Hidden RV Water Damage: Where to Check & How to Prevent Costly Repairs
- Mar 22
- 3 min read
Water damage is one of the biggest threats to an RV, and the worst part? It often goes unnoticed until it's too late. I’ve seen firsthand how small leaks turn into major repairs, costing RV owners time and money. This month, we covered three key areas where water sneaks in—and how you can prevent costly damage before it starts.
Where to Check for Signs of RV Water Damage
Most RV owners focus on the obvious areas—like their roof and windows—but some of the worst water damage happens in places you wouldn’t expect. Here are four overlooked spots that need regular inspection:
Slide-Out Trim & Ski Areas: Gaps in sealant allow water to wick into the floor, leading to soft spots and expensive repairs.
Lower T-Molding on Slide-Outs: Sealant failures here let water seep in, rotting the floor from the bottom up.
Skylight & Roof Vents: Staining around these areas inside your RV is a red flag for leaks from above.
👉 Recommended Tool: Klein Moisture Meter – A great tool to detect hidden moisture before it causes damage.
Where to Find RV Water Fittings to Prevent Damage
Water leaks are one of the most common issues in RVs. The good news? Many of them are caused by loose fittings that just need a simple tightening. Here’s where to check:
Wet Bay Fittings: Behind your hose connections, multiple fittings can loosen over time. Look for drips or calcium buildup.
Water Heater Connections: The cold water inlet and hot water outlet fittings can loosen, causing hidden leaks. Look for moisture or mineral deposits.
Sink & Shower P-Traps: Loose drain nuts under your sinks and showers can cause slow leaks. Hand-tighten them and check for staining or water marks.
👉 Recommended Tools:
Common Water Entry Points You Might Miss
Most RV owners check their roof and windows for leaks, but water damage often starts in places you wouldn’t expect. If left unchecked, small leaks can lead to costly repairs. Here are some common trouble spots:
Storage Door Seals: If water gets behind the seal, it can seep into the walls and rot the wood. Replacing the seal and positioning the seam at the bottom can prevent this.
Window Weep Holes: These tiny drains keep water from backing up inside the frame. If they’re clogged, water can overflow and damage walls and floors.
Skylight & Roof Sealant: Cracked skylights and popped air bubbles in sealant allow water to seep through. Checking and resealing these areas prevents leaks.
👉 Recommended Resources:
Final Thoughts
Water damage is a silent destroyer in RVs, but with routine checks and a few simple fixes, you can prevent costly repairs. If you haven’t already, watch the videos linked above for step-by-step guidance on protecting your RV from water intrusion. Got questions? Drop them in the comments of the videos or join our private Facebook group. Catch small leaks before they become big problems!
About Us
Mobile RV Tech Services specializes in onsite RV repair, maintenance, and inspections. We service your RV at your home, campground, or storage unit in Iosco county in Michigan from April 15 - December 15, and Houston, Texas, from January 1 - April 1.
For more tips, step-by-step guides, and videos, check out the resources on the RV Education page on our website.
留言