FOR DAMIAN THE MODERATOR

[John_374564913]

I have a Bailey GT60/620-6 it is about two months old now this weekend I am taking it back to the dealers for a few minor adjustments/repairs.

Whilst looking out the upstairs window on to the roof I can see two aluminium channels front and back which attach the front panel and the back panel to the caravan.

these aluminium strips are attached with screws that I presume when inserted are covered in sealant to prevent water ingress.
To me this seems to be a potential weak spot for the future when the sealant loses its sealant properties through rain and sun.

Whilst at B&Q I purchased four 2 metre lengths of plastic cable tray 27mm wide in effect it is a channel
I have asked the dealer to fit it when it goes in next weekend over the two aluminium runs and the seal the ends with sealant.
My question is do you think this is a good idea and will it extend the life (which I mean remove the possibility of water ingress through the screws)

regards

John

 

[Damian]

Hello John,
The joining rails across the roof are sealed with bonding mastic, Sikaflex 512 or similar, which sets rock hard and virtually welds the rail to the roof, however, screws are used as well, which are normally well sealed.

As we all know, any join or screw hole is a potential ingress point, and anything which removes at least part of the prospective problem is a good idea.

Your choice of cable ducting/tray covering the "at Risk" area seems a good idea,as long as it is simply bonded with no screws used in any location along its length.
With the width of the van and the width of the tray it will use quite a lot of bonding mastic though, which is quite expensive, but against the cost of repairs, in monetary terms and inconveniencem is good value.

 

[John_374564913]

thank you Damian
correct It will not be held with any screws on mastic as you pointed out it will be expensive but hopefully worthwile in the long term

regards

John