Seal around plastic vents - what can I replace the original with? (1 Viewer)

[MattR]

Hi,

While playing with the fridge fan installation and replacing the external hookup point, I've found that the metal beneath the vents etc. is often rusty. I've stripped back the flaky paint, treated the rust, repainted etc. and am will be soon be ready to replace the vents. Some came with rubber gasket type seals that - parts of which were embedded into the rust and were damaged when removing the vent and others, such as the new hookup socket have a foam pad to go between it and the metal. I'm not convinced that the foam will keep water out.



What can I put around the edges of the vents to stop water getting down between the joint with the metal body? I would like something that holds a shape but doesn't stick the vent to the metal.

 

[The Nomad]

Rubber window/door draught excluder strip. From any DIY store, Comes in maybe 5/10 metre lengths, self adhesive on the back face. Couple of quid.

 

[Stealaway]

What's wrong with sticking it?
I think the only sure way of getting a seal is with a silicone sealant but maybe the non setting type

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[tonyidle]

I would use butyl mastic (bought in a roll). It really is non-setting and also extremely adhesive.

 

[MattR]

What's wrong with sticking it?
I think the only sure way of getting a seal is with a silicone sealant but maybe the non setting type

I would prefer not to stick it as the plastic is more likely to crack when removing them in the future if they are stuck down. I know that I should not have to remove them but having seen the rust on them that was there, I guess that I will have to inspect them every year or so to stop the tin worm from developing again.

 

[treetops1]

As TN said 10mm draught excluder sticky to the vent plane side to the van

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[mitzimad]

dont use silicon as its acidic and attacks metal

 

[Just smiffy]

Dip the gasket in some grease, it will keep it water proof and stops it sticking....?

 

[MattR]

I've used draughts excluder. So far, so good. I'll check in a couple of months to see if it has kept the rain out.

Thanks for the suggestions.

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[Masman]

I replaced mine a few months ago. I used none setting mastic on the inside of the seal. Not had any problems..