How to Apply RV Roof Coating | Step-by-Step for Rubber, Silicone & Acrylic

If you've ever experienced a leaky RV roof, you've come to the right place. We're exploring everything there is to know about applying RV roof coatings the right way, to avoid leaks in the future.

But first, let me give you a little backstory...

It was the summer of '92, and Dad took the whole family to the Grand Canyon in the old RV. A storm rolled in overnight and I woke up soaked to the bone. By morning, the RV roof was already sagging on the inside, and the unmistakable smell of regret filled the camper.

Dad sat there, grumbling over his coffee "See, son, I knew this old RV needed more than a few roof patches. And if I’d coated the whole dang roof last spring, we wouldn’t be mopin’ up a puddle right now."

And that story is precisely why we've put together the following guide for all you die-hard RV-driving DIYers with rubber or fiberglass roofs on their RVs.

As my old man taught me, sealing cracks and gaps is a good way to stop leaks. But applying a good quality coating to your entire roof... That's how you prevent them in the first place!

Below, we're taking you through the application process step-by-step to ensure you get the job done right. We'll also cover the tools you'll need, how to prepare your work area and RV, and some of the most common mistakes to avoid.

So if you're ready to get started, let's jump right in!

For a more in-depth look at fixing and maintaining your RV, make sure to check out our Ultimate RV Roof Repair Manual.

What Is RV Roof Coating? And When Should You Use It?

RV roof coatings are after-market products that you use to protect your RV from moisture, UV damage, and even tree branches, leaves, or other debris that can damage your roof over time.

Ultimately, applying a high-quality roof coating should be part of every RV owner's preventive maintenance checklist.

It helps prevent leaks, stops cracks from forming, and reduces wear and tear and long-term material degradation due to outdoor exposure.

Newer RVs fresh off the lot don't really need them. But roof coatings are ideal for older RV models, especially if you're dealing with a sun-damaged roof.

Now, it's important to understand that not all RV roof coatings are created the same and that there are different types out there. Here's a quick breakdown of the different kinds of coatings you might see.

• Elastomeric coatings - These coatings are thick, liquid rubber products that instantly form a waterproof and protective barrier on your RV. They're easy to apply, flexible, and durable.
• Acrylic coatings - These are water-based coatings made from acrylic resins. They're just as effective as elastomeric coatings, but they're considered a more eco-friendly option.
• Silicone coatings - Silicone products are similar in terms of their protective capabilities. But they're a bit trickier to apply and often require a primer to ensure proper adhesion.

In our comprehensive RV Roof Sealant Guide 2025, we explore the many different types and top-rated RV sealant brands on the market.

RV roof coatings Vs. lap and cap sealants - What's the difference?

You'll often see RV sealant products labeled as lap or cap sealants or coatings. Essentially, these are all protective waterproofing products. The difference is that lap and cap sealants are meant to be for spot treatments and repairs. Whereas RV roof coatings are applied to your entire roof and are meant as longer-term preventative waterproofing measures.

Image courtesy of Benjamin Cheng @ Unsplash.com

What Type of Coating Should You Use on Your RV Roof?

Now that you know about the different types of RV roof coatings out there, it's time to learn about which products you need to use.

When choosing a coating for your RV roof, you'll need to match the product with your roof type to ensure proper adhesion and long-lasting protection. Using the right coating not only extends the life of your RV roof, but also prevents costly leaks and unnecessary repairs down the road.

• EPDM roofs - Acrylic or rubber-based coatings are ideal for use on rubber EPDM RV roofs. These are flexible products that adhere well to rubber surfaces, preventing cracks and ensuring a long-lasting protective barrier.
• TPO roofs - Can also be coated with acrylic or rubberized products but they require a primer to be applied first, which ensures proper adhesion.
• Fiberglass roofs - It's generally safe to use any type of coating on these roofs. So you're free to choose from acrylic, elastomeric, or silicone products.
• Metal roofs - Whether you're got a steel or aluminum roof, it's best to use silicone coatings, which are better at expanding and contracting alongside your metal roof during temperature changes.

What Tools & Materials You’ll Need

My old man once told me that starting a project without gathering all your tools first is a lot like sitting down on the toilet only to realize that you ain't got any toilet paper left on the roll.

