Seems like they appear overnight.  You never noticed them before and then all of a sudden there they are, black streaks down the sides of your RV.  Black Streaks are the result of time and neglect.  Anyone owning a recreational vehicle has vertical surfaces that are susceptible to acquiring black streaks. Though they may not be prevalent on new surfaces, most smooth and semi-smooth vertical surfaces will get them. It is simply a matter of TIME.

Most people think that the roof of their motor home, travel trailer or 5th wheel is the cause of the black streaks but it is caused by air pollutants, dirt, bird droppings, and other stuff that runs off the roof during light rains and heavy dew.

The mixture of dust and other stuff accumulates on the roof during the day. Then in the evening hours, after the sun goes down, dew forms over the film of dust. The water and dust mixture then drains from the roof down the sides of the RV to the ground. Along with the dust, the water contains calcium, lime and other minerals that are also left on the surface.  Each evening the process repeats using the path of many black streaks before. The layered build up is slow and takes time, but before you know it, you have a problem.

The best way to deal with black streaks is to get your RV washed and waxed on a regular basis, which will help keep the black streaks from getting good and stuck on the surface.  A good layer of wax will help to minimize the way black streaks set into the surface. Waxing creates a physical barrier to help the surface shed the water and dust mixture. A wax that produces an anti-static, slick, finish, will work better than those made simply for appearance.

Check periodically for new streaks. If a reapplication of wax to the affected are does not do the trick you may need to resort to a cleaner specifically designed for getting rid of black streaks, but this should be your last resort. These cleaners are very strong so be sure to use it as directed in the instructions.

The best way to use a black streak cleaner or remover is to spray the product into a towel and attack the streak directly.  Applying physical contact to the surface along with the cleaner is far better than a spray of cleaner and a quick rinse. The spray and splash method seldom works. It is also important to understand that these cleaners WILL strip wax from the surface so it is important to re-wax the area afterwards.

If you still see a bit of the old streaks after taking the steps above, the streaks have successfully oxidized onto the surface. Now you will need to treat these areas as you would any oxidized surface. Many products in the market today address oxidation, either on fiberglass or paint. Be sure to choose the product that is correct for your surface. Be sure to read and follow the directions before you begin so that you get the best results. Once the surface has been deoxidized be sure that it is re-waxed.

Whatever you do, be sure to wax regularly. A simple coat of wax done once every three months or so will go a long way toward beating black streaks.

Rocky Mountain RV and Marine sells products for getting rid of black streaks and can apply a product that protects and warrants the exterior of any coach from black streak, water spot, bug and UV damage.  Contact Travis Roberts for more information about these products.

If you would prefer to have those darn black streaks removed by a professional, contact our service department here at Rocky Mountain RV and Marine.