Door Panel Water Barrier DIY

[silver78]

I have One factory interior door panel water barrier. (torn up of course) I used it as a template. I had some 1/8" thick foam packing material laying around and used it as my new water barrier. I also have some window seal left over and used it to replace the old/missing butyl that runs along the perimeter of the water shield to hold it onto the metal door frame.  Pull and stretch the butyl so its not so thick and represents the old material on the door.  The foam stays in place nicely but is removable too if your gentle.
 

[roadking77]

I apologize if this comes off as a negative criticism, but I would not use foam as a water barrier. I would think it would do the exact opposite and attract water. The originals were some kind of waxed paper/cardboard? I got repros from Ames and they were a heavy mylar. The mylar or plastic repels the water and does what it is supposed to I guess. For economy even a heavy trash bag split in half and sealed around the edges may be a better choice.

[JJ 109]

Depends on if it’s closed cell foam or not.

Open cell will absorb and hold water, closed will not


Cut a piece and soak it water. Wring it out, if water comes out it’s open cell.

[silver78]

Good points fellas.  I do have heavy mill plastic to make new ones if the foam thing craps out.  My intentions are sound proofing as much as possible.

[roadking77]

I hear foam and water and I    Completely different application but I was steadily busy replacing rotted door jambs, window jambs, siding etc. where customers used spray foam (Great Stuff) to fill gaps. That stuff acts like a sponge and will rot any wood that it touches if exposed to the elements. The only thing left was the foam!

[silver78]

Gave my foam packing material a test.  Using the sink I ran water on it for several minutes and no soaking or moisture bled thru.  Onto the drivers door now.

[roadking77]

Good Deal.

[NOT A TA]

Gave my foam packing material a test.  Using the sink I ran water on it for several minutes and no soaking or moisture bled thru.  Onto the drivers door now.

Might want to check that after a few years of baking inside a door. Would not be surprised if it disintegrates.

[Wallington]

I have a repro set in what appears to be mylar. I don't know how they compare to stock, or even opened them. Or where they are, come to think of it.

[roadking77]

I put a repro set in my 77. They are the mylar type I got from Ames. I think the originals were a heavy waxed  paper type material. I know that Joe or Mike that have stripped many of these cars would know for sure.