Replacing And Resealing RV Roof Vents

[@neill.m.herbert]

That tip with the aluminum strips on the rotten roof deserves its own video. Good stuff.

[@krisg3984]

I used an oscillating tool also but this was very trying due to the goo factor, which is why I looked at this video ( looking for the answer). Don’t know why yours was so easy , not always the case. But hey, the aluminum was gold 👍 are you still in business? 2023 ? Hope so, would like to get an inspection done

[@TheBandit7613]

Getting ready to do this. Very helpful. Your camera person does a great job.

[@vestup100]

I hope this gets to you, THANK YOU x100, the oscillating tool literally made the dicor and butyl tape a breeze to remove saving me hours.

[@arthurmarion3513]

I also told my wife that your the best . I have learned so much from you . I thank you 🙏

[@edgarchennault6816]

I really appreciate your videos. I have a travel trailer and I am learning a lot about troubleshooting problems myself.

[@MyRVWorks]

Well thank you. It's folks like you that I'm putting these videos out for. I enjoy walking through a repair and Discovery process and helping other folks do the same on their own coaches. Help save some money on the repairs by doing the work yourself. Happy camping!

[@ruthgumataotao1792]

Thank you. The seals on our vents are worn and last month we had a leak around the AC unit during a downpour up there on Whidbey. After watching the video, we first timers feel confident on tackling the repair.

[@susans3411]

I really appreciate your vids! Please add in sections of you cleaning with the Spyder brush, inserting aluminum, and putting tape on. Also would like to have seen what you were looking for from inside. From my experience, the devil is in the details.

[@campinwill9977]

Your videos are great. You saved me when one of my slide motor broke. I just replaced a vent on my Class A. A couple of points: First I wish I would have removed the inside trim, that exposed wires to upgrade to a powered vent. Next is that my 10 year old sealant was not just rolling off. As you pointed out, the Multi tool turned a 5 hour job into 30 minutes.

[@chrismcdonald6481]

Well I bought what I thought was the proper hinged vent for my rv. Taking everything apart, realized hinge was different. Trying to bend it to work failed miserably. Couldn't return it with damage I did. So got a drill and drilled out rivets an put old hinge on new vent with new pop rivets. Had to drill couple of extra holes in vent. Works great. Wish I took old vent with me. Lol.

[@richard1835]

I am a Mobile Auto Mechanic and I just started working on the mechanical engine and transmission troubleshooting of RV's. I use a Professional Level Scan Tool. I found that there is so much to learn. I am going to adopt Darren's teaching and try to do my best. I am going tomorrow to investigate a possible Inverter problem. I have a PDF file with some decent information but not really what I need. The closest Parts House is 50 miles north. I am working on getting some wiring schematics now. It is a 2004 Itasca Sunova I have been trying to keep the RV running for my neighbor Caroline. She has a trip coming up and really wants to go. I am obviously going to check the wiring,harnesses,connectors. Fuses and Breakers.I see that you are well educated and learned. You have had to study to get where you are now. I am one that really pays attention to what you are showing us. You definitely have an audience. I am honored to be on your channel. Thank You

[@triciamyrvworks8263]

Thanks, Richard!

[@Tipperary757]

Really appreciate you mentioning hair dryer to heat putty. And plastic stuff to catch falling debris.

[@arthurmarion3513]

Omg my vent was horrible. I should of taken a photo . It had 4 different kinds of calk and was at least 3 inches thick . I’m so happy that you showed that malti max . That made a huge difference. It was soaked under the calk . I wish I knew where I could find some Aluminum strips like you used to support the roof. Could you let me know . Thank you . Arthur Marion .

[@MyRVWorks]

any hardware store should have metal/aluminum profiles in stock.

[@imspandex]

Great tip with the aluminum backing! I need to replace vent and skylight ASAP and my RV has a questionable roof too. Thanks for posting the tips and video.

[@laudadrive]

This dude is the man !! All of his videos are great !!

[@starhopper457]

I am in absolute awe of your skills with that vibrating blade. I'd of likely butchered that guys roof! ( I know... practice and skill!) You're like a skilled barber with that thing Darren!!!

[@petermiller7155]

Great video! I wouldn't have thought about using that oscillating tool to remove the old stuff. That thing does wonders. Thank you for posting this video. It was super helpful!

[@harryballsnack7297]

I love how you separated the roof layer from the underlying plywood buy just yanking on the roof vent.

[@2texandreamchasers287]

Thanks for taking the time to share the jobs you do and the tricks you use.

