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Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sun May 19, 2013 12:33 pm
by working on it
I am finally into installing my 15x18 Lil Bear awning windows. I measured the minimum needed clearance to insert the frame into the cut out, then made that cut with my Roto=Zip spiral saw (after installing guide plates). Then I used 60 grit on a palm sander to smooth. I then found that my measurements didn't account for the screws holding the frame together. I then made inlets at all four corners (I used my angle grinder-my favorite woodworking tool) to accommodate the screws. A very tight fit. Except at the bottom, which slants down towards the outside (I presume to promote drainage "weeping"). My question is: since I will need to seal the gaps at the bottom, and around the in-letted frame screws, can I just use PL adhesive to do so or must I also use butyl tape as well? I have a roll of BT25XL tape, but it will require more space to install and the PL will be waterproof anyhow.

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sun May 19, 2013 1:29 pm
by TPMcGinty
The question is will the PL adhesive ever let you take the windows out again if needed? Butyl tape will let you remove them for repair, replacement, or refinishing the camper.

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sun May 19, 2013 2:52 pm
by jonw
FWIW I used GE Silicone Caulk II on the same windows on my teardrop and have never had any water issues with it.

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sun May 19, 2013 3:46 pm
by working on it
Made a template based on first window (wish Lil Bear sold templates for this...I would've anted up another $25 for one), and cut out the second hole. Much easier. But, the spiral saw tried to go nuts on me (much like a router did 16 months ago) and I made an erratic line. I presume that butyl tape will fill the gaps if I don't use PL (TP McGinty- I think you're right, PL won't let go....). Is there substitute for jonw's silicone (specifically for windows?

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sun May 19, 2013 8:18 pm
by working on it
After further research, I see that some people recommend OSI QUAD, which I've seen at Home Depot. It also remains flexible (like silicone and thus should be removable if needed) > and it comes in gray, so it will sorta match my interior and exterior colors (if any need show). I will pick some up tomorrow after work. Also, has anyone got the same windows (Lil Bear 15x18 awning crank-outs)? If so, what are the little plastic channels (that came in the box) for ? I presume screw covers. I called Lil Bear but no one was home.

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Mon May 20, 2013 1:19 am
by jonw
Yes, screw covers.

Re: Window sealing: PL adhesive instead of butyl tape

PostPosted: Sat May 25, 2013 11:09 pm
by working on it
Got one window in today...had trouble with the OSI Quad squeezing out onto the interior window metal (not easy to remove, unless you have paint thinner ready). Installing the wood trim (to cover the oversized hole and inletting I boogered) around the inside window frame was a bear, cut once twice thrice.... Oh well, the black trim matches other black trim, and my errors become lost in their midst, I hope. Only did one side, since I hope that I can do the second faster and better. Oh, jonw- about the screw covers...is there a trick to get them to stay in the channel? Or since I am going to cover the screw heads with sealant, I may just fill in and smooth and paint the channel anyway. No pictures, my digital camera needs a battery, and my wife has hidden her really expensive cameras from me. Maybe tomorrow.update Finished the other side...went much smoother, used adhesive in better placement (less cleanup). Digital camera still out, cellphone photos: 107292107294