Leaking Window

Joined
Sep 11, 2020
Posts
277
Likes collected
240
Location
Aboyne
Funster No
75,732
MH
Apache 634
Exp
Since 2020
On our last trip we had some water come in (I think) by getting behind the window surround. I sealed it while away with silicone but wonder if it’s worth removing and refitting windows that do this?

2008 Apache 634.

ta

d
 
If you use domestic type silicone, it’s not the stuff to use, ideally you need to remove the surround and refit using Butyl type sealant that’s non setting.
 
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Thanks! As with many things on motorhomes there’s a danger of breaking things while trying to get them off 😂 any tips greatly appreciated.

d
 
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You need to take the frame out and make sure that water has not impregnated the timber. If it has you will need to remove the wallboard to check for any further damage.
Just resealing it could be hiding serious damage that will come back to haunt you.
 
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Currently no damp issues so I’m hoping this is a new leak 🤓 I think removing and refitting the window makes sense to be safe.

Thanks for the advice 👍

d

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Look on U.Tube. Theres a detailed section on how to remove and resealing windows.Did mine a couple of years ago.Not had any problems since.
 
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Found lots on YouTube, mostly USA stuff. A link to the ones you found most useful would be great if possible :) The main thing I'm concerned about (strangely) is breaking the hard plastic internal surrounds - they look like that horrible very brittle plastic. I'm guessing you "ping" then off somehow?

From what I can gather once they are pinged off I'll get access to the screws that pull the outer and inner together.

I'll investigate the best sealer but any tips appreciated.

ta

d
 
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Just found it on YouTube. He's called the motorhome dude.But i don't know how to save it to put on here.
 
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Here's what I did to remove window. From inside take the plastic caps off that cover the screws. Aprox 12 all around frame. Then remove all the screws.use a big strong carving knife to cut through the sealant from the inside. This takes quite a bit of effort. When you think you have cut through. Go outside and slide a wallpaper scraper ot something similar all the way round the frame.Again there will be resistance. It should start to come out.You may have to go back inside and repeat the knive cutting of the sealant. It helps if you have someone to hold the window so that it doesn't fall out.Once removed place window on a table and clean off all the old sealant from frame and the window. Then use none setting sealant on the window. Lots of it don't scrimp. Then refit .Replace screws and then clean off excess sealant. Hope this helps.
 
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It helps if you have someone to hold the window so that it doesn't fall out.
Easier to take the window out before removing the frame. Normally all you need to do is remove the stays, lift the window fully up and slide it out.
 
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Easier to take the window out before removing the frame. Normally all you need to do is remove the stays, lift the window fully up and slide it out.

Nice one.Mine were sliding windows so it wasn't needed.I couldn't find the URL on the video. But i am using my mobile at the moment.
 
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Captain trolly sealer is extremely thin and good for finding very narrow cracks etc ---- it is good for it's intended use but not suitable for OP issue imho.
Likewise I have used sikaflex type sealer for his sort of repair ----- not a good idea!!! Use butyl type putty on a roll like thick tape---- it stays flexible/waterproof and if you need to remove the window in the future it will come out relatively easily!!!!
Keep silicone away from your van I have found it totally unsuitable for this sort of repair!!!!!!
Just my opinion from years of mistakes!!!!

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Ok, sikaflex order duly cancelled 👍🤓 do you have some details on the butyl putty? This perhaps?

Amazon product ASIN B01F395VGK


I used Hodgsons sealant.High performance .Seamseal CV.Dont know the size of window but I bought 2.One was enough but my window was the small sliding one.Comes in 380mm tubes.
 
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This stuff?
 
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Where are the frame screws for this type of frame surround? We’re in Woolacombe being battered by wind and rain currently and have noticed a small drip. So this will be a job this weekend. Does this plastic trim ‘pop’ off the frame to expose the screws? Cheers.

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The plastic trim with the holes in should unclip.Different to mine but I imagine screws will be behind trim
 
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When I have removed a window or skylight that has got butyl tape round it, I have gently warmed with hairdryer and used a scraper to take off the excess butyl then used white spirit to clean the frame. Don't forget the window hole in the wall as well.
While the window is out, check for any water ingress on the wooden frame.
 
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