Should I Replace or Reseal the Roof on My 2005 Keystone Sprinter Fifth Wheel?

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Good day, Sadly, I was forced to flee my home from serious molds after 27 years. I purchased a 2005 keystone sprinter fwrls 26 5th wheel rv. Yesterday, I went onto the roof. I wash it and removed the vent covers. My knees were very chalky. Plus, the previous owner has butetyal tape everywhere. I dont see leaking inside, but the back window had to be repaired... These campers typically use 2005 Keystone Sprinter 243 FWRLS original roof membrane is most likely Alpha Systems Superflex TPO Thermoplastic Polyolefin. I have some trim rings off inside, can see the flaps of original membrane. Its smooth on both sides, white and black. Im considering a replacement membrane, so I could add some insulation to the roof. Is that a good idea or option?? As Ive incurred many new expenses on disability, cash is tight. I want to seal this before the rains start. Plus, I need to add value to the camper and mitigate any further mold exposure. What would you recommend: cut off the old roof and install a new membrane, or seal it over the existing after cleaning, with the appropriate product?? It seems theres loads of options out there. Plus, I need to upgrade my smoke, CO2 and propane sensors and fire extinguishers. As we as other parts like the roof vents. Would you please share any excellent choices in your products. Please include the full costs, ie kits and sealants, with prep products to achieve a very good result. Thanks for your help. Deb Elder

asked by: Deb E

0

Expert Reply:

Hi Deb, first, I just want to say I'm really sorry to hear everything you've been through. I hope this Keystone gives you a safe, comfortable place to call home, and I'd be happy to help you make the most of it without spending money where you don't have to.

From everything you described, I would not replace the entire roof membrane right now. A chalky TPO roof is very common as it ages, and by itself it doesn't mean the membrane has failed. Since you're not seeing any active leaks inside, I'd focus on cleaning, inspecting, and resealing the roof before considering a complete replacement. I would only recommend replacing the membrane if you find widespread cracking, bubbling, soft spots in the roof, the membrane pulling away from the decking, or leaks that keep coming back even after repairs. I also wouldn't remove a good roof just to add insulation. That's a big project, and I don't think it's the best use of your budget unless the roof truly needs to be replaced.

I'd start by giving the roof a really good cleaning. Alpha Systems recommends using a simple cleaner like Dawn dish soap with warm water. Use a medium bristle scrub brush and work in small sections, rinsing each area as you go so the dirty water doesn't dry on the roof or run down the sides of your camper. If you'd rather use a cleaner that's made specifically for your roof, Alpha Systems RV Rubber and TPO Roof Cleaner part # AL82KV is another great option because it's designed for Superflex TPO membranes and won't damage the material. I would avoid cleaners that contain petroleum based solvents, since those can damage the TPO membrane over time.

Also wanted to mention the butyl tape. If it's underneath the vents, trim, or other roof components, I'd leave it alone. That's the gasket that keeps water out, and it's completely normal to see a little squeeze out around the edges. I'd only replace it if you're removing a component, the tape has dried out and cracked, or you've confirmed there's a leak in that area.

If you do find leaks around the roof vents, skylights, or other roof openings, I'd stick with Alpha Systems sealants since they're designed to work with your Superflex TPO roof. For flat, horizontal areas like vents, skylights, and roof screws, I'd use the Alpha Systems 1021 Self Leveling Sealant, Part # AL98KV. It flows out on its own to create a nice watertight seal. For vertical seams, like the front and rear caps or the side rails, I'd use the Alpha Systems 1010 Non Sag Sealant, Part # AL28KV. It's thicker, so it stays right where you apply it instead of running down the side of the camper. Stop working and wait 24 to 48 hours. The sealant needs to form a firm, solid "skin" before anything touches it.

As you're cleaning the roof, keep an eye out for any tears or punctures in the membrane. If you find a spot where the damage goes all the way through the TPO and exposes the wood underneath, that's where you'll want to use the Alpha Systems Patch Kit for SuperFlex RV Roof Membranes, Part # AL37CV. If your roof membrane happens to be a different color than white, just let me know and I'd be happy to recommend the correct matching patch kit.

Once you've cleaned the roof, repaired any tears, and resealed any problem areas, you can protect the entire roof by applying a fresh coating. Before the coating goes on, you'll want to apply the Alpha Systems Primer for Adhesives and Sealants, Part # AL77CV. The primer helps the coating bond properly to your Superflex TPO membrane. After the primer has dried, you can apply the Alpha Systems 4034 Roof Coating, Part # AL34CV over the entire roof. That will give the roof a fresh protective layer to help shield it from UV damage and weather, extending the life of the existing membrane without the expense of replacing it.

As for the other items on your list, for a combination propane gas and carbon monoxide detector, I recommend the RV Propane Gas and Carbon Monoxide Detector, Part # RS34FR. We don't currently carry smoke detectors or fire extinguishers, but we do have replacement roof vents. If your camper has the standard 14 inch by 14 inch roof vent opening, one of the best values we carry is the Ventline E-Z Lift Ventadome Roof Vent with 12 Volt Fan, Part # V3094-601-00. It includes a built in 12 volt fan, making it a nice upgrade while still being one of the most budget friendly options available.

Are you living in the Sprinter full-time or is it temporary until the mold is mediated?

expert reply by: Heather A

0

Deb E.

8/2/2026

Well, I think a 10 year product that's 22 years old needs replacing. I CANNOT risk mold and the loss of my home, yet again. I'm planning to replace it before this fall. Will probably add insulation then. Maybe, new vents too. Living full-time, I'm risk adverse. Plus, a new roof adds a great deal of value. I don't like cheap crap. Just quality machines. I'll go with non cheap vents and fans to avoid the noisy, vibrations from the lower cost units. What can I say; I'm a quality snob.

Should I Replace or Reseal the Roof on My 2005 Keystone Sprinter Fifth Wheel?

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