This is achieved by the tight connection of the glass unit to the profile, as well as the sash to the supporting frame.
The quality of the pairing of PVC window structures depends, first of all, on the material and cross-section of the sealing tape. When the tightness of the enclosing structures is broken, the seal in PVC windows needs to be replaced.
What does the concept include?
Replacing the seal of plastic windows is a set of measures in which the old polymer linings installed in the grooves of the glazing beads and profiles are removed in order to be replaced with new ones that have the same dimensions and a similar composition.
Reference. The procedure is carried out in order to improve the thermal and operational properties of the window structure, the comfortable stay of residents in an apartment, private house, or workers in an office.
Overview of the material
A rubber seal for plastic windows is a part of the fittings that is designed to protect the frame frame from damage when changing the position of the sashes and exposure to environmental conditions in general. Additionally, the material performs acoustic and heat-insulating functions. The elastic composition allows you to fill the voids between structural elements, which prevents the penetration of moisture, cold and dust into the room and the glass unit.
Sealing rubber bands for plastic windows are manufactured in one piece. In cross section, it is textured with a mounting protrusion for insertion into a technical groove, which is provided in the profile of the plastic window. The body of the elastic may have a longitudinal cavity, which explains another name for the fittings - a tubular seal.
Tubular self-adhesive seal Source budujemydom.pl
In fact, the rubber band is installed in the following places:
- Between the sash and the glass unit. The goal is to protect the rebated part of the sash from natural phenomena (precipitation and wind with dust attached to it). The load on the seal is minimal, so the wear rate is low. By following the operating rules, you can extend the service life to 30 years.
- Between the glazing bead and the glass unit. The goal is to seal the joint. The mechanical load here is constant, so the seal serves in accordance with the stated period.
- Between the sash and the opening profile. The structure is attached to both and is exposed to the most frequent mechanical and natural influences. This justifies the need for maintenance and relatively frequent replacement of the rubber seal on plastic windows.
Monitoring the good condition of elastic fittings, according to manufacturers, allows you to extend the service life of glazing by a total of 3-5 years. The same can be said about the opposite - poor sealing noticeably worsens the condition of the frame binding, which also affects the indoor microclimate. Polymer materials, under any operating conditions, crack, wear out, and break down over time. Therefore, care and periodic replacement of rubber bands is required regardless of their location.
Example of damage to a rubber seal Source ad-cd.net
Internal classification
The main classification of sealing tapes includes purpose, composition and shape. There are solid and tubular samples, with mounting protrusions for insertion into grooves or with an adhesive layer for mounting on a plane. The table describes the types of seals for plastic windows.
| Material | general description | Characteristics |
| EPDM | Ethylene propylene rubber is produced in two versions: containing sulfur or pyroxides. The first sample over time provokes yellowing of the PVC shell of the window profile system (the chemical activity of sulfur) and produces an odor. The second one is relatively more expensive, which is justified by the raw materials used and high quality. Both elastic bands are considered one of the best options compared to their analogues. | Serves 10-20 years. Operating temperatures – from -60 to +120 degrees Celsius. Does not crack, retains elasticity after prolonged pressure. Not afraid of exposure to ultraviolet rays and ozone. |
| VMQ | Silicone sealant occupies a leading position in quality, but there is less demand due to its high cost. The composition includes compounds that replace methyl and vinyl. | Does not absorb moisture. Operating temperatures: from -60 to +100 degrees Celsius. Ozone resistant. Maintains performance in all weather conditions. Shows low resistance to mechanical load. Serves up to 40 years. |
| TPE | Tapes based on PVC (polyvinyl chloride) belong to the group of thermoplastic elastomers due to the addition of rubber and polyethylene. They are characterized by good elasticity, excessive softness when heated and brittleness when exposed to frost. | It tolerates welding well. Operating temperatures: from -40 to +70 degrees Celsius. Elasticity changes for the worse under mechanical load. Serves about 10-15 years. |
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in doors, windows and related work
The following should be added to the information listed:
- Rubber seals are also made with the addition of carbon black, which explains their black color. some modifications made from vulcanized raw materials can last up to 30 years, stretching three times without deformation. But if you decide which seal for plastic windows is better, gray or black, then you need to be prepared for traces of soot in the second option. Drying and cracks from frost are also observed. The material is also easily damaged by any sharp objects.
Gray rubber seal Source pro1oo.ru
- Silicone sealant for plastic windows is inert to chemicals and high humidity. But the lightweight material does not justify the high price tag and durability due to its tendency to deformation. When stretched, it breaks, which complicates installation. As a result, in the residential sector, craftsmen usually recommend refusing this option.
