The Squeaky Wheel - The Leaky Windows
We've noticed over the past few months of rain/snow that Burt has a few holes. Because Water=Rust we put re-sealing the windows on the top of the to-do list. I'll be honest, this was a big undertaking; blood, sweat and tears were shed on this project. We're both glad this is a once-every-decade project for Burt.
Window-Seal Replacement Basics
Taking the window out was pretty quick and easy once you have it down. Just follow the below steps:
- Pop off the chrome catch and strip off the "chrome" trim (if the seals are the original)
- Cut around the old seals in the front, back and around the edges of the window
- Pop out the window
- Clean the old seams and address any rusty areas (we had a few)
- Rejoyce
Your hands might look like this once you have the old seals stripped off:
Painting The Interior Trim
While we had the windows out, I took a little time to paint the trim around the windows white.
Installing The New Seals
Once the windows are out, make sure you clean them up good with windex before you put them in the new seals. For putting the windows back in, I would suggest the following this video (it does a better job than we could!).
Some additional tips when installing the windows:
- Line the new seal with a cord in the seam to help pull the seals tight around the frame
- It was easiest for us to start the install from the top of the window instead of the bottom (and push the window up as you go)
- Push/jiggle the window in-and-out a little to help ease the cord around the frame as you pull it
- Use some windex or soap and water to lubricate tough areas where the rubber is having a hard time pulling around frame
This was a 8 hour day for us amateurs - so make sure you plan accordingly if you're going to take on a similar project! We sure were happy to be done before the sun set!
