If you're like any one of the two million-plus Canadian RVers, your trailer or motorhome is the perfect way to enjoy a vacation. For many, it’s also a way of life. In 2017 alone, those two million-plus RVers took a combined total of 8.2 million trips. However, hitting the road often, even with your rock-solid RV that you love, minor repairs commonly arise - from awnings and various fixtures to tire and hitch care.
One component that is often overlooked until it needs to be replaced is the ever-reliable roof vent(s). Great for providing proper air circulation, ventilation, as well as some added natural light, roof vents can sometimes fail whether by a worn sealant, tired moving parts, damage to the fan (if your vent has one) or a combination of both. It may also need to be replaced simply due to time and wear.
H. Michael Miley
Whether it’s damaged or just worn over time, replacing your RV’s roof vent is a fairly straightforward DIY project.
Replacing one is not rocket science. It’s a suitable DIY project that involves a series of straightforward steps. Below is a quick guide on how to replace hours, thus saving a trip to your local RV service centre as well as out-of-pocket costs for labour.
Organize Tools the Necessities
Once you have your tools, supplies, and a new vent, you should be able to do this project quickly – about under an hour.
New replacement vents are widely available from a variety of reputable manufacturers through most RV parts stores, and your best bet is to buy the same vent you have or one that is the same style and size. This way, you can use the existing location, space, and screw holes to replace the old one.
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Steve Fennell
Various styles of roof vents are available and it’s common to find different designs throughout the same trailer or motorhome.
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Steve Fennell
Various styles of roof vents are available and it’s common to find different designs throughout the same trailer or motorhome.
In addition to the new vent, you’ll need:
- The appropriate style of screwdriver
- Putty scraper to remove the old putty seal
- A new sealant and caulking gun
- Double-sided tape (called putty tape)
- Wire cutters
Once the tools and necessary materials are organized, you’re set to begin this project by following these four steps:
Steve Fennell
Regardless of the style, roof vents feature a garnish - the outer edges of the vent that must be removed before installing the new vent. Always keep the screws should you need them later.
1. Take out the Garnish
The garnish is the metal or plastic part inside the ceiling of your RV that covers the sides of the opening where your vent fits. From inside the RV, reach up and pull out the garnish. Put it aside so you can put it back when the vent is installed.
2. Take off the Old Vent
Go on the roof of the RV and scrape off the sealant. A putty scraper works best, but a flathead screwdriver will do the trick as well. Next, unscrew the vent and lift it out. Hang onto the screws as they may be required when reinstalling the new vent.
Clean off the remaining sealant. It doesn't have to be perfect, but gently scrape it off and wipe the surface down with a cloth until it’s smooth. Make sure not to scrape or rub too hard to prevent damaging the roof. If the vent has a circulating fan, turn off the power and cut the wires diagonally. Make sure to leave enough slack so you can easily reconnect the wires to the new vent.
Steve Fennell
Part of the project includes accessing the vent on the roof to scrape off the sealant to remove and replace the vent.
3. Install the New Vent
Read the instructions as there may be special tips or notes. It's always helpful if there’s a visual diagram (*note: if the new vent has a fan, attach the wires first). Now, apply the putty tape or sealant along the edges of the vent that will be facing down onto the roof. This will also help to attach the vent. Next, secure the vent with the screws and then seal over the screws and along the edges, making sure it’s secured in place and watertight.
4. Replace the Garnish
Return to the interior of the RV and reattach the garnish. If your new vent comes with a garnish, use that, and toss the old one.
Although an easy DIY project, it’s always best to consult with your local RV dealer or RV parts store to learn about vent options and address any questions or concerns. With various designs on the market, the interior will be enhanced not only with proper ventilation but will lend a cleaner look as well. Nevertheless, completing any new RV DIY project is a great feeling and provides a sense of independence as well as further convenience while on the road should other quick fixes be required.
Steve Fennell
If the vent has an electric fan (as many do) always remember to connect the wires of the new one before replacement and sealing.
Article courtesy of Sherwood Chevrolet & Sherwood RV of Saskatoon, SK. For more information contact their expert team at (306) 374-6330 or www.sherwoodchev.com/www.sherwoodrv.ca