Last Updated on May 4, 2023
Day-to-day use exposes your RV’s fiberglass siding to various elements, road grime, and dirt and debris that can accumulate over time.
This buildup not only affects the appearance of your RV, but it can also cause damage to the fiberglass siding if left untreated. That’s why regular cleaning of your fiberglass RV siding is essential to keep it looking its best and to protect it from potential damage.
You must follow a few simple steps to clean your fiberglass RV siding. To begin with, start by removing loose dirt and debris from the surface. Next, dilute a cleaning solution and apply it to your RV’s fiberglass siding.
Then, gently scrub the siding with a soft bristle brush to remove any grime or dirt. After that, rinse thoroughly with water to wash away the cleaning solution and leave your RV’s siding sparkling clean.
We’ll take you through the steps so you can quickly get to polishing up that fiberglass shell and keep your mobile RV looking fresh. So let’s get started.
How to Clean Fiberglass RV Siding: Follow These Easy Steps
Get ready for a spot-free RV. Cleaning fiberglass siding is easy. Just take the following steps and you’ll have your ride shining in no time.
Tools and Materials Needed
You will need a few essential tools and materials to clean fiberglass RV siding properly. These items will help you to effectively remove dirt, grime, and other debris from the surface of your RV without causing any damage.
Firstly, a soft bristle brush is necessary for cleaning fiberglass siding. This type of brush is gentle enough to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of your RV while still being effective at removing dirt and grime.
Next, you will need a pressure washer or a water hose to rinse off the cleaning solution once it has been applied.
A pressure washer is ideal for larger RVs or those with particularly stubborn dirt or stains. But, if it is not possible to use a pressure washer, a regular water hose with good water pressure will suffice.
You’ll also need a bucket to mix your cleaning solution in and hold your tools while cleaning. A five-gallon bucket should be sufficient for most RVs.
A microfiber cloth or towel is useful for drying off the RV after washing it down with water. Microfiber cloths are great because they absorb water quickly and won’t leave any streaks on your RV’s surface.
Finally, you’ll need an appropriate cleaning solution for fiberglass surfaces. There are many commercial cleaners available that are specifically designed for use on fiberglass surfaces.
Alternatively, you can make your own cleaning solution by mixing warm water with mild dish soap or white vinegar.
Preparing Your RV for Cleaning
After gathering all the necessary tools and materials, it’s now time to prepare your RV for cleaning. Below are a few steps you should take to get your RV ready for cleaning:
Choose a Shaded Area
When preparing to clean your fiberglass RV siding, finding a shaded area to work in is important. This will not only make the cleaning process more comfortable for you, but it will also help prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly on the surface of your RV.
Direct sunlight can cause cleaning solutions to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks and residue on your RV siding.
Also, working in direct sunlight can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if you’re exposed to high temperatures for an extended period of time.
To choose a shaded area for cleaning your RV, look for a spot that is protected from direct sunlight by trees or buildings.
If you don’t have access to a shaded area, consider cleaning your RV early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is less intense.
You can work more comfortably and effectively by choosing a shaded area for cleaning your fiberglass RV siding. This will ensure that your RV looks its best and stays protected from damage caused by dirt and grime buildup over time.
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Removing loose dirt and debris is essential when cleaning fiberglass RV siding. This is because loose dirt and debris can scratch the surface of the fiberglass, leading to unsightly marks and even long-term damage.
To remove loose dirt and debris, start by rinsing your RV with a water hose or pressure washer. This will help to loosen any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the surface of the siding. Next, gently scrub away any remaining dirt or debris using a soft bristle brush.
It’s important to be gentle when scrubbing your RV’s fiberglass siding, as aggressive scrubbing can cause scratches or other damage. Use light pressure and circular motions to work out any stubborn areas of dirt or grime.
Once you’ve removed all loose dirt and debris from your RV’s fiberglass siding, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the cleaning process.
Dilute the Cleaning Solution
After removing all the dirt and debris from your RV siding, it’s time to mix up the cleaning solution. To dilute the cleaning solution, you’ll want to follow the instructions provided on the product label.
Typically, this will involve mixing a certain amount of the cleaning solution with water in a bucket. Be sure to use a measuring cup or another tool to add the correct amount of each ingredient.
It’s also important not to use too much cleaning solution when washing your RV. Using too much can leave behind a residue that can be difficult to remove and may even attract dirt and debris, making your RV look dirty again soon after washing.
Apply the Solution to the Fiberglass Siding
Once you have your diluted cleaning solution, apply it to your fiberglass siding using a soft bristle brush or sponge.
Start from the top of your RV and work your way down, ensuring that every inch of your siding is covered with the solution. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, allowing it to work into the fiberglass and break down any dirt or grime.
Scrub Gently with a Soft Bristle Brush
Now, take your soft bristle brush and gently scrub the fiberglass in a circular motion. Be sure not to apply too much pressure, which can cause damage. Focus on areas with stubborn stains or buildup, but make sure you cover all parts of the RV’s siding.
Rinse with Water
After scrubbing the fiberglass siding of your RV with a soft bristle brush and cleaning solution, it’s time to rinse it off with water. This step is crucial to remove any remaining dirt, debris, or cleaning solution that may cause damage to the surface.
You can use either a water hose or a pressure washer for rinsing. Make sure to start from the top and work your way down so the dirty water flows down and doesn’t leave streaks on the clean areas. Also, avoid using high-pressure water as it may damage the fiberglass siding.
