How do I find the right window seals for my UPVC windows?

Overview

1. buy window gaskets, but which gasket fits my UPVC windows?
2 Why is the right seal important?
3. how do I determine the right window seal? How is a window seal constructed?
4 What types of gaskets are there for UPVC windows?
1. stop seal
2. center seal
3. glazing seal
5. are there different types of window seals?
1. hollow chamber seal
2. hollow chamber seal with lip
3. lip seal
6. what material are the window seals made of?
7. how do I measure the gasket I need for my UPVC windows?
8 Why are there so many different window seals for UPVC windows?
9. how can I correctly install the right seal for a UPVC windows?
10. are there special care instructions for seals on UPVC windows?

1. buy window gaskets, but which gasket fits my UPVC windows?

Windows can generally be differentiated according to their frame materials and sealing systems. The market for window profiles is dominated by three materials: PVC/PVC, wood and aluminum.

An important question with UPVC windows is: Which gasket is suitable for my window? Different window types require different seals to provide effective protection against cold, draughts and moisture. There are various window systems such as Veka, Rehau, Kömmerling and Schüco, which work with different gasket geometries that often vary only slightly in shape. These are inserted into the groove of the window frame or sash to ensure optimum sealing. Choosing the right gasket requires experience, which we are happy to help you with. Depending on the material and condition of the windows, we will find the right solution for you. Regular maintenance and care of the seals are crucial to maintain their longevity and functionality and to save heating costs.

2 Why is the right seal important?

The right seal on UPVC windows is crucial for energy efficiency and thermal insulation. It prevents cold draughts from entering and therefore reduces heating costs. Damaged or incorrectly installed seals can impair the functionality and longevity of windows. Gaps allow heat loss and mold growth. Regular inspection and maintenance are important to ensure intact seals. Damaged seals should be replaced immediately, but at the latest after 15 to 20 years. Proper maintenance can save heating costs and extend the service life of windows. It is therefore worth checking and maintaining the seals regularly to keep the windows fully functional.

3 How do I determine the right window seal? How is a window seal constructed?

The most important factor in determining the right seal for your window or door is the seal base. This is pressed into the gasket holder (groove width on the window in mm) of the window. The gasket base describes the lower part of the gasket and often has the shape of an arrow and then ends at the gasket body.


Whether window gaskets fit depends heavily on the gasket base. A distinction is made here:

  • Theweb width (narrow part of the gasket base) is the clamping area of the gasket. To do this, you must measure the exact width of the groove on your window. If the groove on your window is 3 mm, for example, the web width on the new seal should be approx. 2.8 - 3.3 mm. Slightly smaller is not so tragic, then the seal will fit more easily into the existing groove
  • Thegasket base (the triangle of the arrow) should then be approx. 3.5 - 4 mm. The gasket base secures the gasket in the groove of the window. At the same time, it prevents the seal from coming loose from the seal groove so easily.

The window seal should sit firmly in the groove, which means that it can only be pulled out of the groove with a little pressure.

The next thing to clarify is which gap width my new seal must seal. To do this, we look at the seal body. It is crucial to determine the right size to ensure an effective seal. When the window is closed, the gasket should lie against the frame and sash without a gap.

The installation height of window seals varies and there are different requirements for them. With older windows, the fittings can often no longer be adjusted and the original seals no longer seal the air gap properly.

Our special seals made of high-quality silicone are suitable for gap compensation of up to 9 mm. If the old window seals are only slightly worn, standard seals can be used. In such cases, we recommend our TPE gaskets.

It is important to ensure that the closing pressure on the window is not too heavy, as this may indicate that the seal is too thick. It is normal for the window seal to press lightly against the window frame. Simply try out which seal fits best Different window systems and seals can be combined with each other. Please contact us and we will be happy to provide you with expert advice.

4. what types of gaskets are available for UPVC windows?

When it comes to sealing systems, we differentiate between the concepts of the rebate seal and the center seal.

4.1 Stop seal (stop seal system)
In the rebate gasket system, the gaskets are installed in a prefabricated groove in the frame, i.e. in the fixed part on the building structure, and in the sash, the moving part of the window or door. When the element is closed, the gaskets of the window sash are pressed against the frame.

