Category: RV Tips & Tricks

As an RV owner, taking care of your roof is one of the most important maintenance tasks you’ll undertake. A properly maintained roof ensures that your RV stays dry and free from leaks, which can cause significant damage and cost a lot of money to repair. One of the most important decisions you’ll make in maintaining your RV roof is selecting the right sealant. Two popular options are Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW and Sikaflex 221. In this blog post, we’ll compare the pros and cons of both products so you can decide which one is right for you.

As mentioned earlier, the roof of your RV is one of the most important components of the vehicle. It protects you and your belongings from the elements, and a leaky roof can cause significant damage to your RV’s interior. Choosing the right sealant is critical in ensuring that your RV stays dry and protected.

Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is a popular choice among RV owners because it is specifically designed for use on rubber roofs. Rubber roofs are a common type of roofing material used in RVs because they are lightweight, durable, and flexible. Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is safe to use on rubber roofs and will not cause any chemical reactions that can damage the rubber membrane.

One of the benefits of Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is that it is easy to apply. This sealant is self-levelling, which means that it will spread out evenly on your roof, ensuring complete coverage. This makes it easy to apply, even if you don’t have much experience with roof maintenance. It is also long-lasting and can withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing the frequency of sealant reapplication.

Sikaflex 221, on the other hand, is a popular sealant option that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including tin, aluminum, fiberglass, and plastic. It is a versatile sealant and is fast-curing, making it a good option for RV owners who want to get their maintenance tasks done quickly.

However, it is important to note that Sikaflex 221 is not specifically designed for use on rubber roofs. Using Sikaflex 221 on rubber roofs can cause a chemical reaction with the rubber membrane, leading to damage or even failure of the roof. This is why Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is the better option for rubber roofs.

Additionally, Sikaflex 221 can be messy to apply. Unlike Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW, it is not self-levelling, which means that you’ll need to be careful when applying it to ensure that it doesn’t drip or smear. This can make the application process more time-consuming and challenging, especially for those who are not experienced in RV roof maintenance.

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting a sealant for your RV roof, it is essential to choose a product that is safe to use on your specific type of roofing material. For rubber roofs, Dicor Self Levelling 501LSW is the better option as it is specifically designed for this type of roof and is safe to use. Sikaflex 221 is a versatile sealant that can be used on a variety of surfaces, but it is not recommended for rubber roofs due to the potential for chemical reactions with the rubber membrane. It is important to do your research and choose a sealant that is appropriate for your RV’s roof to ensure that it stays protected and leak-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about choosing the right RV sealant for your next RV repair, or need the assistance of our service department for installation of the sealant and upkeep on your RV roof, we are standing by to help!

As the weather turns warmer and the days get longer, many RV owners are beginning to think of the upcoming RV season and all the fun it’s sure to bring! Making memories at the campsite with your friends and family is fun and rewarding, but only if you take time to plan ahead! Don’t get caught with surprise repairs and adventure-ruining issues by keeping an eye on these items:

Check Your Awning Fabric

While normally safe while stored away for the winter, it’s an awful feeling to roll your awning out at the campsite and find the material full of holes or cracks. Before the summer rush, make sure to extend your awning and check the condition of the material and ensure that the arms and hardware move freely with little resistance. If you notice any issues, now is an excellent time to book a service appointment and get these resovled!

clean your water lines with purge cleaner

Your RV’s water system holds a lot of water! It is both quite possible and extremely common to develop issues over time with smelly or odd-tasting water. It’s annoying to deal with, and brings the added expense and hassle of having to purchase water bottles or jugs each time you go camping. Instead, flush your RV’s tank and lines with Purge Tank Cleanser! This will remove all the bacteria and other gunk that builds up and causes these odors, all without using harmful chemicals or bleaches.

Test Fire Your Appliances

Before you get out on the road, it’s a great idea to test fire all your appliances to ensure their safe and consistent operation. After making sure you have a fully charged battery and a good supply of propane, try lighting your appliances one by one and make sure they stay running without issue. If you do encounter any problems, Edmonton RV can help you diagnose and resolve them!

These are just a few of the many things you should keep in mind as RV season approaches. If you have any questions about how to prepare for the season or care for your RV, our Parts and Service team is standing by to help you!

Camping is a lot of fun no matter what season! Winters can be harsh and cruel, but that
doesn’t mean you should shy away from going winter camping. Camping in the winter can
be a truly memorable and thrilling experience! However, you need to perform the proper
RV service on your RV before you consider taking to the harsh climate. Call us today to
book your RV in for service.

RV Service for Winter Camping

You want to perform a few crucial RV services to help prepare your RV for winter
camping. These things include making sure your water doesn’t freeze, or that cold
temperatures damage your RV. Another thing to consider is making sure you are toasty
warm, no matter how cold it is outside.

RV Engine

There is some extra protection your engine is going to need to handle the winter
temperatures. Make sure that you inspect the battery for damage and check that it is fully
charged and securely connected. You also want to check that the antifreeze is full and
ensure you have a good block heater.

