Top 8 Best RV Caulks On The Market In 2023 Review & Buying Guide

If you’re new to RVs, there is one piece of advice seasoned motorhomers would like to pass on. Weatherproofing is of the utmost importance. There’s nothing that can really ruin your time more than a leak in your RV.

That’s why you need to seal all possible leak points…

Luckily, the best RV caulks will help you get the job done in no time. That just leaves you with the daunting task of finding the right caulk. Fortunately, there is a caulk on the market for every job.

It can seem overwhelming, trying to narrow them all down. Luckily for you, we’ve done all the work already and reviewed the top 8 RV caulks currently available. We’ve even included a useful buying guide that will save you time and ensure you get the right product for your needs.

So, let’s go through them…

Top 8 Best RV Caulks To Purchase In 2023 Reviews

1 Dicor 501LSW-1 EPDM Self-Leveling Lap Sealant – 10.3 Oz. Tube – White – Best RV Roof Sealant

If you have an RV and have ever done some work on the roof, you may have heard of Dicor’s three-part roofing system. Model #501LSW-1 is the final part of that system. This is a Self-Leveling EPDM Lap Sealant, which makes it ideal for sealing up the roof.

But there’s more to it than that…

This caulk can provide a secure secondary seal for the roof’s edge, vent pipes, screw heads, etc. It’s formulated to work with EPDM and TPO sheeting. Plus, it will hold to aluminum, mortar, vinyl, and much more.

There really isn’t much this caulk won’t hold to actually. It’s one of the reasons we think it’s one of the best RV roof sealants there is.

So, what makes it so good?

This lap sealant is formulated with one of the highest solid volume products sold for RVs. This means it will hold tight, and that is precisely what you need. Plus, it won’t break down from weathering, which is a plus down the road.

Oh, and we should mention that this listing is for a 10.3-ounce tube that can be used with a caulking gun. The sealant itself is white, to match most RVs.

Our rating: (4.7 / 5)

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2 ToughGrade Self-Leveling RV Lap Sealant for Motorhome Rubber Roof -10.3 oz Tube – 4 Pack – Best Bulk RV Sealant

If you’ve got a bigger job to do, then you’ll want a larger amount of caulk. That’s why this next option is available in a four pack. This way, you’re sure to have all the ToughGrade RV Lap Sealant you need.

How do you apply it?

Like with most options on our list, this one can be used with your traditional caulking gun. These tubes are 10.3 ounces each, which means you can cover even those larger RVs. It’s excellent for any horizontal surface, really.

You can apply this sealant along the edge of the roof and around air vents and vent pipes. Plus, it’s compatible with all roofing materials. Even better, it also provides excellent adhesion to a wide range of other materials. These include wood, galvanized metal, concrete, and many more.

Is it easy to use?

The ToughSeal Self-Leveling Sealant is easy to use and requires minimal touching up. This is a huge plus for an already taxing job. Plus, this formula is UV-stabilized. This means it won’t discolor or deteriorate due to damage from the sun.

We also like that this formula will remain flexible, providing a continuous seal that lasts the test of time. In the end, this is one of the best RV sealants for bigger jobs.

Our rating: (4.6 / 5)

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3 Geocel 28100V Pro Flex Crystal Clear RV Flexible Sealant – 10 oz Tube – Best Clear RV and Boat Sealant

Geocel makes another product that is ideal for sealing up your RV or motorhome. Their formula #28100V is better known as Pro Flex Crystal Clear Sealant. It’s perfect for RVs for a few reasons, but one stands out above the rest.

Why is choosing the right sealant for your RV so important?

Because RVs are constantly on the road, hitting bumps and going around curves. Unlike the home, the motorhome is continually having its seams stressed by movement. With cheap sealants, this can lead to cracks as things dry out over time.

But the best RV caulks don’t crack. Instead, they stay flexible like this option from Geocel. Its exceptional flexibility helps make it crack-resistant.

What else do we like about this formula?

Another significant aspect of the Pro Flex Sealant is its ability to adhere to a wide range of surfaces. It’s even suitable for damp surfaces; it’s just that good. We also really like the non-stringing aspect of the formula. It makes it easy to apply, which we all can appreciate.

Even better, it can withstand the extreme temperature changes experienced during RV travel. You’ll be leak-free, and that means worry-free.

How do you know it will last?

You know you can count on a product that is backed by a 25-year life expectancy. No matter what color you might be trying to match, this is one of the best caulks for RVs, boats, and more.

Oh, did we mention it’s clear? So, no fears of it being the wrong shade of this or that.

Our rating: (4.7 / 5)

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4 EternaBond RSW-4-50 RoofSeal Sealant Tape – 4″ x 50’ – White – Best RV Sealant Tape

One completely different option is brought to you by EternaBond. They make a RoofSeal Sealant Tape. It’s an excellent option for those of you looking for something other than caulk.

The first thing to note here is the options…

While we looked specifically at the 4” x 50’ roll, you can also get this in 2” or 6” x 50’. This provides you with plenty of length to seal up that roofline. It’s a great way to add built-in insurance to your RV.

