Motorhomes are fantastic, until they leak. Water damage can ruin your adventures. Choosing the right sealant is crucial for RV maintenance. It prevents costly repairs and keeps you dry. I’ve tested many sealants to find the best for your RV. Here are my top picks to keep your motorhome watertight.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant: Best overall for horizontal surfaces.
- Sikaflex-221 Multi-Purpose Sealant: Strong adhesion for various RV materials.
- Geocel Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant: Excellent flexibility for expanding/contracting joints.
- 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200: Permanent waterproof bond, ideal for critical areas.
- EternaBond RoofSeal Sealant Tape: Easy-to-apply tape for roof repairs and seams.
Top 5 Best Sealant For Motorhomes
1. Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant
Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is designed for horizontal RV surfaces. It creates a watertight seal that lasts. This sealant is perfect for roofs, around vents, and other flat areas. Its self-leveling feature makes application easy.
Pros:
- ✅ Self-leveling formula fills gaps easily.
- ✅ Creates a waterproof seal.
- ✅ UV resistant to prevent cracking.
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for vertical surfaces.
- ❌ Can attract dirt over time.
- ❌ Limited color options.
Verdict: Great for maintaining a watertight RV roof. Ideal for DIYers needing easy application.
2. Sikaflex-221 Multi-Purpose Sealant
Sikaflex-221 is a versatile sealant for various RV applications. It bonds to many materials, including metal, wood, and plastic. This makes it a reliable choice for different repair jobs. It’s known for its strong adhesion and durability.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent adhesion to many surfaces.
- ✅ Can be painted after application.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a caulking gun for application.
- ❌ Can be messy if not applied carefully.
- ❌ Longer curing time compared to some sealants.
Verdict: A solid multi-purpose sealant for various RV repairs. It’s ideal for those needing a strong and durable bond.
3. Geocel Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant
Geocel Pro Flex RV Sealant is made for RVs needing flexibility. RVs expand and contract due to temperature changes. This sealant handles that movement without cracking. It’s great for seams, windows, and other flexible areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly flexible to withstand movement.
- ✅ Excellent adhesion to dissimilar materials.
- ✅ Paintable for a seamless finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be stringy during application.
- ❌ May require multiple coats for best results.
- ❌ Strong odor during application.
Verdict: Best for sealing areas prone to movement and vibration. It’s a good option for older RVs with more give.
4. 3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200
3M Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200 creates a permanent waterproof bond. It’s designed for marine environments, so it’s tough. Use it for critical areas needing a strong, lasting seal. I used this on a boat project once, and it’s seriously strong.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a very strong, permanent bond.
- ✅ Waterproof and resistant to harsh conditions.
- ✅ Excellent for critical, high-stress areas.
Cons:
- ❌ Difficult to remove once cured.
- ❌ Longer curing time (can take several days).
- ❌ More expensive than other sealants.
Verdict: Best for permanent repairs needing maximum strength. Use with caution, as removal is difficult.
5. EternaBond RoofSeal Sealant Tape
EternaBond RoofSeal Sealant Tape offers an easy way to seal RV roofs. It’s a tape, so you just peel and stick. This makes it great for quick repairs and seams. I used this on a temporary fix once and it held up surprisingly well.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply, peel-and-stick application.
- ✅ Creates an instant waterproof seal.
- ✅ Works on various roof materials.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply in cold weather.
- ❌ Surface must be very clean for proper adhesion.
- ❌ More expensive than liquid sealants per foot.
Verdict: Excellent for quick, easy roof repairs. Best for sealing seams and preventing leaks fast.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right RV sealant can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you pick the best one.
- Consider the surface: Horizontal surfaces need self-leveling sealant. Vertical surfaces need non-sagging sealant.
- Think about flexibility: RVs move, so choose a flexible sealant. This prevents cracks and leaks.
- Read the label: Check compatibility with your RV’s materials. Some sealants don’t work well with certain plastics.
- Check the weather resistance: UV and temperature resistance are important. This ensures the sealant lasts longer.
- Application method: Some sealants need a caulking gun. Others are applied with a brush or tape. Choose what’s easiest for you.
- Curing time: Consider how long the sealant takes to fully cure. Some require several days.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about RV sealants.
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Q: How often should I reseal my RV?
A: Check your RV’s sealant at least twice a year. Reseal every 2-3 years, or as needed.
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Q: Can I use regular caulk on my RV?
A: No, regular caulk is not flexible enough. Use sealants specifically designed for RVs.
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Q: How do I remove old sealant?
A: Use a plastic scraper or sealant remover. Be careful not to damage the RV’s surface.
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Q: What is self-leveling sealant?
A: Self-leveling sealant is designed to spread out evenly on horizontal surfaces. It fills gaps and creates a smooth, waterproof seal.
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Q: Can I paint over RV sealant?
A: Yes, many RV sealants are paintable. Check the product label to be sure.
Conclusion
Keeping your RV watertight is essential. Choose the right sealant for your needs. Dicor is great for roofs, while Sikaflex handles multiple jobs. Geocel is best for flexible areas. 3M 5200 offers a permanent bond. EternaBond provides easy roof repairs. Select the best sealant and enjoy your leak-free adventures!
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