One of the most expensive issues you can face as an RV owner is water damage. The frustrating part? In most cases, it’s preventable. With a little time and attention, you can catch small problems early, keep leaks out, and save yourself thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.
Effective prevention of water damage in recreational vehicles (RVs) requires systematic monitoring of three critical structural components: the roof, the sidewalls, and the slide-outs. The following sections will examine each of these areas in detail to outline targeted maintenance strategies.
Keep a Close Watch on the Roof
The roof is the first line of defense against water, and also the first place trouble tends to show up.
Now, if you’re not comfortable climbing up there or aren’t confident about ladder safety, it’s best to leave this to a professional. But if you are comfortable, checking your roof should be part of your regular routine.
Here’s what you’ll want to look for:
- Membrane condition – Run your hands and eyes across the roof to check for tears, bubbles, soft spots, or gouges.
- Sealant around cutouts – Anywhere something pokes through the roof—vents, skylights, antennas, plumbing—there’s sealant. Even on a brand-new RV, gaps and pinholes can slip through. Don’t assume “new” means “perfect.”
- Edges and seams – Where the roof meets the sidewalls, there’s usually a long trim piece covered with sealant. Inspect every inch for cracks or separation.
If you need to touch up sealant, use the type your RV manufacturer specifies. If you’re under warranty, this is especially important—using the wrong product could void coverage.
How often should you check? At least once a year. Many owners prefer to do it seasonally. Either way, schedule it so you don’t forget.
Don’t Overlook the Sidewalls
Water doesn’t just sneak in through the roof. The sides of your RV are full of potential entry points, too.
Any cutout in the wall—whether for doors, appliances, lights, or even awning brackets—is sealed. That sealant needs to stay flexible and intact. Over time, it dries out, cracks, or pulls away.
When you inspect the sidewalls, look for:
- Sealant gaps or cracks – Check closely around every access door, cargo hatch, marker light, and appliance vent.
- Signs of delamination – If you notice rippling or bulging on the wall, it may mean that water has gotten between the layers and the adhesive is failing.
The optimal maintenance strategy involves a comprehensive removal and replacement of all sidewall sealant annually, as this preventive measure significantly reduces the risk of costly structural damage arising from water infiltration. Although this process can be time-intensive, it is considerably less burdensome than addressing the consequences of water-induced deterioration. For individuals lacking the necessary technical proficiency or resources, engaging a certified RV service professional is advisable. As a practical tip, using painter’s tape to outline the sealant lines before application can help achieve clean, professional-quality results and prevent excess sealant from spreading onto adjacent surfaces.
Slide-Outs: An Easy Place for Leaks to Hide
Slide-outs add space and comfort, but they also add another weak spot when it comes to water intrusion.
Here’s what you need to pay attention to:
- Seals and sweeps – The rubber blade and bulb seals should be flexible, not brittle or cracked. They should make solid contact with the slide box from top to bottom.
- Alignment – If the seals aren’t touching evenly, your slide may need adjustment.
- Roof and sidewalls of the slide – Just like the main body, these areas rely on sealant. If you’ve got a slide topper, lift it up and check underneath as well.
Delamination can happen on slide-outs, too, so keep an eye out for the same bulging or rippling signs.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your RV might feel like a chore, but the small amount of time spent checking these three areas—roof, sidewalls, and slide-outs—can save you from one of the most dreaded (and expensive) repairs an RV owner can face.
Water damage isn’t just costly; it also means downtime. Regular inspections, plus a little preventative maintenance, will keep your RV dry, strong, and ready for the road.