So unless you want to end up hollering for your kids or partner to bring you what you need mid-job, you'll want to take a minute or two to collect all the tools and materials you'll need before getting started.

Don't worry! We've got your back! Here's what you'll need:

• Roof primer (if needed)
• Paint roller and paintbrush
• Paint tray
• Masking tape
• Work gloves
• Ladder
• RV-safe cleaner
• Plastic scraper
• Rags
• Rubbing alcohol
• Roof Coating

You might also need

• Titan Patch - RV roof sealant tape
• Lap sealant for roof edges and seam repairs

If you haven't already, you might also want to think about buying an RV roof repair kit that comes with everything you need to get this type of job done, including lap and cap sealants, butyl tape, and some of the tools needed to repair those nagging leaks.

Check out our comprehensive guide on the Best RV Roof Repair Kits for 2025 to find out which kit is right for you.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply RV Roof Coating Properly

Now that we've covered which products to use, and which tools and supplies to have on hand, let's get started!

Step 1 - Clean your roof thoroughly

The first step is to give your roof a good, deep cleaning. We recommend using a hose or pressure washer to blast away any dust, mildew, and grime that may have built up over the years.

Then use a scrub brush and an RV-specific cleaning product to wash the surface. At this time, it's also good to carefully inspect the roof for any problem areas, gaps or cracks that you might want to repair with lap sealant or RV sealant tape before applying your new coating.

A clean surface ensures your coating bonds properly to the roof of your RV.

Step 2 - Remove any chalking

Chalking is a white, powdery residue that you'll often see on older, aged RV roofs, especially if they've been left uncovered and exposed during the off-season. You'll need to remove as much as of this as possible to ensure better adhesion.

You can usually get chalking off by using a stiff brush and some rubbing alcohol. But you can also find some RV roof prep products designed specifically to help loosen and remove chalking.

After scrubbing away any visible chalking, rinse, and then give your roof some time to dry before moving on to the next steps.

Step 3 - Mask and protect anything you don't want to get coating on

Remember that preparation is key to any successful RV maintenance job.

So masking off your roof vents, AC unit, and roof edges helps keep your coating exactly where you want it and avoids an unnecessary and easily avoidable cleanup afterward.

You can use regular painter's tape or pretty much any type of plastic sheeting for this.

Step 4 - Apply primer (if needed)

Depending on the type of roof that you're coating or the actual coating product you're using, you may need to apply a primer first.

We've already mentioned that TPO roofs require a primer to ensure that your coating bonds properly to the surface. But if you're using a silicone coating, you may also need to apply a primer.

If you're unsure, check your coating's manufacturer directions to see if you need a primer or not.

If you do need to apply a primer, make sure to give it enough time to cure properly before applying your coating product.

Step 5 - Stir coating thoroughly

Just like when opening a can of paint that's been sitting for a while, you'll also want to mix up and stir your coating product before use.

You can mix it by hand using any piece of wood, a paint stir stick, or a drill-mounted mixer.

Any material that's settled at the bottom needs to be fully blended in to ensure the product’s effectiveness.

Step 6 - Apply first coat with roller

Next, use a roller or paintbrush to apply a thin (but not too thin) first coat. You can do this from a ladder or by actually getting up on the roof. Either way, just make sure to always think safety first!

If you're up walking on the roof, start at the far end and work your way backwards towards your ladder. The last thing you want to do is paint your way into a corner and have to holler at your neighbor to come over and move your ladder for you.

Step 7 - Let dry → apply second coat (if recommended)

Check your coating's directions to see whether or not you need to apply a second coat. If you do, make sure to give the first coat plenty of time to dry, usually 24 to 48 hours.

Then, apply your second coat in the opposite direction of the first coat. So if you applied your first coat north/south, apply your second coat east/west.

Step 8 - Final inspection

Once everything is absolutely dry, inspect your RV roof for missed spots, thin patches, or uneven coverage, and touch up if needed.

You'll want to be extra vigilant in checking areas around your vents and edges. You can touch up small areas with lap sealant or RV tape. Or you can use a paintbrush to apply additional coating to those problem areas.

Got a small leak that you need to seal before coating your whole roof? Learn How to Fix an RV Roof Leak

Can You Use Silicone Coating on an RV Roof?

