RV Maintenance: Sealing Gaps to Protect Your RV

Why RV Maintenance Is Essential for Every RV Owner

Owning an RV is an exciting way to travel and experience new places, but it also comes with the responsibility of regular care and inspections. RVs are constantly exposed to road vibrations, weather changes, and temperature extremes, which can cause parts to shift, loosen, or separate over time.

This is why RV maintenance isn’t just a once-a-year task. By inspecting your RV monthly and quarterly, you can catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs or safety hazards.

In this installment of our RV Maintenance Series, I’ll share how I found a hidden gap in our RV —and why sealing it quickly was crucial to protecting our rig.

The Surprise Discovery: Light Where It Shouldn’t Be

While checking our pass-through storage area for potential issues, I decided to take a closer look in the far-left corner where it was dark and hard to see.

To my surprise, I spotted something unusual: a small beam of light coming through the floor. That’s never a good sign. When I shifted my position, I realized I wasn’t just seeing light—I could actually see the ground through a gap.

This meant there was a separation somewhere in the protective barrier under the RV or a weld seam. That barrier is there for a reason: it helps insulate the RV, keeps out moisture, and prevents critters from sneaking inside. Without it, a whole range of problems can develop.

Why Underbelly Gaps Are a Serious Problem

A small gap might not seem like a big deal, but if left unaddressed, it can lead to major issues. Here’s why RV maintenance should always include checking for underbelly damage:

1. Pest Infestations – Mice, insects, and other critters can easily enter through even the smallest openings.

2. Water Damage – Rainwater, snowmelt, or road spray can get into the insulation, leading to rot and mold.

3. Heat Loss – In cold weather, gaps allow warm air to escape, making your furnace work harder and increasing propane use.

4. Frozen Pipes – If your underbelly is exposed, your water lines are at risk of freezing and bursting in winter.

5. Structural Issues – Over time, moisture and pests can damage flooring and frame components.

By catching this problem early, I was able to prevent these issues from ever occurring.

How I Fixed the Underbelly Separation

Once I spotted the issue, I knew I needed to act quickly. This repair was straightforward and inexpensive, which is exactly why routine RV maintenance pays off.

Here’s how I handled it:

• Inspected the Area Closely – I made sure to look at the surrounding area to confirm there weren’t additional gaps or damage.

• Cleaned the Surface – I removed any dust and debris so the repair material would adhere properly.

• Used Spray Foam for Sealing – I applied spray foam insulation to completely seal the gap. This product expands to fill spaces, creating a secure barrier.

• Double-Checked for Light Leaks – After the foam dried, I went back and checked to ensure no light was visible from underneath.

  
  

In total, the repair took less than 15 minutes and cost under $10. A small investment of time and money now can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in future repairs.

RV Maintenance Tip: Make Underbelly Checks Routine

One lesson I’ve learned from this experience is that underbelly inspections should be part of every RV maintenance checklist.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent problems:

1. Use a Flashlight – Look carefully for gaps or signs of light coming through.

2. Check After Rough Roads – Traveling on bumpy or gravel roads can loosen panels or create separations.

3. Look for Water Trails – Water marks or damp insulation can indicate leaks.

4. Seal Immediately – Don’t wait to fix small openings—seal them as soon as you find them.

5. Perform Quarterly Checks – Make underbelly inspections a seasonal habit.

   
   

These steps can help you catch issues while they’re small and manageable.

The Bigger Picture: Consistent RV Maintenance Saves Money

This underbelly gap could have easily gone unnoticed for months, leading to pest problems, water damage, and higher heating costs. Because I include this area in my RV maintenance routine, I caught the problem early and fixed it for just a few dollars.

RV ownership is a lot like homeownership, except your home moves down the highway at 60 miles an hour! That motion creates wear and tear that only regular inspections can catch. By setting aside a little time each month, you can avoid the stress and expense of emergency repairs.

Final Thoughts

RV maintenance isn’t just about keeping your rig looking nice—it’s about protecting your investment, staying safe on the road, and enjoying your travels without interruption.

This experience reminded me how even small, hidden problems can lead to major headaches if they go unchecked. A simple flashlight inspection and a can of spray foam were all it took to prevent potential disaster.