Keep the weather out and comfort in
There’s nothing worse than discovering a leak in your caravan—especially when you’re in the middle of a trip. Whether it’s coming from the roof or a window, water ingress can quickly lead to mould, rot, and costly damage. But the good news is, most leaks can be identified and sealed up with a bit of attention and the right approach.
Why Leaks Happen
Caravans are constantly exposed to the elements. Over time, sealants degrade, materials shift, and joins can weaken. Road vibration, UV exposure, and changes in temperature all contribute to wear and tear on seals. Even a hairline gap around a window or roof hatch can let in enough moisture to cause damage over time.
Seasonal weather extremes—especially hot summers and cold, wet winters—can speed up the deterioration of existing seals. Regular inspection as part of your yearly maintenance routine can help prevent leaks from forming in the first place. Look closely at skylights, external lights, and antenna bases, which are often overlooked.
Catching leaks early and acting fast is the best way to avoid long-term issues.
Finding the Source
Water doesn’t always leak directly below where it’s getting in. It may travel along beams or panels before it appears inside. That’s why it’s important to inspect all potential entry points—roof hatches, windows, corner joints, and seams. Look for stains, bubbling surfaces, or soft areas in walls or ceilings. If the leak only shows up in heavy rain or when washing the van, that can help narrow down the location.
Preparing to Repair Your Leaky Caravan Roof
Before applying any sealant, clean the area thoroughly. Old sealant should be carefully removed, along with any dirt, grease, or debris. Using a plastic scraper and some isopropyl alcohol or a specialised cleaner will give the new sealant a clean surface to adhere to. Never apply new sealant over the old one—this usually just masks the problem without fixing it.
Choose a high-quality caravan-grade sealant. Silicone may seem convenient, but many types won’t bond well to caravan surfaces or will break down under UV exposure. A polyurethane or hybrid polymer sealant is often more reliable and designed for external use.
If you’re sealing horizontal surfaces like roof joints, look for a non-sagging sealant designed to hold shape without running. Some products are paintable and UV-resistant, offering better durability and a neater finish.
Applying the Sealant
Apply the sealant evenly, making sure it fully covers the gap or join. Use a caulking gun for smooth application and shape the bead with a gloved finger or tool for a clean finish. It’s important to allow enough drying time before exposing the area to water. Follow the product instructions carefully—some sealants can be tack-free in an hour but need longer to fully cure.
If resealing a window, it may be necessary to remove the window frame to clean and reseal the entire perimeter, especially if water has been getting in for a while.
When to Call a Professional
Some leaks are easy to patch, but if the source isn’t obvious or damage has already occurred, it’s worth getting expert help. Professionals can pressure test the van to detect leaks you can’t see and ensure the right materials and techniques are used.
Book Your Leak Repair Today
At AllBrand Caravan Services, we specialise in leak detection and waterproofing for all types of caravans. Whether it’s a small window leak or a full roof reseal, we’ll get you back on the road, dry and comfortable.
📞 Call us: 3869 2969
📍 Visit us: 101 Connaught Street, Sandgate QLD 4017
📧 Email: info@allbrandcs.com.au
Don’t wait for a leak to ruin your next trip—get it sealed properly today.
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