[@manandatractor]

That multi-tool looks to be a life saver. I'm faced with replacing my vents and was scratching my head on how I was going to get after the old sealant. I'm ordering a multi-tool (cordless) as we speak.

[@jeffsumeracki7263]

Outstanding video! Extra high quality installation! However, have the plastic vents you installed 3 years ago disintegrated yet? I've replaced one of my vents twice in 4 years because the plastic was advertised as UV protected but was not. It literally dried out and disintegrated in the sun and wind and left a gaping hole in my roof in less than 2 years. I finally replaced it with a metal vent cover and will never install a plastic vent cover again. I've also added MaxAir vent covers to all my vents for extra water protection.

[@Creeksidepatriot]

Thank you for posting this. I’m a true CZcams fixer. I’d be scared to attempt some of these items if I didn’t see it done!

[@tomforeman4976]

The bit in flush saw is a puddy knife good plan use it under what you are removing instead of lifting and risking a major tear.

[@sgdluu]

I would watch all your videos but I'll need to watch it again when doing the work. Great info!

[@MyRVWorks]

Thanks for watching. I've got many already uploaded and we're doing more and more each month.

[@tracyvetter7468]

Nice tip for a semi rotted roof! Thanks Darin.

[@jerryharter8698]

I want to thank you for all your work making my life easier. Your videos are great, informative, and help me save $$$.

[@Robnord1]

Very nice! 👍👍 I do a lot of caulk and putty tape removal (same type work as you, in Marysville, Wa area) and had not thought of using the vibrating tool. This is going to be a *big* time and effort saver for me. Thank you. : )

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, my Multi Max sees a lot of action. I've got links in the description to my affiliate Amazon account. Happy shopping. Thanks for watching.

[@goalie2998]

Excellent video.
This isn't what I need right now. But feel comfortable when. I do need to make these repairs.
Thanks

[@daviscrt]

awesome, can never stop learning

[@patheticprepper4496]

Thank you, sooo useful.. I have more confidence now.

[@RoadVentureRV]

Thanks for great video 🎖
Going to be full timing soon wanting to replace mine in 5th wheel very helpful ❤😎❤😎

[@gypsydavefreeman]

Thanks again Darren!

[@pilotnelson4507]

Thank you Darren!

[@Slimsomerville]

Totally awesome sir.. can I use that tool to remove pro flex sealer?

[@2-old-Forthischet]

I'm about to redo the sealant on the top of my trailer. I see a new tool in my near future. I'm getting too old to use manual tools anymore. Thanks!

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, I discovered that multi-max several years ago and roof work has never been the same LOL! I've got links in the description to my Amazon affiliate account if you don't mind buying it through that. Amazon will pay me 5% yay

[@juliekinsella2579]

As someone who knows very little about these types of repairs, I would have appreciated seeing how the electric for the fan gets reconnected....otherwise, great video.

[@covetthecamper2289]

Thanks Darren. Good idea using the aluminum bonded to the rotting substrate using a good adhesive. Can’t wait for the next one.
Cheers,
Jeff

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, this was a tough one. Before I came up with the aluminum solution I wasn't exactly sure how I was going to get those screws to screw into that foam LOL. In the end it turned out really really well.

[@qrevere5546]

@@MyRVWorks Is that aluminum flat bar? 1/8" or 1/16"?

[@wk7060]

Darren, your videos are awesome. Trying to watch all of them. Keep up the great videos.

[@rafaelgdelavega7095]

awesome clean work. 👍

[@jimfischer3602]

Thanks so much. Excellent video!

[@stevepemberton1273]

Self leveling. I've worked with alot of caulking never heard of that. I need to try that. Thanx for info.

[@randyandann218]

Thanks Darren. Excellent video. I’d never believe a Dremel tool! Really seems to make it much easier.

[@MyRVWorks]

That tool sees a lot of action.

[@emariaenterprises]

Thanks.

[@dporrasxtremeLS3]

Outstanding Video! Thank you So Much! 5 Stars!!!!!

[@MavDawg.gov365]

You should try an electric caulk gun. It makes the self level process and corner caps so much easier.

[@mtxchip]

Great tips and time saving tools Thanks

[@edumaldonado5059]

HI, great video... please tell me what kind of screws did you use?

[@mikeringers2556]

Great videos can you use butyl tape to seal the screws instead of self leveling sealant? what kind of sealant for an aluminum roof?