Once you have rinsed off all the soap residue, inspect the surface for any missed spots or stains. Repeat the cleaning process until you’re satisfied with the results.
Dry Thoroughly with Microfiber Cloth or Towel
After you have rinsed your RV’s fiberglass siding, it’s time to dry the surface. You will need a clean microfiber cloth or towel to dry your RV siding. Microfiber is an excellent choice for drying because it is highly absorbent and gentle on the surface of the fiberglass.
Begin by wiping down the entire surface of the siding with a dry microfiber cloth or towel. Be sure to pay extra attention to areas where water may have pooled, such as around windows or on horizontal surfaces.
If you notice any remaining moisture on the surface of the siding, use a separate dry microfiber cloth or towel to buff it away gently. It is important to remove all moisture from the surface of the fiberglass to prevent water spots from forming.
Waxing and Polishing
After cleaning your RV, it’s recommended to apply a wax or polish to help protect against UV rays, dirt, and other contaminants.
When choosing a wax or polish for your fiberglass RV siding, select one that’s specifically designed for it. Some waxes may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the surface of your RV.
To apply the wax or polish, start by applying a small amount onto a clean microfiber cloth or applicator pad.
Work in small sections, applying the wax or polish in circular motions. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
Once you have applied the wax or polish to all areas of your RV, allow it to dry completely before buffing it with a clean microfiber cloth. This will help remove any excess product and leave a shiny finish.
It’s important to note that while waxing and polishing can help protect your RV’s fiberglass siding, it should not be done too frequently as it can cause buildup and potentially damage the surface over time.
Maintaining Fiberglass RV Siding
Maintaining clean fiberglass RV siding is essential to ensure your RV looks great and lasts longer. Here are some tips to help you keep your fiberglass RV siding clean:
Keep Your RV Covered When Not in Use
Keeping your RV covered while it’s not in use is important in maintaining clean fiberglass siding. Exposure to the elements, such as sun, rain, and wind, can cause damage and discoloration to the surface of your RV.
Investing in a quality RV cover can help protect your vehicle from these damaging effects. Many types of covers are available on the market, including universal fit and custom fit options. A custom-fit cover will provide the best protection for your specific make and model of RV.
In addition to protecting against weather damage, covering your RV can also prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the surface. This means less cleaning time and effort when it comes to maintaining the appearance of your vehicle.
When choosing a location to store your covered RV, it’s important to consider factors such as accessibility and security.
Make sure you have enough space to safely maneuver your RV into its storage location and choose a secure area protected from theft or vandalism.
Wash Your RV After Every Trip
Another important thing you can do to maintain clean fiberglass RV siding is to wash your RV after every trip. This may seem like a hassle, but it will prevent dirt and grime from building up on your RV’s exterior and causing damage over time.
By washing your RV after every trip, you’ll be able to keep it looking great for years to come. Not only will this help protect your investment, but it will also ensure that you’re always ready for your next adventure on the road.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Using the right cleaning solution is key to cleaning fiberglass RV siding. While some may be tempted to use harsh chemicals in an effort to get their RV looking spotless, this can actually do more harm than good.
Harsh chemicals can damage the protective coating on your RV’s fiberglass siding, making it more susceptible to scratches and other types of damage.
Instead of using harsh chemicals, opt for a gentle cleaning solution that is formulated for fiberglass. Look for pH-balanced cleaners free from abrasive ingredients that could scratch or damage your RV’s siding.
If you’re unsure which type of cleaner is best for your RV, consult a professional or do some research online before purchasing. You may also want to consider testing any new cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area of your RV before using them on the entire surface.
Can I Use Bleach Or Ammonia-Based Cleaners On My Fiberglass RV Siding?
Generally, using bleach or ammonia-based cleaners on fiberglass RV siding is not recommended. While bleach and ammonia can effectively clean certain surfaces, they can potentially damage the fiberglass material used in RV siding.
Bleach is a strong oxidizing agent that can cause discoloration or fading of the fiberglass surface. It may also weaken the fiberglass material over time, leading to potential cracking or delamination.
Ammonia-based cleaners, on the other hand, are alkaline and can potentially damage the protective gel coat on the fiberglass, which is designed to provide UV protection and maintain the appearance of the RV siding.
To clean fiberglass RV siding, it is generally recommended to use mild, non-abrasive cleaners that are specifically formulated for use on fiberglass.
Can I use a magic eraser to clean tough stains on my fiberglass RV siding?
A magic eraser can be used to clean tough stains on fiberglass RV siding. It is effective in removing dirt, grime, scuffs, and some stains without damaging the fiberglass surface.
But, caution should be exercised as excessive or aggressive scrubbing with a magic eraser can potentially scratch or dull the finish of the fiberglass, so it’s important to test it on a small inconspicuous area first and use gentle, circular motions.
Keep Fiberglass RV Siding Glowing – Start With Gentle Cleaning, Wax and Shine
Maintaining clean fiberglass RV siding is crucial for the longevity and appearance of your vehicle. After each trip, give it some TLC by quickly washing it.
Avoid using harsh chemicals to keep the fiberglass siding looking flawless for years of future travels. When you’re not exploring new areas, store your RV under cover. Baby steps now will pay off later.
Also, waxing and polishing your RV can provide extra protection against dirt and debris. Remember always to choose a shaded area to clean your RV and remove any loose dirt and debris beforehand.
Diluting the cleaning solution and gently scrubbing with a soft bristle brush will help avoid damaging the fiberglass siding.
Following these tips for keeping fiberglass RV siding clean, you can enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained vehicle on all your adventures.
