What Causes Windows to Rattle

Bumpy rides cause movement in the RV parts, which might harm the window seals and make them wear off. 

The extent of damage causing the rattling may be lower, such as a loose window glass or frame that can be fixed without much trouble. However, if the sound gets louder with time despite the minor fixes, it might be a warranty issue. 

Either way, the rattling is not only annoying, but it also causes warm air to leak into the RV, compromising the atmosphere inside. Window and roof leaks are often the top problems on many maintenance lists. 

If you hear rattling in your RV sliding windows, there can be several causes behind the loud and annoying problem.

Loose Glass

Loose glass is a common cause of rattling RV windows. If the glass is not fitted correctly or has become loose over time, it will start to vibrate from the high wind pressure, especially on bumpy roads. In this case, the best remedy is to apply a good RV window sealant. 

However, if the problem does not end there, you might have to take additional measures to secure the window glass. 

Loose Sash

The sash of the RV windows can become damaged due to harsh weather conditions or simply the vehicle getting old. This may prevent the sash window from fitting in its track, causing rattling in high wind pressure.  

6 Ways to Stop RV Sliding Windows from Rattling

If the rattling is caused by a minor issue, you can fix it yourself without much trouble. Try out these ways to prevent your RV windows from rattling. 

Apply Sealant

Window sealants are flexible, which makes them perfect for RV windows that shift and move. You can apply sealant on all the edges and cracks to make the windows airtight and set them in their place. After the sealant has dried, you will notice a significant reduction in the annoying sounds. 

Follow these steps to apply a sealant to your RV windows:

• Detach the window glass using a flat blade screwdriver. 
• Remove the rubber seal and apply a layer of sealant using a knife or a sealant gun. 
• Put the rubber seal and the glass back on. 

Weather-Stripping

Weatherstrips prevent water and winds from leaking into your RV, saving the interior from mildew, rust, and other moisture-related issues. 

When weatherstripping is exposed to bad weather, it starts cracking and can no longer protect the interior from the outside winds. As a result, the leakage harms the interior of the RV and causes rattling noises. 

Replacing the wind strips can secure the windows and stop them from rattling by making them airtight. When the glass of the windows is held tightly in place, it does not rattle with high wind pressure.

Adjust the Mortise Plate

Mortise-plates are used to secure the windows close. If they become loose or damaged, the RV window will not close properly, which will cause rattling. To adjust the mortise plate, remove and refit it correctly, and it should secure your window shut. 

Replace the Run Channel

Run channels are pieces of rubber in RV sliding windows. They secure the glass in place and reduce friction for the window to slide smoothly. 

If your RV window has a run channel that has worn out, the glass in the window will rattle. You can replace the U-shaped channel to secure the glass into place. The channels come in different shapes and sizes, so make sure the new ones have exactly similar dimensions as the old ones. 

To replace a run channel, follow these steps:

• Measure the exact dimensions of the window frame using a measuring tape. 
• Replace the old run channel with a new one from the sliding point and cut off the drainage area. 
• At the endpoint, leave a little excess rubber for an airtight seal. 
• Slide the window glass back and forth a few times to press the channel in its place. 

Replace Anti-Rattle Clips

Anti-rattle clips help the sliding glass fit in the window tracks and remain in place. However, when these clips are damaged, they cause the window to rattle with the vibration in the RV. 

If you see damaged clips in your RV window, it’s time to replace them. You can easily add new clips on the track to prevent the glass from hitting the track. 

Repair Damaged Parts

RVs go through a lot—bumpy camping grounds, high wind pressure, and harsh weather. Therefore, regular window maintenance and repairs are necessary to reduce and prevent window rattling. 

Inspect your RV windows at least once a year, ensuring the window frame is tight and the sealant is snug. Then, apply a coat of lubricant to the felt and run the windows on the slide a few times. 

Examine the windows from the outside too, and look for any cracks or dents. If you see any, it’s time to reseal. 

RV Window Replacement

If any of the issues above is causing the window-rattling, you can solve them using quick fixes. However, if the problem is more complicated, these minor fixes will not correct it. 

Once your EV window starts showing signs of extensive damage, a window replacement will be the best solution. The new sliding unit will ensure durable sealing and a safe RV trip. 

Consider an RV window replacement if you notice:

• The window constantly rattles even after sealing
• Water or wind enters inside despite the safety measures
• Deep cracks or scratches appear on the glass
• The glass remains foggy in all kinds of weather

Take Away

Rattling windows are not only annoying but also compromise the overall performance of your RV. The rattling occurs when the window becomes loose or damaged by vibration or outside factors.

Ill-fitted windows lead to air and water leakage inside your RV, eventually damaging the interior. In case of a minor issue, take the above measures to correct the problem on your own. If these fixes aren’t enough, it might be time to get the window replaced.