Replacing Boat Window Rubbers: A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

Maintaining a boat is no easy task, and replacing boat window rubbers is a crucial part of that. While it may seem intimidating, with the right tools and knowledge, it can become an enjoyable task. This involves first removing the existing windows, which are usually held in place by clamp-style windows and sealants. It is important to take accurate measurements of the window width, thickness, and panel thickness to ensure a tight fit for the new window. The new window can then be fitted into the exposed opening, centred using shims if necessary, and installed using seal tape and screws. With careful planning and execution, boat owners can ensure their windows are in good condition and enjoy their time on the water with clear views.

Measure window width, thickness, and length for accurate sizing

Measuring the window's width, thickness, and length is crucial for accurate sizing when replacing boat window rubbers. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

Measure the Window Width:

• Measure the window width from the left edge to the right edge.
• Check this measurement at three different points: the bottom, middle, and top of the window.
• If these three measurements are not equal, select the smallest value as your final width measurement.
• When measuring the width, ensure you only consider the window itself and do not include any trim or casing in this measurement.

Measure the Window Thickness:

• To get the precise thickness of the rubber seal, measure the width of the window pane.
• Also, measure the thickness of the window and panel to ensure a tight fit.
• Accurate thickness measurements are essential to ordering the correct size of the rubber seal.

Measure the Window Length:

• Measure the window height from the top edge to the bottom edge.
• Take three measurements on the left side, middle, and right side of the window.
• If these measurements are not equal, use the smallest value as your final height measurement.
• Similar to the width measurement, do not include any trim or casing in the height measurement. Only measure the window itself.

Additional Tips:

• Record your measurements in the format of "width by height." For example, a window that is 63 inches wide and 27 inches tall would be recorded as "63 x 27."
• It is recommended to measure each window individually, even if they appear to be the same size.
• Take pictures of the window and record the measurements on them to eliminate any confusion.
• Before taking measurements, clean up the window and the surrounding area to ensure no debris interferes with the process.

Remove the existing windows carefully, using a putty knife

Removing the existing windows from your boat is the first step in replacing them with new ones. It is important to exercise caution and patience during this process to avoid any damage or injury. Here is a detailed guide on how to carefully remove the existing windows using a putty knife:

Locate the screws on the trim ring and inside the boat. Start by removing these screws, as this will allow you to push out the window from the opening once they are loosened. Remember to have the right size and high-quality tools for this task.

Examine the outside of the boat. You will typically find sealant under the window flange. To release this sealant, use a thin, putty knife and work carefully around the flange. Gently wedge the putty knife between the window and the flange to loosen the seal. Be careful not to damage the window or the boat's exterior.

Choose a corner of the window and focus on that area. Using the putty knife, carefully loosen the flange in that corner. Once the corner is loose, push it out of the hole gently. Take extra care not to apply excessive force, as it may lead to damage or injury.

Now that one corner of the window is free, carefully pull the window out of the hole. This may require some force, but be gentle and patient. After removing the window, inspect the outside wall and remove any residual sealant that may be left behind. Ensure that you clean up the hole thoroughly before taking measurements for the new window.

By following these steps, you can carefully remove the existing windows from your boat, using a putty knife as your primary tool. Remember to take accurate measurements for the new windows and consider seeking guidance from boat renovation experts or professionals if needed.

Clean the window hole and frame before measuring

When replacing your boat windows, it is important to clean the window hole and frame before measuring. This is to ensure that you do not take incorrect measurements and ruin the process.

First, remove any residual sealant on the outside wall. You can do this with a thin, putty knife, working around the flange on the outside of the boat.

Next, clean the window hole with a degreaser, such as acetone, and then a 50/50 isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water mix. You can also use a paint scraper, either rigid or flexible, to remove any remaining sealant. If you are struggling to remove the sealant, you can try using a solvent such as 3M Adhesive Remover, Goo-B-Gone, or a mixture of alcohol and soapy water.

After cleaning, you can start measuring the length and width of the holes to determine the size of the windows you will need to buy. Double-check that your measurements are accurate before purchasing new windows.

It is also a good idea to find out if the original line drawings from the boat builder are still available. If the builder is still in business, you can simply give them a call to find out.

Fit the new window, ensuring a tight seal with the correct amount of shims

Once you have your new window, it's time to fit it into the exposed opening. This part can be a little tricky, so it's helpful to have an extra pair of hands. Insert the window into the opening to check whether it fits properly. The exterior window flange should overlap the opening to form a good seal. Pay close attention to this step to ensure a tight seal.

At this stage, you should also determine if you need shims. Shims are important because they help to centre the window in the opening. If you find that shims are necessary, carefully insert them to ensure the window is centred.

Now, remove the window to prepare it for permanent installation. Have the window lying on a flat, soft surface. Take the seal tape and apply it to the flange, starting at the middle of the window's bottom. Overlap the two ends by around half an inch. If you want to avoid having tape stick to the outer wall of the boat, use a spray water bottle to mist the perimeter of the opening.

The next step is to apply silicone. Inject and tool the silicone into the gap around the new window. Make sure to clean up any excess silicone for a neat finish. Now, your window is almost ready to be installed permanently.

Have someone assist you by holding the window in place while you centre the clamp ring on the window's inside part. Install the screws that came with the window, being careful not to use longer screws as these could puncture the frames and cause leaks. With the window held securely in place, you can now install the screen. Insert it into the screen track, pushing and pivoting it into place.

Install the window with seal tape, water spray, and screws

Now that you have your new boat windows, it's time to install them. This process will require seal tape, a water spray bottle, and screws.

Firstly, lay the window on a flat and soft surface. Take the seal tape and apply it to the flange, starting at the middle of the window's bottom. Overlap the two ends by around half an inch. Pull the backing off the tape. If you want to avoid the tape sticking to the outer wall of the boat, mist the perimeter of the opening with water using a spray bottle.

Next, remove the window screen to prevent it from being damaged during installation. Insert the window into the opening, ensuring that the exterior window flange overlaps the opening to form a good seal. Check if you need to use shims to centre the window.

Now, with the window in its final position, have someone hold it in place. Centre the clamp ring on the inside of the window and install the screws provided with the product. Do not use longer screws, as these could puncture the frames and cause leaks.

Finally, install the screen. Insert it into the screen track, pushing and pivoting it into place. This completes the installation.

Frequently asked questions