What in the world could this be?

[ShineTimeDetail]

One of the guys at my new building has a one year old RV with some type of mildew or something. Not sure what it is. I haven't seen it inlet seem pics. It has been sitting on a gravel driveway.

Anyone ever seen something like this?

[RoadRageDetail]

Looks like unprotected single stage paint with contaminant buildup from water drainage. A layer of oxidation makes it easy to stain. What isn't removed with a decontamination process would probably come off with a light polish, maybe even by hand.

[statusdetailing]

I hate RV's! Good luck. As soon as you use something strong enough to clean up the contamination, the dye in the decals will start to run.

[ShineTimeDetail]

I hate RVs too....supposedly no one in StL really details them..

[SeaJay's]

I hate RVs too....supposedly no one in StL really details them..

That means more money for you! RV's can be a real PITA but they are great money!

[Vegas Transplant]

Looks like mineral deposits from industrial fallout and acid rain.
Is there a body shop or metal fab shop/industry nearby.

[Vegas Transplant]

Worst, best cities for air quality listed - US news - Environment | NBC News


Check out StL's standings.

Other references list StL as # 4 in the nation for long particle fallout.

[tuscarora dave]

Whatever contaminates that are laying on the roof of that rig, mixed with the dew that settles on it each evening is the culprit as far as where it came from. The evening dew settles on the roof and the contaminates react to it to form a slurry of oxides that day after day creep down the sides of the RV, staining the paint or gel coat. Could be dirt, rust, jet fuel, etc. but more likely a mixture of all of the above plus some.

I'd try some vinegar or light dilution of acid wheel cleaner in an inconspicuous area for removal, or a good chemical polish such as PB Pro Polish usually takes it off rather easily.

[statusdetailing]

Forgot to mention that I've had some good success in the past using bug bricks and meg's super degreaser to clean up that crap. For some reason the bug brick works really well. . .almost miraculously. It has just the right amount of abbrasiveness and won't dull the surface if you don't go crazy. The roof is the main culprit though. I'd be afraid to look up there and see how bad it must be. Owners need to throw tarps over the roof on these huge things to prevent the problem.

[Vegas Transplant]

Also, interesting (at least to me) to see how the window frame weepholes display contrasting build-up.