Wash, Wax and Relax
Taking care of your RV requires time and energy. Most importantly, don’t be fooled by promises of quick and easy.
The first step to protecting your RV is to remove dirt and grease. A simple wash and wax soap is what is necessary. Using heavy detergents may strip away the wax. Use products specifically made for RVs and avoid all-purpose soaps or strong degreasers, but consider choosing a soap that has some carnauba wax in it, because it will help protect the finish. Waxing your RV should be thought of as must-do maintenance twice a year to keep the paint in good shape. Not only does it keep the paint looking better, but also it will help prevent staining and sometimes chipping.
When waxing, do a two-foot section at a time. This gives you control. Where you start depends on preference, but waxing in small patches rather than doing a whole side a once makes things easier.
There is a steep price to pay for not keeping your RV waxed. Restoring a faded and oxidized finish requires compound wax and a professional buffing, which is a lengthy and expensive process. Wax is like sunscreen. It’s protection on top of the skin so you can’t get to the clear coat. The key thing to keep in mind is that there is no quick way to do it. It requires patience.
For tires, use soap and a tire degreaser along with a water-based tire dressing. The best way to make them look good is elbow grease. Yes, a good soap, a brush and lots of elbow grease. Stay away from petroleum-based products or those with silicone, because they can react with rubber. Follow these suggestions to keep the heat and sunlight from wreaking havoc on the finish of your RV, and enjoy that shiny new look all summer long.
Tips on washing and waxing
- Wash from the roof down. Work the dirt from the roof to the ground.
- Let it dry. Use a towel or chamois if you like.
- Use a buffer to apply wax. It’s quicker and puts on an even coat.
- Let the wax come to a haze.
- Wipe off. Use a clean microfiber towel for easy and smooth removal.
If you have any further questions please, ask one of our service experts at our Lazydays Tampa or Tucson locations. You can also log online to schedule an appointment.
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