How do you replace a window seal on a caravan?

By Elaine Knight
Page last updated: 02/09/2022 | Next review date: 02/09/2024
close

Author bio


Elaine Knight
View More north_east

In this article, we will answer the following question: How do you replace a window seal on a caravan? It doesn’t matter if you use your RV on weekends or live permanently, having to handle a cabin air leak situation is frustrating. 

When your window seals fail or are in poor condition, the result can be costly; completely ruining the RV experience. So what can you do to prevent this situation?

How do you replace a window seal on a caravan?

To replace a window seal on a caravan, there are three things to consider:

  1. The first thing you should take into account is the type of climate of the place where you are. That annual trip to the beach is fun, but the salt in the air can cause damage to your caravan. Salt is particularly damaging to the bodywork and seals of your caravan. If you are camping on the beach, be sure to wash your caravan thoroughly when leaving shore. This will reduce the damage that the salt in the air can cause in your recreational vehicle.
  1. Second, how old is your caravan? If your caravan is new you won’t have to worry about changing the seals for a few years. If you’ve bought a used caravan, you won’t know when the seals were last replaced. It is advisable to check the seals to find damage or looseness in time that causes water leaking, etc.
  1. Lastly, consider the quality of the seal you use for your caravan. Returning to the topic of exposure to the elements of nature, and considering that your RV spends a lot of time exposed to them, seals should be your first line of defense against water and wind. High quality UV resistant seals are essential to ensure long life.

If you want to know how well your window seals are keeping the elements out – check them out.

Does dirt accumulate on the stamps? Where does the dirt accumulate? Is there moisture in the area? Moisture can cause fungus to grow, which in turn can compromise your health and cost you expensive repair costs.

What you need to know before replacing a window seal on a caravan

Now that you have determined that it is time to replace your window seals, where do you start? Window seals are an overlooked element of window design, but it is one of the most important. The first step in replacing the seals is to verify what type of seal you need.

The window seals are located between the glass and the metal frame. Another term used to refer to window seals is window weatherstripping. What is the difference between a stationary window and a sliding window?

For the manufacturer, stationary windows are more cost-effective and easier to manufacture. For caravan owners, stationary windows allow us to enjoy those picturesque views wherever we go.

The second element to consider when changing window seals is dimensions. And last but not least, you should know the approximate number of feet of the distance you need to complete the project. To find the exact number of feet of clearance you need, it is recommended to measure the perimeter around the window.

Now that you know the type of weatherstrip you need and its dimensions – it’s time to enter the research phase. Have a sample of the seal you want to replace on hand and compare it to available inventory in a catalogue.

What tools do you need to replace a window seal on a caravan?

Before beginning the seal replacement process, make sure you have the necessary tools on hand to complete the job successfully. If you do not have some of these tools, visit your nearest hardware store.

  • Scraper – Great tool for removing the stamp you want to replace. In addition, it serves to press the new seal into place.
  • Super Bonder 495 Glue – not required, but recommended to have on hand in case a little glue is required in the corners for added security and stability.
  • Cleaning Cloth: When removing the old seal you will want to clean the area of ​​dust and dirt before putting on the new one.
  • Eye and Hand Protection: Always recommended for use when using glue or glue remover. These chemicals can be dangerous if not used properly.

Other questions you may be interested in

Where are Adria Caravans made?

What is the best caravan sealant?

What do I need for a caravan?

How to replace a window seal on a caravan (step-by-step)

  1. Begin by carefully removing the window. Put the window on a table with a sheet to avoid scratches.
  2. Remove the window seal.
  3. Clean up any dust or dirt residue. Glue remover is helpful in these cases; It will remove any dirt or dust on the surface, including any old glue residue left on the window.
  4. Also, clean the gutter where the window goes.
  5. Once everything is clean, take the new seal and put it in its place.
  6. Continue stamping around the perimeter of the window until you are done.
  7. Cut off any excess and gather both ends in place.
  8. Take a scraper and run it around the perimeter of the stamp to make sure it’s in place.
  9. You may be thinking that it is easier to install the sealed corner by corner; if that’s the case, go corner by corner first, then press the rest of the stamp into place. The seals make a peculiar sound when they fall into place. 

Something important to consider: some installations will require you to remove the window from the frame. You will see an example of this in our article on sliding windows. After the glass is removed, the installation is exactly the same as the steps mentioned here.

When replacing the window seal, it is a good idea to also check the window frame to make sure there are no additional repairs missing.

How to protect the caravan window seals?

To avoid the development of moss or mould at the seals of your caravan, it is important to maintain and store your caravan undercover during the winter months. The ideal is to have him spend the winter in a closed garage. It is also possible to park it under a roof.

If you cannot opt ​​for these solutions, it is imperative to protect your caravan with a caravan cover. This protective cover will protect the caravan from rain, humidity, light, sun … anything that can damage it during winter.

Final thoughts

With the right tools and a little patience, replacing your caravan window seals should be a fairly straightforward process.

To keep the caravan window seals clean and in good condition, it is important to maintain them well on a daily basis and to carry out frequent cleaning. Remember to inspect the vehicle regularly. 

If you have any comments or questions about the content, please let us know!

FAQ on How do you replace a window seal on a caravan?

How to clean the seals of a caravan?

To clean the seals of a caravan you can use acetone with a damp cloth. Be careful not to use too much product to avoid damaging the caravan.

How to clean window seals?

To clean window seals, prepare in a small basin hot water mixed with white vinegar (70% water and 30% vinegar). Use a sponge, soak in this solution and rub the joints until the stains disappear! Then rinse with clean water and dry the whole with a clean cloth.

How to renovate a rubber seal?

To maintain the seals of your car, we recommend that you use WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant. Its formula does not attract dirt and provides insulation against moisture. It is compatible with rubber, so it is perfect for car gaskets!

References

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!