- PVC costs less than its analogues, which explains the high demand among developers. But the short service life (3-5 years) forces users to eventually replace such accessories. Reasons: initially low elasticity, tendency to deformation, low resistance to temperature changes.
Sealing tapes can be different in both material and shape. There are three main types. The examples are associated with manufacturers of plastic windows, so the seal profile was developed and patented by them. These are the samples:
- VEKA. It is distinguished by the presence of a non-bending petal. It is made at right angles.
Elastic band sample from VEKA Source cocosltd.com
- KBE. German or Russian gum with one petal. There is also a version with a stiffener rib.
Elastic sample from KBE Source 24aul.ru
When should rubber seals be replaced?
The seal must be replaced with a new one if any of the following situations occur :
In case of physical wear of the old sealing tape, as indicated by blowing through the window in the narthexes or from under the glazing bead.- When an old structural element freezes, which causes a violation of its structure.
- With prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, some materials become tanned, lose their shape, microcracks appear on their surface, and the seal cannot perform its functions.
- In case of mechanical damage to the polymer material, accompanied by its rupture.
- If there is a defect in the seal that interferes with its normal operation.
- In case the sealing tape does not fit the shape of the lock to the plastic profile or does not fit tightly in it.
In all cases, the sealing tape helps to increase the energy efficiency of window structures, which ultimately leads not only to comfort during the operation of the room, but also to savings on utility bills during the cold season.
Is it necessary to change, the consequences of neglect
If the seal for PVC windows is not replaced in time, the following negative consequences may occur :
- Blowing from under the bead and closed sash, regardless of the quality of the fittings adjustment.
- The entry of atmospheric moisture into the room, the formation of mold on the windowsill, slopes, and in the body of the profile, which contributes to the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.
- Considering that the window is part of the enclosing structure, when moisture enters, the dew point, which forms approximately in the middle of the thickness of the part, contributes to the formation of ice, causing expansion of the material and destruction of the glass.
- When the sash is opened, part of the seal begins to fall out, worsening the aesthetic qualities of the window structure.
Important. To avoid such consequences, it is necessary to identify the problem in time and eliminate it by replacing the sealing profile along the entire perimeter of the sash or the length of the glazing bead.
Seal care
It extends the life of the seal. It is recommended to service twice a year. As a rule, this procedure is combined with window washing.
First, the seal is thoroughly washed. Next, the surface is also thoroughly dried and lubricated with a special silicone grease. It gives additional protection to the elastic band from temperature changes and from sunlight. In addition, the lubricant film protects the sealing tape from freezing, which prevents it from breaking.
You can save on silicone grease and use a rich hand cream instead. It also contains moisturizing agents that are an excellent replacement for silicone. You can also use glycerin or petroleum jelly as a substitute.
Important! It is not recommended to use products containing alkalis and acids for lubrication. They can lead to destruction of the elastic structure and reduced service life. Also, machine and edible oils are not suitable as a lubricant.
We hope that the article helped you in choosing and independently replacing rubber seals in plastic windows and further caring for them. If everything is done in accordance with the requirements, then they will serve you for at least 10 years without a single complaint.
How to choose the right tires?
To understand what kind of seal is needed for a PVC window, it is necessary to study the market for these materials, as well as determine the exact geometry of the cross-section of the element in order to buy an identical product. In addition, you need to identify the place of blowing :
If there is air blowing from under the bead, two problems may arise with the seal - on the bead or along the perimeter of the glass unit.
In both cases, the clamping strips should be dismantled and the space around the perimeter of the junction of the translucent structure with the plastic should be inspected.- When the window sash is blowing, but the adjustment was carried out correctly, the winter mode is set to maximum pressing force, you should pay increased attention to the seal around the perimeter of the sash.
When choosing a material, you should choose one of the following compositions, each of which has technological features :
- Rubber – has increased strength and durability, but is not resistant to significant temperature changes.
- Ethylene propylene - can withstand any climatic conditions, is characterized by increased strength, but consists of toxic components, and when fixing it, adhesive compounds are required.
- Silicone is one of the most high-tech materials for sealing window structures, the only disadvantage of which is its high retail cost.
- Polyurethane is the most durable material that will last a long time on windows, but breaks easily in the cold and also leaves residual deformation when bent.
- PVC materials – increased elasticity, consists of environmentally friendly components, but its condition and shape depend on climatic conditions.
Note. Each type of insulation is presented in a wide range at retail outlets in our country. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you also need to know the installation location and operating conditions.