Yes, you can apply silicone roof coatings for RVs. However, silicone doesn't adhere very well to certain rubber membranes, like EPDM or TPO. So unlike if you've got a rubber roof, we strongly encourage you to apply a primer first before applying a silicone coating product.

It's also important to note that silicone doesn't stick to silicone very well either. So it's a bit tricky to apply a second coat to your roof in the future.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Roof Coating

Applying sealant to your RV's roof is easy enough.

However, there's always that one RV owner who thinks they're smarter than the average bear, who cuts corners, and who might get the job done quicker than you... But they'll probably be dealing with new roof leaks before the season's through.

That being said, let's review some of the most common mistakes we've seen, so you can avoid being "that guy."

1. Not cleaning thoroughly - Like most preventative maintenance or repair jobs, preparation is key. It's crucial to thoroughly clean your roof before applying any coating product. Start by removing any leaves, branches, or other debris that might be stuck in your roof seams. Then, use an RV-specific cleaning product and rinse clean with a power washer.
2. Applying in humid weather or during rain - The key to a good coating job is that your roof needs to be completely dry before you apply your coating. Elastomeric, acrylic or silicone coating won't adhere to the surface properly if it's wet or if it's applied in humid weather. If you've just washed your roof, give it some time to dry in the sun or you can wipe it down with a clean rag or towel to speed up the process.
3. Skipping primer on TPO - Again, proper adhesion is key! So if you're using a silicone-based coating or applying your coating to a rubberized TPO roof, it's vital to apply a primer beforehand. This helps to seal the surface and gives your coating something it can stick to, ensuring a better, longer-lasting protective barrier. Purchasing and applying a primer might cost more and take longer, but it's a small price to pay to get the job done the RIGHT way and to protect your investment in the long-run.
4. Applying too thick/uneven - Yes, you want to apply a good amount of sealant, but you don't need to go crazy with it. Go easy and apply your first layer just thick enough to completely coat the surface and fill any gaps or cracks that you can see. Once it dries, you can then re-apply a second coat to ensure proper coverage.
5. Walking on it before it’s cured - RV roof coatings need time to dry and bond to the surface of your roof. It's generally advised to wait 24 to 48 hours before walking on your roof. Going up there before that can mess with your work, cause the coating to separate from your roof, and you might end up with sticky roof coating all over your work boots.

Frequently Asked Questions - How To Apply RV Roof Coating

By now you should know the ins and outs of applying sealants and roof coatings to your RV. But just in case we've missed anything, here are some of our final thoughts and a few frequently asked questions we hear from our readers.

How long does RV roof coating last?

RV roof coating can last anywhere between 2 to 20 years, depending on the specific products and how it's applied. Cheaper waterproofing products and sealants like Flex Seal only last a year or two (if that) before they start peeling and cracking. Don't use them! But better quality elastomeric coatings, like Liquid Rubber, can last for 10 years or more as long as they're applied properly.

Do I need to use primer before RV roof coating?

It depends on the type of roof your RV has and the type of coating that you're using. Most coatings won't adhere to TPO roofs. So in this case, you'll need to apply a primer first before your coating. On the other hand, you might find some elastomeric products marketed as "no primer needed." So you need to check the specs of the actual coating you're using. Either way, primer helps seal your surface and offers better adhesion. So in most cases, we do recommend using a primer.

How many coats should I apply?

Generally, we recommend doing two coats, especially if this is the first time that you're sealing your RV roof. However, sometimes a single coat is fine, especially when you're just doing a quick emergency resealing, or if your roof has previously been sealed and you're just re-applying a new coat to protect your roof for the upcoming season.

Can I re-coat over an old layer of RV roof coating?

Yes, you can apply a new coat over an older layer of RV roof coating. But just like that first coat, you'll need to prepare the surface before applying the second layer. Inspecting your roof, cleaning it, and applying a primer if needed are all important steps to consider when applying a new layer of coating over an older layer.

What’s the best roof coating for rubber RV roofs?

We recommend using acrylic or elastomeric coatings on rubber RV roofs. These products are designed to adhere to rubber roofs made from TPO or EPDM. You can use a silicone-based coating too. But you'll need to apply a primer first.