Installing new window seals on your caravan might seem like a simple task at first glance, but it’s one that requires careful attention to detail to get right. The window seals on your caravan are important for a variety of reasons: they keep out rain and moisture, help maintain a comfortable temperature inside and reduce outside noise. A poorly installed seal can lead to a host of problems, including leaks, draughts and increased noise levels. These can all of which can significantly diminish your comfort while on the road.
Many caravan owners, especially those attempting this task for the first time, may not realise how easily mistakes can be made during the installation process. Even a small oversight can result in a seal that doesn’t perform as it should and lead to more significant issues down the line. This article from Caravan Seals explores the top five mistakes to avoid when installing caravan window seals. By understanding these common pitfalls and taking the necessary precautions you can ensure that your seals are properly installed, giving you peace of mind and a more enjoyable caravanning experience. Drawing from both personal experience and insights from other seasoned caravanners, this guide aims to help you avoid the frustrations that can arise from an improperly sealed window.
1. Not Preparing the Surface Properly
One of the most common mistakes when installing new window seals is failing to properly prepare the surface. The success of your seal installation depends heavily on the cleanliness and condition of the wall on your van. If there’s any dirt, old adhesive or residue left on the surface, the new seals won’t adhere properly. This will potentially lead to gaps and potential leaks.
Before you begin installing the new seals, it’s essential to thoroughly clean the window frames. Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove any dirt, grime or old adhesive. After cleaning, ensure the surface is completely dry before attaching the new seals. In my own experience, I once rushed through this step, thinking that a quick wipe-down would suffice. However, after a few months, I noticed small leaks during a particularly heavy storm. I quickly realised that skipping proper surface preparation had compromised the seals effectiveness and it didn’t properly bond to the outside of the van. Taking the time to clean the surface thoroughly can prevent similar issues and ensure your seals are installed correctly from the start.
2. Choosing the Wrong Size Caravan Window Seal
Another common mistake is selecting the wrong size seal for your caravan windows. Not all seals fit the same vehicles and choosing a seal that isn’t suited to your specific needs or wall thickness can lead to poor performance. For example, most Baileys take a window seal with a different shaped sealing bulb. Although you could properly get away with fitting another section, it is best practice to fit the same style of seal as you removed.
When I first started replacing my caravan’s window seals, I misunderstood how to accurately measure the wall thickness. I thought it would most be a one-size-fits-all solution. However, I quickly found that a smaller seal wouldn’t stretch over the wall thickness and I should have opted for something a bit bigger with a packing piece to take up the exact gap. The smaller section didn’t provide the level of insulation I needed during winter trips. After some research, I replaced the seal which provided better insulation and sealing. It’s important to consider your specific needs and your type of van before selecting an appropriate seal.
3. Incorrect Measurement and Cutting
Precise measurement and cutting is important for achieving a proper fit with your new window seals. One of the most frequent mistakes is cutting the seals too short which will lead to gaps that can compromise the effectiveness of the seal. Measuring once and cutting immediately is a recipe for disaster, as even a small miscalculation can result in a poor fit.
To avoid this mistake, always measure twice before cutting. Start by carefully measuring the perimeter of your window frame accounting for any curves or angles. It’s also a good idea to leave a small margin for adjustment. When cutting the seal, use a sharp blade to ensure a clean edge. If you’re unsure, it’s better to cut the seal slightly longer than needed and trim it down as necessary. We often hear stories from our customers who cut their seal too short and tried to stretch it to fit. The usual result of this is a section that doesn’t sit properly and eventually leads to leaks. Taking the time to measure accurately can save you from having to redo the work later, at an additional unwanted expense!
4. Ignoring Temperature Conditions During Installation
Although the British climates are usually quite consistent, temperature can have a impact on the installation of window seals. Seals made from rubber or similar materials can become stiff and difficult to work with in cold temperatures. This can make it challenging to achieve a proper fit. On the other hand, in very hot conditions, some seals may become too pliable, leading to unintentional stretching or warping during installation.
For the best results, it’s advisable to install window seals in moderate temperatures, ideally between 10°C and 25°C. If you’re installing seals in colder weather, you can warm the seal material slightly to make it more flexible. I once attempted to install window seals on a chilly day in January, and the rubber was so stiff that it wouldn’t mould to the window frame properly. I had to wait for a warmer day to redo the job, which served as a valuable lesson in how much temperature can affect the installation process.
5. Not Securing the Seal Properly
The final mistake to avoid is failing to secure the seal properly during installation. Even if you’ve chosen the right seal, prepared the surface and measured correctly, the installation can still fail if the seal isn’t firmly secured. This can happen if the adhesive isn’t applied evenly, the seal isn’t pressed firmly into place or you haven’t used enough staples to secure it onto the wall of your van.
When applying the seal, ensure that you press it firmly along the entire length to create a tight bond with the window frame. If the seal has an adhesive backing, remove the backing slowly as you press the seal into place, making sure it adheres evenly. For seals that require a separate adhesive, be sure to use a high-quality adhesive and apply it consistently along the seal. After installation, it’s a good idea to go over the seal again, pressing it firmly to ensure there are no gaps or loose spots.
In my own caravan, I’ve had to resecure seals that I didn’t initially press in properly or became loose after the years. This lead to gaps and the possibility of leaks. Since then, I’ve learned the importance of taking my time to ensure the seal is fully adhered and secured. This step is important for ensuring that your seals perform as intended and provide the protection and insulation your caravan needs.
Protect Your Caravan Window Seals with CaravanSeals.co.uk
Installing new window rubber seal on your caravan is an important task that requires careful attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes—failing to prepare the surface, choosing the wrong seal, incorrect measurement and cutting, ignoring temperature conditions, and not securing the seal properly—you can ensure that your seals are installed correctly and provide lasting protection. As someone who has made these mistakes in the past, I can attest to the importance of taking the time to do the job right. With proper installation, your caravan will be better insulated, quieter, and more comfortable, making your travels all the more enjoyable.
CaravanSeals.co.uk supplies an extensive range of high-quality window seals for most caravans and motorhomes. Our experienced team is available to help with any technical questions and assist you in identifying the best window seal for your caravan or motorhome. You can give us a call on 01425 541985 or contact us by email at info@caravanseals.co.uk.
