RV Roof Repair Q&A: Eternabond vs Self Leveling Sealant

August 12, 2025

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Tony Flammia

Welcome to another Two-Minute Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA)—the largest hands-on RV training school in America.

This week, Instructor Jeremy Waggers steps up to Todd’s “Q&A challenge,” answering a real viewer question about RV roof maintenance. The topic? Whether to use self-leveling sealant or Eternabond tape on a brand-new PVC RV roof after a less-than-perfect installation of a MaxxAir fan.

The Viewer Question

From @ClintonSchultz2768:

“I just purchased a new RV with a Delta PVC roof and had the dealer install a new MaxxAir fan. Unfortunately, they didn’t clean the roof or remove the old sealant before adding the new one. I plan to remove their poor job and reseal it. Should I use self-leveling roof sealant, or just apply Eternabond tape instead?”

Jeremy’s Answer: Eternabond vs. Self-Leveling Sealant

Jeremy’s take is clear: Eternabond tape is best used as a temporary or last-resort repair, not as a long-term sealing solution for a new roof installation.

If you want to do it right, here’s how to remove the dealer’s poor sealant job and reseal your roof so it lasts:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Non-marring pry bar (plastic scraper) – Avoid metal tools to prevent damaging the roof.
Non-chlorinated brake cleaner (green can) or Dawn dish soap & water.
Lint-free shop towels – To prevent leaving behind fibers.
RV Roofman self-leveling sealant – Jeremy’s top recommendation for durability and warranty coverage.

Step 2: Remove the Old Sealant

Gently slide the non-marring pry bar under the old and new sealant, working slowly.
This is not a race—take your time to avoid roof damage.
Remove all sealant so you’re working with a clean surface.

Step 3: Clean the Roof Surface

If using brake cleaner: Spray onto a lint-free shop towel (never directly onto the roof) and wipe the area clean.
If using soap & water: Mix Dawn dish soap with water, scrub the area, then dry thoroughly.
Important: Avoid chlorinated brake cleaner (red can) as it can damage roofing materials.

Step 4: Apply the New Sealant

Use RV Roofman self-leveling sealant for its long life and warranty benefits.
Apply at least a 1.5–2 inch strip around the MaxxAir fan to prevent water intrusion.
Ensure there are no gaps or crevices where water could collect.

Step 5: Smooth It Out (Optional for a Neat Finish)

Mix 3 parts dish soap to 1 part water in a small container.
Dip your fingers into the soapy water and gently smooth the bead of sealant.
This keeps it neat and ensures a proper cascade when it levels out.

Why Not Eternabond?

Eternabond tape is fantastic for quick, on-the-road emergency fixes—think accidental punctures or unexpected leaks. But for planned, permanent sealing work like this, a high-quality self-leveling sealant is the way to go.

Jeremy’s Final Advice

Take your time with prep work. Most sealant failures happen because the surface wasn’t clean or properly prepared. With the right tools, materials, and patience, you’ll get a clean, watertight seal that lasts for years.

Todd’s challenge? Accepted and completed. And now Jeremy’s throwing it out to the rest of the NRVTA instructors to take their turn answering your questions on the fly.

There’s your Tech Tip.

RV Roof Repair Q&A: Eternabond vs Self Leveling Sealant