You also get the option of purchasing the tape on its own or along with other EternaBond products. These include a cleaner, a sealant, and a roof coating. If you really want to get the whole job done right, getting the lot is the best way forward. This isn’t the best RV caulk for patch jobs, but it is one of our favorites.

Here’s why…

This sealant tape has a high elongation factor. This means that it can expand/contract really well. In turn, this keeps the seal from being breached in extreme weather. It also features a silicone lining to prevent it from sticking. This helps with installation ease, though some surface prep may be required.

Finally, we should mention that this tape is white. It’s also considerably more expensive than other options on our list. However, it is also a completely different style of option.

Our rating: (4.8 / 5)

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5 3M – 51135052051 Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200 – 3 oz – Black – Best Marine and RV Bonding Sealant

This next option isn’t one you’ll use to seal the entire RV roof. It’s also not what you’d likely choose to deal with any sizable patch or seam sealing job. However, it is made by 3M, and it does have a place on our list for a couple of reasons.

If you want a watertight sealant, you want sealant designed for marine settings.

A permanent bond…

That’s right; the former #51135052051 is better known as 3M’s Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200. This is a totally different type of formula than the others we’ve reviewed. It’s obvious when you look at the size of the tube.

This is not meant for use with a caulking gun. Instead, you just squeeze this stuff out like it were toothpaste. But it’s only a 3-ounce tube, so it’s not meant for big jobs.

But there’s more to it…

Instead of big patches and seams, this formula is meant to provide a tough and permanent bond. It’s an all-in-one adhesive sealant. There is no mixing required, and it cures in five to seven days.

This is what the professionals use. The formula retains its strength even under the waterline. While this is not somewhere, your RV is likely to go; it is a rather good assurance.

Love the sea?

We’d recommend it for sealing RVs if you’re beach lovers. That harsh saltwater can really do some damage to weaker caulks. This is made from a tough polyurethane polymer, and it’s extra tough.

Our rating: (4.7 / 5)

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6 Tremco Vulkem V116GRY 116 Polyurethane Sealant – 10.1 oz Tube – Gray – Best RV Caulk for Sealing Expansion Joints

It’s good to know that you aren’t limited to black, white, and clear caulks. This next option from Tremco is for those that need something other than the standard colors. We looked at the Gray, which is model #V116GRY.

What is it made from?

This Vulkem formula 116 is a high-performance polyurethane sealant. It provides a grainy textured finish with primerless adhesion, no matter your surface. In fact, it demonstrates superior primerless adhesion to porous substrates.

It also is highly durable and flexible. This makes it ideal for sealing moving joints. We think it’s one of the best RV caulks for sealing expansion joints.

Even better, you can keep using it around the house…

There’s no need to buy this product just for your RV. You can also use it around your home as it has been formulated to work with a wide range of materials. These include masonry, glazing, etc.

We also like that this formula has been designed for interior and exterior use. Plus, the slightly grainy texture is ideal for matching masonry and stucco. It can also be used in both vertical and horizontal applications.

Caution…

One thing worth pointing out is the need for proper ventilation when working with this formula in enclosed spaces. This stuff isn’t exactly non-toxic, and it should be handled with care.

Perhaps this is why it’s one of the most durable RV caulks available. If that’s what you need, the toxicity may not matter. Plus, you get the option of numerous colors like Bronze, Tan, Limestone, just to name a few.

Our rating: (4.4 / 5)

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7 Sashco 10016 Big Stretch Caulk – 10.5 oz Tube – White – Best Water Based RV Caulk

Sashco also makes an RV caulk that is available in a range of colors. Their formula #10016 is better known as Big Stretch Caulk. We think this tells you just about all you need to know.

Just how much does it stretch?

Well, we didn’t believe it when we first read it, but this formula is advertised as stretching more than 500% of its original size. This makes it ideal for the movement that RVs experience in the seams and joints.

Not only that, but this high-performance formula is also a water-based sealant. It provides powerful adhesion and ultimate elasticity. It will bend, twist, compress, and of course, it will stretch. But it will not crack.

Is it easy to apply?

Oh yeah, this stuff goes on like warm butter on toast. Plus, it’s low odor and cleans up rather easily with just water. We find this much more pleasant to work with than some other more toxic options.

This formula from Sashco is also highly UV resistant, making it ideal for both interior and exterior use. We think it’s a great way to seal the windows on your RV, motorhome, or house.

Our rating: (4.5 / 5)

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8 Dap 08641 Clear Silicone Sealant – 9.8 oz Tube – Clear – Best Value All Round Durable Caulk

The final item in our roundup of the best caulks for RVs is from Dap. You couldn’t have a list of sealants and not have one from this well-known manufacturer. Their formula #08641 is a Clear Silicone Sealant.

What makes this ideal for RVs?

This formula has been created to work equally well indoors and outdoors. It will hold to most non-porous surfaces with ease. This makes it ideal for sealing up windows, plumbing fixtures, trim, molding, etc.

It also provides long-lasting flexibility and top-notch adhesion. We found it really easy to work with, and obviously, the 9.8-ounce tube works with caulking guns.

