CARING FOR YOUR ROOF

Thank you for purchasing an Austops roof, you can be confident that your roof will give you many years of service with a little care and attention. Your roof was hand-built in our workshops using the highest quality materials to the highest standards. To ensure that your roof remains at its best, we advise you to follow these simple guidelines.

Pop top roof or roof cap (also known as the shell)

Proper care and maintenance of your roof is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of the product, this is especially applicable to the cap as it is constantly subject to the weather and UV rays which can cause the lustre to fade or cause the appearance to become cloudy.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Avoid using strong chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as they can degrade the GRP material and its protective gel coat.

UV Protection

GRP is susceptible to UV radiation, which can lead to fading and deterioration over time. Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a shaded area or use a cover to protect the elevating roof from direct sunlight.

Avoid Overloading

To prevent damage to the lifting mechanism and roof structure, no more than 25kgs should be placed on the roof.

Canvas (also referred to as the tent)

The canvas requires little maintenance as the polyester coated fabric prevents dirt from embedding into the weave of the fabric. Any dirt or marks can be removed by wiping the canvas with warm water and mild soap solution.

Occasionally, you may need to re-proof (waterproof) the canvas, however you only need to do this when you notice that water is not beading off the fabric as it did when new. There are many products to choose from such as Fabsil Universal Protector which not only help to protect from rain but also acts as a stain or dirt repellent. Re-proofing of the fabric twice per year should be sufficient to increase the life and appearance of the fabric.

If planning to remain unused for long periods of time such as over the winter period, the canvas should be aired occasionally to prevent any build up of mould on the canvas.

Note: The canvas should not be folded or stored whilst wet other than for a very short period.

Regular cleaning

Wash the roof with a mild soap or detergent and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the GRP surface. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the roof and remove dirt, bird droppings, and other debris. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Waxing and polishing

Apply a quality marine or automotive wax to the GRP roof after cleaning to protect the gel coat and provide a glossy finish. Regular waxing helps prevent UV damage, fading, and oxidation of the GRP surface.

Prevent Water Accumulation

Ensure that the roof is properly closed and sealed when not in use to prevent water from seeping into the interior. Regularly check the drainage channels and ensure they are clear of debris to allow water to flow away properly.

Seasonal Maintenance

At the beginning and end of the camping season perform thorough maintenance check. This can include a detailed cleaning, waxing, lubrication, and a comprehensive inspection of all components.

Roof Struts

The struts are ‘gassed’ to support weight of the roof when elevated. They are sized appropriately to help effortlessly elevate the roof to the open position whilst also being easy to close when required. A quick wipe over with a damp cloth to remove grime and dust is all that’s required. The EPDM rubber gasket provides excellent resistance to water, UV rays and ozone however EPDM can absorb oil-based products thus should be kept away from oil.

Scissor Hinges

The hinges are designed for minimal maintenance. A quick wipe over with a damp cloth to remove grime and dust and a small amount of lubrication to the pivot points will help to keep them operating smoothly. Check all nuts are tight but do not overtighten.

VEHICLE TESTING – TUV APPROVED