Butyl Tape To Seal Trailer Roof Panel Joint

Updated 11/14/2019 | Published 11/13/2019

Products Featured in This Question

LaSalle Bristol Butyl Tape for XTRM RV roof membranes - 30' x 1-1/2" - Gray

(197)

$39.49

Loctite Threadlocker 262 - High Strength - Up to 3/4" Nuts/Bolts - 0.20-Fl-Oz Tube

(115)

$10.85

Question:

Would this product be good to seal a joint on the roof of my 16 cargo trailer? I am replacing the galvanized steel panel roof with a continuous aluminum panel. There are two joints on the roof about 6 from each edge that has a side panel aluminum skin that comes up over the roof and then the roof panel overlays the side skin and is screwed down. The current seal is a liquid cured sealant like 344270341437-1 l which covers both the joint and the screw heads, but I am wondering if this butyl materiel would make a better seal. I have attached a couple of pictures which show the exiting roof panel and side transition.

asked by: Lorne C

Helpful Expert Reply:

The LaSalle Bristol XTRM Butyl Tape part # 344270341411-1 can definitely be used to seal the joint on the roof your cargo trailer. Butyl tape is used to seal off many roof accessories like trailer vents and fans. Since the butyl tape is pre-formed it is easier to install and get a water tight precise seal compared to some of the liquid sealants that can be more difficult to maneuver. The adhesive on the tape forms a bond with the surface that improves over time. This particular butyl tape is 1-1/2" so you do want to make sure it is wide enough to seal the joint but also cover the screw holes as well.

I also recommend to use Loctite threadlocker part # LT37420 when you replace the panel.

expert reply by: Heather A