Cleaning RV Rubber Roof Dawn | How Do I Clean

Regular RV roof maintenance is critical yet often overlooked. Over time, mold, mildew and dirt accumulate, damaging the roof. Rather than harsh chemicals, many RVers have found Dawn dish soap and water safely cleans rubber roofs, cutting through grime beautifully.

Dawn is designed to cut through grease and grime quickly and efficiently. Thanks to its surfactants that loosen debris and mild formula, it can be used safely on the EPDM and TPO materials commonly used for RV roofs today. With just a bit of elbow grease, Dawn leaves the roof sparkling clean without degrading the surface over time.

Cleaning the roof regularly with Dawn is an easy and inexpensive way to add years of life to an RV’s roof. In this article, I’ll explore the steps for mixing the solution, cleaning techniques, and maintenance tips for getting the most out of a rubber RV roof.

Supplies Needed to Clean an RV Rubber Roof

Having the right supplies on hand will make cleaning the roof safely and efficiently a breeze. Before heading up to scrub the roof, be sure to gather the necessary cleaning tools and accessories.

To properly clean an RV rubber roof, you’ll need:

Dawn dish soap: The surfactants in Dawn cut through grease and grime better than regular dish or laundry detergents. Use a couple tablespoons per gallon of water.

Soft bristle brush or sponge: Choose a soft bristle brush or a non-abrasive sponge to avoid damaging the roof’s surface while scrubbing.

Garden hose with spray nozzle: Use a standard garden hose with an adjustable nozzle to rinse debris and soap residue off the roof.

Ladder to safely access roof: Use a sturdy ladder to safely reach all areas of the roof for cleaning. Position it securely.

With these simple supplies on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle washing away dirt and grime from the roof. The right tools make the job much smoother.

Mix the Dawn Solution for Cleaning the RV Rubber Roof

To make an effective cleaning solution for an RV roof, you’ll need to mix up some sudsy Dawn soap and warm water.

– Add 2-3 tablespoons of Dawn dish soap per gallon of warm water in a bucket. The warm water helps the soap dissolve and activate.

– Dawn’s surfactants will cut through grease, oil and other grime on the roof. The soap helps loosen debris to make scrubbing easier.

– Mix the solution thoroughly before applying it to the roof. Additional buckets can be mixed up as needed for larger roofs.

The diluted Dawn and warm water solution will provide plenty of cleaning power to help scrub the roof clean and revitalize it.

Process to Cleaning the RV Rubber Roof with Dawn

Properly cleaning an RV rubber roof involves multiple steps to remove dirt, grime, and residue that builds up over time. The key is using the right supplies and techniques to clean the roof surface thoroughly without causing any damage. Below are the recommended steps to safely give an RV roof a deep clean using Dawn dish soap.

Steps-01: Remove Loose Debris

First, use a broom or brush to sweep away any loose debris on the roof such as leaves, twigs, dirt or grime. This prevents any loose particles from being scrubbed into the roof surface. Sweep the entire roof until only the stuck-on debris remains.

Steps-02: Scrub the Roof

– Use a soft bristle brush dipped in the Dawn cleaning solution to scrub the entire roof surface.

– Pay close attention to areas with visible stuck-on grime or dirt buildup, scrubbing them thoroughly.

– Rinse the roof frequently with a light spray of water to prevent any swept away debris from blowing elsewhere before being rinsed off. Scrubbing with the Dawn solution will help lift dirt from the roof.

Steps-03: Rinse Thoroughly

– After scrubbing the entire roof with Dawn solution, use a garden hose on a light fan spray setting to thoroughly rinse away all soap residue.

– It’s important to completely rinse away all traces of soap to prevent any leftover residue from attracting dirt and debris over time. Rinse the roof until only clear water comes off and no more bubbles or suds appear.

Take your time to fully clean and rinse the entire roof to remove all accumulated grime. The Dawn solution will cut through grease and debris easily with proper scrubbing and rinsing.

Post-Cleaning Maintenance

Cleaning the roof thoroughly is an important first step, but additional maintenance helps keep it protected after washing. Here are some tips for follow-up care after cleaning an RV rubber roof with Dawn.

Inspect Sealants and Seams

– Inspect roof sealants around vents, seams and edges for any cracked or dried out areas that may lead to leaks.

– Reseal any identified problem areas with fresh sealant to protect the roof from water damage.

Apply Protectant

– After cleaning, apply a protective treatment made for RV rubber roofs every 6 months.

– Using a specialty protectant prevents the roof from UV damage and breakdown over time. The protectant forms a barrier against the elements.

Regularly applying a UV-resistant rubber roof protectant after deep cleaning helps maintain the roof’s condition and prevents environmental damage from sun exposure or ozone damage. Follow the product instructions for proper application and reapplication intervals.

Benefits of Using Dawn for RV Rubber Roof Cleaning

Keeping your RV’s rubber roof clean is important for both its looks and its lifespan. Harsh chemicals can damage it, but Dawn dish soap is a gentle and effective alternative. It cuts through grease and grime without fading or cracking the rubber, leaving your roof sparkling clean and ready for your next adventure. Plus, it’s much cheaper than specialized RV roof cleaners!

