With so much rain, it seems the van can't cope and has sprung a few leaks. So far found 3 leaks, one from the roof light which can be easily fixed as it's coming from the screw. The other two are from each side of the van. I have a rough idea where the problem lies, but just wondering if sikaflex will adhere in this cold damp weather? Tomorrow they have forecast a drier day but cold, would sikaflex stick in these conditions or is there an alternative as a temp fix?
We're in the van for a couple of days so will give it a good warm up and keep it ventilated to get rid of any condensation.
There used to be some repair stuff called the Captains Creeping Crack repair cure, (or similar) its a fluid that penetrates deep into the crevice thats leaking, and forms a fairly good seal.
We used it on one of our old caravans when the back rail started to leak while we were away once, until a more perminant reseal could be carried out by our local workshop. It did the job and kept the rain out, it also works well on leaky windows on cars and boats.
The quickest way to save further damage until the weather improves would be to cover the caravan roof where its leaking with a waterproof sheet, and anchor it down well with rope. I know this isnt ideal if you want to use it for a few days, but its better than having to scrape off failed mastic which didnt work due to the cold and damp.
Julia
------------- Just love to be out amoungst Nature and Wildlife
Celebrating 37 years of Caravanning in 2019, Recently Considered Retiring, but Totally Addicted for Life!
Follow the instructions and it can work very well. Sikaflex is excellent for a full repair, but if you put it on temporarily, you'll never get it off again!
Have some on order, guessing it may be best to do the whole van whilst I'm at it and then re-seal properly next spring when the weather is a bit better.
Good plan. If you watch it when you apply it to a seam, if the seal is good it will just run along and drip off the end. If it disappears at some point, you have probably found a leak. Its thinner than water, so it'll find the smallest pin hole. You then re-apply it every 20 min.(or whatever the instructions say) until it stops disappearing. Leak cured!
Do you know if it's a long term fix or just short term. Will it withstand freezing temps etc? I've looked on the website but it doesn't give much info.
Also, can you buy this in shops or is it mail order only as the postage is more than the item grrrrrrr.
Some caravan spares places have it and most yacht chandlers too.
If you have a leak in an otherwise sound seam it could be a permanent fix. If the seam has movement due to loose screws caused by rotten framework. It may not last long. Its not a great adhesive but it is a very good sealant.
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Topic: Oh dear............
