Replacing the seal on plastic windows with your own hands, on your own, how to properly change the sealing rubber, repair cost

One of the main operational requirements for PVC windows installed in residential or public buildings is tightness, as well as increased thermal properties.
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.

Exploitation

With proper care, the rubber seal can last up to 10 years. Achieving this is not at all difficult - you just need to follow simple rules of care

Clean the entire profile inside and out at least 2 times a year: before and after cold weather;
Carefully remove dirt accumulated during bad weather using a sponge, soft cloth or regular rag;
After cleaning, a lubricant for rubber seals, or, in its absence, glycerin, would be appropriate as a lubricant.

Do not use greasy detergents when caring for the profile - they can damage the harness; Do not clean in bad weather - there is a high probability of moisture getting in and the subsequent development of fungus, dampness and pathogenic bacteria; Carry out repairs and other work that generates a large amount of dust with the windows closed to avoid contamination of the profile from the inside.

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.

Types of window seals

Window sealing elements from different manufacturers have individual shapes, thicknesses, degrees of elasticity, and are made of different materials. The shape and composition of the sealing cord must comply with the technical requirements of GOST 30778-2001.

Materials for the production of seals have their own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages:

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a modified PVC. TPE is durable, does not burn, is available in colored versions, but is unstable to temperature ranges and deformation. TPE, which contains added rubber and polyethylene, is more elastic and resilient. Service life 8-10 years.
Rubber cord is a durable and elastic material with high resistance to mechanical damage. The main disadvantage is sensitivity to temperature changes. Lasts about 8-10 years.

Ethylene propylene synthetic rubber ( EPDM ) – has high resistance to external adverse factors, mechanical stress and deformation. The most common option for sealing PVC windows. Service life is about 20 years.
Polyurethane foam (with foam filling) - retains heat well, but is not flexible enough and, with prolonged compression, does not recover its original volume well. The service period is 5-8 years.

Silicone (VMQ) is a lightweight and elastic material that is highly resistant to UV rays and sub-zero temperatures. Disadvantages: low resistance to mechanical stress and high price. Service life up to 40 years.

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.

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.
Read also: Features of installing a hip roof and rafter system
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.

Adjusting fittings

The sash can be adjusted; its fastening can be changed vertically and horizontally. In the first case, the lower or upper loops are adjusted. By rotating the hexagon clockwise, press the sash against it, the bottom of the window opposite the hinge will rise. Rotate the tool counterclockwise, moving in the opposite direction.

If there are no obvious deformations and external integrity, it is better to adjust the plastic window.

Vertical adjustment is made using the bottom loop. By rotating the key clockwise, the sash rises, counterclockwise, it lowers.

The sash pressure is adjusted by eccentrics. They are on all sides of the perimeter. To press the sash, rotate the eccentric clockwise; if you need to press it out, turn it counterclockwise. If the risk is facing the street, then the clamp is weakened; if it is directed towards the window seal, it is pressed tightly against the frame. In addition to the above, the pressure can be adjusted by plates on the window sash. By summer it is weakened, by the onset of the cold season, it is strengthened.

Since the matter is quite serious, it is worth checking in advance whether the inserts are really “to blame”.

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.

How to determine that rubber bands on plastic windows need to be replaced

How quickly the seal wears out depends, first of all, on the quality of the product, proper care of it, and the climatic characteristics of the area where the window is installed. It is impossible to completely stop the destruction; you can only try to slow down the process.

The solution is to replace the sealing product with its analogue. Of course, it should be selected as carefully as possible.

Signs of the need for immediate replacement are the following factors:

Reduced elasticity of the rubber seal, the appearance of small cracks on it.
In winter, the windows begin to freeze, and ice appears inside the profile, which can reach very impressive sizes.
Condensation is noticeable. It occurs due to the fact that the temperature of the glass on the inside is lower than on the outside.
Colonies of fungus and mold appear.
Dust settles, although this has not been observed before.
Drafts. Even if the window, at first glance, is tightly closed, it is cold at night and in winter.

Many of these signs can be caused by other reasons, for example, improper installation of a plastic window.

Tools and consumables to seal the PVC structure

Replacing the seal is a simple job that does not require special professional tools. The master should have the following standard set :

Tape measure, ruler, marker for taking measurements and markings.
Scissors or a construction knife with a retractable blade for cutting.
Pliers and pliers for removing the old seal from the groove.
An awl or metal rod to clean the groove from dirt.
Plastic spatula for fixing the new tape into the lock.
A screwdriver or screwdriver for dismantling and reinstalling sash elements and fittings.
Silicone grease in a bottle for treating the seal after installation.
Vacuum suction cups for convenient transportation of the glass unit during its removal or installation in the frame.
Rubber hammer for fixing glazing beads after replacing the tape.

Note. All tools must be in good working order, sharpened, and free of traces of old dirt, which will allow you to achieve the desired result.

How to care for your seal so it lasts longer

There are special kits for caring for plastic windows.
Twice a year, the products need to be cleaned and lubricated . There is no need to dismantle them for this.

Soapy water and detergents that do not contain alcohol are suitable for cleaning The sash and frame contours need to be processed. The elastic sides are then wiped dry (lubricants are hydrophobic, so water may interfere with absorption).

Silicone compounds are well suited for lubrication Do not use mineral oils (they are harmful to rubber) or other mixtures that can react with seal components. The lubricant is distributed over the product, the excess is removed with a napkin.

How to insert it yourself?

To replace the seal, you must follow all points of the technological map and follow safety requirements, since glass is a breakable material that can cause injury.

