If your Dicor 501 Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is bubbling or rippling after application, several factors could be causing this reaction. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Surface Temperature & Heat Expansion
Cause: Applying Dicor on a hot roof, especially in direct sunlight, can cause air or moisture trapped underneath to expand, leading to bubbling.
Solution: Apply sealant in the early morning or late afternoon when the roof is cooler.
2. Moisture or Contaminants Underneath
Cause: If the surface isn’t completely dry or has residual moisture, oil, or dirt, the sealant may not adhere properly, leading to ripples.
Solution: Clean and dry the surface thoroughly before application. Use isopropyl alcohol or an RV roof cleaner for best results.
3. Outgassing from Roof Material
Cause: Some RV roofing materials, like TPO and EPDM, can release gases when heated, which may get trapped under the fresh sealant.
Solution: Apply in cooler conditions and avoid applying too thick of a layer at once.
4. Overapplication or Thick Layering
Cause: Applying too much sealant at once can cause uneven curing, leading to rippling as it settles.
Solution: Use a steady, controlled bead of sealant and let it self-level naturally.
Is It a Problem?
Mild bubbling often settles as the sealant cures. However, if the bubbles remain after 48-72 hours, it may indicate poor adhesion, and you might need to remove and reapply.
Maintenance & Repair Article
Understanding RV Roof resealing
The products to reseal your RV roof
- Our favorite dripless caulking gun
- Our favorite scraper
- Our favorite scraper with handle
- Our favorite solvent cleaner
- Dicor self leveling sealant white
- Dicor Non-Sag lap sealant white
- Dicor Non-Sag lap sealant black
- Knee pads roof safe soft surface
- Tool bag collapsible roof safe soft surface
RV Roof Sealant Tools & Supplies
The following products are examples of tools and materials discussed or used in our RV roof maintenance videos.
Dripless Caulking Gun
https://amzn.to/46Zcqyf
Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant – White
https://amzn.to/3tu6Vc2
Plastic Scraper
https://amzn.to/46gPNFk
Acrysol Cleaning Product
https://amzn.to/46lRLEy
RV Roof Repair Kit – White TPO Roofs
https://www.amazon.com/shop/californiarvspecialists-dustinsimpson/list/3NQ1VUZL3GLGX?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d
Before purchasing or applying any product, verify compatibility with your RV’s roof membrane, existing sealants, and manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our other social media pages.
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