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Blog posts tagged with 'rv maintenance'

Portable Surge Protectors: Why They're Worth Every Penny
Portable Surge Protectors: Why They're Worth Every Penny
If you’ve ever experienced a power surge while camping, you know the damage it can cause. That’s why investing in a portable surge protector is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your RV and its expensive electrical systems. At Roughrider RVs, we carry two top-rated options to meet different camping lifestyles:
How to Apply Eternabond RoofSeal Tape
How to Apply Eternabond RoofSeal Tape

How to Apply Eternabond RoofSeal Tape

Eternabond RoofSeal is a trusted solution for RV roof repairs—but like any product, it must be applied correctly to work effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure strong adhesion and long-lasting results.

1. Prepare the Surface

The most important step is cleaning. The roof surface must be clean and dry before applying the tape. Remove dust, oils, and contaminants using rags with rubbing alcohol or other recommended cleaners.

If the roof is dusty, wipe it with a damp cloth first and let it dry completely. Moisture or debris will prevent proper adhesion.

2. Measure and Cut the RoofSeal Tape

Measure the area that needs repair and cut a piece of tape slightly longer than needed. Rounding off the corners helps prevent peeling over time.

Use shorter sections for small patches—they’re easier to handle.

3. Remove the Release Liner

Peel back a few inches of the release liner from the adhesive side. Avoid touching the adhesive or letting it stick to unintended surfaces.

Hold the liner tab so you can easily continue removing it as you apply the tape.

4. Apply Continuous Pressure

Starting at one end, press the tape down firmly while slowly peeling away the liner.

Apply strong, even pressure using your hand or a seam roller. This helps eliminate air pockets and ensures a tight bond.

Go over the tape several times to activate and fully bond the adhesive.

5. Seal the Edges

After applying the tape, press down around all the edges and ends. This final step ensures the tape is sealed completely.

 

Avoid Uneven Joints and Overstretching

When working around corners or uneven surfaces, it's essential not to overstretch the tape. EternaBond should be laid in gently and pressed into place without pulling.

Stretched tape can pull away from the surface over time, causing gaps and potential leaks. Always press the tape fully into the corner and bring it all the way down to the edge to avoid uneven joints.

Use a roller for consistent pressure and to ensure complete contact along every edge and angle.

 

Why Proper Application Matters

Improper application—such as using tape on a dirty surface, not pressing it tightly, or allowing wrinkles—can actually create voids that funnel water into your RV instead of sealing it out.

Inspection Quick Check:

  • Is the tape properly applied to the slide-out roof and T-molding?
  • Are the surfaces clean, dry, and free of oils or dust?
  • Are there any wrinkles or areas where the tape is lifting?
  • Did you use a roller and follow the manufacturer's install instructions?

For repairs involving roof T-molding and membrane seams, Eternabond-type tapes should run the full length of the roof edge to function as a proper secondary seal.

 

The Benefits of RoofSeal

Eternabond RoofSeal stretches and flexes with your RV as it drives, so it won’t crack or lift over time. It adheres to:

  • EPDM and TPO rubber roofs
  • Fiberglass
  • Aluminum and metal
  • PVC and vinyl
  • Wood, concrete, and many plastics

It’s ideal for sealing around skylights, vents, antennas, and patching punctures or seam separations—even in remote locations.

 

Pro tip: Keep a roll in your camper for emergency use. When applied correctly, it can hold strong through heat, cold, road vibration, and UV exposure.

Whether you're on the road or at a campsite, a properly applied strip of RoofSeal can be the difference between a minor fix and a major leak.

 

Stop by Roughrider RVs for Eternabond products and installation tools—or contact our service department for help with your roof repair!

RV Power Conservation Tips for Hot Weather
RV Power Conservation Tips for Hot Weather
Hi, this is Rod from Roughrider RVs with some important advice to help you stay safe and keep your RV running smoothly—especially in this summer heat! ☀️ When temperatures soar, your RV’s electrical system is under serious pressure. Whether you're a first-time camper or a seasoned traveler, these tips could save you from tripped breakers, melted cords, or worse—burnt-out equipment.
Common RV Water Heater Tips & Troubleshooting from Rod
Common RV Water Heater Tips & Troubleshooting from Rod
Hey everyone, this is Rod from Roughrider RVs! I know some of you may have heard me say this before, but for all the first-time RVers out there, this one’s for you. Your RV’s water heater plays a big role in your camping comfort—but it’s also one of the easiest components to accidentally damage if you’re not familiar with how it works. Here are four important water heater tips to help you avoid costly mistakes and keep things running smoothly.