I’m not going to lie. Back in the day, I take my RV roof for granted all the time. I would religiously clean the sides, tires, windshield, windows, and my RV’s interior but I used to rarely clean the roof.
I mean, it’s not something people normally look at. Besides, there are more important things to be worried about such as the brakes and the tires, right?
I can imagine most of you answering a silent yes. But if I’m being honest, I know that neglecting the roof is just like neglecting the entire exterior of my RV. The only difference is that it’s not a part that is most visible to us given the size of the rig.
Unlike in regular or smaller vehicles where the roof is easy to see, you’d have to be in a significantly high position to see that of the RV. Still, it doesn’t mean we can neglect it just like that.
We may not realize its importance early on, but even the earliest sign of damage can lead to greater regrettable stuff. And I say it’s regrettable because those damages could’ve been easily avoided if we didn’t neglect the roof in the first place.
It’s one of the most common mistakes that should not be taken lightly. That’s because if you don’t keep the RV’s roof in good condition, you face the risk of having water damage.
It might not sound severe but it is. It will start small but will grow in no time. Next thing you know, leaks will be all over the place.
The thing about water is that it can go inside even in tiny holes. It will find a way to get in, and once it does, it will slowly seep in until the damage gets bigger and bigger. Then you’d have to pay an exorbitant amount to get it fixed.
With that said, that small water damage on the roof is more important than that big bumper scratch you were so worried about.
So before you even get a tiny speck of water damage, it’s best to keep your roof in pristine condition to save you from spending on damage costs. Prevention is indeed better than cure in this case, and for you to do that, you need the help of the best RV roof cleaners.
A good product will help keep your rig in excellent condition, so you better have one in handy. As luck would have it, you landed on the right page today because this is what this post is all about.
I’ve gathered some information on the best RV cleaners to help you decide what to use for your rig. Read on to find out more.
Top 10 Best RV Roof Cleaners for 2020
There are numerous roof cleaners in the market, but these top 10 products are more effective than the rest. Here are the best options to keep your RV in tiptop shape.
Camco Pro-Tec RV Rubber Roof Care System
Camco is a reputable brand known for its RV supplies. One of the products that they are best known for is their RV cleaners. Check the current price on Amazon.
What I like most about Camco Pro-Tec RV Rubber Roof Care System is that it comes with a cleaner and a protectant. It saves you from buying an additional protectant on top of the cleaner.
It’s a two-step treatment that helps extend the roof life of your RV. It also reduces future maintenance costs by doing a great job at cleaning, conditioning, and protecting your RV’s EPDM roof.
The first step makes use of a specially formulated surfactant to deeply clean the dirt, grime, oxidation, tree sap, bird droppings, dust, and any buildup on the RV rubber roof. Doing so will help protect it from further damage. The second step makes use of the protectant to add a protective layer as a safeguard against UV rays, roof chalking, and future dirt.
This is excellent for RVers who usually find a hard time looking for a shaded place when they are out on adventures or whose RVs are stored and parked out in the open. There should be less worry because the protectant is there to do its job.
Besides that, this cleaning system is known for eliminating ugly streaks that impacts your RV’s aesthetics. This ensures that after washing your RV, your roof will be squeaky clean.
The good thing about this product is that it’s sold at a reasonable price which costs under $50 for both bottles.
The only disadvantage I can see is that this product is not biodegradable. If you’re particular about this detail, then maybe you need to look for other products.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- The cleaner works great
- Easy to use
What they didn’t like:
- The protectant makes the roof slippery after application
- Takes time to complete the steps
Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner
Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner works wonderfully in so many ways. Although it entails a three-step cleaning process, you’re guaranteed to spend less time on the roof than with other products. Check the current price on Amazon.
It eliminates the need to be on your knees to scrub the dirt off the roof. It’s also a no-rinse formula, so you get to save time and water costs when doing the cleaning.
This product is specially formulated as a roof cleaner and a degreaser at the same time. It’s biodegradable, which means it’s eco-friendly and non-abrasive.
All you need is a sponge mop and a bucket of water to get rid of the dirt, so it gives you more control over cleaning a bigger area than when manually scrubbing it by hand.
Step one requires you to sweep the loose dirt off the roof. This would also help prevent solid from scratching the surface while you mop.
The second step requires you to spray the rubber roof cleaner on a 2 to 3 square feet area of the roof and mop it to activate the formula. If there are hard to remove dirt, work on it using a circular motion to loosen up the dirt.
Lastly, you need to let the sponge mop absorb the residue and then rinse it in your bucket of water. Since there is no need to rinse the formula off, you just need to wipe the excess residue with a soft cloth to make the area dry and safe for you to walk on.