The stop seal plays an important role in protecting against draughts, pollen, moisture and noise. Pressing the sealing elements together when the window or door is closed creates an effective seal that prevents the ingress of unwanted influences from outside. This not only improves comfort in the room, but also increases the energy efficiency of the building.

The rebate seal system is common for older window systems.

Features:

  • The seals are located in the frame and in the sash.
  • When the window or door is closed, the sash presses against the frame, the seals are pressed together and the window is thus sealed.
  • The structure of the rebate seal ensures that a continuous sealing line is created, which prevents the ingress of air, water and sound.

Advantages:

  • Effective sealing against unpleasant weather influences: Draughts, moisture and pollen are kept out
  • Simple installation and maintenance
  • cost-effective


4.2 Center seal (center seal system)
With the center seal system, the seals are placed in the center of the frame and in the sash of the window or door profile construction. In this case, the seal for the outer window level in the frame is not required. There is always a seal in the sash if it is a center seal system.

Features:

  • The center seal is located on the inside of the frame, usually in its own chamber in the profile.
  • When the window or door is closed, the center seal provides an additional barrier against the ingress of air and water.
  • In order to achieve improved tightness and thermal insulation, this system can often be used in conjunction with one or more stop gaskets (sash, central frame, outer frame).

Advantages:

  • Effective sealing against wind, rain and sound
  • Increased energy efficiency due to additional barrier
  • Good air circulation

Conclusion: Stop seal systems are widely used and offer solid performance with a simple and cost-effective design. They are suitable for older windows and can be found in many standard windows and doors. Center seal systems offer improved performance in terms of energy efficiency and sound insulation and are often used in buildings with high energy efficiency requirements. In practice, the choice between the systems depends on the building requirements, climatic conditions and budget. Both systems can be modified and combined to achieve optimal results.

4.3 Glazing seal
Glazing gaskets for UPVC windows are special seals that sit between the glass and the frame of the window. These seals contribute significantly to the overall performance and durability of the windows: Not only do they provide an effective seal against wind and the elements, they also improve sound insulation and thermal insulation. This reduces energy consumption and creates a pleasant indoor climate. The glazing seals also protect the window from moisture and damage caused by condensation. Thanks to their high-quality workmanship and material quality, they guarantee a long service life for the windows and thus help to maintain the value of the property.

5. are there different types of window seals?

Yes, there are different types of seals for UPVC windows that can be used for both the rebate system and the center seal system. It is important to know that these can vary depending on the window manufacturer.

Hollow chamber gaskets are sealing profiles with one or more hollow
hollow chambers. Due to the flexible and elastic shape, the sealing rubber
rubber seal adapts to different surfaces and seals effectively. When the window is closed, the air in this type of seal is compressed.
compressed. As a result, the window sash closes more gently.
Hollow chamber gaskets have a high restoring force, which means that they return to their original shape after opening. They are the second generation of gaskets.
Hollow chamber gaskets with lip are sealing profiles with a hollow chamber and additional lip structure. The combination of the flexibility of the hollow chamber and the additional protective function of the lip creates an effective solution for various applications.
Lip seals consist of one or more flexible lips that are pressed against the frame when the window or door is closed. Due to their flexible design, these seals are particularly effective against the ingress of air, water and pollen and offer a high degree of adaptability. Lip seals have special geometric shapes and are first generation seals, depending on the window system.

These types of gaskets are easy to remove and replace to reduce heating costs and effectively seal the window.

6. what material are the window seals made of?

Window seals are made from a variety of materials, each with specific properties in terms of flexibility, durability, weather resistance and thermal insulation. The most common materials for window seals are listed below:

TPE gaskets
TPE gaskets are an important component of UPVC windows when it comes to insulation and energy efficiency. These seals ensure that the window is airtight and therefore no heat can escape. The rubber seals used for UPVC windows have a special shape to fit perfectly into the groove width of the window sash. They are available in different colors such as grey or black and can be easily replaced as needed to ensure the seal. Due to their flexibility and durability, rubber seals contribute significantly to the energy efficiency of UPVC windows.

