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How to Caulk a Camper

There's nothing worse than listening to the pitter-patter of rain slowly leaking into your camper while you sleep. Not only does it defeat the purpose of having a camper---to keep you dry and warm---but it also leads to further damage down the road, such as mold and warping issues. Luckily, fixing leaks in a camper is usually an easy task, requiring not much more than a tube of caulk. Here are some tips for how to caulk a camper to fix leaks and for overall general maintenance.

Things You'll Need

  • Caulk
  • Caulking gun
  • Heavy-duty scissors
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Rag
  • Bowl of water
  • Ladder
  • Masking tape (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check old caulking at least once a year to prevent leaks. Look for thin covering of old caulk or areas that may need a first application of caulk. Carefully climb up and inspect the roof. Check all seams and areas around vents, windows, moldings, exterior lights and doors, as these areas can be prone to leaks.

    • 2

      Clean the areas to be caulked with rubbing alcohol and a rag, and dry it completely before caulking the camper.

    • 3

      Place masking tape on both sides of the caulk line to lay clean, straight lines.

    • 4

      Insert the tube of caulk into the caulking gun with the tube nozzle pointing away from the trigger. Snip off the end of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle using the scissors.

    • 5

      Apply steady pressure to the caulk but make sure not to press down too hard on the caulking line. Apply a steady stream to the crack. Dip your finger in the bowl of water and run it along the line of caulk, forcing it evenly into the crack and edges. Wipe excess caulk off your finger. Apply more water to your finger regularly as needed in order to keep the caulk from sticking to it too much. Use the rag to clean up any sloppy caulking quickly, before it dries.

    • 6

      If using masking tape, make sure to pull it up right after applying the caulk.

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