How to protect cardboard interior panels from water damage

[fred93]

I am getting close to working on the interior installation. I have new cardboard side panels that will need to have fabric applied to them. What is the best way to make them waterproof from the inside? I looked at the parts that are used to install the rear side glass on my Tudor and I visualized the amount of water that will flow between the body and the glass since there are no rubber seals at that point. (someone told me that he uses pieces of round foam insulation at that point whenever he washes his car--great idea but what about when I take the car on the road and it rains????)

I know that it is recommended to install a sheet of plastic on the back of the panels under the windows to keep the water from staining the cardboard.

Is that good enough????

I want a EXTRA way to prevent water damage---Any ideas???

 

[fr33777]

Mac Auto has the water proof panels precut for your car. Put your covers on them.

 

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Mac Auto has the water proof panels precut for your car. Put your covers on them.

Water proof --or water resistant? Huge difference. Most panel board that we purchase is water resistant. If you/we need true water proof panels, we purchase ABS panels.

 

[Tacoma Bob]

All "foam rubber" is not created equal. If you choose to go that route you want closed cell foam. If you are using the "treated" traditional "waterproof" door panel material you may want to seal it with shellac. ABS is being used more and more as Brent commented.

 

[Bruce_MO]

I did the "glue plastic sheeting to the back side" approach. I simply cut heavy black trash bags carefully to the size of the panel and glued them with contact cement. I was careful to make sure along the bottom edges that I was very, very close to the bottom, and had glued the bag 100% along the lower edge. Also tried to glue/seal things around any openings for trim clips, window regulator, etc.

 

[Redbird]

I use this on a lot of things. Rust-Oleum LeakSeal.

 

[1931 flamingo]

My 31 stays outside April to end of November exposed to the elements. Gets washed with a hose also, re-done in the late 80's. NO sign of any water damage to any of the interior panels (all mohair). FWIW
Paul in CT

 

[Marvin/TN]

Most of todays cars have a plastic film glued to the inner door, with a few tabs on the bottom tucked back toward the inside of the door shell. do that before installing the door panel. No one will know but you because it can't be seen.

 

[Bob Bidonde]

Glue plastic sheeting to the backside of the panels you think will get wet. Leave the bottom edge unglued. I use garbage bags as a source of the plastic.

 

[fred93]

Thanks for all your replies. As always Ford Barn is a wealth of information!