Now you can hardly find houses without plastic windows, and in new buildings a double-glazed window is included with the apartment. And it's no secret that the quality of these products leaves much to be desired. For many developers, it is economically more profitable to install, instead of really good windows, cheap analogues with less quality fittings and gaskets. Therefore, many newcomers by the next winter, the question arises of how to change the seal on plastic windows. In this we will try to understand this material.
Reasons to replace
Sooner or later, any product or equipment may fail, this problem also applies to seals for plastic windows. There may be many reasons for this: violation of the installation rules, improper operation and maintenance, or the poor quality seal itself.
The tightness of the closed sashes and the double-glazed window of the window depends on the gaskets, as well as protection against cold, heat, noise and dust. Therefore, the main signs for replacing seals are:
- In winter, ice forms on the inside of the window, that is, the window freezes.
- The appearance of condensation on the glass.
- The appearance of drafts and the presence of dust on the windowsill (in the summer) with the sash closed.
- Increased sound permeability from the street.
- Visible damage to the seals themselves: various cracks, cuts, breakouts or loss of grooves.
Do I need to change?
Sometimes, in the presence of one or more of the above signs, replacement of the seal in plastic windows is not required at all. But this is only if the seal itself is in good condition, that is, without visible damage. The following usually helps:
- Adjustment / adjustment of the profile of the plastic window. Modern constructions have two closing modes: summer and winter (with more tightly pressing the sash against the window frame). Well, for those who do not have this option, it is recommended to carry out adjustment at least once a year. And the first time this should be done by the installer of the plastic window.
- Silicone grease may help (with minor microcracks). This will not only eliminate microcracks, but also give the sealant elasticity. Lubricate strictly at positive temperature. In general, it is necessary to process the sealant with a certain periodicity, but more on that later.
If the above does not help and the problems continue, then only replacing the seal will help.
Types of gaskets
Sealers for plastic windows can be separated for a long time at the destination (frame, casement) or in appearance (chamber, petal), but the main selection criterion is still the material from which the product is made.
- TEP or thermoplastic elastomer. The most commonly used sealant (mainly by manufacturers), but not because of the quality of the material, but because of the relative cheapness and ease of installation. Also, the pluses include good resistance to mechanical stress during repeated opening and closing of the window. Cons - it does not tolerate temperature extremes: it becomes brittle in extreme cold and too soft in the heat. Not resistant to ultraviolet radiation.
- EPDM or ethylene propylene rubber. It is highly resistant to temperature changes (from -60 to +120 degrees), is not exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Quite an expensive seal, but taking into account the life of up to 20 years, its use is justified.
- Silicone gaskets. Combine all the advantages of the other types: excellent resistance to extreme heat and frost, increased elasticity of the material (with frequent and dense closing, it is practically not erased). The best choice, albeit the most expensive.
- Rubber seals for plastic windows are also widely used by both consumers and manufacturers. Basically, of course, because of its low cost. The product, although it has good sealing, but can crack under sharp and often repeated temperature changes.
Selection recommendations
Following simple recommendations, you can protect yourself from buying unsuitable or low-quality goods, and, therefore, avoid unnecessary time and money.
- It is recommended to buy exactly the type of seal that was installed by the manufacturer - both in shape and thickness. A product from another manufacturer simply will not work for you.
- It will be useful to bring along a piece of the old seal to facilitate the search.
- Get a sealant of necessary length to avoid excess joints. Ideally, the joint should be one.
- It is believed that a chamber-type sealant is better than petal products. But this is very conditional, since many worthy manufacturers successfully use both types of seals.
- Do not choose a product by color, as this criterion does not affect its quality characteristics.
- When choosing, be sure to consider what the seal is made of, since each material has its own specific characteristics.
Training
Before replacing rubber seals in plastic windows (as well as any other seals), it is necessary to prepare these very windows by following the simple steps:
- First you need to remove the sash from the frame, as this will greatly facilitate the process of preparing and installing the seal.
- Next, you need to remove the old seals and clean the windows from dirt and dust.
- It is necessary to degrease the surface of the grooves using white spirit or regular alcohol.
You also need to prepare the necessary tool and material:
- Scissors for cutting the seal.
- The seal itself.
- Glue for rubber. For the joint, you can use superglue.
Seal installation
After the preparation is completed, it's time to start installing silicone seals for plastic windows (or any other products). This is a fairly easy process that does not require extra effort.
It is better to start installation from the top of the sash, from about the middle or corner. We attach the seal to the groove and press down with your finger (depending on the material of the product, the pressure may be different). We pass along the entire perimeter of the sash, evenly inserting the seal. Having reached the beginning of the installation, you need to trim it as close to the other end as possible.
In order to glue the joint, you need to pull the ends out of the groove and apply glue to the seal lock. Then reinsert the elastic bands into place and press lightly. It is important to apply glue on the foot, and not on the body of the sealant. In the same way, the seal changes on the frame.
It is important to insert the seal on the right side, otherwise there will be no sense from the work done. The side of the insert can be determined by looking at how the old seal is inserted.
Pledge of long service
Careful care is the key to the long service not only of the seal, but of the whole window. Therefore, it is necessary at least once a year (and preferably twice - in spring and autumn) to perform the following actions:
- Wipe the profile and seal with a soft sponge or cloth using detergent (no solid particles).
- Also clean the gap between the seal and the frame from dirt.
- After drying, it is necessary to treat the seal with a special silicone-based lubricant.
- It is necessary to wipe and lubricate all mechanisms of accessories.
It will be worthwhile to purchase a special set for the care of plastic windows
Conclusion
Regardless of which plastic window seal you use, it is important to remember some rules:
- It is better to replace the seal after adjusting the fittings.
- It is recommended to change the seal both on the frame and on the sash. Never change the seal partially (in pieces).
- Do not tighten or squeeze the seal during installation, especially at the corners.
- To avoid divergence of joints, be sure to coat them with glue.
- Use the sealant for its intended purpose, that is, the frame is installed on the frame, and the casement seal on the sash.