Roof sealing

Mine had a crack around 3 sides. I decided to remove it completely and re-install.

The last time I used Dicor self-leveling sealant was on our 172 when I was doing maintenance on the cracked sealant around the roof openings.  It works well on relatively flat surfaces, though it's kind of unsightly if not carefully applied.  Personally, I would try  to apply it on a really warm day so it is more viscous and will penetrate the cracks better.  For something like the spoiler on sloped back style r-Pods, I used the Dicor Eternabond tape with good success.  Oh, and cleaning the surface before application is really important for a good bond.  Some use mineral solvents.  I prefer denatured alcohol rinsed off with water because it leaves no residue.  

Originally posted by john in idaho Sunlight does not help caulking.  I think a product called Dicor would be something you might want consider.

Originally posted by Subzilla Why do you think it cracked?  Sun?  Flexing of the vent or bad installation?

thanks for these tips. They're right on! Over the years as a painter, I've learned to use lacquer thinner to get something done quicker, but you have to be careful. Alcohol is not as strong, but safer. The roof is hard to get to. I cleaned mine the best I could, and I'm going to apply Miniers (Sp) wax, but it looks like even though whoever did the sealing was late for lunch,it looks like there is nothing that would cause a leak. But if something is coming off, like lostagain says, clean it, let it dry and use what he says...