What to Do About RV Rust

Rust is an issue for RV owners everywhere. If left unchecked, it can affect the style and structural integrity of your rig. By taking steps to prevent future corrosion and treat existing rust, you can stop the process before it becomes a problem. For more information, stop by Airstream of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah, serving Park City and Provo.

Treating Existing Rust on Your RV

Can you see small patches of rust on your RV? That's normal—RVs have a wide variety of metal components. Quick action can help prevent it from spreading. Start by scraping off the rust with a wire brush. Alternatively, use a sandpaper with a coarse grit. Clean off the area, and apply a coat of corrosion protectant or rust-resistant paint. Keep in mind that this technique works best on light surface rust.

If you find rust that's penetrated deep into your RV's frame or individual components, it's time to call in a professional RV mechanic. Deep-seated corrosion can compromise the performance and safety of an RV, so it's important to take care of it right away. These repairs can be costly, but they can head off dangerous and expensive problems down the road.

Preventing Rust on an RV

When it comes to RV rust, prevention is key. To start, keep it clean—the salt in coastal areas or winter roads can eat away at the bottom of the rig. Rinse the undercarriage regularly, and keep it as dry as possible. Interior components are also susceptible to rust; make sure your RV is ventilated to prevent condensation.

Small dings, chips, scratches, and dents are magnets for rust. The damaged area exposes the raw metal to the air and moisture. Any time you see a small scratch, clean the area and repair it with a rust-resistant paint or sealant. During the camping season, inspect the rig once every few weeks to look for problem areas. This is a time-consuming process, but it can help you head off rust before it spreads.

If you're planning to spend lots of time in wet or humid areas, it may be worthwhile to invest in more aggressive rust-prevention measures. An undercoating is an easy option—it covers the undercarriage in a thick layer of wax-based paint. You can also get a spray coat for the exterior of the rig; just ask your RV mechanic or dealership for details.

With prevention and rapid treatment, you can stop rust from taking over your RV. It helps to make rust-prevention part of your regular inspection and maintenance routine; that way, you can spot small issues before they become expensive problems. If you need more information, or if you're ready to take the next step toward RV ownership, stop by to see our lineup at Airstream of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah. Our team is proud to serve both Park City and Provo.