Silicone seals
Our special silicone seal profile is characterized by its high weather resistance, UV resistance and adaptability. It can bridge a larger gap and is suitable for different types of seals, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. With our silicone seals, your UPVC windows are optimally sealed and protected. Take a look at our special silicone seal for yourself.Silicone seals in general play a crucial role in UPVC windows, as they ensure an effective seal. They prevent the ingress of moisture, dirt and noise and thus contribute to energy efficiency and sound insulation. Thanks to their weather resistance and durability, they remain effective for years.

Click here for more information: Properties and materials of window seals.

7 How do I measure the gasket I need for my UPVC windows?

The right seal for UPVC windows plays a crucial role in the energy efficiency and longevity of the window. Accurate measurement is therefore essential to ensure that the gasket seals optimally and thus prevents heat loss and draughts.

To measure the correct length of gasket for a UPVC windows, follow these steps:

1.Determine the window typeWhich manufacturer is involved? This information can be found on the frame or on a label on the window. Are these seals installed in the frame and sash? Depending on the window manufacturer, different sealing profiles may be installed.

2.Remove the old sealLook for a starting or end point or cut through the seal (do not cut it, just separate it). Measure the width, height and shape with a caliper gauge or ruler. Alternatively, simply send us a cross-section of your gasket and we will determine it for you. It definitely makes sense to send us a free sample piece from us before ordering a larger quantity.

3.Measure the required total lengthTake a tape measure and measure the length of the gasket along the entire frame or sash of the window. Make a note of the measurement to find the right total length of replacement gasket.

4. select the appropriate gasket type and material: Select the appropriate gasket material, such asTPE or silicone.
Make sure that the material is weather-resistant and durable so that the seal remains functional for a long time.

5. order a replacement seal

When selecting a suitable seal, we recommend that you look for high-quality materials such as TPE or silicone, which offer a long service life and good sealing properties. You should also make sure that the seal is suitable for UPVC windows and is easy to fit. If you are unsure, it is best to seek advice from a specialist to ensure that the new seal fits and works perfectly.

8 Why are there so many different window seals for UPVC windows?

UPVC windows and doors have a market share of around 70% in Germany. These have been manufactured since the 1960s by around 15 different system suppliers such as Schüco, Rehau, Veka, Kömmerling, Weru and others. These suppliers sell their prefabricated raw profiles to fabricators such as carpenters or window manufacturers, who use them to produce individual windows for their customers. The problem is that each manufacturer uses its own system and therefore different profiles, each of which requires specific seals. Due to the constant further development of window systems, the variety of window and door gaskets required is constantly increasing. In addition, different gaskets are used for each window, which makes the search for suitable gaskets even more difficult.

As a result of the further development of the various window systems over the years, a large number of different rubber seals are automatically required for windows and also for doors.

9. how can you install the right seal for UPVC windows correctly?

In order to install the window seals correctly, the right seals must first be selected. It is important to consider the right material, the right profile shape and the dimensions. The tools should then be prepared and the old seals carefully removed. It is important to remove all of the old rubber seal. The groove into which the new seal will be inserted must then be thoroughly cleaned. When inserting the new seal, make sure that it fits tightly and that there are no gaps. Corners and edges must be neatly finished and the ends should be firmly joined together. After installation, the window should be checked and adjusted if necessary. Regular inspections and cleaning help to extend the service life of the window seals and maintain their function. You can find instructions for self-assembly with videos here.

10. are there special care instructions for seals on UPVC windows?

Yes, there are special care instructions for seals on UPVC windows. To maintain the service life and functionality of the seals on UPVC windows, there are special care instructions. These include regular cleaning with a soft cloth or sponge, the use of mild cleaning agents and avoiding aggressive abrasive cleaners. For care and preservation, the seals should be treated with a silicone care product every six months. It is also important to regularly check for cracks or damage and to replace damaged seals immediately. Care should be taken when opening and closing windows, they should be aired regularly and the seals should be protected from extreme conditions such as sunlight or frost. It is also advisable to move the windows regularly to avoid overloading and thus extend the service life of the seals.