The rainy season is upon us. Is your RV prepared?

One of the most expensive repairs you can face as an RV owner is water damage. Effective prevention in recreational vehicles requires diligent monitoring of three critical structural components: the roof, the sidewalls, and the slide-outs.

The roof is the first line of defense against water, and also the first place trouble tends to show up. Now, if you’re not comfortable climbing up there or aren’t confident about ladder safety, it’s best to leave this to a professional!

Here’s what you’ll want to look for:

Roof: Regularly check for cracked or peeling sealant around vents, skylights, and roof edges. Inspect every inch for cracks or separation. Even on a brand-new RV, gaps and pinholes can slip through. Don’t assume “new” means “perfect”, and remember, even the best sealants only last a few years!

Sidewalls: Visually inspect the exterior in good sunlight for bubbling, ripples, or cracks on the walls and around windows, doors, and vents. Inspect seals and caulking for dryness, brittleness, or gaps, and replace as needed.

Slide-outs: Test slide-out seals for tightness and clean them regularly to prevent debris from causing leaks.

Maintaining your RV might feel like a chore, but the small amount of time spent checking these three areas can save you from one of the most expensive repairs or misery an RV owner can face.