaffold assembly. Roof
access is also required. Follow proper
safety measures accordingly. Exercise
extreme care whenever using a ladder/
scaffold assembly. Avoid getting on the
roof if it is icy or moisture laden as the
surface can be very slick. Use judgment
if inspection is considered dangerous.
Have the motorhome inspected or sealed
(if necessary) by a qualified service
technician.
Sealant Replacement:
Carefully remove sealant that is cracking,
aking, bubbling, peeling or pulling away from
the surface. The area under the removed sealant
will need to be clean and dry before applying
new sealant. Applying new sealant over a dirty
or moisture laden surface will not allow proper
adhesion. Sealant application may require simple
hand tools and paper towels or rags for cleanup.
Some sealants may be labeled hazardous or
require chemicals for cleanup. Follow all of the
manufacturer’s warnings and precautions when
dealing with these substances.
WARNING
Some sealants may be labeled hazardous
or require use of petroleum distillates
for cleanup. Use proper precautions as
suggested by the sealant or chemical
manufacturer. Use of protective
eye wear, gloves, respirator or open
ventilation may be required. Use
judgment when working with chemicals.
If health limits exposure to chemicals
or inhibits skills or abilities, employ a
qualified service technician to perform
the tasks.
Sealant Types
Rubber Sealant:
Product Manufacturer Dolphin Part # 7589
UVR Elastiseal
This product is used on all roof openings such
as vents, skylights, any roof mounted antennas
and ladder roof mounts. The sealant should be
applied only where the equipment bases meet the
roof. Clean the old sealant that is lifting before
applying the new. Make sure the roof is dry and
free of dirt. This product is usually found in a
caulking tube. Care should be used when near
an edge, as the product will spread out. Masking
tape may be used to mask around area to avoid
mishaps. The roof air conditioners use a closed
cell foam base gasket. No sealants are required.
The roof air conditioners should be checked for
tightness by the four mounting bolts located in
each interior corner of the air conditioner roof
opening. Torque specication is 40 to 50 in/lbs.
The base gasket should be compressed to about
½”.
Acrylic Sealants:
Product Manufacturer Geocel Part # 2300
Used where items are sealed under a painted
surface such as the metal corners of slide out
rooms and roof mounted awning brackets. The
material is specially formulated to allow paint
adhesion. Clean with mineral spirits.
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