[@kevinbrown3017]

Great video Darren

[@charlesrose7212]

Another excellent instruction. Thank you, brother! 😀

[@johnr5545]

Thanks god bless

[@dennisbachman4316]

Hi Darren, I am in Baker City, Oregon where it is always baking hot! So I have replaced a few vents with MaxxAir Fans or Fantastic fans. It seems like the butyl tape is always the hardest to get off and end up making a small hole no matter how careful I try to be. I never thought of using the multitool. You make it look easy. I have a 3 speed Dewalt oscilating tool. Do you think that would work just as well or should I use the dremmel version? Also, I plan on using the rapid remover as well. Crossing my fingers because electric tools and rubber roofs together scare me 😱. Thanks for the great video!

[@MyRVWorks]

That Dewalt will work just fine. I use a rigid type blade on low and take my time to work underneath the lip of the vent. If you do Nick the rubber roof, then Eternabond tape could be used to seal that and then you could put your new vent on top of that tape. Good luck!

[@stevesandoval3920]

Thank you! Nice work!

[@ArcticEngineerNP]

Wow, great informative videos.

[@susans3411]

I see you on roofs alot. How much weight can a RV/fifth-wheel roof hold? Are there places we shouldn't walk?

[@jennifergulley9285]

Love the videos but I do Need to know how to get the little hand crank for the vent lift off of the old vent?

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

18:12 Come on cameraman... Get in close. Beginners want to see how it lays.

[@Racerp51]

Very helpful and well done.

[@antsara9218]

awesome!

[@sarahhewlett2366]

Thank you!

[@tinkeringwithelectronics]

My roof is an Alpha TPO roof, will the listed sealant work for that?? Thanks for the time spent putting this together.

[@n2audiodiane]

Thank you for your videos. Would you please show us how to put the butyl tape on?

[@KrisVworksforMe]

Great tips. Question, do you ever use or like the rv sealant tape?

[@nonegeo]

Love your videos BUT where's the list of tools? Am I missing something?

[@MyRVWorks]

We published the video before I got a chance to upload the links. They are there now so have another look in the description section under the video. Thanks for watching!

[@barnettbilly85]

Neat job .

[@dannidaymitchell613]

I just took my vent off but there are a few small holes in the roofing. They are mostly going to be under the tape and vent flange, should I still put rubber patch tape over them or do you think it would be fine with the sealant?

[@chevyvantravel9735]

hi. so you just said that silicone doesn't bind to rubber, but they sell that 450 henry silicone cote and people use it for their rubber roofs ...any explanation for that? thank you

[@MyRVWorks]

Read the label. If the label states specifically that it will bond to EPDM or TPO you should be okay. Otherwise I would keep looking until you found a product that does list that. Dicor and Geocil are the two companies that we use in our industry that make sealants that are rated for EPDM and TPO and that is what I would recommend.
amzn.to/3RQ6CRA

[@diver4625]

Love your videos. I have a Jayco and one slide I keep finding the carpet wet. I have resealed the bottom joint and still wet. Any ideas and/or video sugestions as to where else to check?

[@MyRVWorks]

I worked on a Jayco once and on the outside slideroom they had a profile on the very bottom. We found water was working its way down the outer wall and getting inside of that extrusion. It had nowhere to go but all the way inside to the carpet. We cleaned profile and sealed it really well. Problem went away. See if that doesn't help you out.

[@cbkb983]

I was told that if you don't have a ladder on your RV/trailer then don't go up on your roof. Then how does the RV shop make repairs? I would personally like to do my own repairs or replace sealants and save a bunch of money. Any suggestions Darren?

[@kfink77]

Im wondering the same thing. Maybe using ladder standing at the sides?

[@kevinholland4156]

Have you ever replaced bubble acrylic windows on an A frame style Pop up trailer? Did you film it? I would like to know what they glue those in with and are they replaceable. Thanks for your videos they are great!

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, I have replaced them. Sometimes there's an inner and an outer bubble. Typically they are attached with butyl tape and then secure down with screws. Like I've done in my video here.

[@larryreno8293]

Class A work as always

[@willwong844]

Darren, thanks for another great video. PS can you please post the link for the tools you use? Thanks

[@MyRVWorks]

We uploaded the video before I had my tool list made. I have since updated it so check again in the comments section and you'll see all my hyperlinks. Thanks for watching.

[@BetonTruth]

I now know what my next tool purchase will be .. looks like you can filet fish with that thing... : )

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, that tool really has been amazing in many tasks I perform. The rigid blade is the key on getting that sealant off. In the description below the video I've got my Amazon affiliate links. If you get one through that Amazon pays me 5% yay!

