Why Maintenance Matters
Quality rubber weatherstripping can last for decades—but only with basic care. UV rays, temperature extremes, dirt, and neglect cause rubber to dry out, crack, and lose its sealing ability. A few minutes of maintenance a few times per year keeps your new seals flexible and leak-free.
The Two Enemies of Rubber Weatherstripping
- UV Radiation (Sunlight): Breaks down rubber polymers, causing hardening, fading, and surface cracking.
- Dirt & Debris: Grit trapped against seals acts like sandpaper, wearing through the rubber surface every time a door opens or closes.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Every 3 months |
| Cleaning | Every 3-6 months (or when visibly dirty) |
| Conditioning/UV protection | 2-4 times per year |
| Deep inspection for damage | Annually (before winter or rainy season) |
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
What You'll Need:
- Mild soap (dish soap or car wash soap)
- Warm water
- Soft brush or microfiber cloth
- Clean towel for drying
Steps:
- Mix a few drops of mild soap in warm water.
- Dip your cloth or soft brush in the solution.
- Gently scrub all weatherstrip surfaces—door seals, trunk seals, window channels, and hood seals.
- Pay attention to areas where dirt collects: the bottom of door seals and the pinchweld channels.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Dry completely with a clean towel before applying any protectant.
⚠️ Warning: Never use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. These can damage the rubber surface.
Conditioning & UV Protection
After cleaning, apply a rubber protectant to restore flexibility and block UV damage.
Recommended Products:
- Silicone-based rubber protectants (e.g., 303 Rubber Seal Protectant, or silicone spray)
- Dielectric silicone grease (excellent for seals that need to slide, like window channels)
Application Steps:
- Ensure the weatherstrip is clean and completely dry.
- Apply protectant to a clean microfiber cloth or foam applicator—not directly onto the seal.
- Wipe evenly across all rubber surfaces.
- Allow the product to absorb/dry before closing doors or trunk.
- Wipe off any excess to prevent a greasy residue on clothing or paint.
What to Avoid
| ❌ DON'T Use | Why |
|---|---|
| Petroleum-based products (Armor All original, WD-40, etc.) | Petroleum distillates degrade rubber over time |
| Tire shine products | Often contain harmful solvents |
| Harsh solvents (acetone, lacquer thinner) | Immediately damages rubber |
| Abrasive scrub pads | Scratches and weakens the seal surface |
💡 Pro Tip: When in doubt, check the product label. Look for "silicone-based" and avoid anything listing "petroleum distillates" as an ingredient.
Signs Your Weatherstripping Needs Replacement
During your inspections, look for these warning signs:
| Warning Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Cracking or splitting | UV/age damage; seal is failing |
| Hardened, brittle rubber | Lost elasticity; won't seal properly |
| Permanent compression (flat spots) | Rubber won't spring back; seal is worn out |
| Visible gaps when door is closed | Seal has shrunk or body alignment has shifted |
| Water leaks after cleaning/conditioning | Seal material has failed; replacement needed |
If you see any of these signs, conditioning won't restore the seal—it's time to replace.
Storage Tips for Classic Cars
If your vehicle sits for extended periods:
- Clean and condition all seals before storage.
- Crack windows slightly (if in a secure, dry location) to relieve constant compression pressure on door seals.
- Cover the vehicle with a breathable car cover to block UV rays.
- Avoid plastic tarps—they trap moisture and accelerate rubber degradation.
- Open and close doors periodically during storage to prevent seals from taking a permanent "set."
Quick Reference: Care Products Checklist
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mild soap + water | Cleaning |
| Silicone-based protectant | Conditioning & UV protection |
| Microfiber cloths | Application & drying |
| Nitrile Gloves (GL-10) | Keep hands clean during adhesive repairs |
Need to Make Repairs?
If your inspection reveals areas where the seal has lifted or lost adhesion, apply small dots of 3M Black Weatherstrip Adhesive (GL-11) to re-secure those sections. For complete seal replacement, our Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1) includes everything you need.