Image Credit: Siggy Nowak / Pixabay
Discover five of the most common RV problems associated with year-round maintenance and learn about do-it-yourself measures you can take to prevent them.
Introduction
RV ownership is a wonderful way to spend more time in nature and travel in style, but some of the most common problems can lead to extensive damage if not addressed properly. Your vehicle will be exposed to the elements throughout the year leading to typical wear and tear. Some of the most common problems RV owners deal with include leaky windows, mold, mildew, inefficient insulation, roof damage, and awning deterioration. In this article, you’ll learn about the best DIY solutions for maintaining your vehicle and moving through the seasons with confidence.
It is important that you address common RV issues promptly, as they can become worse over time and lead to significant deterioration of your vehicle. You should also be taking preventative measures to decrease the chances of these problems occurring in the first place. Engaging in regular checks of areas of your RV such as the seals, caulking, pipes, bathrooms, and roof will ensure that you identify any issues and can take action.
EZ Snap products provide a great do-it-yourself solution to the five most common RV issues detailed in this article. Created using patented technology, years of experience, and high-quality material, EZ Snap makes a great choice for addressing some of the afflictions your vehicle might deal with as you use it throughout the year.
Image Credit: ClassA RVs / flickr
Leaky Windows: Stop the Drip with Confidence
Leaky windows are an extremely common problem with RVs and can be a pain to deal with. Here are a few tips for identifying this problem in your vehicle and confidently stopping the drip!
Recognizing the Symptoms
There are a few steps you can take to confidently identify the signs of window leaks in your RV. First, ensure that you are regularly inspecting the windows and their seals in your vehicle for an indication of leaks or water damage. Look for any sections of the caulking that have dried out or pulled away from the windows. Second, you’ll want to inspect the skylights in your vehicle for similar signs of outflows, water trickling, or damage.
Left untreated, leaky windows are bad news for your RV. If the caulking or other sealant around your windows becomes too damaged or cracked, it risks needing to be entirely replaced, which is a costly endeavor. A water leak in the windows can damage the vehicle and your belongings inside if it is not identified quickly. Small leaks involving a slow drip of water have the potential to be the most damaging, as they are less likely to be noticed and have the capacity to run inside the wall panels, causing mold and mildew.
The EZ Snap Solution: Window Shades & Skylight Covers
Using EZ Snap window shades and skylight covers is a great way to stop window leaks from damaging your RV. The patented technology in EZ Snap products allows these screens to effectively block the sun’s heat and damaging UV rays, protecting the delicate window seals inside your vehicle. The mesh in the window shades is designed to block 90% or more of the sun’s harmful UV rays while having minimal view distortion so you can enjoy your surroundings while remaining protected.
With EZ’s “No-Drill” system, fitting window shades or skylight covers in your RV has never been easier. After deciding the optimal fastener location for your shade, you can cut the material to size on-site to perfectly fit your window. The unique materials used to construct EZ Snap products are durable and contain “Non-Fray” properties to ensure high quality and ease of installation. Each EZ Snap kit also comes with a washable layout pencil so you can mark out the sizes and shapes of your windows on the shading mesh. Once you’re finished with the installation you can wipe the markings right off with a damp cloth.
Image Credit: wutwerewethinking / flickr
Mold and Mildew: Banish the Unwanted Guests
Left untreated, mold and mildew can seriously damage the interior of your vehicle and your health. Here are some top tips to identify and banish this pesky problem in your RV using EZ Snap products!
Identifying Mold and Mildew in Your RV
Anywhere in your vehicle that is most, damp, or dark is at risk for developing a mold or mildew problem. Some of the most common places for this issue to form in an RV are the bathroom and plumbing, the roof, under the mattress, on the walls, and in the carpet. If you smell a musty or stale smell in the interior, that could be a sign of some unwanted guests.
Mold and mildew can cause physical damage to the spaces inside your vehicle, but this problem is unique in that it can also have an impact on your health. Health risks associated with mold and mildew include allergic reactions, asthma and trouble breathing, and skin rash. Mold and mildew are especially dangerous if you have pets or kids, but it is never ideal to have them in a living environment like the interior of your RV.
The EZ Snap Solution: Ventilation & Proper Sealing
After identifying mold or mildew in your RV, the first step you’ll want to take is to remove it by applying bleach or another type of mold remover to the affected area. To prevent the problem from returning, you’ll want to keep the interior humidity down and make sure the vehicle is ventilated and has proper sealing. One way you can do this is by putting a dehumidifier in your interior living space. There are two types of dehumidifiers that work best in an RV environment: non-electric and electric dehumidifiers. Non-electric dehumidifiers usually consist of a bag, pouch, or tub with crystals that attract and absorb water from the surrounding environment. Electric dehumidifiers use batteries or plug into the wall and suck warm air out of the environment using a fan, trapping condensation as it cools down.
