By Dustin Simpson
Performing regular exterior inspections and outdoor maintenance tasks of your RV is crucial to maintaining its condition and protecting your investment. Here’s a guide inspired by my walk-through video below to help you conduct a thorough exterior inspection.
Not all areas below have been discussed in the video.
1. Roof inspection
- Check for damage: Look for any cracks, punctures, or signs of wear and tear. Pay special attention to areas around vents, skylights, and seams.
- Sealant condition: Inspect the sealant around roof fixtures and edges. Ensure it’s not cracked or peeling.
- Cleanliness: Remove any debris, leaves, or branches that could trap moisture and cause damage.
2. Windows and seals
- Check seals: Inspect window seals for any cracks or gaps. Reseal if necessary to prevent water leaks.
- Clean windows: Ensure windows are clean and free from dirt or obstructions.
- Test functionality: Open and close windows to ensure they operate smoothly.
3. Doors and locks
- Inspect seals: Check the seals around doors for any signs of wear. Replace if needed.
- Lubricate hinges: Apply lubricant to door hinges to ensure they open and close smoothly.
- Check locks: Test all locks to ensure they are functioning properly and securely.
4. Exterior walls
- Check for damage: Look for any dents, scratches, or cracks in the siding. Address any damage promptly.
- Clean exterior: Regularly wash the exterior to remove dirt and prevent mold and mildew buildup.
- Inspect decals: Check decals for any peeling or fading and replace if necessary.
5. Awning
- Inspect fabric: Check for tears, holes, or signs of wear. Repair or replace if needed.
- Test mechanism: Extend and retract the awning to ensure it operates smoothly.
- Clean awning: Clean the awning fabric regularly to prevent mold and mildew.
6. Tires and wheels
- Check tire pressure: Ensure tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- Inspect tread: Check for uneven wear or bald spots on the tire tread.
- Tighten lug nuts: Ensure all lug nuts are tight and secure.
7. Chassis and frame
- Inspect for rust: Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the frame and chassis. Treat any rust spots promptly.
- Check bolts and welds: Ensure all bolts and welds are secure and in good condition.
8. Lights and electrical
- Test exterior lights: Check all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights, to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Inspect wiring: Look for any exposed or damaged wiring and repair as necessary.
9. Hitch and tow components
- Check hitch: Inspect the hitch for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure it’s properly lubricated and secured.
- Inspect safety chains: Ensure safety chains are in good condition and properly attached.
10. Exterior storage compartments
- Check seals: Inspect the seals around storage compartment doors for any signs of wear or damage.
- Test locks: Ensure all storage compartment locks are functioning properly.
Maintenance tips
- Regular inspections: Conduct a thorough exterior inspection at least once a month.
- Prompt repairs: Address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.
- Keep a maintenance log: Record all inspections and repairs to keep track of your RV’s condition and maintenance history. A book like this works well.
By following this guide, you’ll help ensure that your RV remains in excellent condition and continues to provide you with many enjoyable adventures.
Want to learn more about maintaining your Outdoors RV? Consider joining our Outdoors RV Owners Facebook group.
DIY products to use
- CRL Tapered Plastic End Stick Tool CRL216
- Kent Auto Body Degreaser
- Heavy Duty Vinyl Insert Trim, 1 inch Wide, 100 foot Roll, Black, White or Colonial
- Dicor Non-Sag Sealant — You will want to use non-sag sealant on all corners and side seams on the roof. Non-sag sealant is offered in several colors.
- Dicor Self-Leveling Sealant – Roof surface, for moldings, seams, vents, skylights, etc. It is also offered in several colors.
- Accessory Installation Kit – Sealant, putty and scraper.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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RVDT2790
Many RVs have a roof that rolls over the sides and is joined to the side wall at the rain gutter. That joint is prime for micro fissures in the sealant, and where all the water crosses to reach the gutter. Use color matching non-leveling lap sealant and reseal this area even if it ‘looks good’. I used painter’s tape on the face of the gutter rail and used sealant to create a radius that went from about a 1/4″ up the roof to over the top of the rail. When you pull off the tape, it will look neat. The radius seal is easier to inspect than hunting for micro fissures.
Don’t wait for your sidewall to start to delaminate!
Another excellent article, thanks.
Hi
We keep our coach in a climate-controlled garage and plugged in to keep the batteries charged.
How often should we schedule maintenance for the roof?