In this week’s episode of “Weekly One Reason,” Jason Carletti from My RV Inspection and My RV Resource delves into the critical issue of lap sealant on RV roofs. Whether you’re an RV owner or in the market to purchase one, proper maintenance and inspection are vital to ensuring your investment stays safe and functional. In this blog, we’ll unpack the key lessons from this week’s video, highlighting why lap sealant is so essential, the risks of improper maintenance, and how a thorough RV inspection can save you from future headaches.
1. Introduction: Why You Should Have Your RV Inspected Before Purchase
Buying a brand-new RV is an exciting venture, whether you’re preparing for adventures on the open road or using it for extended travel. However, even brand-new RVs can have issues that go unnoticed, which is why inspections are crucial before taking delivery. Jason kicks off his weekly segment by addressing this very concern. He stresses the importance of regular RV inspections, particularly for Class C motorhomes, which are known for water leakage issues if not properly sealed.
Key takeaway: No matter how new or well-maintained an RV may appear, it’s always wise to inspect or have a professional inspector evaluate potential trouble areas before you make the purchase or set out on your first trip.
2. The Problem with Lap Sealant: Roof Vulnerabilities in Class C RVs
In this week’s inspection, Jason finds himself on the roof of a brand-new Class C RV. A quick overview for those unfamiliar: lap sealant is a material used to seal the roof around any areas where there are penetrations, such as vents, antennas, or edges where the roof meets the sidewalls. It’s a critical line of defense in preventing water from entering the RV.
However, during his inspection, Jason discovers significant gaps where lap sealant should have been applied. These gaps, especially near the front corners of the RV, are particularly concerning. If left unattended, they can allow water to seep into the RV, potentially causing extensive damage over time.
Class C Motorhome Risk:
Class C motorhomes are notorious for water infiltration in the front bunk area, especially if the roof isn’t properly maintained. In this instance, the absence of lap sealant makes the RV vulnerable to water damage, which could lead to rotting and expensive repairs.
Key takeaway: Lap sealant is essential for sealing roof penetrations and edges. Without it, water can enter the RV, causing significant damage, particularly in Class C models, where water tends to pool in the front bunk area.
3. Manufacturer and RV Condition: Not Ready for Pickup
Another striking detail from Jason’s inspection is the condition of the RV relative to its manufacturing date. Despite being fresh off the production line—manufactured in December 2021 and showcased at the January Super Show in 2022—this unit has been sitting on a dealer’s lot for months. The customer purchasing the RV was told it was in “ready-to-pick-up” condition, yet Jason’s inspection revealed major issues with the lap sealant that had not been addressed by the dealer.
The gaps Jason found in the trim and along the sidewall trim rail were wide enough to allow water to easily enter. Given that this was a brand-new RV, it’s concerning that these issues were missed during production and pre-sale checks. This highlights the importance of not relying solely on dealership assurances but having an independent inspection performed.
Key takeaway: Even new RVs can have manufacturing defects or dealership oversights. Don’t assume that a new RV is problem-free—an inspection can reveal critical issues that may have been missed or ignored.
4. Why an Inspection is Essential: Certified vs. Non-Certified Inspectors
Jason emphasizes that regular inspections are key to preventing long-term damage to your RV, particularly water damage that can be caused by poor lap sealant application. He also notes the importance of hiring a certified RV inspector. While it’s possible for RV owners to inspect their units themselves, certified inspectors—especially master-certified inspectors—have been trained to identify issues that the average person might overlook.
In this case, Jason, a master-certified inspector, found gaps in the lap sealant that were significant enough to require immediate attention before the RV could be safely used. These are the types of problems that could easily go unnoticed by an untrained eye, leading to major repair costs down the line.
Jason recommends seeking out a certified inspector, and if possible, finding a master-certified inspector like himself. Master-certified inspectors undergo rigorous training and certification processes, which give them the expertise needed to catch issues early.
Key takeaway: While DIY inspections can help, professional certified inspections are invaluable. Certified inspectors are trained to identify potential problems that may not be obvious to the untrained eye, and their expertise can prevent costly repairs in the future.
5. Closing Thoughts: My RV Resource as a Tool for RV Owners
As Jason wraps up his weekly segment, he also highlights My RV Resource, a valuable tool for RV owners. My RV Resource functions as a comprehensive directory of RV service providers across the United States, making it easy for owners to find professionals who can help with repairs, inspections, or maintenance.
The website is constantly growing, with more features and resources being added regularly. For anyone who owns an RV or is thinking about purchasing one, My RV Resource is an excellent starting point for finding certified inspectors, repair shops, or even learning about common RV maintenance tasks.
In this episode, Jason underscores the importance of staying informed and proactive. Whether you’re a new buyer or a seasoned RV owner, regular inspections are crucial to catching potential problems before they escalate. And with the help of My RV Resource, finding the right service provider for your needs is easier than ever.
Key takeaway: Staying informed and proactive is key to RV ownership. My RV Resource is an essential tool for RV owners, offering access to a wide range of service providers across the country. Make use of it to ensure your RV stays in top condition.
Final Thoughts: Prevent Costly Repairs by Prioritizing RV Inspections
Jason’s weekly video serves as a powerful reminder that even brand-new RVs can have significant issues that need attention. Lap sealant, while seemingly minor, plays a critical role in protecting your RV from water damage. Gaps or poor application can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.
Regular inspections, particularly by certified RV inspectors, can help you catch these issues before they become serious. So, whether you’re a new buyer or a longtime RV owner, don’t skip on inspections. Use resources like My RV Resource to find the right service providers and keep your RV in top shape for years to come.
Author: Jason
Jason Is An NRVIA Master Certified RV Inspector. He has won the NRVIA Service Excellence Award and was named NRVIA member of the month in March of 2018.