When installing EZ Snap products in your RV, there are steps you can take to ensure the shades and skirting provide proper ventilation. To combat mold, mildew, and condensation, the EZ Snap fasteners are designed to hold the shades away from the wall by a small amount to allow air to pass through. The AIRFLO spacer for plastic or dome skylights provides an extra gap between the shading mesh and the surface of the window.
Image Credit: dwstucke / flickr
Inefficient Insulation: Keeping Your RV Comfortable Year-Round
Whether you stay in your camper occasionally or year-round, inefficient insulation can be an annoying problem that affects your comfort and energy consumption while traveling. Here are a few ways to identify insulation problems in your vehicle and remedy them with EZ Snap products!
The Importance of Proper Insulation
Inefficient insulation can cause a whole host of issues in your RV if left untreated. It can affect your comfort by making it difficult to regulate interior temperature. With improved insulation, you can be sure to have more efficient energy consumption and an overall more enjoyable experience traveling in your vehicle. Additionally, poor insulation can negatively affect the undercarriage as wind and dissipation of heat can cause pipes to freeze and crack in extreme temperatures. This can impact the function of your vehicle’s bathroom and be extremely costly to fix, so it is a good idea to take preventative measures before this occurs.
To identify areas in your RV with poor insulation, you’ll want to do regular checks of the vehicle. Check the caulking around the doors, windows, and vents to ensure that it is not cracked or leaking. The sealants around storage compartments are often the culprit in situations with poor ventilation, so be sure to look there too. The efficiency of energy consumption greatly depends on the type of RV you have. If you have an exposed undercarriage, you’ll need to be more proactive with insulation than if you have an enclosed one.
The EZ Snap Solution: RV Skirting & Window Shades
To improve the installation in your RV and keep it comfortable year-round, EZ Snap has an array of excellent products. Both RV skirting and window shades are easy to install and great for keeping the energy consumption of your vehicle at an optimal level. Properly installed shades can improve the temperature in your RV’s interior by up to 15 degrees.
To install EZ Snap RV Skirting and Window Shades, you’ll want to measure your vehicle before ordering the kits to ensure you get the correct size. The window shades, skylight shades, and RV skirting kits all include EZ Snap’s patented “No-Drill” system, allowing for easy installation that does not permanently affect your vehicle. When installing the RV skirting specifically, you’ll want to use pins to attach the skirting to the ground and lock it in place.
Image Credit: faungg’s photos / flickr
Roof Damage: Protecting Your Home on Wheels
The roof of your RV is specifically at risk for damage because it is constantly exposed to the elements and difficult to inspect. Here are a few of the most common roof issues, their causes, and some information on how to use EZ Snap products to create a preventative solution!
Common Roof Issues and Their Causes
When it comes to your vehicle, the roof issues you might deal with depend on the type of roof your RV has. If you have a rubber roof, you’ll want to inspect the rubber membrane regularly for any signs of puncture or tearing. Metal roofs are at higher risk for denting or structural damage, and fiberglass roofs run the risk of cracking. These issues can be caused by trauma, such as a stray branch brushing against the top of your roof, or from wear and tear over time.
Left untreated, the consequences of roof damage can be significant for your RV. Structural damage to your roof can cause leaks and seepage of water, which can cause mold and mildew and be costly to repair. Roof damage can also lead to ventilation problems if the cracks, punctures, or tearing allow cold air to seep in. When it comes to roof maintenance, it is better to take steps to prevent these issues from happening before anything gets out of control.
The EZ Snap Solution: Roof Vent Covers & Protective Films
To be proactive and protect your RV’s roof from future damage, try EZ Snap’s range of products. Roof Vent Covers and Protective Films are easy to install yourself and shield your vehicle’s roof from the elements and general wear and tear. The roof vents in your RV are a common place for leaks to happen, so the vent covers are perfect for mitigating this issue.
As with all EZ Snap products, the Roof Vent Covers and Protective Films come with everything you need for an at-home or on-the-road installation, including detailed instructions. Safety is always a concern with doing anything regarding your RV’s roof, so make sure you are in a good location with a stable surface for a ladder before beginning to install. If you’re using the EZ Snap adhesive studs in the installation, consider using the EZ Snap Primer Pen for 3M Studs. Though this can vary, it is common for roof surfaces to have more problems with adhesion, so the primer pen can help affix the stud and keep it from becoming detached at any point.
Image Credit: Koun G / Pixabay
Awning Wear and Tear: Extend the Life of Your Outdoor Living Space
Life on the road is complete with a good awning, which provides a nice shady spot for you to spend time outdoors when you’re parked. Here are some tips for using EZ Snap products to promote your awning’s longevity.
