Fixing UPVC Window Seal Problems

Most problems with uPVC window seals are due to the natural aging of the rubber material. This can cause a whole host of problems for your home including a build-up of moisture, increased energy usage and heightened noise pollution. As well as causing problems in your home, problems with your uPVC window seals can leave your home more vulnerable to a break-in. Gaps in the seals can leave the window beads exposed which can be removed and stripped, gaining a burglar prime access to your home quickly and easily. With a burglary occurring every 106 seconds in the UK, it is crucial to maintain high security standards.

What is a Window Seal?

A window seal is a strip of rubber, that sits between the window frame and glass pane. Its purpose is to create an airtight seal to prevent moisture, draughts, noise, dust and dirt, which also helps keep energy bills down.

The Different Types of Window Seals

• Flipper Gaskets
• Bubble Gaskets
• Wedge Gaskets
• E Gaskets
• Silicone
• Foam Seals

What Causes uPVC Window Seals to Fail?

The most common causes for a uPVC window seal to fail are age and loss of plasticity within the seal leads to brittleness and cracking. Further causes include:

1. Age and wear can cause rubber or silicone material to degrade. This degradation leads to a loss of sealing effectiveness. Sunlight, fluctuating temperatures, and general wear and tear can all contribute to this process over time.
2. Poor installation of the uPVC window seal during the initial fitting can result in premature failure, as you will then have a misaligned uPVC window seal gasket.
3. Harsh weather can affect weather seals. Heavy rain, snow, and high winds, can cause extra stress on your uPVC window seal.
4. Chemicals, solvents, and cleaning agents can damage the rubber or silicone material of the uPVC window seal gasket.

Can You Fix the Rubber Seal in a Window?

You can repair a rubber seal using a silicone sealant or specialised rubber adhesive, if it has slightly shrunk. However, it is more efficient and often cheaper in the long run to replace them.

Signs That Your Window Seal Needs to be Replaced

Here are some signs that indicate a uPVC window seal has lost its effectiveness and you need a replacement:

1. 1. Draughts: these indicate a broken uPVC window seal. If you feel cold air coming in around the window, it suggests that the seal is no longer airtight.

1. 1. Condensation: excessive condensation or fogging between the windowpanes suggests that your seal has failed, allowing moisture to enter.

1. 1. Increased noise: an increased volume of noise from the outside is another indicator your seals have failed and need replacing.

1. 1. Increased energy bills: this is likely due to a compromised window seal. It’s a good idea to check your seals at the end of summer each year to ensure you’re not heating the street!

uPVC Window Seal FAQs

Still need some help with your window seals? Our FAQs offer even more information, or you can call out a local locksmith to help you.

How Long Does a uPVC Window Seal Last?

A window seal typically lasts 5-10 years, with quality products and proper care and maintenance a seal can last much longer.

Can You Replace Seals on uPVC Windows?

Yes, window seals can be replaced fairly easily with some DIY. Check both the internal and external seals, you may want to call in a professional if upstairs windows are hard to access.

How to Install uPVC Window Seals

1. Peel the seal away from the window using your fingers,
2. Clean the area and treat any mould patches.
3. Push the rubber seal into the grooves where the previous seal was.
4. Seal any gaps with a silicone sealant.