It’s important that you wipe off the residue immediately because it creates white streaks when it runs over the sides. For this reason, it’s highly recommended that you have a cloth or rag in handy.
For added protection, it’s best that you use ProtectAll Rubber Roof Treatment to shield your roof from future dirt. However, you will have to purchase it separately.
It’s a bit more expensive than other products, but I would say it’s fairly priced given its functionality and because it’s biodegradable. A gallon would cost a little over $70.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Works well in cleaning old dirt
- Easy to use
- No mess cleaner
What they didn’t like:
- The application process is tedious
- The residue leaves white streaks
Protect All RV Rubber Roof Treatment
After cleaning your RV roof with Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner, you can have extra protection by using Protect All RV Rubber Roof Treatment. It has an enhanced formula that shows demonstrative results against roof chalking and in protecting the roof from future dirt. Check the current price on Amazon.
Each application provides a protective polymer layer to the EPDM roof which reduces chalking, repels dirt, and creates a non-static barrier.
This three-step treatment is easy to use and would last up to six months depending on the climate. The treatment will last longer in cooler areas than as compared to areas where the heat is excessive.
The first step to using this treatment is cleaning the roof and allowing it to dry completely. For best results, using Protect All Rubber Roof Cleaner is recommended since their formulations are made to complement each other.
The second step is applying the treatment onto a 2 to 2 square foot area, just like you would do in applying the cleaner. Make sure that you have applied the formula to each area evenly.
The third step is simply allowing the roof to dry completely and curing it for a minimum of 24 hours. See to it that the area is dry before you walk on it to avoid wiping out the formula.
For best results, apply the treatment when the temperature is between 55 to 90 degrees. This is because the treatment may dry out quickly even before you start spreading it if it’s too hot outside. Also, do not apply the treatment before it rains as you won’t be able to cure it for 24 hours if so.
Applying this formula to your rubber roof after cleaning it will reduce your need to do other maintenance activities by 75%. While this product costs around $40, using it for extended protection that lasts up to 6 months is all worth it.
Because it makes your roof UV and dirt-resistant, it means that it prevents discoloration and makes sure that dirt doesn’t accumulate during the 3 to 6 months that you’re not doing the cleaning.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Easy to apply
- It really cuts down on any sort of accumulation on the roof
- The roof becomes easier to clean and you get less black streaks the next time around
- Leaves a smooth, almost glossy finish
- Nourishes the rubber
- Zero chalkiness on the rubber
What they didn’t like:
- Makes the surface slicker
- Expensive
B.E.S.T. 55048 Rubber Roof Cleaner/Protectant
Out of all the products on this list, this is so far the most unique. It cleans and protects your rubber roof in one application. It only requires a single step application process for something that would usually take a long time and more products from other brands. Check the current price on Amazon.
This means that while you are doing the cleaning, it also works to protect the roof at the same time using only one formula. It cleans oxidation, streaks, road grime, and dirt buildup thoroughly while conditioning the surface.
You only have to use this professional strength formula twice a year to get maximum protection. This much application already helps you keep your roof in pristine condition and prevents mold, fungus, and mildew from building up.
B.E.S.T. Rubber Roof Cleaner/Protectant doesn’t have petroleum and has a UV blocker that protects your roof from discoloration. What’s more appealing about it is that it’s really affordable at only $27.32 when I last checked. Check the current price on Amazon.
However, its greatest disadvantage is that it’s non-biodegradable, which means it’s harmful to the environment and generally abrasive both to the human skin and eventually on the RV’s roof.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Works well in removing dirt with little effort
- Removes old dirt
- Cleans and protects at the same time
What they didn’t like:
- Creates a huge mess while rinsing it off
- Makes the surface slippery
Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner
If you’re looking for an inexpensive biodegradable option, then Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner is the thing for you. It costs $25.40 per gallon last time I checked, which is significantly lower than other products on this list. Check the current price on Amazon.
It’s specially formulated for RV EPDM rubber roofs but it can also be used on fiberglass, PVC, TPO, aluminum, and vinyl. This means you can use it on the exterior of your RV other than the rubber roof. To be honest, this is a really good catch given its price and versatility.
What I really like about this product is that it’s very effective in getting rid of grime and other dirt but it’s gentle on the RV’s surface. It works well even on stubborn dirt and water spots without leaving any damage behind.
It has water-softening agents that fight hard water spots. This professional strength feature makes it a good product even for personal watercraft, boats, motorcycles, and other vehicles.
You simply have to spray it on and brush the dirt off using a soft bristle brush before rinsing it off. This easy application and cleaning process will leave a spotless surface on your rig.
