RVs take a beating. Rain, sun, and bumpy roads are tough on them. Leaks can cause major damage. That’s why good caulk is so important. It keeps water out and your RV in good shape. I’ve tried a bunch of caulks over the years. Some are great, others not so much. Let’s look at some of the best RV caulks available.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant: Best for horizontal surfaces, self-leveling.
- Geocel Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant: Excellent flexibility, strong adhesion.
- Sikaflex-221 Multi-Purpose Sealant: Versatile, bonds to many surfaces.
- 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200: Super strong, waterproof, long-lasting.
- Loctite PL Marine Fast Cure Sealant: Fast curing, paintable, resists UV.
Top 5 Best Caulk For RV Exterior
1. Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant
Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is made for RV roofs. It levels itself, filling gaps easily. This sealant creates a waterproof seal on horizontal surfaces. It is ideal for sealing around vents, skylights, and other roof fixtures. I used it to seal a vent on my old RV roof, and it worked great. It’s easy to apply and does what it says.
Pros:
- ✅ Self-leveling for easy application
- ✅ Excellent for horizontal surfaces
- ✅ Creates a waterproof seal
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for vertical surfaces
- ❌ Limited color options
- ❌ Can attract dirt over time
Verdict: Best for sealing horizontal surfaces on your RV roof. If you need to seal a vent or skylight, this is a solid choice.
2. Geocel Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant
Geocel Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant is a highly flexible sealant. It’s designed to handle RV movement and vibrations. It offers strong adhesion to many RV materials. It stays flexible even in extreme temperatures. I used this around my RV windows. It has held up well against all kinds of weather. This caulk is a reliable choice for various RV sealing needs.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly flexible
- ✅ Strong adhesion
- ✅ Weather-resistant
Cons:
- ❌ Can be stringy during application
- ❌ Longer cure time
- ❌ Strong odor during application
Verdict: A great all-around sealant for RVs, especially where flexibility is needed. Good for windows, doors, and seams.
3. Sikaflex-221 Multi-Purpose Sealant
Sikaflex-221 is a multi-purpose sealant that bonds to many different materials. It is a polyurethane-based sealant. This makes it durable and long-lasting. It is resistant to weathering and aging. I’ve seen professionals use this on RV projects. It creates a strong, reliable seal. It is a good choice for various RV applications.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile application
- ✅ Strong and durable
- ✅ Weather-resistant
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply smoothly
- ❌ Requires mineral spirits for cleanup
- ❌ More expensive than other options
Verdict: A versatile sealant that provides a strong, durable bond. It is suitable for various RV sealing and bonding needs.
4. 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200
3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200 is an extremely strong and waterproof sealant. It is designed for marine environments. It forms a permanent bond. This sealant offers excellent resistance to saltwater and UV exposure. While it is made for boats, it works great on RVs too. Once it’s cured, it’s tough. It is ideal for areas needing a very strong, waterproof seal. But be warned, it’s permanent!
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely strong bond
- ✅ Waterproof
- ✅ Long-lasting
Cons:
- ❌ Very difficult to remove
- ❌ Long cure time
- ❌ Can be messy to apply
Verdict: Best for permanent bonds where a super strong and waterproof seal is crucial. Use with caution due to its permanent nature.
5. Loctite PL Marine Fast Cure Sealant
Loctite PL Marine Fast Cure Sealant is a fast-curing sealant. It is designed for marine and RV applications. It provides a strong, waterproof seal. It is paintable and resistant to UV. This makes it a good choice for areas exposed to sunlight. I used this to seal some trim on my RV. I needed something that would dry quickly. It worked perfectly. It’s a reliable option when you need a fast cure.
Pros:
- ✅ Fast curing
- ✅ Paintable
- ✅ UV resistant
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as flexible as other sealants
- ❌ Can shrink slightly during curing
- ❌ Strong odor during application
Verdict: Ideal for quick repairs where a fast cure time is needed. Good for trim, seams, and other areas exposed to the sun.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right caulk can be tricky. Here are some things to consider:
- Type of Sealant: Different types like silicone, polyurethane, and hybrid polymers have varying properties. Choose based on your specific needs.
- Flexibility: RVs move and vibrate. Pick a flexible sealant to prevent cracks.
- Adhesion: Ensure the sealant bonds well with your RV’s materials.
- Weather Resistance: Look for UV and water resistance. This protects against sun and rain damage.
- Cure Time: Consider how quickly the sealant cures. Some require longer drying times.
- Application: Think about how easy it is to apply. Self-leveling options are great for horizontal surfaces.
FAQs
Q: How often should I recaulk my RV?
A: Inspect your RV’s caulk at least twice a year. Recaulk as needed, usually every 1-3 years.
Q: Can I use regular household caulk on my RV?
A: No, household caulk isn’t designed for RVs. Use sealants specifically made for RVs and their unique needs.
Q: How do I remove old caulk?
A: Use a plastic scraper or a specialized caulk removal tool. Soften the old caulk with a heat gun if needed.
Q: What is self-leveling caulk?
A: Self-leveling caulk is designed to spread out and level itself. This makes it ideal for horizontal surfaces like RV roofs.
Q: How important is UV resistance for RV caulk?
A: Very important. UV rays can break down caulk over time. Choose a UV-resistant product to prolong its life.
Conclusion
Finding the best caulk for your RV exterior is essential. It protects your investment from water damage. Consider the type of surface and the environment. Choose a sealant that offers good flexibility and adhesion. With the right caulk, you can keep your RV sealed tight and ready for adventure.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