Recognizing Signs of Awning Deterioration
Awning wear and tear is a common issue for RV owners, as the fabric can easily deteriorate when exposed to the elements. One of the most obvious problems is torn or ripped fabric material in the awning shade. If exposed to heavy rain, it is also possible for the fabric to develop mold or mildew, which can smell and contribute to health issues. Rain can also collect on the RV awning and cause it to stretch out and sag over time.
The impact of awning deterioration on your RV experience can be great if you’re traveling in an area with very sunny or rainy weather. The awning provides a nice shady spot outside for eating meals, engaging in recreational activities, and socializing outdoors when you’re on the road. If your awning falls out of use, you lose a crucial space for the enjoyment of your vehicle.
The EZ Snap Solution: Awning Shades & Cleaning Tips
To promote protection and longevity in your RV’s awning, try EZ Snap awning shades. All EZ Snap products are comprised of high-quality materials and patented technology to ensure they are long-lasting, and the awning shades are no exception. If you need to store the awning shades at any point, the EZ Snap HD vinyl storage bag is a great way to protect your shades when stored. The Velcro seal at the top of the vinyl storage bag ensures additional protection from mold, mildew, and the elements during your off-season.
One way to keep your RV’s awning in top condition is to refrain from leaving it open when not in use, especially in inclement weather. Some windy conditions can be especially extreme, and it’s not unheard of for an RV’s awning to be ripped off or damaged if left open in a big storm. You’ll also want to clean the awning on a regular basis using a gentle solution. Try a small amount of dish soap mixed with warm water and be sure to rinse thoroughly!
Conclusion
Owning an RV can be a very rewarding experience, but there are a lot of problems that can come up whether you’re on the road or off-season. Some of the most common problems you’ll need to address when maintaining your RV are leaky windows, mold and mildew, inefficient insulation, roof damage, and awning wear and tear. These problems are best addressed early, and many EZ Snap products such as window and skylight shades, awning shades, and roof vent covers can prevent these issues from getting out of hand.
Regular maintenance and upkeep are extremely important for keeping your RV free of common problems. Regular inspection can help you identify issues such as mold, mildew, discoloration, cracks in the caulking and sealant, water leaks, and more.
For more information about EZ Snap products, visit the EZ Snap website to see everything they have to offer to keep your RV in good condition. Featuring patented technology and east-to-install designs, you will be able to use EZ Snap products year-round to prevent wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Can I install EZ Snap products on my own or do I need professional help?
All products on the EZ Snap website are designed for easy installation on your own. Each EZ Snap kit comes with everything you need including easy to read instructions for affixing it to your RV. If you’re more of a visual learner, the website also has videos showing you how to install the EZ Snap shades on your vehicle. You don’t need any special tools or experience!
FAQ 2: How long do EZ Snap products typically last?
EZ Snap products are comprised of high-quality materials and patented technology and are designed to have a long lifespan. After extensive testing in places like the Sun-Belt States, EZ Snap mesh has been proven to have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. They also offer a limited lifetime warranty on their products.
FAQ 3: Are EZ Snap products compatible with all RV models and types?
Yes! Because EZ Snap products are made of “Non-Fray” Diamond-Weave skirting material, it is easy to trim them to fit your vehicle no matter the size. Be sure to measure the dimensions of the area you need to cover before ordering the products to ensure you have enough material. The material does not require any hemming or sewing, just cut to size and follow the easy installation instructions for a fabulous fit.
FAQ 4: Can I customize EZ Snap products to fit my specific RV needs?
Yes! Because of the patented technology used in EZ snap products, customizing them to fit your RV’s needs and dimensions has never been easier. The EZ Snap RV skirting, window shades, and skylights are all made of “Non-Fray” material, meaning you can trim them to fit your vehicle on-site before installation.
FAQ 5: Where can I purchase EZ Snap products and find more information?
You can purchase EZ Snap products and find more information by visiting their website at https://ezsnapdirect.com/. There are many different products to choose from to protect your RV from common problems and typical wear and tear. Their website also has a tool where you can enter your RV details into a calculator and get an instant price estimate for RV skirting or window shades, which is super useful for planning and budgeting!
List of Sources:
https://ezsnapdirect.com/
https://www.doityourselfrv.com/rv-window-leak/
https://www.mattressinsider.com/blog/mold-and-mildew-growth-in-your-rv/#:~:text=So%2C%20how%20do%20know%20if,%2C%20carpet%2C%20or%20other%20flooring.
https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-and-health
https://www.thervgeeks.com/rv-insulation/#repair-or-replace-caulking
https://rvshare.com/blog/ultimate-guide-rv-roof-repair/
https://www.thervgeeks.com/5-signs-your-rv-awning-needs-replacement/
https://www.healthline.com/health/dehumidifier-benefits#:~:text=A%20dehumidifier%20works%20by%20drawing,is%20left%20inside%20the%20dehumidifier
