All About Automotive Weather Stripping | TopsOnline Blog
Understanding Automotive Weather Stripping
In this blog, we will explore a crucial component every vehicle requires: weather strips.
Damaged or old weather strips can lead to significant interior issues by permitting water, air, and debris to infiltrate. It is essential to understand how weather strips function to keep unwanted elements out of your car while preserving the right conditions inside. We will address some of the most common questions regarding weather strips, starting with their definition.
What Exactly Are Weather Strips?
Weather strips serve as a barrier at the seams of your vehicle, preventing unwanted water, air, and debris from entering areas of your vehicle that should remain untouched. They effectively fill gaps and seams while also minimizing noise intrusion. Typically, you'll find weather strips at entry points like doors, windows, convertible tops, and trunks. Most often, these strips are not visible unless those areas are opened, such as when a door is ajar.
The Distinction Between Weather Strips and Weather Seals
In short, there is no difference. People often use the terms interchangeably; weather strips can also be referred to as weather seals because they seal off the interior of the car from external elements. They are made in strips, which is why they are called weather strips, though some might even call them "weather stripping."
Signs That Weather Stripping Needs Replacement
There are evident indicators that your weather stripping may require replacement. If you find that water seeps into your vehicle when the windows are up and the doors are shut, it could start with minor dampness but escalate rapidly. A useful tip is to use a spray bottle or hose to identify the source of the leak. Another sign includes increased noise from the road or wind, suggesting that the sealing may not be sufficient. Visual inspections may reveal cracks or holes, signifying that replacement is necessary.
If you press your finger against the weather stripping and find it lacks cushion or pliability, it is likely failing to create an effective seal and should be replaced.
How Are Weather Strips Sold?
Weather strips can be purchased in two main formats: kits and individually. Kits often vary in content, so it’s important to check which locations are covered in any particular kit. Specialty kits catered toward convertible tops are available as well, which may include necessary strips for weatherproofing. Individual weather strips are also sold, covering various specific areas of your vehicle. Some examples include side rails and trunk seals. Often, certain strips are sold in pairs, like door frame seals, since they are commonly found in pairs in vehicles. While weather stripping kits generally offer the best value, buying individually might be more economical if you do not need to replace all weather strips.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Replacement Weather Stripping
Choosing high-quality weather strips is vital for maintaining your vehicle's integrity and safeguarding it against damage from external elements. Ensure that the weather strips you purchase come with a warranty, indicating that the manufacturer stands by their quality. Look for strips that have a smooth finish without obvious defects or inconsistencies. Moreover, ensure that the replacement strips have correct 3D contouring and fitment for the respective area of your vehicle to avoid gaps and misalignment. Lastly, select strips with micro-closed cells for consistent compression and durability. All weather strips offered by TopsOnline meet these essential quality criteria and include a 15-year replacement warranty.
Essential Supplies for Installing New Weather Strips
When installing new weather strips, it is crucial to remove the old ones completely, including any adhesive residue that may be left behind. You might require adhesive remover for this job. Often, you will need to take off decorative panels and screws to access the edges of the weather strips. Many weather strips will snap into place, but most require new adhesive to secure them properly.
Ensure that the application surface is clean and dry using a mild cleaner and cloth before applying a thin line of adhesive to bond the new weather strips in place. Some technicians recommend applying a thin layer of adhesive to both the strip and the area requiring it, allowing it to become slightly tacky before connecting the two. The primary tools needed for this installation typically include a screwdriver, adhesive remover, a mild cleaner, a cloth, and new adhesive.
Variations in Weather Strips by Make, Model, and Year
Weather strips differ based on make, model, and year, and they are crafted as factory-style replacements designed to align with the bends, screws, joints, and channels of the original. While generic or all-purpose weather stripping is an option, it is advisable only for older vehicles not meant to be kept.
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How Long Should Weather Stripping Last?
The lifespan of weather strips largely depends on their quality. Generic strips not specifically manufactured for your vehicle may not last as long as factory-original replacements tailored for your particular make, model, and year. Weather strips sold by TopsOnline typically come with a comprehensive 15-year replacement warranty and are expected to last even longer.
Understanding Moulded Weather Seals
Some weather strips are labeled as "moulded," fitting doors where they curve to form a secure seal along the frame of your vehicle. This design is particularly vital for ensuring a complete and tight seal.
What Are Window Gaskets?
Window gaskets serve the function of sealing the windshield glass to the vehicle's body, applicable to all car types.
Is Maintenance Required for Weather Stripping?
While no specific maintenance is mandatory, some automotive experts recommend spraying silicone on weather seals annually in colder weather to prevent freezing issues. A minor spray of silicone can help keep water from freezing around the strips, allowing for easier access to your vehicle in icy conditions. Similarly, in extremely hot weather, rubber protectant can be applied to keep weather seals from drying out and cracking.
If you have any further questions regarding weather stripping, check out the products and kits available from TopsOnline. Feel free to reach out to the TopsOnline Customer Support team if you need assistance with any inquiries.
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