Do I Need Primer When Installing a New Superflex TPO Roof Membrane?

Question

Question:

Do I have to use a primer on a brand new Superflex TPO roof membrane when I apply the lap ceiling

asked by: Patrick D

0

Expert Reply:

Hello Patrick,

Great question.

You do not need to use a primer on a brand new Superflex TPO roof membrane like the Alpha Systems # AL83CV when applying lap sealant. As long as you’re using a sealant that’s compatible with TPO, it’s designed to bond directly to the membrane. Skipping the primer on a new, clean surface won’t increase your risk of leaks, so you can move forward with confidence there.

The key is making sure the surface is clean and dry before you apply the sealant. Even a new membrane can have a little dust or residue from handling, so giving it a quick wipe down helps the sealant adhere properly. Once it’s clean, you can apply a self-leveling lap sealant around roof openings like vents, skylights, and along edges, and it will flow out to create a watertight seal.

For the full install, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right materials so everything works together. The membrane gets bonded down with Alpha Systems 8019 Water-Based Bonding Adhesive # AL54CV, which is designed specifically for TPO. After the membrane is laid in place, you’ll seal all penetrations and seams using a compatible self-leveling sealant like Alpha Systems 1021. If you run into any vertical seams or trim, switching to a non-sag sealant will help keep everything in place.

When reinstalling roof components, adding fresh butyl tape underneath them is just as important. It creates that initial seal before the lap sealant goes over the top and helps prevent leaks long term. Taking your time to smooth the membrane during install and making sure the roof decking underneath is solid and clean will also go a long way toward getting a good result.

If you’d rather simplify things, a full install kit like the Alpha Systems Superflex RV Roof Membrane with Installation Kit # AL99UV includes the main materials you’ll need and ensures compatibility across the board.

Did something bad happen to the roof, or just time to put down new due to age?

expert reply by: Kate F

0

Parts Included with AL99UV
(click to enlarge)

Patrick D.

5/11/2026

I did order the AL69UV just waiting for it to ship I seen a video on internet saying it need primer just checking if needed so from what you said I don’t need it Thank you Patrick Donahue

Kate F.

5/11/2026

@PatrickD I would’ve double checked too, especially after seeing something like that online. There’s a lot of mixed info out there, but you’re on the right track. With the Superflex TPO and the kit you ordered, # AL69UV, you do not need primer. Everything in that kit is designed to work together and bond directly to the membrane as long as the surface is clean and dry, so you’re not risking leaks by skipping it. They were actually just out here doing a training not too long ago, and one of the biggest things they stressed was surface prep and working in smaller sections. Make sure you get the area cleaned really well before you start so the adhesive and sealant stick like they should. And when you’re laying it down, don’t try to do too big of a section at once. That’s where a lot of installs go sideways, because the adhesive can start setting before you get the membrane positioned and smoothed out. They also mentioned not to push down too hard when you’re working the membrane into place. You’re not trying to force it down, just gently work it so you can get the air bubbles out and make sure it’s making even contact with the adhesive underneath. If you take your time and work in manageable sections like that, it’ll lay down a lot cleaner and you’ll avoid wrinkles or trapped air. Good luck =)

Patrick D.

5/24/2026

Thank you Kate just wanted to make sure

Kate F.

5/27/2026

@PatrickD My pleasure Patrick =)

Answer 1

The Alpha Systems Superflex TPO RV Roof Membrane #AL23CV comes on a roll. This can be seen in the photo below as well as the photos on the product page. This is also available in white #AL42CV, gray #AL75CV, and almond #AL33CV.

view full answer...

Answer 2

Yes, the 7" Monitor for Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Camera System #FR47FR will pair with the camera on your Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System w/ Night Vision - Rear Mount - 4.3" Screen #FOS43TASF. This will also allow you…

view full answer...

Answer 3

Hey Andrew! Yes, Furrion does have a Chill Cube model with a heat pump. This was actually just released for aftermarket sale. You will need a complete system to make the switch, new R32 units aren't backwards compatible with old R410A systems.…

view full answer...

Answer 4

Trailer wheel bearings are specific to the spindle that is installed on the axle that is on your trailer. You will need to safely support the trailer, remove the wheel and tire, remove the grease cap, remove the cotter pin and washer that secures the…

view full answer...

Answer 5

34 inch wide frames are pretty common for cab and chassis vehicles. For a hitch that fits that dimension we have the #C15800 which sits down 7 inches from where it attaches to the truck frame. This would be the best option we have.

view full answer...

Answer 6

Hey Shawn! The roof membrane that comes with the Alpha Systems Superflex RV Roof Membrane with Installation Kit #AL86UV weighs 72 lbs. What kind of trailer are you replacing the roof on?

view full answer...

Answer 7

Hey Harry, thanks for reaching out. Your Coachmen Freedom Express is set up for 30 amp service and we do have twist lock power inlets that will work for you. What you'll need is one of the following: - Mighty Cord Replacement RV Power Inlet -…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The best option to replace your Dometic Brisk Air II 57915.751 air conditioner is from Advent Air, and you can choose from either White or Black in color: - White: Advent Air Replacement RV Air Conditioner for Dometic Setup #ACDOM150 - Black: Advent…

view full answer...

Answer 9

Hey Michael, welcome back! The Alpha Systems 1021 Self-Leveling Sealant #AL98KV is going to do the same thing as Dicor as long as we're talking about a self-leveling sealant. The main difference is going to be the branding. They both use a butyl…

view full answer...

Answer 10

The 4110 primer is only available in a 1 Gallon #AL77CV like you found. We do have another TPO primer which comes in a 16oz Can #AL99CV.

view full answer...

Answer 11

Hey Mike, yes you can replace your Coleman RV AC unit with an Advent Air RV AC unit and we actually offer a version of the Advent that was designed for this application with the part #ACCOL135B which would be exactly what you are looking for.

view full answer...

Answer 12

Hey Steven! The Furrion Chill HE Replacement RV Air Conditioner item #FR42PV is exactly what you need! It was designed to replace the Coleman units like you have so it's an easy plug and play install. We've found that Furrion units blow the…

view full answer...

Do I Need Primer When Installing a New Superflex TPO Roof Membrane?

Products Featured in This Question

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching