Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

It won't be long till I need to install my door windows, a/c hatch, lights, etc. I've been looking at bedding tapes. They are priced different and made of different material. Some are listed as caulk. Others as butyl. Any reasons to use one over the other? I also think it would be helpful to be able to remove or replace an item if needed in the future without tearing up my PMF skin.

Mr. Lahey wrote:It won't be long till I need to install my door windows, a/c hatch, lights, etc. I've been looking at bedding tapes. They are priced different and made of different material. Some are listed as caulk. Others as butyl. Any reasons to use one over the other? I also think it would be helpful to be able to remove or replace an item if needed in the future without tearing up my PMF skin.

I can't give you a definitive answer other than I have had good luck with butyl tape. I use it for the fan and the front of the hinge.

On this new build, I'll use it for the windows too.

Grant Whipp, who's hung up his jigsaw after building fine teardrops for a living, said that he had better luck with the black butyl tape than the gray. Even from the same manufacturer, who claimed there isn't a difference.

Tony

As always...…

Thanks for the advice guys! Much appreciated.

Sorry for being late to the party ...

Use what sailors use BUTYL TAPE ! It lasts a long time (take leftover bits and and place them in a jar/can for later use). Removes easily and cleanly.

IMHO all caulks fail. Being able to easily remove them and then re-bed the item is key to a dry interior.

I used what was called ribbon tape caulk. It is, I think, clay and oil, like modeling clay. The stuff comes in a roll with paper backing. It is soft enough to squeeze out under pressure when the screws are tightened. The screws used finish washers and the hollow underside of the washer was filled with this caulk. I used this method ever where a metal flange was screwed to the camper, notably the roof vent. Water is no problem as the camper has sat outside for years after it was built. The shiney finish washers look good around the window flanges and I would use this method again.

Tt