How to Replace the Roof Seal?
3 Answers
Tools needed include silicone sealant, flathead screwdriver, utility knife, and a new waterproof seal. First, remove the old seal, then use the utility knife and flathead screwdriver to clean out the old silicone sealant from the waterproof channel. Next, thoroughly clean the channel, apply new silicone sealant, and then install the new waterproof seal.
I have quite some experience in replacing roof moldings. Let's start with the preparations: choose a sunny day for the job, and make sure to have plastic scrapers, isopropyl alcohol cleaner, new moldings, dry cloths, and gloves ready. Wear gloves to protect your hands, gently pry up a corner of the old molding with a scraper, and slowly pull it off without using too much force to avoid leaving residue or scratching the paint. Cleaning the surface is crucial—use the cleaner with a cloth to thoroughly remove grease and old adhesive traces, then patiently wait for it to air dry for at least half an hour. If it's not completely dry, the new molding won't adhere properly. When installing the new molding, peel off the backing paper, align it correctly, and press it down section by section to eliminate bubbles, especially at the corners. Take extra time to smooth it out to prevent lifting. After completion, let it sit undisturbed for at least one night—don't rush to test its waterproofing by exposing it to rain or driving. I think this job requires attention to detail; if the molding is misaligned, it can easily leak and affect the interior environment. Choosing high-quality moldings ensures a longer lifespan, and regular replacement can prevent corrosion issues.
Replacing the roof seal requires some tricks, which I learned from watching a friend do it. First, remove the old seal: carefully pry it open with a plastic tool, and if it's too sticky, add some adhesive remover to dissolve it. Cleaning is crucial—wipe with alcohol cleaner and a wet cloth, then use a dry cloth to absorb moisture and prevent residue. Buy a self-adhesive new seal that fits your car model to avoid messing up with glue. When applying, start from the middle and press toward the sides to reduce wrinkles. Press firmly and use a wooden stick or a hard cloth roll to push several times to ensure adhesion. Pay attention to the weather—don’t replace it on a cloudy day as high humidity can lead to failure. After the operation, check if it’s tightly sealed by listening for wind noise while driving to ensure no leaks. I think regular inspection of the seal to prevent aging is a good practice to avoid frequent replacements.
