Alternative glue and adhesive options for window and vent installations

[anothertry]

I'm looking for healthy and safe ecological alternatives for glues and adhesives that will be used to install new windows, fan vents and other metal, glass and related products onto the metal body of the van.

Urethane/polyurethane glues/adhesives seem to be the basic standard when modifying (cutting, sawing, priming, gluing) the metal body of a vehicle to install new windows and vents.  These are oil based and contain Voc's which offgas and may affect the air quality inside a vehicle permanently.
Since I'll be living inside the vehicle I'd like to use safe healthier materials if possible and when affordable.

These are the windows being mounted on the vehicle:
https://www.vanwindowsdirect.com/co...n-bunk-half-slider-window-driver-side-36-x-12
https://www.vanwindowsdirect.com/co...w-21-1-4-x-16-3-4-with-2-1-4-trim-ring-vw8209

I was told to use Urethane by the window company, you can read the specs here:
https://www.vanwindowsdirect.com/pr...urethane-adhesive?_pos=3&_sid=c7ec529f3&_ss=r

I tried searching for an alternative to urethane and I haven't found anything yet but found a spec that may help to narrow things down:
http://www.finishmaster.com/prod/assets/nyrlisor5w6qvc6yj5dp.pdf
You can read on that pdf: "LAP  SHEAR STRENGTH: >500 psi" (greater than 500)

I found Almighty Adhesive here:
https://centerforgreenbuilding.com/product/afm-almighty/#tab-description
The specs read: "Almighty Adhesive provides 500 PSI shear strength, more than enough grip for most applications."

So if we are going by this spec alone, it seems the Almighty Adhesive would provide the same shear strength as the Urethane.
However I was told the adhesive would work but the urethane for auto windows is tested and has code requirements and standards necessary for the auto markets.

So I am searching for a eco/bio alternative that still meets the criteria for a proper safe bond/seal.
It needs 500 PSI shear strength and needs to meet the federal requirements for windshield mounting - FMVSS 212 / 208 found here: http://www.carwindshields.info/fmvss212

I did some research on eco-glues and bio-adhesives and found many that are water based, plant based, etc:
https://www.comindex.es/en/novedade...-polyurethane-based-pu-adhesives-and-sealants
https://www.bondpolymers.com/applications/polyurethane-adhesives.html

I'm in the process of contacting these leads but sometimes these web search results are mostly research articles with no actual products to buy.
Does anyone know of any eco/bio glues for window installs that meet the federal requirements?

It's possible a glue exists that doesn't meet the federal requirements but works just as well but we'd need some documentation.
It's a risk to use something which may not work and then you will have to take apart your walls and redo the windows again sometime in the future.
[font=Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif]I will continue to research and will update this thread.[/font]

 

[Sofisintown]

Yes, all glues off-gas while drying, and maybe a bit longer, but they don't off-gas forever.
Keep your vehicle ventilated and use a fan if you need to bring in fresh air.
I don't know of any alternatives that would be of use in a car.

When I was little, we used flour and water to make glue, to make kites.
It worked greatly, but I don't think it would keep the windows on your car.

So keep your car in the sun to dry the adhesives fast, and keep he windows down when you're in it.

 

[highdesertranger]

you are putting yourself in an impossible position. you don't want to use what the manufacturer wants but you still want it to meet DOT regs. get ahold of the manufacturer and see what they say. it might void the warranty if you use something else. I use the old style windows that use Butyl tape.

I am curious, you are worried about the urethane off gassing but what's holding your front windshield in. also where are you getting the info that urethane off gasses forever.

highdesertranger

 

[Doubleone]

I'd suggest not to experiment or reinvent the wheel.  You're way over thinking what should be a simple project.  It could be a one and done deal, if you use the right product... The best and most environmentally friendly solution is to simply not cut any holes and just omit the window, no glue needed no problem...  The least noxious solution I could think of is good ole' fashion gray butyl tape.  It's fairly inert, doesn't have much odor, but it doesn't actually provide a bond so it needs a mechanical attachment.  It also tends to dry out and crack over time, leading to leaks.  Or you could always use space shuttle glue... 

 

[bagabum]

I'm looking for healthy and safe ecological alternatives for glues 

There is an adhesive called GOOP, I love it. I use it for all kinds of projects. It's clear and come in 3.7 oz and caulk gun tubes. Perfect for your application. Once it dries, 24 hours, no more odor.

 

[user 423]

Why worry about temporary exposure to VOCs,etc. if you're living in NYC right next to NJ?

 

[Malamute]

Ive used Log Jam chinking for log cabins on several places. One, I was getting it weathered in before windows were cut in. I had only the outside chinked, full round logs, 12-14" butts. I cut a section that was 4 logs high and 6 feet long,...all the logs hung in place until I cut the log jam ***** joint with a razor knife. It adheres pretty well when used correctly.

The same company makes Big Stretch caulk, which ive used to attach woodstove roof jacks and filler pieces of wood between the ribs of roof metal on cabin roofs. I had to take one off once, it took the factory paint off the roofing as it came off. It holds up well to weather and sun, and Ive not noticed any particular off-gassing or odor over time from chinking with Log Jam, and Ive lived in cabins chinked with it most of the last 20 years or so. I have no idea of its data sheet ingredients, but you can find out. I think its probably less annoying than automotive products though.

 

[highdesertranger]

well I am sure everyone means well with these suggestions. but I would talk directly to the manufacturer. this is going on a vehicle and if it fails and causes bodily injury or death and they find out you used something that was not recommended or approved you as the installer will be in deep doodoo. highdesertranger

 

[flying kurbmaster]

Urethane in your windshield becomes structural. If you are istalling a small window in the side of your van and not removing any beams then you are not needing something structural,
I Would use butyl tape, I suggest 1/8 thick in grey if possible. You can pick a roll up at any glass shop or hardware store.

 

[highdesertranger]

kurbmaster follow the link to those windows. there is no mechanical fasteners and no provision for them, the urethane is what holds the window in. highdesertranger

 

[flying kurbmaster]

Ok sorry my bad

 

[B and C]

Change window manufacturers. I removed one of my van windows to make some repairs. Around the outside flange on the flat part that meets the van, there was a rubber seal and it went all the way around. Recommended sealer was axle bearing grease liberally applied to rubber. Set it back in the opening (someone outside holding it in) and then reattached the inner trim ring to the outer window frame with screws clamping the window in place. These windows do not leak and are 20 years old. Wish I could remember the manufacturer's name. Being old is no fun, getting here was though.