For best results, it’s recommended that you use Dicor Roof Gard Rubber Protectant after cleaning the roof.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Easy to apply
- Loosens the soil
- Works well on dirt that is not deep-seated in the roof
- Affordable
What they didn’t like:
- Not effective on black spots
Dicor Roof-Gard Rubber Protectant
If you’re using Dicor Rubber Roof Cleaner to wash your RV, using Dicor Roof-Gard Rubber Protectant is recommended to protect it from future dirt. It’s ideal for different kinds of surfaces such as rubber, fiberglass, PVC, vinyl, and TPO. Check the current price on Amazon.
Its non-abrasive formula makes it gentle on the surface while keeping it clean. It doesn’t leave any residue or oily buildup, so you’re confident that your RV remains clean for a long time. It doesn’t damage the rubber roofing and prevents stains on glass surfaces.
Just like the cleaner, it’s easy to apply without hassle. You just have to spread it evenly on the surface using a mop or soft cloth and leave it to dry thoroughly. It’s also safe to use on boats, personal watercraft, automobiles, and motorcycles.
In addition to that, Roof-Gard is ideal in protecting other exposed surfaces or items such as wet/dry suits, vinyl spa covers, life jackets, sailcloth, and resin/plastic patio furniture.
Furthermore, you can also use it on a lot of other items such as tables, fiberglass showers, wheels, bumpers, fiberglass surfaces, gel coat, valve covers, fiberglass showers, running boards, countertops, and plastic/vinyl leather. Its versatility is wide and you can utilize it for almost anything on your RV.
This protectant leaves a finish that repels both water and dust. It has no oils, waxes, silicone, petroleum distillates, or glycerin so it doesn’t make the surface as slick as other protectants.
Roof-Gard costs less than $30, which is really enticing given the wide variety of items it can be used on.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Doesn’t feel slippery like other products
- Works great on rubber roof
- Makes an old RV look new
- Easy to apply
What they didn’t like:
- Feels like creamy water
- Might not be able to withstand all-day exposure to the sun
Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax
Out of all the products on this list, I personally find Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax the most beneficial. I’m saying this because of a number of reasons.
It cleans, protects, and waxes the surface in one application. With other products, the cleaner and protectant usually come in different bottles in one package or you’d have to purchase them separately. With Gel-Gloss RV Wash and Wax, you get to clean and protect your RV in one simple step.
Another thing I like about this product is that it works on all surfaces of your RV. This means that you don’t have to get a separate product for your awning and other surfaces.
It’s not only more convenient, but you also get to save on waxing costs, too. You’d also be surprised to know how economical this can get. You only need a quart to produce 16 gallons of cleaner and you only need to do it periodically to maintain your RV’s look.
It removes dust, road grime, bird droppings, and other kinds of dirt without leaving water spots and streaks. What’s more is that it doesn’t remove the wax that was applied prior to using this product. The protection it provides comes from the carnauba wax that it contains.
The best part is that it’s a phosphate-free, biodegradable product which is something I am very particular about. It means that it’s not harmful to human skin, to the environment, and to the rig at all.
What’s more is that it only costs $19.45 per gallon when I last checked, which is very economical given its many benefits. Check the current price on Amazon.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Removes stains that other cleaners couldn’t
- Gets rid of dirt without having to scrub it off
- No color run-offs from the side decals
- Economical
- Easy to use
- Brings back the shine of old RVs
- Removes stubborn dirt
What they didn’t like:
- More users say it doesn’t leave black streaks behind but it did for a countable few
Thetford Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner
Another product that you should look into is this Thetford Premium RV Rubber Roof Cleaner. It’s a roof cleaner and conditioner in one that contains no abrasive ingredients so it’s generally safe to use.
Because it’s biodegradable and non-toxic, it naturally landed on this list. It’s safe on all EPDM rubber roofs and removes dirt buildup, grime, grease, bird droppings, bug deposits, and even oxidation.
It’s easy to use using three simple steps. First, you have to sweep off all loose solid particles from the roof to prevent scratching the surface once you start applying the product.
Second, spray the cleaner on a 2 to 3 square foot area of the roof and activate the formula using a sponge mop. It should loosen the dirt and chalking that has stuck on the roof. If needed for stubborn dirt, use a brush with soft bristles and work in a circular motion to loosen up the first some more.
Lastly, rinse the area and allow it to dry thoroughly before walking on it. These three steps should help you extend the roof life of your RV and prevent black streaks at the same time.
Warning though, you need to have a soft cloth or a sponge with you to clean the residue that would run down the sides. The residue will create white streaks so you need to catch it before it runs down.
