[dutchmensport]

sourdough, the ripping, tearing, and shredding is caused when the rubber deteriorates and softens enough that it actually glues itself to the walls of the trailer when they make contact. Neglect can cause that I suppose over time. But using the wrong "lubricant" on them can cause it much, much worse. Think of putting motor oil on rubber. Over a short time, what happens.

I would gather your friends slide seals were a product of using the wrong cleaner opposed to neglect.