Installing Rehau Raucell
You can order the installation of a strong, elastic and durable Raucell window profile from the famous German company Rehau. This type of profile appeared on the market after numerous studies and tests, which proved its excellent quality and compliance with European requirements.
Technical characteristics of the material Rehau Raucell:
- perfectly protects the room from drafts, moisture, dirt and noise from the street;
- resistant to temperature changes, suitable for use at temperatures from -50°C to +100°C;
- durable, resistant to deformation, withstands 200,000 opening and closing cycles;
- It’s easy to care for—it’s enough to clean it from dust and dirt once every six months.
Replacing and installing Raucell profiles is profitable; it extends the service life of systems by 20 years, while maintaining their original characteristics.
Advantages of Raucel
- Excellent thermal insulation - many cavities formed by foamed co-extruded rubber provide high heat retention rates.
- Ergonomic shape - Raucell matches the profile design as closely as possible, ensuring complete tightness and a tight fit to the sash.
- Load resistance – standard wind pressure is 230 Pa, conventional EPDM can withstand 600 Pa, Raucell - 750 Pa.
- Choice of colors – to suit any aesthetic decision, Raucell is available in black and grey.
- Maximum strength class - a higher content of pure EPDM, up to 25-30%, provides excellent performance characteristics.
| Photo | Property | Meaning | Color | Rub./l.m. |
| Manufacturer | Rehau | Black gray | from 300 | |
| Manufacturer country | Germany | |||
| Purpose | For windows and doors | |||
| Material | Rubber | |||
| Min. operating temperature | –50°С | |||
| Max. operating temperature | 100°C |
Basic installation rules
When replacing a seal, regardless of its installation location, material and method of fastening, it is necessary to follow the general rules and safety precautions :
If the seal has worn out only on part of the window structure, it should be replaced entirely, along the entire perimeter of the sash, since the problem with the remaining material will appear in the near future.- When replacing an element, it is necessary to dismantle the sash and place it on a horizontal surface.
This will prevent the risk of the glass unit falling out, damaging it and causing injury. - When removing the old tape, you need to make sure that there are no scraps of material or sealant left in the grooves. The presence of foreign objects will complicate the subsequent operation of the window.
- Immediately after installation, it is necessary to check the quality of the seal and the presence of blowing points.
- You need to install a new seal using plastic spatulas. When using metal chisels and knives, there is a risk of damaging the profile and soft polymer material.
Important. Before installing the seal, it is imperative to check the quality of the material along its entire length. If there are defects, uneven thickenings or cuts, such a tape should not be installed.
How to check the closing tightness
What methods can you use to check the tightness of a plastic window sash? The simplest one is to use a thermal imager. The device will show where the coldest points in the system are.
With a thermal imager it is easy to find problem areas of the window
However, you can check this using simple methods:
- Light a match or candle near the window. If the light fluctuates, it means the seal is broken.
- Place a sheet of paper in the open window. They lock the door and try to remove the stash. This cannot be done with a securely locked system. Otherwise, the degree of compression is insufficient and the seal needs to be replaced.
- If the sealing is very poor, a draft can be felt even with your hand leaning against the window.
Calculations: how much material will be needed?
The amount of sealing tape depends, first of all, on the location of its installation. To correctly calculate the molding, it is necessary to take the following measurements :
- When replacing the sealing element on the sash, the easiest way out is to dismantle the old tape and then measure it along its entire length.
- If the seal is torn due to mechanical damage, you need to measure 2 linear dimensions of the sash along the length of the groove for the tape, then multiply the resulting value by 2. The tape along the perimeter of the sash should be installed in a continuous line.
- The same algorithm is used when replacing the seal on a double-glazed window - with the glazing beads removed, 2 linear dimensions of the translucent structure are measured, and the resulting value is doubled.
- When determining the amount of material for the glazing bead, you need to dismantle the element and measure its length.
- Considering that it is easier to trim the material than to build it up, before cutting the tape, you should leave a margin of 30-50 mm, which is cut off with a knife after installing the polymer part.
Important. When cutting the tape, it should be borne in mind that experts do not recommend joining, even for reasons of economy - if the roll does not have enough length, you should purchase a new tape. The extra joint is an additional corridor for the cold.
Sealant for plastic windows price:
Promotion!
European materials at Chinese tariffs. Hurry, quantity is limited. The price is indicated for 1 meter, taking into account the work of dismantling the old + installing the new. We always change 2 circuits, frame and sash, only in this case a clear result is guaranteed.
| Options | Brand and material | Window system | Color | Rub./l.m. | Purpose |
