Installing small Hehr windows

[Amy M]

I noticed on the Vintage Trailer Supply website that they recommend using a sealant with the backframe gasket used on the small windows (over the stove and in the doors of many Bolers, etc). So I called today and asked, and the guy said that this is one of only two applications where he recommends a silicone sealant because the gasket is silicone and nothing else will stick to it nearly as well. He said that the 3M gasket weatherstripping adhesive is worth a try, but he finds it very hard to work with and doesn't think it works as well. He also said I could try installing it without sealant (except butyl along the top side) and it might work. They just recommend sealant.

Opinions from anyone who has put in new backframe gasket on the little windows?

[Raya]

Okay, for starters, I have to say that I have not installed these specific windows (although I will be re-doing mine this spring).

That said, I have installed hardware that utilizes gaskets, and I don't combine a gasket and a sealant. Gasket or sealant, but not both. I mean in the overall sense, because I could potentially see using a dab of sealant on the corner "seams" of the backframe gasket (but not slathered on underneath, like I think is being recommended). I would have see how the corners fit.

Also note that I'm not dis-recommending using butyl along the top edge, because the backframe gasket doesn't go there (only goes on three sides).

Raya

[Amy M]

Yeah, this gasket is sort of interesting to me. It goes around the aluminum of the window frame, but then is just pressed against the fiberglass of the trailer. So I would have to trust that no water would come in between the rubber and the fiberglass. But then again, I have previous experience with gaskets and maybe this is how they all work.

Okay, for starters, I have to say that I have not installed these specific windows (although I will be re-doing mine this spring).

That said, I have installed hardware that utilizes gaskets, and I don't combine a gasket and a sealant. Gasket or sealant, but not both. I mean in the overall sense, because I could potentially see using a dab of sealant on the corner "seams" of the backframe gasket (but not slathered on underneath, like I think is being recommended). I would have see how the corners fit.

Also note that I'm not dis-recommending using butyl along the top edge, because the backframe gasket doesn't go there (only goes on three sides).

Raya