Removing the window sash

The work of replacing the insulation begins with dismantling the window sash, for which you need to follow these simple steps :

A free horizontal surface on the floor or table, lined with a soft cloth, is prepared in advance.
The shutter opens 90 degrees after turning the handle.
Considering that during installation of the tape you will need to turn the structure over, you should remove the handle.
To do this, the decorative trim at its base is bent 90 degrees, and two self-tapping screws are completely unscrewed with a screwdriver.
The decorative plastic caps are removed from both hangers.
The metal rod is removed from the top loop using pliers.
The sash is carefully pulled out first from the upper hinge, after which it is lifted and released from the lower one.
The structure is carefully placed on the prepared surface for further manipulation. The seal on the sash should face the ceiling.
When replacing the seal on the beads, you must carefully pick up the element with a sharp object, sequentially, from the corner and towards the middle. A screwdriver is inserted into the resulting gap, which acts as a lever. You should not remove all the beads at the same time, as this may lead to the glass unit falling out.
If the tape around the perimeter of the translucent structure is replaced, all beads are carefully removed from the grooves, and the glass unit is held in parallel by hand.
After freeing the structure from the clamps, vacuum grips are installed in 2 places - along the edges of the structure. The window block is carefully removed from the frame and placed on a horizontal surface.

Important. If the sash has extended dimensions and weighs more than 70 kg, its dismantling should be carried out with the participation of 1-2 assistants.

Removing old material

When the sash is dismantled, it is necessary to carefully inspect the seal again, identify the problem and begin dismantling the old tape :

First of all, you should find the end of the tape - it should be in the corner of the sash.
Do not pull on the free edge of the polymer material, as it can easily come off.
The end of the tape is picked up with a knife to release it by 3-5 cm.
Next, you need to carefully pull the tape, constantly changing the grip as close as possible to the place where it is fixed.
The tape is removed along the entire perimeter. If a part breaks, the procedure is repeated from this zone.
The sealant is removed from the bead in one step, along its entire length.
If the old tape is removed along the inner perimeter of the sash - in the place where the glass unit is installed, you can use a chisel to remove it conveniently.

After removing the seal, you should blow out the grooves and, if necessary, clean them of old sealant.

Installing a new

To install a new seal, you need to have on hand a material with identical geometric characteristics. The work is carried out in several stages :

The required length of polymer is measured from the roll.
The tape is cut, taking into account a small margin, and straightened to length.
To simplify fastening, its end should be lubricated with silicone material.
The part is loaded from the corner of the sash, gradually, with pressure.
If you have difficulty inserting the material into the groove with your finger, you should use a plastic spatula. It is not recommended to use knives or other sharp metal objects, as they can cut through the material.
When installing, the tape should not be tensioned.
After the element is mounted along its entire length, its end is cut off so that the seal is located strictly along the edge of the groove.
When installing a seal around the perimeter of a glass unit, you need to use silicone or acrylic sealant, since the material does not have a designated edge.

Important. If during the installation process an unfixed area is identified, it should be immediately tucked in and smoothed to length. If after installation the tape warps, you need to remove its section to the defective area and repeat the procedure again.

Preventative work

Long-term use of fittings leads to the fact that sooner or later dust or various types of contamination appear on it. They are the ones that cause poor performance and resulting breakdowns. To prevent negative consequences, it is necessary to perform certain types of work in the following order:

repair of fittings is impossible without the main step - the sash is removed from its hinges;
so that various decorative elements do not interfere with the repair process, they should be removed;

Next, you need to knock out the axle at the top hinge. This is done as follows: first you need to hit from above, then from below. As a result, the axle is easily removed;
When you have dealt with the top loop, you should proceed to the bottom one. The sash is removed from the bottom hinge, after which the bolts under the plastic cover are unscrewed. This will allow you to easily remove the handle;
The next step is to unscrew the screws that secure the fittings;

After all the work done, the window mechanism is removed from the groove. It must be carefully placed on the table where it will be cleaned. To do this, you should also stock up on a brush and a special liquid;
further, all parts are thoroughly dried, because remaining liquid will lead to negative consequences;
Now you should lubricate with machine or other special oil all those parts that are subject to friction;
The final stage is to install all the fittings in their places.

It is also important to lubricate the hinges before installing the window. Such preventive work should be carried out approximately twice a year.

These actions will help extend the service life of the fittings. The seals also require periodic cleaning and lubrication. In addition, not only the fittings, but also the glass unit should be clean.

Is it possible to paste without errors?

When installing a sealing tape, some problems may arise that need to be addressed urgently :

The size of the tape does not always fit the mounting groove - the material must be replaced with a product with the required dimensions.
There is not enough tape along the length of the product.
If the material is installed around the perimeter of the sash or double-glazed window, it is allowed to join in the corners of the structure without overlap, under slight tension so that no gap is formed.
The tape along the length of the bead must be installed without interruption.
Overlaps or joining along the length of the profile are not allowed.
Tension of the tape during installation - the elastic material returns to its previous state over time, which causes the formation of a gap at the edges. The tape should fit without tension.
When dismantling the old seal, it begins to crumble due to old age and loss of strength. In such cases, you should carefully remove the material from the groove piece by piece with a metal rod.
Warping of the tape - to avoid this problem, you need to smooth the material after installation every 10 cm.

Important. After installation, it is necessary to inspect the seal and lubricate it to improve performance and increase service life.

Price for repair services

There are many competing companies on the market that install and service window structures. The list of their work also includes replacing sealing tapes. How much the service costs depends on the complexity and volume, the number of windows in the premises.

Average prices in the Russian Federation for this type of work:

Lubrication of polymer tape - from 70-80 rubles. for 1 m.p.
Replacing the seal on the glazing bead - from 120 rubles. per element.
Replacing the seal on a double-glazed window - from 150 rubles. for 1 m.p.
Replacing the seal on the sash - from 180 rubles. for 1 m.p.

Prices may vary depending on the company’s price list, the complexity of the work and the cost of consumables.