Insulation

Winter is terrible for drafts getting through any possible opening. Be sure to check all the
seals in the RV to ensure that they are not allowing any air to get through. Then, you want
to add additional insulation to help keep you toasty warm. Don’t just insulate the outside
of the RV! You want to insulate the underneath as well. By insulating underneath, you are
helping to protect pipes from freezing, and keeping heat in.

• Use reflective covers for the windows.
• Seal and caulk all windows and doors
• Use heavy curtains
• Put foam board underneath carpets
• Get an RV skirt

Plumbing

Pipes freezing is one of the most common issues when winter camping. Therefore, you
want to make sure to insulate the pipes and hoses to keep them from cracking and
bursting in the cold. Add heat tape to the pipes, keep cupboards open for heat distribution
and keep the water running, even a little, to keep the water moving.
Another good option is getting an internal water tank. Using your own water tanks means
you don’t have to connect to water externally, which helps prevent it from freezing. Get a
space heater that can help to keep things warm and add a small amount of antifreeze to
any holding tanks.

Furnace

Make sure to thoroughly inspect your RV furnace to make sure that it doesn’t have any
issues. You are going to want a good working furnace, especially in very cold
temperatures. Also, additional heat sources couldn’t hurt.

Going Winter Camping?

If you are going winter camping, you want to gain as much information as possible before
you head out. Come down to Edmonton RV to gain some useful knowledge from our
experts before you go winter camping! We know what type of RV service you need to
have a successful winter camping trip.

Sometimes you just love camping in your RV so much that the mere thought of putting your RV away for the cold winters is unthinkable. If you are considering going winter RVing, then there is some RV service you are going to want to consider. Winter camping is not the same as summer and requires some specialized care. Visit us today for expert advice!

RV Service to Perform for Winter Camping

Here are a few things you should do to prepare yourself and your RV before you go winter camping.

1. Get a dehumidifier for your RV. Moisture can build up quickly in the winter, and it can do some damage. Having a dehumidifier will help prevent your RV from experiencing water damage.
2. Insulate your AC and AC lines. You want to make sure to keep your air conditioner safe from the elements. This an RV service you may not think of in the winter. Even though it is cold now, it will warm up again, and you will want to use it. Make sure to insulate your AC to protect it from the cold thoroughly.
3. Insulate windows and walls. It can get freezing in winter, especially at night. You will want to take extra precautions from the cold by adding some insulation to your RV. Let’s face it, and an RV is not made to protect you from the cold.
4. Before going camping, you want to have your furnace and ducts cleaned out and checked by a professional. It is very important that you know that your furnace is up to the task.
5. Make sure that you have enough propane for your furnace. Nothing is worse than camping in winter and then being too cold because your furnace is not producing heat. It is also a good idea to invest in an electric space heater to help supplement the heat from your furnace. Just make sure to take extra precautions to prevent fires.
6. Another RV service to consider is making sure your tire pressure is set to winter conditions. Have a block heater for your engine and fill your tank with 50% anti-freeze to keep things from freezing over.

Winter camping can be a lot of fun, but you need to make sure that you do all you can to be safe. On top of the RV service and make sure you keep a stock of warm clothes, extra blankets, socks, flashlights, fire extinguishers, and tire chains. You don’t want to get stuck in the middle of nowhere in winter with no way to get out.

Consult a Professional

When considering winter RVing, you might want to consult a professional who can make sure your RV service is done, and you are winter camping ready. Get in touch with us, and we will help make your winter camping dream a reality.

Fall is a beautiful time of year. As the leaves start to change, you realize it might be time to start getting your RV ready for the winter months to come. Performing winter RV service is essential to ensuring your RV will be in good shape when you’re ready to hit the woods around Edmonton again come spring. Call us today to book your RV in for expert service!

Get Ready for Winter

As the days get shorter, you know it is now time to winterize your RV and perform all RV services that will keep your camper safe for the winter. Here are a few things you want to consider as you get ready to put your rig away.

• Remove the inline water filter and put it in a sealable plastic bag.
• A crucial RV service to perform is to put non-toxic antifreeze in your water lines to keep them from freezing. An antifreeze that is rated to -50 degrees will be ideal for the long, northern winters.
• Do a visual inspection of all the seams of your RV. Check sealants on the roof, windows, and other seams to ensure that they are not weak and will not buckle. Making sure these seals are secure can prevent you from experiencing some severe water leakage.
• If you have a rubber roof, you want to make sure to clean it and treat it properly thoroughly. Use a sponge mop to really scrub. You might also want to use a mineral spirit to help remove difficult spots like tree sap.
• All vent covers and skylights should be inspected. Ensure your vent cover does not have any cracks in it and that skylight covers are also secure. It is better to replace the cover than to replace the whole structure due to water damage.
• Keep your RV safe from little critters who are seeking refuge in the winter. It may be noble to help the little animals out, but they can wreak havoc on your RV. Remove all food products left in the RV. It is also a good idea to treat the interior with a botanical rodent repellent.
• Check all hinges within your RV. Ensure to oil the doorways, cabinet doors, and all other moving parts that require sliding or hinges. By oiling them in the fall, you will be sure they move quickly again come spring.
• A good wash and wax is an RV service to never overlook. The wax will help protect the exterior from any winter damage.
• All tires should be inspected to make sure that they have adequate air and are not damaged. Any tires that have cracks or are worn down should be replaced.
• One easily overlooked area is the hot water tank. You want to flush your hot water tank and remove all sediments from the water heater tank. By flushing and cleaning the tank, you are preventing an opportunity for corrosion.