Let’s discuss the benefits of using Dawn for RV rubber roof cleaning:

1. Unlike harsh chemical roof cleaners, Dawn boasts a mild formula free of harsh detergents and bleach. This makes it incredibly gentle on rubber, preventing cracking, fading, or premature wear. Think of it as a soothing bath for your roof, rather than a harsh scrub.

2. Don’t be fooled by Dawn’s gentle nature. Its powerful grease-cutting ability translates perfectly to RV roof cleaning. Sooty exhaust fumes, bird droppings, and tree sap – no grime stands a chance against Dawn’s grease-dissolving magic. Say goodbye to stubborn stains and hello to a gleaming, like-new roof!

3. Compared to specialized RV roof cleaners, Dawn is a wallet-friendly champion. Its readily available nature and concentrated formula make it incredibly cost-effective. You can clean your entire RV roof using just a fraction of the price of commercial cleaners, leaving you with more budget for your next adventure.

4. Dawn’s biodegradable formula makes it a more eco-friendly option compared to many chemical-based cleaners. This means you can keep your RV sparkling while minimizing your environmental impact – a win-win for you and the planet.

So, ditch the harsh chemicals and accept the gentle power of Dawn for your next RV rubber roof cleaning session. Your roof will thank you for it, your wallet will cheer, and you’ll be one step closer to hitting the road with a sparkling clean RV ready for unforgettable adventures.

Additional Tips for Maintaining RV Rubber Roof

While Dawn dish soap is a fantastic tool for cleaning your RV’s rubber roof, its magic doesn’t stop there! Here are some additional tips to keep your roof in tip-top shape:

– Just like your car needs regular checkups, so does your RV’s roof. Aim for at least two thorough inspections per year. Climb up (safely!) and scan for tears, cracks, punctures, or any suspicious bulges. Early detection of any damage can prevent leaks and save you major headaches down the road.

– The sun’s harsh rays are the kryptonite to rubber roofs. Over time, UV exposure can cause cracking and fading. To combat this, apply a UV protectant specifically designed for RV roofs. Think of it as sunscreen for your roof, keeping it shielded and strong.

– Adapt your roof care to the changing seasons. Before winter, remove any debris like leaves or branches that could trap moisture and cause damage. In spring, check for winter-related wear and tear, like ice dams or cracks caused by freezing temperatures. Addressing these issues promptly will keep your roof ready for any weather.

Remember, a little preventive care goes a long way in extending the lifespan and performance of your RV’s rubber roof. By incorporating these tips alongside your Dawn cleaning routine, you can ensure your roof stays strong, shiny, and ready for countless adventures to come!

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning RV Rubber Roof with Dawn

While Dawn dish soap is a gentle and effective way to clean your RV’s rubber roof, there are still some pitfalls to avoid. Here are two common mistakes to steer clear of:

1. Remember, rubber is a delicate material. Skip the harsh scrub brushes, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaners like bleach or degreasers. These can permanently damage the roof’s surface, leading to cracks, tears, and leaks. Think of your roof like a soft sponge – you wouldn’t scrub it with sandpaper, would you?

2. While a little elbow grease can be helpful, too much scrubbing can actually be counterproductive. Rubbing too hard can wear down the protective layer of the rubber, making it more susceptible to UV damage and premature aging. Let Dawn’s cleaning power do the heavy lifting, and focus on a gentle massage rather than an aggressive scrub.

Remember, a clean RV roof is a happy RV roof! By following these simple tips, you can ensure your roof stays sparkling and protected for years to come, adding to the longevity and enjoyment of your adventures.

Queries and Solutions (Q&A)

Q1. How often should I clean the RV rubber roof?

A: Plan to wash the roof at least 2-3 times per year as part of routine maintenance. More often if parked under trees or in other debris-prone locations. Address any new stains right away before they have a chance to really set in.

Q2. Can I use other cleaners besides Dawn?

A: Dawn really does work best thanks to its specialized grease-fighting formula. However, other mild dish soaps may provide reasonably good cleaning results too. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that could degrade the roof over time.

Q3. Is it ok to walk on the rubber roof?

A: Exercise caution anytime walking on the roof to prevent accidental damage, but the durable EPDM material can handle light foot traffic. Wear soft-soled shoes and watch your step near vents or skylights.

Q4. What about black streaks down the exterior walls?

A: That unsightly staining comes from roof grime that bleeds down the sides after rain or dew. Use the same Dawn cleaning solution for wiping exterior walls while doing the roof for a totally refreshed look!

Q5. Can I use other tools like a power washer?

A: Avoid high-pressure power washing whenever possible as it can degrade roof coatings over time. The manual scrub method with Dawn is gentle yet highly effective for most cleaning purposes.

Summing Up

Regularly cleaning RV rubber roofs with Dawn dish soap and water provides an inexpensive yet effective way to revive dingy, stained roofs. The surfactants in Dawn cut through grime without damaging the roof. Proper scrubbing and thorough rinsing prevents dirt buildup over time. Consistent cleaning and maintenance with Dawn keeps roofs looking new, while preventing leaks and other damage.