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Topic: Caulk for Fiamma Awning  (Read 288 times) previous topic - next topic
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Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Hi Folks,

Cleaning up my 2016 MB exterior for the dreaded annual waxing.
I noticed the awning is securely attached by brackets to the sidewall but there is no caulking along the top edge where it meets the sidewall. I had a ton of leaves, twigs and other debris stuck in-between the awning and the sidewall. Should this gap be caulked? I assume not but thought I would ask the braintrust.

Thanks!
2016 Mid Bath
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #1 –
Are you talking about a long gap between the awning housing and the coach?

My experience with gaps like that one are it's usually best to keep them open, to shed water.

That said, I seem to remember having to clear the gap of leaves, pine needles and the like. I bought a roll of 3/8-inch foam backer rod. The foam used is closed-cell, so it repels water. I put the rod in the gap, pushing it in with my fingers. It worked well, and did not seem to retain the water (if it had, that may have increased the chances of water getting in through the fasteners that attach the brackets to the sidewall). Note: The backer rod will shrink and fall apart with sun exposure, so replace it when it no longer fits or works.

Maybe you could provide a picture or two of the "problem?"

Here's an interesting tidbit: When I took off the Fiamma for repair, underneath was primed (kind of a bluish-green) but not finish-painted.

Re: The "dreaded annual waxing." During the years I owned the mid-bath the LD factory folks recommended this product:

Finish Kare 2180 Ultra Polymer Sealant

You apply it instead of wax. I found it worked very well on the LD, the Class A, and my cars. I highly recommend it.

Mark H.
Former owner, 31-foot gas Class A
Former owner, 1997-8 mid-bath
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #2 –
Great idea about the backing foam!  My gap is around 3/8 of an inch all along.  I suppose having it open keeps the mud daubers and other critters from building homes in the gap. 
2016 Mid Bath
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #3 –
Backer rod is soft, closed-cell foam, that is used for forming expansion joints when pouring concrete walkways and slabs. It's an inexpensive method for filling the awning gap and it's widely available at most big box hardware stores in the concrete area. I first heard of it many years ago in a posting from Chris Horst.
I buy it at Home Depot.
The Home Depot Logo

If you want a first-class fix, Fiamma sells seals for this purpose...at a price.
rubber seals
Interestingly, while looking for the above link, I found the European site is shut down.
https://www.fiammaonline.com/?product_cat=&s=rain+guard&post_type=product

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #4 –
So, is filling that gap recommended then?
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #5 –
Quote from: HiLola  - 
So, is filling that gap recommended then?

The gap between the wall and the awning lets rainwater run down the wall. Leaves and other aerial debris collect in the gap.
The backer rod reduces much of the leakage and keeps the gap clean. Fiamma's gap filler seals well, wish it wasn't so expensive.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #6 –
Larry, I remember standing out in the rain a few years ago at Morro Bay talking to you about this problem as it dripped on us. (covid time - that's why we were out side talking under the awning).  We talked about solutions to cover that gap that was easy to work with and be easy to remove but we did nothing - drip drip drip.  Well since then last year we had an issue with our awning which required us to removed it with the help of some other LD personal (Thank You Debbie, Joel and RonB) to fix it, that job was way easier to complete.  I am glad we did nothing to make that job harder.  I think we will go with the Backer rod soft closed-cell foam to fill the gap.  Or maybe nothing and we should stay away from the rain totally?

         Karen~Liam
            98~MB
              NinA
1998 ~ MB  WanderDaze
previously a 1984 Winnebago itaska- The Road Warrior, before that several VW Buses and before that a 1965 Chrysler Convertible Newport or our 1969 Chrysler La Barron with an ice box and a couple sleeping bags
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #7 –
Hi AirBus;  I've seen this on one coach, don't remember where.  RV Rain Gutter Trim with Adhesive Backing - RecPro   Stick it on and water and debris won't get into the slot from above.  You could still stuff the bottom with the closed cell foam backer rod.  No permanent glue other than the double sided tape.  Removal and replacement of the awning would be unhindered.   RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
 
Re: Caulk for Fiamma Awning
Reply #8 –
I ordered the 3/8” backer rod and I was certain it was way too thick.  So maybe try the next smaller size?   Meanwhile, Margee was on the roof helping me on another project and she said let’s just try the 3/8”. And it fits perfectly.  Margee & I plus our awning are quite pleased to keep “stuff” from falling into that gap.  Thank you to those who suggested this solution.