Consult Professionals for RV Service

Our professionals at Edmonton RV are experts in RV service. Get in touch with us today to help you with your winterization checklist.

Whether you are new to RV life or an experienced camper, you know that repairs will be needed from time to time, just like any other vehicle. These issues are pretty much unavoidable as wear and tear can happen on any vehicle. RV repairs can be costly, so being able to get ahead of common RV repairs is crucial. Visit Edmonton RV for expert advice on all things RV!

Common RV Repairs

It is always a good idea to know what kinds of issues can arise with your RV so that you learn to recognize them and act before it becomes a more significant issue.

Roof Leak

At times, your RV may experience a leak in the roof. It’s not surprising that a leak will happen as the roof of your RV withstands a lot of pressure. Most commonly, leaky roofs are a result of cracked seals. Therefore, you want to make sure to do a thorough inspection of your roof every season and at least once mid-season. Make sure to reseal any possible hazard areas.

Electrical Issues

Electrical RV repairs are quite common.  Storing your RV through winter can make it enticing to critters who chew cords. Even without critters, issues can always arise. You must regularly check wires for fraying or corrosion. As always, a certified electrician should be consulted.

Plumbing Clogs

You want to regularly rinse through your plumbing to keep it safe from clogs. A few common mistakes would be to use too much toilet paper or let sludge build-up in the holding tank. Once a clog arises, you need to snake the system to dislodge it and avoid more costly RV repairs.

Vehicle Issues

There are all kinds of common issues that you will experience with your RV that you would also see in your car. Brakes, lights, oil changes, batteries, all these things need to be check when taking your RV out of storage. You always want to tackle RV repairs as they arise to prevent further issues from developing. Always check your tires, lights, and batteries to ensure that that they are in good shape.

Get a Professional’s Opinion on RV Repairs

Your RV is just as important to you as your car. Therefore, you need to be vigilant of potential issues that can come up. Each issue above is every day RV repairs you may come across. By learning to identify common issues, you will be well on your way to keeping your RV in tip-top shape.  As always, if you need a professional’s opinion, feel free to contact us at Edmonton RV. Our team of professionals can help you address issues and solve them quickly.

You are driving around looking for the perfect spot to park your RV. You find it and are just starting to get comfortable when you spot a large tear in your awning. You know you need RV awning repair but aren’t sure you can take care of this one yourself. Ask the experts at Edmonton RV today for RV awning repair advice.

How Do the Professionals Handle RV Awning Repair?

The first thing you want to do before handling any repair is to find out the source of the tear. All kinds of things can cause your awning issues. Here are a few of them:

• The craftmanship of the awning could be of poor quality because it was a cheaper camper.
• Some loose strings could get snagged and cause a rip in the fabric.
• General age, tear, and wear can cause the awning to break down naturally.
• Driving along and flying rocks, sticks, or other potentially sharp objects can be the cause of the tear.
• The weather can impact your awning significantly; strong wind, hail, snow, or other severe weather can cause tears in the fabric.

How to Repair your Awning

There are a few steps a professional would follow when taking on an RV awning repair. You want to follow those same steps.

1. Assess the damage of the awning and determine what kind of repair is necessary. Could a simple patch suffice, or do you have to do a more significant repair?
2. Remove the awning from its current perch on your RV. You can’t repair anything without first removing the awning. This will also give you more freedom to move around the material and fix it properly. Some latch-like locks may attach to your awning; make sure to remove those and carefully execute the awnings descent.
3. Once you have the awning in your hands, it is the perfect time to check for smaller holes that can be repaired easily before tackling the larger one. Do a thorough check of the entire surface of the awning.
4. Next, you want to tackle any larger holes. Determine if sewing it is enough or if a larger patch is necessary. You want to use a similar fabric as the awning when making repairs to ensure the integrity of the awning remains intact.

Always know that you should thoroughly clean the awning before any repairs get done. If a patch is required, you will need the awning perfectly clean so that it can adhere adequately and seal correctly. Also, when placing patches, make sure to remove any air bubbles so that the patch seals securely.

Learn More about RV Awning Repair

If you need more tips on RV awning repair, come down and talk to the professionals at Edmonton RV. Our team can guide you on what to do with a damaged awning.