Middle seams vs outside strips

I just want to say I have been lurking for a while and this forum is great. I hope to meet some fellow TM'ers on the road this summer as we venture up coast of Oregon.
Now the question, we have a 2001 2124 K and it leaks like a sponge. I am attacking all vents and middle seam with eternabond and 4200. How important are those outside strip thingys? I see lots of discussion on the middle seam and vents...not much on sides. Do I need to redue those as well?

Thanks in advance.

[countrygirl]

The strips on the sides are rub strips to keep it from rubbing the paint in transit. I believe the one on the roof covers the seam down the middle and helps to keep it from leaking down that seam.

Do the lights especially on the front as rain is driven in the smallest crack while driving.