Keeping your Skyline Roof in tip top condition.
Aftercare & Warranty
Aftercare, and pop-top maintenance are a crucial element of making sure your roof is constantly in good working order. Please read the below guide for help and tips on keeping your roof working all year round.
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Warranty issues should be addressed with the installer as first point of call.
Warranty is also NON transferable upon the sale of a vehicle.
Aftercare
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If you have either the gel white or gel black roof these are subject to UV damage over time, to prolong the life and bring back the shine you will need to machine polish the roof using a Farecla G3 Compound Premium and you will want to apply this annually.
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If your roof is painted, wash and maintain as you would the rest of the van. If you are lucky enough for a bird to poo on the roof, wash off as quickly as possible!
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Avoid drive - through Carwashes.
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Wash Canvas with soapy water and allow to dry thoroughly before closing the roof.
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If roof is put down when the canvas is wet, reopen to dry out as soon as possible.
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Apply waterproofing spray on seams and zips (inside and out). You should do this when you return home after collecting your van, and annually after this (we recommend Fabsil Gold).
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When opening and closing a scenic canvas, pull the roof down slightly to take the tension out.
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Operate the struts every month so they self-lubricate.
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Check fixings on scissor hinges to ensure they are neither too loose nor too tight. Lubricate hinges annually, with a silicone-based lubricant. Take extra care to avoid the canvas, so that it doesn’t mark.
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Ensure the strap at the front and rear of the canvas are done up and tensioned enough that the canvas bows inwards before closing the roof, ensuring the side door is open, the bed is down and all the canvas zips are done up.
Condensation
Condensation in a pop-top campervan is caused by warm, moist air from activities like cooking or sleeping coming into contact with cooler surfaces, leading to water droplets forming on windows and the roof. This is especially common when using a heater overnight and during cooler seasons. To combat condensation, focus on ventilation and moisture management.
Here's a breakdown of the issue and how to address it:
Causes of Condensation:
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Warm, Moist Air:
Cooking, showering, even breathing, creates moisture in the confined space of the campervan.
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Temperature Differences:
The inside of the van is warmed up while the outside is cooler, leading to a difference in temperature and causing moisture to condense on cooler surfaces.
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Poor Ventilation:
Lack of airflow prevents moisture from escaping, allowing it to build up and condense on surfaces.
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Heaters:
While heaters provide warmth, they also increase humidity, which can exacerbate condensation.
How to Prevent Condensation:
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Ventilation:
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Open windows and doors when cooking or showering to let out moist air.
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Install a roof vent or fan to improve airflow.
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Create a convection flow with a high vent (pop-top) and a lower inlet (cracked cab window) for effective ventilation.
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Reduce Humidity:
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Minimize water-based activities like cooking and washing.
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Dry wet items (clothes, towels, etc.) promptly.
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Consider using a dehumidifier or a silica gel pack to absorb excess moisture.
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Insulation:
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Proper insulation can help to reduce the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the van, minimizing condensation.
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Choose moisture-resistant materials for the van's interior.
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Other Tips:
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Wipe down windows and surfaces regularly to remove excess moisture.
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Ensure the pop-top is properly sealed to prevent water ingress.
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Consider a pop-top cover to protect the canvas from moisture and damage.
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