Seal Centre

Find the perfect UPVC gasket seal

Use Our Sample Pack (Recommended)

The most reliable way to find the right UPVC gasket seal is with our Sample Pack. It includes a small piece—around 10cm—of every rubber seal we offer, each clearly labelled with its code for easy identification.

Simply test each gasket sample directly in your window or door frame. This hands-on approach guarantees you choose the gasket that provides the best fit and draught-proofing performance.

Sending Us Your Old Gasket

While you can send us a piece of your old gasket for identification, we generally advise against this method for accurate gasket replacement.

Why? Because old UPVC door seals and window seals are often worn, compressed, and misshapen from years of use. The sample you send likely won't reflect the original size and profile needed for a proper seal. Testing new samples directly in the frame is always the most accurate way to find the perfect replacement gasket.

Need Help Choosing Your Seal?

We're here to assist! If you need guidance during the selection process for your double glazing seals, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to work with you to find the ideal solution.

How to Install UPVC Gasket Seals

Replacing your old, worn-out UPVC window seals or door seals is a straightforward process. This simple DIY task can significantly improve insulation and reduce cold draughts. Here’s how to install common types of replacement gaskets:

Installing Bubble & Flipper Gaskets (Frame Seals)

These are typically push-fit seals found in the groove around the opening part of UPVC windows and doors.

1. Remove the Old Seal: Starting at a corner or join, firmly grip the old gasket and pull it out of the frame groove. It should come out in one continuous piece.
2. Clean the Groove: Use a dry cloth or a brush to thoroughly clean out any dirt, debris, or residue from the empty groove. A clean channel ensures a better fit for the new seal.
3. Start the New Seal: Take the new gasket. Find the centre point along the top of the frame, then push the 'dart' or 'arrowhead' base into the groove, starting from that point.
4. Work Around the Frame: Press the seal firmly into the groove, working your way around the entire frame. Do not stretch the gasket during installation; allow it to sit naturally in the channel to prevent future shrinkage.
5. Cut to Size & Finish: When you reach the starting point, overlap the seal slightly—by about 5mm—and cut it cleanly using sharp scissors or gasket shears. Push the final end firmly into place. For extra security at the join, you can optionally apply a tiny amount of superglue, though this is usually not required.
6. Check the Corners: Ensure the seal is pushed fully into all corners for a tight, draught-proof seal.

Installing Wedge Gaskets (Glass Seals)

Wedge gaskets are used to secure the glass unit within the frame and are often found on the internal side of double glazing.

1. Remove the Old Wedge Gasket: Locate the old wedge gasket, usually positioned between the glass and the UPVC frame. Starting at a corner, carefully pull it out. A stiff, blunt tool like a putty knife can gently help pry the start of the gasket out if needed.
2. Clean the Area: Clean the gap where the gasket sat, removing any dirt or old sealant residue.
3. Install the New Wedge Gasket: Starting at a corner, push the new wedge gasket into the gap between the glass and the frame. You can usually do this with your fingers, or use a specialized gasket roller tool for a smoother application. Push it in evenly without stretching it.
4. Work Around the Glass: Continue pushing the gasket into place around the entire perimeter of the glass unit, installing one side at a time.
5. Cut Each Side: As you complete each side, cut the gasket cleanly using sharp scissors or gasket shears. Ensure you cut each piece approximately 1cm longer than the side requires. Push this small amount of excess firmly into the corner. This technique helps create a tight seal at the joins and also allows for any potential gasket shrinkage over time.

Important Note: Always ensure you have the correctly sized replacement gasket for your UPVC windows or doors. Using the wrong size can lead to poor sealing, draughts, or difficulty during installation.

UPVC Seal FAQs

Worn out or perished UPVC window and door seals are a common problem. When rubber gaskets degrade, they fail to create an effective barrier, allowing cold draughts to penetrate your home and significantly reducing its energy efficiency. Replacing old seals with new, correctly sized gaskets restores the airtight seal, stops draughts, and can help lower your energy bills.

• How do I know if my UPVC window or door seals need replacing? Look for obvious signs like feeling cold draughts around the edges, increased outside noise, visible cracks or physical damage to the rubber seal, mould growth on the gasket, or the seal shrinking and pulling away from the corners. Condensation appearing between the panes of double glazing also indicates seal failure, although this typically means the entire glass unit needs replacing, not just the gasket seal.
• What's the difference between Bubble/Flipper and Wedge gasket seals? Bubble and Flipper gaskets are primarily compression seals used on the frame where the opening window or door sash closes against, crucial for draught proofing. Wedge gaskets are mainly used to hold the double glazing glass unit securely within the UPVC frame or beading.
• Can I repair a damaged UPVC window seal? Generally, no. Once a rubber seal has become brittle, cracked, flattened, or has shrunk significantly, it loses its sealing properties. Gasket replacement is the only effective window seal repair solution.
• How long do UPVC window and door seals usually last? Most quality UPVC seals are designed to last 10 years or more, but lifespan depends on factors like weather exposure and maintenance. It's good practice to inspect your seals every few years and replace them if you notice signs of deterioration or reduced draught-proofing performance.
• Is replacing UPVC seals a difficult DIY job? For most homeowners, replacing push-in frame seals like Bubble or Flipper gaskets, and installing wedge gaskets, is a relatively simple DIY task. It requires minimal tools—usually just scissors or shears and perhaps a cloth. Refer to our Installation tab for detailed guides.
• Why has my UPVC seal shrunk, especially at the corners? Gasket shrinkage can happen over time due to temperature fluctuations, particularly cold weather, and the natural aging process of the rubber material. This is a key reason why starting installation in the middle of a side and cutting wedge gaskets slightly longer is recommended.
• What happens if I use the wrong size gasket for my double glazing? If the replacement gasket is too small, it won't create an effective seal, leading to cold draughts and potential water ingress. If it's too large, fitting it into the groove might be very difficult or impossible, or it could put excessive pressure on the frame or hinges. Using a gasket sample pack is the best way to ensure you select the correct size.
• Do I need adhesive or glue to install new UPVC gaskets? No, almost all UPVC gaskets—Bubble, Flipper, and Wedge types—are designed for a simple push-fit installation. The shape of the gasket base holds it securely in the groove. Adhesive is not required and generally not recommended for these replacement seals. A tiny spot of superglue is an optional extra for securing the join on frame seals if desired.

Browse Our Range of UPVC Window and Door Seals

Discover our comprehensive selection of high-quality replacement UPVC window seals and door seals. Whether you need bubble gaskets, flipper seals for improved compression, or wedge gaskets to secure your double glazing, we have the right profile for your needs. Stop draughts, improve energy efficiency, and restore the performance of your windows and doors with our durable rubber gasket seals.

Browse All uPVC Seals