What really makes this product convenient is the fact that it has UV-blockers to provide maximum protection to the RV. This is something not offered by most products but is really useful because as an RVer you are expected to leave the rig out in the open most part of the year.
Even though it’s a rubber roof cleaner, it can also remove stains on other surfaces so you can use it for parts of the RV other than the roof. If you have stains on fiberglass and aluminum surfaces, you can use this as well.
It’s specially formulated to have no petroleum so it doesn’t cause cracking or swelling in rubber surfaces. Best of all, it doesn’t have bleach so the cleaner won’t leave stains or discolor any surface.
It costs around $40 per gallon the last time I checked, which is not bad considering it’s a 3D cleaner in one. Check the current price on Amazon.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Easy to use
- Does a great job in restoring the look of old trailers
- Has UV blocker
- Cheaper than other brands
- Removes stubborn dirt well
What they didn’t like:
- Didn’t remove black streaks for some
Dometic D Line Roof Cleaner
Another practical option for RVers is Dometic D Line Roof Cleaner. A gallon of this non-toxic formula costs around $25 when I last checked. Check the current price on Amazon.
At first glance, it looks similar to regular cleaners and generally has the same function. It’s a professional strength cleaner that deeply cleans RV roofs, removes oxidation, road grime, and dirt buildup.
It’s cheap and reliable which attracts more RVers to use this product to extend the roof like for their RVs. What makes it unique from the other cleaners is that it neutralizes the odors of waste tanks, a feature that probably only this cleaner has.
This cleaner is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and safe to use on any surface.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Does a great job in cleaning camper roofs
- Works as advertised
- Easy to use
- Inexpensive
What they didn’t like:
- No UV blocker
Camco Pro Strength Rubber Cleaner
Camco Pro Strength Rubber Cleaner is another Camco product that you should consider using for your RV. It’s a one-step cleaner and conditioner in one that costs only $23.99 per gallon when I last checked. Check the current price on Amazon.
It cleans, shines, and protects your roof in one application. It removes stubborn dirt such as leaf stains, tree sap, molds, road grime, and dirt buildup. This saves you a lot of time and money because you only need one product without buffing the surface.
After removing the dirt, it leaves a glossy finish so you don’t need to apply wax and protectant, thanks to its 100% carnauba wax component.
With its waterproof characteristic, it helps prevent water spots and beading. It’s safe for all surfaces and fabrics so you get to use it to clean not just your roof but other areas of the RV as well.
These properties are very helpful in protecting your RV from future dirt and damage. Because of this, the next washing should be gentler than the first.
Things reviewers liked about it:
- Removes black streaks easily
- Easy to use
- Economical to use
- Low cost given its quality
- Removes mossy stuff
- Works well on awnings
- Removes old dirt
What they didn’t like:
- Smells like weak Windex
- Didn’t work for some stains
Things to Look for in RV Roof Cleaners
I am vehemently against random selection of products to purchase, most especially if it can potentially damage my RV. That is why I include as much information as I can in presenting to you my top options.
In coming up with these options, these are the major things considered that you should also look into before picking the right one for you.
Type of RV Roof
RV roofs have two main types: rubber and fiberglass. On the other hand, rubber roofs are also broken down into different subtypes: TPO (Thermal Poly Olefin) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer).
Not all cleaners are formulated to be safe across all roof types. Some cleaners are harmful to specific roofs, so you should be mindful of that. It is for this reason that determining your roof type is important before looking for a cleaner.
For example, a rubber roof cleaner might just cause damage to fiberglass surfaces and vice versa. So for me, determining the roof type is the first thing you should know.
After knowing the roof type, it should be easier for you to narrow down your choices.
Product Features
With all the different products from different cleaner brands, it often gets confusing and time-consuming to pick the right product. However, it would be easier if you have a specific feature in mind.
There aren’t really many features to choose from, but it’s an important decision you have to make. Allow me to explain this further.
Some products are only formulated to be cleaners or dirt removers. If you want to have some wax and protectant, you would need to purchase them separately.
There are also products that come in bundles where you can get a cleaner and protectant in one package. They often come in separate bottles and would require a long process to get the cleaning done.
On the other hand, there are products that work as cleaners and protectant in one. It comes in one bottle and requires a one-step application to get the job done. Some products have cleaning, waxing, and protecting properties at the same time.
Products that have protectants often come with UV blockers or anti-beading properties. So if this is something you are particular about, then make sure to look out for it in the labels.
In the end, knowing what you want will help you look for a product faster and easier.
RV Size
This one is kind of self-explanatory. Look for a cleaner that can handle the size of your RV. Of course, it wouldn’t be practical to get something that can only cover a small portion of your roof.
