How Do You Replace the Rubber Seal On An RV Window?

Are you worried about your RV window seals shrinking? 

Well, to be honest, windows are the best part of an RV. Everyone loves sunlight lighting up the inside of an RV whenever they are on a road trip.

But at the same time, they can be a bit of a nuisance too sometimes, especially when their rubber seals start to wear off. Drafty seals let raindrops and wind pass into the vehicle even when the windows are closed. This can ruin your whole RV experience.

Luckily, there are ways you can rectify the issue!

This guide will outline why RV window rubber seals may shrink and how you can effectively replace the seals.

Why Do RV Window Seals Shrink?

A lot of factors are responsible for the shrinking of RV windows seals. At first, like most RV owners, it will look to you as if the seals were unglued. So, you’ll just waste money on trying to glue the window seals.

Here are the common causes that lead to the shrinking of RV window seals.

Age

The age of the seals is the primary reason for their deterioration over time. As they get old, the rubber seals start shrinking on their own due to constant exposure to harsh weather or external conditions.

If you bought a used RV, then probably you won’t know when was the last time its window seals were replaced.

Environment

Another leading factor contributing to this issue is the environment. For instance, you are on a beach, and the salty water drops are everywhere on the windows. Salts are pretty toxic for the body of RV and the rubber seals as well.

Temperature Fluctuations

The seals on the RV may also dry out or shrink due to harsh temperature fluctuations or constant exposure to direct sunlight. In addition, heavy winds and rainstorms are other reasons for the wearing out of these seals.

Tools Needed to Replace RV Window Seals

Before getting on with any process, you should have all the necessary equipment required for it.

These are the must-have tools for replacing the rubber seal on an RV window.

• Protective Gloves– for securing your hands from any chemicals used during the process
• Rubber Scratcher– for removing the old seal effectively
• Adhesive Remover– this would come in handy while removing any adhesive keeping the old seal intact
• Fabric for cleaning– after removing the old seal, you can clean dirt or dust from the surface with this rag
• Cutter– a sharp knife will help you a lot if you have to adjust the length of the new rubber seal or for cutting any other thing

How to Replace an RV Window Seal?

Now that we have gathered all the essential tools, it’s time to get to work. Follow the steps below to replace your RV window seal efficiently.

Unscrew Window Frame Screws

There are multiple screws on the windows for proper attachment. Start by removing them one by one with a suitable screwdriver. For your convenience, mark every screw with a non-permanent marker. This would help you greatly while reinstalling them.

Once all the screws are removed, save them somewhere you can easily access them later on.

Take Out the Glass Window

For replacing the rubber seals, it is mandatory to remove the RV window. In addition, the removal of the glass window makes you have a clear look at the old seal.

So, after the screws are all out, the next step is to take the window out as well. The loosening of screws makes it easy for you to remove the window. But, you should take the help of a friend to detach the window.

Generally, the removal of screws does not automatically displace the window. Therefore, one person must push the window from the inside of the RV, and the person standing outside has to hold it out carefully.

Scratch the Rubber Seal on the Window

After removing the window, place it carefully on a clean surface. Now, see if there are any remnants of the rubber seal on it. Scratch it properly with a screwdriver or a sharp cutter.

Also, if there’s any sealant on the RV, remove that too. These leftovers can lead to improper window installations if not eliminated well.

Properly Clean the Window and RV Surface

Next, take a cleaning cloth and alcohol for cleaning the window and the RV exterior. You can alternatively use an adhesive cleaner too.

This step would wash out the remaining pieces of the rubber seals both on the window and the RV surface. In addition, it would eliminate dirt or debris that may have caused problems while installing the new window sealant.

Apply New RV Window Seal

Applying the new seal in the window is a technical step that requires utmost focus. There’s a particular technique that you have to follow for its correct installation.

Start installing the sealing material from the bottom of the window where weep holes are present. Then, keep placing it in the same way around the entire window. 

You may also use your hands to push and settle the seal into the internal structure of the window. However, keep in mind that the pressure should not be too excessive.

Next, make sure that there are no gaps between the seal and the window frame. This would keep the seal air and water-tight.

Re-fix the RV Window

Now, after replacing the rubber seals, it’s time to put the window back on the RV. Just like when you removed it, ask for a friend’s help while installing it too.

One person should lift the window, and the other person from inside should put it into its place. Remember not to apply too much force.

Once the window is in its place, tighten the screws with a screwdriver on their places. Make sure the window is installed correctly with its weep hole on the bottom.

Finally, your RV rubber seals are safely replaced. Now, you can again enjoy traveling and living in your RV without rain or harsh winter air bothering you.

Take Away

The shrinking of rubber seals on an RV window is inevitable. It damages due to various factors over time. However, replacing them with new ones is the most feasible solution.

With the techniques mentioned above, you can easily replace the seals without requiring technical help.