How To Apply The Alpha Systems 4034 Roof Coating To An RV Roof

Question:

Do you recommend a 1inch nap or less for applying the AL34CV sealant using a roller application? I found a very solid roller than can extend with add on segments unlike some of the wobbly extension poles. Just need to narrow down the type of rollers that are best for the product. Also I read its best to slide the roller more than actually allow it to roll? Is that true? Seems counter productive to a degree. I understand that might be more like brushing it on but you may not always have the control to keep the roller from turning. Also do you advise first using a brush around all the edges of items like roof vents and AC units or should you just cover up to them with the roller as you go. Also where on top along the sides of the RV would you choose to stop. I know Ive never owned an RV before of any style. I bought a 22 year old Class B+ Ford Van type almost a year ago and looks to us like it should be sealed even though seller said hed just done it in Oct a year earlier and had no real use due to repairs during the last year weve owned it. Any real experienced advise would be appreciated. Im off to watch some videos on this subject. Thanks guys and gals youve been helpful many times this year.

asked by: Leslie

Expert Reply:

The rule of thumb here in most cases is, the smoother the surface and glossier the paint, the shorter the nap. With the roof of the trailer being fairly smooth a 3/4" or less nap would be the better option. The manufacturer recommends a 5/16" or less nap or to use a paint brush.

There's a lot of debate about sliding the roller or actually letting it roll. In my opinion sliding the roller will lead to uneven coating since you're more so just pushing the sealant around. Keeping an even pressure and letting the roller spin tends to give you a more even coating in my opinion.

When applying the Alpha Systems 4034 Roof Coating # AL34CV I would start on the opposite end from your ladder and work you way off of the trailer roof. Personally, I would just try to be careful and use the roller as much as possible but have a brush as backup if needed to get in tight spots between/around rooftop appliances/vents. The roof membrane typically gets folded over the sides of the trailer so I would use the roller on the top and then a brush to get the little bit that hangs over on the sides to avoid getting it on the actual walls.

This would also be a good time to check the sealant on your vents/appliances and reapply as necessary. For anything on the roof (horizontal) you'll want to use self-leveling sealant # 34427034145-1 and for anything on the walls (vertical) you'll need non-sag sealant # 344270341437-1.

expert reply by: Kevin C