"Solarium" glass panels on R-23

[Brian98133]

I don't know what these are actually called, but it's all the glass that is in the roof of my R-23 that is not a latch, but rather bonded to the roof fiberglass.

My question is regarding the black bonding material. There is currently no leak... but every time I wash the roof (at a minimum, every other week, or after each outing) when I'm cleaning around this area, I get 'black mud'. This leads me to believe it's deteriorating to some degree? I use a mild boat-soap from WM and rinse diligently.

It's not an issue yet... but I'm hoping to find out if there is a product that should be used to help mitigate the deterioration?

I am stored outside, with no cover. In the PNW, so only harsh UV for a few months (seems longer and longer each year :roll: ).

I have some Krytox GPL105 which is fantastic for preserving rubber, etc.., but not sure if I should use it on the bonding material? But wondering if anyone has experienced any trouble with this material, and/or had any leaks from these windows? I searched, but only found one thread that mentions these windows sparingly.

 

[Ralf H]

Hi Brian,

Not sure that the Krytox would help any with maintaining that sealant, but it won't hurt. You can try it and see. The worst case scenario is that you will simply need to replace the sealant at some point. What you're seeing is material oxidation and degradation that can't be prevented much. It's a normal part of the aging process. It will take some years for that to happen though. Simply keep an eye on those areas whenever you wash. You will be able to tell when the sealant has worn away enough to require reapplication. But as I mentioned, that will take many years.

Cheers,

Ralf

 

[Brian98133]

Thanks Ralf... Is the sealant I'm seeing the same as the "bonding" material? In other words, if the sealant degrades (in many years) to a certain point, will it be necessary to remove and re-set the glass? Or is the glass bonded separately, and the sealant is something that can be easily removed/cleaned/reapplied?

 

[Ralf H]

Hi Brian,

The sealant is different from the windshield adhesive. We use Sikaflex 295 (UV protective) for the exterior seal. That's what you'll need to redo at some point. The bonding adhesive should be fine.

Cheers,

Ralf