[@hardtruth2039]

What sealants do you recommend for self leveling on a TPO roof? Do you prefer the geocel pro flex product for vertical non-self leveling application?

[@neill.m.herbert]

I've had success with Proflex around windows and on vertical seams.

[@markevans3589]

Great video. How'd you keep your aluminium strips stationary while you used self tapping screws?

[@foxmediaagency196]

video mentioned liquid glue

[@hardtruth2039]

I am getting ready to remove 2 vents on my 5th wheel and replace them with maxxair vent. My roof is TPO. What type of self leveling sealant should I use on the TPO? Also what is the best cleaner to use on the TPO?

[@WonderWhatsNext]

Can you share some info what to do if your slide wiper seal is not touching the slide on one side? I sent my unit into the factory to have the door side wall replaced due to delamination, and when I got it back the kitchen table slide has one wiper seal not touching the slide at all. Do I just go with a larger width wiper seal on that one side as the other side is fine. I think what the issue is the hole for the slide on the new wall is to large.

[@MyRVWorks]

Well that's a dicey question. I am wondering what type of a slide room mechanical system we're working with here. Because that does change the answer. For example, a Schwintek has very exacting dimensions for either side. But the Power Gear for example can have a little slop. I have seen where the slide room, as it's extending and retracting, will start to favor one side or the other which is a function of the rollers being off-kilter a little bit forcing it to run forward or aft. Does it look like the side that's touching could be pulled off of that side a little bit and share it with the side that's not touching? Worst case scenario you could always get wiper seal that has longer wipes. But that stuff's about $10 a foot. So be advised.

[@WonderWhatsNext]

@@MyRVWorks Thanks for getting back to me. I probably should have provided some more detail on the slide type. It is an LCI through the frame gear one (not sure of the name) but it does appear on the bottom of the slide that I can loosen a couple of bolts and adjust the horizontal position. I read the manual for the slide and it says that is what should be done when the slide is not center in the hole, which I guess is my issue here. I am just now wondering what a shift horizontally about 1 to 2 inches will do the slide topper alignment if really anything.

[@MyRVWorks]

@@WonderWhatsNext adjusting those brackets is a study of high school geometry. Make sure you give enough time to work all the angles. You have to adjust both in and out. It's frustrating when you get it to work perfectly in and then you run it out and it gets binded. As far as the slide topper, that is the least of your concerns. Where the slide topper attaches to the RV it is slid in a gutter type track. You'll find a screw holding the fabric. Just remove the screw re-center your Fabric and put the screw back in to hold the fabric. Good luck happy camping.

[@hankdeannalovato661]

very informative, THANK YOU!!!

[@TC-tw5zk]

I have a alpha roof system...I guess they call for use of there sealants, have you delt with type of roof before? Any suggestions on what to use for cleaning old sealants?
Thank you

[@fotoschidas4536]

Are those cleaners safe to use on all rv roofs?

[@MyRVWorks]

When you're picking the cleaner, make sure it could be used on EPDM rubber. All the products that I use on a roof have that ability. If you use the wrong stuff you'll know pretty quickly because the roof will start to Bubble up. Basically you're working with bicycle inner tube material. That's what the EPDM is.

[@paultaylor6167]

I have a question about the dicor. If its dark and dirty like grit, and has some cracks in it plus a few screw heads are starting to break thru, can fresh dicor go over it even it I can barely get it clean? Temporarily, I applied some non sag and tooled it down. If necessary, I will remove all the caulk and rework it. This condition is the same for my tow other vents and the vent for the fridge. On my skylight area, there's been a secondary layer of dicor spotting the screws. Its quite cracked throughout. Will self leveling fill it in or should it be removed Its not breaking up or dried out. Thx

[@rjw8316]

Isn't the flexible roof membrane supposed to be glued down by the mfr?

[@MyRVWorks]

Yes, what we find so is that the decking that the membrane is glued to de-laminates.

[@frankenstein3163]

My EPDM or the other ruber roof looks ok. But I have a spot wear it looks like a branch poked a hole and than was calked(lap sealant). I just noticed that the ply wood it badly rotted about 1 foot across. it feels like some of the wood framing might also be rotted. Should I just peel the roof back(can it be reused ?) and replace the wood or just do the EPDM rubber roofing coating system ? I live in it and have lots of rain coming withing a few weeks. I can get a carport tent with clear tarps to work on it. I need to do some lap sealant and the EPDM rubber roofing coating. What one should I do first ?