Just how durable is it?

Being from Dap, you know this formula is going to stand the test of time. This is very apparent when you note the 50-year durability guarantee. We think this alone makes this the best RV sealant caulk for the price.

We also appreciate that this formula is not affected by extreme temperatures. It won’t shrink, crack, or crumble. And if that’s not enough, it’s also mildew resistant.

But we’re not finished yet…

The final things worth noting about this formula include the long list of surfaces it will work with. We won’t list them all, but the important ones include glass, fiberglass, porcelain, non-oily woods, rubbers, painted surface, and more.

It’s also worth noting that this is manufactured in the United States, and it meets ASTM C920, Specification C719, Class 25. This last bit is great for professionals, which means it’s also ideal for DIYers.

Our rating: (4.4 / 5)

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Best RV Caulks Buying Guide

As you can likely see from our above list, there are a number of excellent options in the running for the ideal RV caulk. While most of the above will manage most jobs, some are rather specific.

So, how do you narrow down all the options?

Well, the first thing to consider is what you’re sealing. The options covered on our above list can be used for a rather wide range of job sizes. So first, are you fixing a tiny leak or sealing the entire roofline?

This is the first consideration, as it will help you determine how much formula you’ll need. As well as whether or not you’ll require additional supplies to complete the job.

When caulking RVs, elasticity is absolutely crucial…

Your RV is not like your house. Even if you live on the earthquake-prone Pacific Coast, your home won’t be constantly twisting, contorting, and flexing in the way an RV does. RVs have a lot more to deal with when you consider potholes, narrow curbs, and tight corners.

This is why it’s rather important to ensure that you choose a seam sealer that will flex with the RV. It is also essential that the sealant is able to handle fluctuating and extreme temperatures.

You never know where you’ll end up in your RV…

Part of what makes an RV so appealing is the ability to take your home anywhere. This means that your RV may be subject to extreme colds and killer heats, amongst other extreme weather factors. We advise you to check your caulk won’t crack from any extreme.

We advise you to look past the per bottle cost…

When it comes down to it, RV caulks are designed to seal up your precious investment. They keep the elements from taking their toll and can even help boost the resale value of your RV.

This is why we aren’t going to worry too much about a couple of dollars here and there. Unless you are planning to re-seal the entire vehicle, then things can add up quickly.

Still, it’s worth remembering that the caulk and time are an investment that will help your RV last longer.

Types of RV Caulk

Another factor essential to consider is the type of material you intend to caulk with. Below are a few of the most common, along with their advantages and primary uses.

Adhesives Caulk

One of the best types of caulk for RV applications is adhesive caulk, which is naturally sticky. This type of caulk is almost like glue that can be used to fix cracks and patch small holes.

If you’re looking to both seal off and bind an area in one go, then your best bet would be an adhesive caulk.

Acrylic Caulk

The most common type of caulks are acrylic-based. These are what most people use around the house for a variety of applications. They also tend to be cheaper than most other options.

Acrylic caulk is better for smaller jobs like small slits in walls or ceilings. It’s good for working with wood and other RV construction materials.

Fireproof Caulk

Fireproof caulk is red, so you can quickly tell what it is. While it’s not necessary for most RV applications, it is better safe than sorry. Especially around the cooking area, if your motorhome is equipped with such a space.

Silicone Caulk

The other more common type of caulk is silicone-based. Silicone caulks have some benefits in being mold and mildew resistant. This means you’re not going to end up with unsightly seams.

However, silicone does have its drawbacks. One such issue is their lack of adequate weatherproofing. Silicone will break down far too quickly for exterior use.

Vinyl Caulk

Vinyl caulk isn’t too dissimilar from acrylic caulk. It can last longer and is possibly better for exterior use. Considering these two points, you’d think vinyl caulk would be the best RV caulk.

But then, there’s the flexibility issue. On this point, vinyl is simply not the best option. So, in the end, the type of caulk you choose will depend on the specific application within your RV.

Loving your RV…

As you can see, we are passionate about finding the best RV care products out there. If you’d like to explore more, read our reviews of the Best Tire Pressure Monitoring System, the Best RV Ladders Reviews, the Best RV Covers, the Best RV Tow Bars Travels, and the Best RV Surge Protectors currently on the market.

Or how about our in-depth reviews of the Best RV Battery Reviews, the Best Air Conditioning Recharge Kits, the Best RV Mattress Short Queen, the Best RV Tires Reviews, and the Best Steam Cleaners for your RV you can buy in 2023.

So, what are the Best RV Caulks?

Hopefully, this review has given you all the information you need to purchase the best RV caulk for the job. One of the products reviewed should be the perfect formula for your particular application.

However, if you want our recommendation, we would go for the…

Geocel 28100V Pro Flex Crystal Clear RV Flexible Sealant – 10 oz Tube

It’s highly flexible and thus suitably crack resistant. We also found it to have one of the best adhesion abilities for RV surfaces.

After all, it does have RV in the name of the formula, which is always a positive.

Enjoy your RV adventures!