Ideally, you should get a product that you can cover several cleanings in a year, else you will have to get another bottle in a few months’ time.
Product Reviews
I am very particular about this, most especially for products I haven’t used before. As much as I trust the product descriptions, I trust the actual users more.
Different people having different RVs have different experiences. Hearing the good and bad from them gives an idea of what it’s like for people who have actually used the product.
In this case, I encourage you that as much as you read on product info, do check on reviews as well. You can check on the pages of online stores such as Amazon or in forums where users discuss their experiences or queries.
This has helped me out a lot and I continue doing it. It gives me more confidence in choosing the right product.
Biodegradability
This is also something I always look for in the products that I use. I am particular about using biodegradable formulas.
My reason aside from wanting to patronize environment-friendly products as much as I can is that I tend to be clumsy. Spilling the cleaner on my skin or on the ground has its effects.
So I tend to avoid toxic products as much as possible. Also, non-biodegradable products are abrasive on the roof and constant use will lead to irreversible or costly damages later on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an RV roof cleaner?
It’s basically a cleaner specially formulated for RV roofs. Most cleaners’ functions are removing dirt and stain from the roof, but others have more features like having polishing and protective properties on top of the cleaning agent.
While some people think that roofs can be neglected for a long time without issues, it’s important to note that roofs need as much care as the rest of the exterior. Doing so will save you the costly repairs or irreversible damages such as water leaks and corrosion.
These damages are what manufacturers have in mind when they formulated RV cleaners. It’s a common mistake to think that RV roofs are much like automobile roofs, thus the care should be the same.
The materials and types are different, which makes caring for them different as well. RV roofs may be made of rubber EPDM, TPO, or fiberglass. RV glass cleaners are formulated to clean and protect these types.
How do RV roof cleaners work?
Different products work differently. It would depend on the feature and how the manufacturer formulated the cleaner.
Some products are plain cleaners where you apply it, scrub on the dirt, and rinse it with water. Other products are designed to be rinse-free or waterless so you just have to spray it on the roof, wipe off the dirt, and leave it to dry.
There are also products that have a two-coating system where the first layer is meant to remove the dirt and the second is a protective layer to shield it from future dirt.
In addition, other products have 3D systems that work as cleaner, polisher, and protectant in one single formula.
Depending on which one you choose, then the process will be according to how the product is intended to work.
Do I really need an RV roof cleaner?
The answer to this is a resounding YES.
As I said earlier, we might think that the roof is negligible as the dirt on this area can’t be seen most of the time. However, damages on the roof are more worrisome than the visible scratches on the sides or the bumpers of the RV.
This is because when the roof is damaged, it will lead to leaks. Water, as insignificant as we think it is, will always find a way to seep in no matter how small the damage may be.
The moment it starts finding its way on the holes on the roof, it will lead to corrosion and to more damages like mold and mildew buildup. That’s why we need to clean and protect the roof as much as we can.
I can’t say this enough, but prevention is always better than cure in this case. So investing a few bucks on a good roof cleaner will save you a lot than when you were to spend thousands on repairs.
What is the correct way to clean the RV’s roof?
The answer to this depends on what type of cleaner you have.
Do you have a plain cleaner, a two-step formula, or a rinse-free one? Whatever you have, read the labels properly and follow the instructions properly.
This should help you give a clear idea of the correct steps you have to follow. And if you’ve read on some forums or reviews, you can also find a few tips that might make the product more effective for you.
Should I use a protectant after cleaning the RV?
I would recommend that you do. It’s not enough to just remove the dirt and make the roof sparkly clean. It’s also important to protect it from future dirt.
This would help you prevent a lot of issues such as water spots, dirt accumulation, discoloration, and chalkiness.
If the product you have already comes with a protectant, then you don’t have to purchase it separately. However, if what you have is a regular cleaner, then getting a wax and a protectant is a must.
How often should I wash my RV’s roof?
It’s best to consult the product’s label. Some would recommend twice a year, but others would suggest every three to four months.
Whatever the case, follow the advised frequency religiously and your RV should be okay.
Conclusion
With all the cleaners listed in this post, you should be able to drill down your options depending on the factors you want or need to consider. This is not a very long list and the features are not very far apart, so picking one should not be that difficult.
What’s important here is that you know that your roof should not be neglected. The goal here is to keep your RV in pristine condition, and one of the ways you can go that is by using the next RV roof cleaners.
If we are aligned on that note, then I think I’ve done my job here. Now it’s time for you to do yours.
Hopefully, this post was able to help you find the right RV roof cleaner for you.
