Hi all, two questions if i may. Our caravan has sprung a minor (i hope) leak, which i think is coming from a window area.
I am going to reseal around the window but seem to remember reading that a marine silicon should be used? was it called sikaflex or similar?
Secondly, the water had wet the side of the wall and the veneer has now flaked off the wet area. Should i paint the area with some type of laquer and if so, what?
I am sure you are right with the Marine Sikaflex. I remember at the time thinking I must get some too, just in case. Sorry I can't help you with the rest of the problem. Someone with the know how will have to come in.
If at all possibleI like to remove the window to reseal but have successfully done as you are going to. For me its a second option. The damage you can see may well the the least of your problems. I would look at removing that panel section and try to match it with a simular piece, this will also give you the chance to see if there is more hidden damage, the most damage is normal what you cant see cheers blaze
If at all possible remove the window and also remove the panel.Often the damage is more behind the panel and a repaint with whatever is just cosmetic.
I always use an artists palette knife to do the removal of sealants and for removing those joining strips.It doesn't have such a sharp edge as a normal knife so hopefully less damage removing the joining plastic strips and less scratching of the windows.
Sikaflex is a very good idea.Never sets hard but produces a good flexible waterproof seal. I also use the blue sealant stuff builders use when sealing a shower enclosure.Not cheap but does the best job and cheaper than a replacement framework.
Thanks Hw,blaze,yuglamron. i will try the sikaflex first and see if that stops the water getting in, before attempting removing the window and doing a full reseal.
I can see where the water had tracked down the wall, but ended up wetting the side of a single bed which butts against the wall. As i had not used the van for some months, the side of the bed grew mould and stayed damp. Yep ,should have checked more regularly. So i am hoping that the damage is only as seen in the photo's and not internal. Now fully dry and mould removed.
Wish me luck.
Johnw
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I've just fix my windows best to take out so you can clean other wise water will still get in and you may have to replace the ruber seals as they go hard and leake.