[@MyRVWorks]

When you pull the rubber off the decking it will destroy the rubber. An idea that you could try is to isolate the damage part of the roof. Cut that section of rubber straight across. Replace with new decking and then get new rubber and the glue to apply over the decking. To mate the old roof to the new roof take a look at what a lot of Manufacturers use for the front and rear caps. There is an aluminum Extrusion that you can get to apply over your rubber and bond the old with the new. That might be a simple solution for your application.

[@rickl6697]

Was that mutitool blade a smooth edge (like a putty knife) or did it have fine teeth?

[@MyRVWorks]

Smooth and rigid

[@ronforster1130]

What type of blade did you use on your multi-tool? Was it a metal cutting blade or a smooth blade? Thanks

[@ronforster1130]

Nevermind, I found your link.

[@user-ki5hp1ng4n]

dis anybody screamed OMG the membrane separating?

[@timh8543]

Will. That technique work on all roof materials. Thanks

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

Materials like the fridge vent, skylight, etc or the actual removal of the sealant material?

[@kelseyhensley]

what do you use on fiberglass roofs for sealents? PVC roofs?

[@sandracote9548]

Kevin I am trying to find the same. Any luck for fiberglass roofs other than divorce which has peeled off to easily.

[@johnnyelectric4844]

I take it that is some kind of flat non toothed blade

[@arlenewolf5260]

Will the EPDM sealer seal to TPO?

[@MyRVWorks]

That is manufacturer-specific. I believed Dicor® products will and there are a few others that will, XTRM® comes to mind. The product I use Geocel® SSL will not adhere to TPO but there non self-leveling will. So just take a minute and read the data sheets for these products to find out what will adhere to TPO.

[@kfink77]

How do I know if my roof is able to support human weight on it

[@johnsmith-dz6qh]

not the john that needs a job. the tool you used to skim the sealant off with did it have teeth or was it smooth? Enjoy your vids.

[@kfink77]

It looks like teeth like on a buzzer for hair trims yet made for industrial use

[@OkayAhhgain]

Where can I buy a roof vent for my trailer?

[@51Fathermo]

Doing it the way you did you pulled the roof off the wood breaking the glue point. Should have gone slower with less force.

[@JohnAvantiBK]

Didnt bother to show the actual job of installing the fan to the aluminum. Thanks.

[@facelaw674]

Hi there I have a question for u I heard u shouldn't get up on a rv roof with your shoes on it can damage the roof some how is that tru or have u heard of that before

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

Nah, shoes are fine. Just keep the sharp objects away from it.

[@facelaw674]

Ok thank u for your answer

[@reeacc8332]

I couldn’t see the links for what you used.

[@MyRVWorks]

The video got uploaded before I had my links ready. It's all been updated now so have another look on the description below the video and you will find them there thank you.

[@sanity8311]

With all the roof vent types do you find the white plastic or the smoke ones lasting longer.

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

It's best to put a vent cover over it. I like to leave both roof vents open all the time to keep the air flowing.

[@sanity8311]

@@aguyandhiscomputer I've got an air max cover but you still can get them in different colors. Just what seams to last the longest is what im wondering.

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

@@sanity8311 ok, I agree, seems like the white would stay cooler and not dry out as fast but they sure do use a lot of black ones.
I'll take my chances and stick with black since they block the morning sun 🙂

[@sanity8311]

Yea that morning sun sucks when trying to sleep in a little

[@kfink77]

If you dont need the natural light wouldnt it be better to get a metal one?

[@arlenewolf5260]

Hi can you please share with me what make and model you were in. I want to order that towel rack that was mounted on the bathroom door, from that manufacture.

[@MyRVWorks]

Oh boy, that customer has traveled onwards to Montana. Sorry but I won't know that information.

[@arlenewolf5260]

Daren, Is there a chance you have a contact number or email address for them. I really want to attempt to order that door mounted towel rack from that manufacture. Maybe you could reach out to them and ask. If I had the manufacture, and model I could attempt to order it. I have not seen that towel rack on any of the rv's I have looked at. That towel rack is a real space saver. If you could even order it, if you got the info, I would pre pay you for it and you could make a buck and ship it to me or have it drop shipped to me. Thank you.

[@jdright1157]

Curious... How old would you say that Lance is?

[@MyRVWorks]

The Lance is a 2007.

[@gregbrown5224]

What’s the temperature? I guess it needs to be above 75 or 80.

[@MyRVWorks]

Temperature for what? For the sealant it's above 50.

[@gregbrown5224]

Yes for the sealant.

[@MyRVWorks]

Here is the tech sheet link for the product: www.geocelusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/AdvancedSL-Tech-Data.pdf