How to Manage Rust on Your RV

Rust is a double scourge for RV owners. Not only can it interfere with the functioning of important systems, but it makes a camper look dirty and old. Luckily, you can handle your RV’s rust problem by using these tips from Pete’s RV.

Protecting Your RV

The best way to avoid a rust problem in your RV is to take precautions and prevent a rust problem from developing in the first place. Keep your camper clean and dry whenever possible. Occasionally perform inspections so you detect corrosion in its early stages, and wipe it off. Protective paint, finishes, and other products can also be a big help, especially for places on the RV that are difficult to monitor and keep clean. Remember to always use a good primer designed for metal surfaces before painting any part of your RV’s exterior.

Certain situations can make it more likely that an RV will rust. For example, those who drive their RVs on winter roads that have recently been salted or live near saltwater need to be especially diligent about fighting rust. Your camper’s interior is also vulnerable to corrosion, so use dehumidifiers and ventilation to manage moisture levels. Try to keep things on the inside as clean as possible.

Treating Rust

If rust does start to overtake parts of your RV, assess the damage so that you can plan out the appropriate response. Smaller areas can be scraped off with a stiff wire brush or sandpaper of the appropriate grit. Scrape it all off before applying corrosion-resistant paint. Large sections of corrosion may require professional help to resolve. Though many guides on the Internet can tell you how to clean off large rust spots themselves, they often neglect to mention that corrosion weakens metal. In other words, if the rust problem has become too severe, it will not matter if you clean it off because your camper is no longer safe to drive.

Important Notes

Your undercarriage needs regular inspection for rust, especially if you often drive on roads that have been treated with salt. If you allow the salt to remain on the undercarriage for too long, it can encourage corrosion, so give it a good wash and drying when necessary.

There are many different paint options on the market, so don’t hesitate to research! Make sure that whatever you choose is compatible with your RV and rust resistant.

Rust can ruin a perfectly good RV, but all it takes to keep it at bay is the right know-how and some maintenance work. For more on how to keep your RV in prime condition, visit Pete’s RV. We offer a range of services, including parts, financing, and maintenance out of our two dealerships. Visit us in Chesapeake or Salem, Virginia. We hope to see you soon!