Roof Seam under Awning

[Yoda2405]

My electric awning attaches to the roof line above the joint where the fiberglass top tucks into the side rail. The only way I can see to check this joint for caulking/sealing is to remove the awning where it attaches to the roof line, which seems like a PITA. Has anyone found a method to check this seam without disconnecting the awning from the coach?
I assume it is caused by there being a slide topper under the awning causing it to be attached higher up on the roof than my previous coach, where could check the entire seam on both sides of the coach easily.

Thanks,
David

[jerichorick]

Originally Posted by Yoda2405

My electric awning attaches to the roof line above the joint where the fiberglass top tucks into the side rail. The only way I can see to check this joint for caulking/sealing is to remove the awning where it attaches to the roof line, which seems like a PITA. Has anyone found a method to check this seam without disconnecting the awning from the coach?
I assume it is caused by there being a slide topper under the awning causing it to be attached higher up on the roof than my previous coach, where could check the entire seam on both sides of the coach easily.

Thanks,
David

Dave, have you considered disconnecting the awning roller tube and placing it up on the roof? This will give you access. It is a two people, tall ladders job.

Rick Y

[Yoda2405]

I wasn't sure if that or disconnecting the edge attached to the roof would be easier. The issue there is sealing the screws when re-installing as well as supporting the awning assembly when the fabric is disconnected from the coach. Just seems like a poor design when Winnebago instructs you to check this seam every 6 months.

Appreciate your thoughts,

David

[cbeierl]

My conclusion was that the awning is doing a very good job of securing the fiberglass roofing along its length, so I haven't worried about the edge caulking underneath the awning on my coach.

[Yoda2405]

I have tended to agree with your assessment of the awning rail securing the roof but I was wondering if others felt the same way, that is why I haven't worried about this for a few years. Just seems like there would be some way to achieve what Winnebago says is routine maintenance.

Just wonder if anyone with this situation actually has removed the awning for the sole purpose of checking this seam, seems like a lot of work.

If you have a 2005 and it is still holding I will leave mine alone for a few more years before worrying about it.

Thanks for your comments,
David

[GG1]

I was wondering the same thing. I have been avoiding this because the awning protects the channel. I get the caulking gun in as far as I can which is only a few inches on each end. I can't imagine that Winnebago actually expects the coach owner to remove a 20 ft. awning to recheck this every six months. It should be interesting to see what their tech support team has to say.

[jerichorick]

Originally Posted by Yoda2405

I wasn't sure if that or disconnecting the edge attached to the roof would be easier. The issue there is sealing the screws when re-installing as well as supporting the awning assembly when the fabric is disconnected from the coach. Just seems like a poor design when Winnebago instructs you to check this seam every 6 months.

Appreciate your thoughts,

David

I agree. I just don't feel it is wise to fool with the roof attachment. Sealing is an issue, true. But my major concern would be stripping the screws. Then you have a leak and a loos spot.

Do you have Carefree awnings? They have some good instructions available on the website. Find your model and the instructions for installation and repair are there for you.

I use Henry 212 from HD or a similar product from Lowe's. It is a crystal clear masonry / everything you can think of sealer. Get a good caulking gun. It is worth it. The cheap frame is just too hard to control.

Look forward to your updates.

Rick Y