Post by vikx on Dec 6, 2012 2:58:20 GMT -5
I prefer RV putty tape over butyl. It doesn't ooze all summer for one thing... RV putty is thicker and fills larger gaps.
Butyl is not that difficult to work with, just STICKY. Don't let one piece touch another... My Land Commander was done entirely with butyl, at about 65-70* F. Any warmer, and it would have been a real gooey PAIN.
The thinnest butyl seems to stay put and usually not seated with screws. (such as the door trim) The older back frame gasket benefits from Tacky tape, and you can use the original gasket. I even use Tacky Tape with brand new back frame gasket.
I think this one is personal preference. It's a matter of a good seal rather than product. Properly done, putty should not need another sealant. At the roof line, a thin layer might be protective to keep the putty seal and from drying out. If I have doubts, my product of choice is Proflex in the CAN, paint on clear sealant. Dicor sells good products, but don't like the "look" of the non sag.. Very difficult to make a pretty seal.
Why not try both? Ask for samples at the local RV shop or to watch while they install trim, etc.
I could use either with confidence. The trick is the SEAL. The wood behind the trim must be sound, and the screws bite. If the putty doesn't ooze at the top, the seal is compromised... Also, be sure to seat the trim with a rubber hammer at the top. Aluminum is very malleable...
Thanks for asking. Good info to know.
Butyl is not that difficult to work with, just STICKY. Don't let one piece touch another... My Land Commander was done entirely with butyl, at about 65-70* F. Any warmer, and it would have been a real gooey PAIN.
The thinnest butyl seems to stay put and usually not seated with screws. (such as the door trim) The older back frame gasket benefits from Tacky tape, and you can use the original gasket. I even use Tacky Tape with brand new back frame gasket.
I think this one is personal preference. It's a matter of a good seal rather than product. Properly done, putty should not need another sealant. At the roof line, a thin layer might be protective to keep the putty seal and from drying out. If I have doubts, my product of choice is Proflex in the CAN, paint on clear sealant. Dicor sells good products, but don't like the "look" of the non sag.. Very difficult to make a pretty seal.
Why not try both? Ask for samples at the local RV shop or to watch while they install trim, etc.
I could use either with confidence. The trick is the SEAL. The wood behind the trim must be sound, and the screws bite. If the putty doesn't ooze at the top, the seal is compromised... Also, be sure to seat the trim with a rubber hammer at the top. Aluminum is very malleable...
Thanks for asking. Good info to know.