How to repair a caravan roof
Instapatch can seal cracks, splits and small holes in caravan roofs, including around roof lights and fittings. It moulds to shape and cures hard in daylight.
What you'll need
- Instapatch Standard patches big enough to cover the damage with room to spare. The order wizard will suggest a size.
- UV Curing Primer and a brush. It's optional on smooth aluminium and fibreglass.
- Scissors or a sharp knife
- Gloves and protective clothing
- Surface cleaner and clean cloths
- A stable ladder or platform
Before you start
- Don't stand on the roof unless your caravan's handbook says it can take your weight. Work from a ladder or a platform alongside.
- Pick a dry day. The surface must be dry and free from dust, grease, waxes and loose material.
- Remove any old sealant that's loose or cracked around the damage.
- Only open the patch when you're ready to use it. It can start to cure within minutes in daylight.
Steps
Clean the area and remove any loose old sealant, then let it dry.
If you're using primer, brush it on and let it dry fully.
Shape the patch with scissors while it's still in its packet.
Peel the release film from one side, press the patch on straight away, and mould it to the roof, including around any roof light or fitting. Apply firm pressure all over.
If you want to paint the repair, peel off the top film now for a matt finish. Leave it on for a gloss finish that can't be painted.
Leave the patch to cure in daylight. Keep pressing the edges down until it hardens, so the corners don't lift.
Cure timing for this surface
Daylight cures the patch in 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how bright it is.
After the repair
Once it has hardened, the patch is waterproof and highly resistant to weather and UV. If you removed the top film, you can paint it to match.
Common questions
Yes. Mould the patch around the shape and press the edges down firmly until it hardens.
Yes. Instapatch Standard works on metal, and primer is optional on smooth, sound aluminium.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Standing on a roof that isn't designed to take your weight
- Patching over loose old sealant
- Patching a damp surface
Safety
Wear gloves and protective clothing, and only use Instapatch in a well-ventilated area. It contains polyester compound and styrene, which can irritate the eyes, skin and lungs. If it gets in your eyes, rinse them straight away with plenty of water and get medical advice. If it gets on your skin, wash it off with soap and water.
Storing spare patches
Keep unused patches on end in their original wrapping, somewhere cool, dry, dark and frost free. If a patch is very cold, warm it before use.