The tightness of the metal-plastic frames is provided by a sealant - an elastic rubber cord, which is laid along the contour of the sash of the window profile. The material for the manufacture of a flexible tube is not only rubber, but also other polymeric substances. There are a number of reasons that lead to premature wear of gaskets. Replacing the seal in plastic windows is a simple process, you can do the work yourself.
Types of sealing cords
In the window construction, the sealant is responsible for the reliable protection of the room from drafts, the penetration of cold and heat leaks. Like all operational materials, gaskets are subject to aging: drying and cracking of the surface, deformation, loss of elasticity. Their durability depends on the properties of the materials of which the harnesses are made.
The main types of sealants used for PVC windows:
- Synthetic rubber rubber cords are used more often than others. With proper care, they serve 20-30 years in the temperature range from -50 to + 140ºС.
- Silicone seals withstand 40 years of operation, but their cost is greater. High elasticity, however, mechanical strength inferior to rubber products.
- EPDM sealing tape made of ethylene propylene rubber. The manufacturer has a warranty period of 20 years. The properties of the sealant are resistance to ultraviolet and temperature extremes. The disadvantage is an unpleasant smell, the cost of colored ribbons is 2 times higher than the price of black ones.
- Thermoelastoplastic cords are mainly used in the southern regions. Plasticity is low, softened at high temperature.
- PVC polyvinyl chloride tubes are characterized by springiness. In cold areas, they are not recommended for use, since at low temperatures their elasticity is lost.
Gaskets also differ in cross section - the shape is solid and petal. The second option is preferable. To replace the sealing gum on the plastic windows without complications, you need to purchase the same cord as a dismantled one.
Causes of wear
The sealant provides an impenetrable fit of the sash to the frame and prevents the penetration of cold into the room, as it is constantly under a small load.
With deformation of the profile or improper adjustment, the pressure on the cord increases, which leads to rapid wear.
The reasons for the further destruction of the sealant are the quality of the material from which it is made, and the results of the consequences of loose fit of the leaves:
- temperature differences in the room / street section;
- increased humidity leads to fogging of the windows and the formation of frost and ice on them;
- increased street noise, constant dust on the windowsill with closed wings, a clear sensation of draft;
- lack of prevention or improper care of the sealant.
If gaskets of low quality are installed, then their service life is usually 5 years.
The need to replace rubber bands on plastic windows is also revealed by external inspection. Signs of unsuitability for further use of the product: loss of shape, cuts and tears, cracking under tension, traces of fungus and mold.
Replacement Procedure
A rubber band is located around the perimeter of the window. To replace it, you can remove the sash or work on a solid structure. This process requires accuracy and endurance, if done by hand.
Seal replacement sequence for windows:
- remove the defective rubber cord from the groove in the profile;
- clean the groove from dirt and degrease, grease the corners with glue;
- lay the new sealant in a single piece of the required length, avoiding its stretching and compression. The cord should fit in a natural state;
- cut off excess harness, if it is formed, glue the joint.
It is not enough to change the gasket in the window block, you need to ensure a long shelf life - keep it clean and regularly serviced.
Seal prophylaxis is carried out at least once every six months - during seasonal switching of the operation mode of plastic windows. After cleaning the cord from contamination, it is lubricated with silicone gel or spray.
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