This doesn't just apply to Smittybilt...ANYTHING that can trap water is a recipe for rust, as evidenced by my recent rocker replacement. My mopar Factory armor looked good on the outside, and underneath it, the rocker was completely rotten. You are better off leaving things open so water can flow through, than trying to seal against water penetration, IMHO. Eventually, a sealed item will leak, but because its sealed, the water cannot get out. If it can flow through, you can rinse it and the water can dry.