7 Reasons to Use Custom Rubber Parts in The Glass & Glazing Industry
Window designs and styles change constantly, introducing new trends and finishes. But a constant factor within that is the need for efficient rubber seals that make windows work properly. Although standard seals are available and can be used, they do not offer the same level of performance as custom rubber parts, particularly in view of the many variations in window design.
1. The Specific Needs of the Glass and Glazing Industry
Windows let natural light into your property, avoiding the need for artificial lighting and providing views of the exterior. But modern windows are expected to do much more than that.
Besides looking good and adding to the aesthetics of your property, modern windows are expected to be virtually maintenance-free and long-lasting. They are either double or triple-glazed for thermal and sound insulation and so make homes and commercial buildings much more energy efficient and comfortable.
It is quantified that up to 50% of energy loss occurs through old-style windows due to heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This is reduced dramatically by double or triple-glazing and high performance glazing systems that include efficient window seals.
Whilst all gaskets and seals will make windows perform better, the performance will be greater if those seals and gaskets are tailor made to fit certain windows. The seals fit between the panes of glass, keeping them apart at an optimal distance and the gap is generally filled with an inert gas that reduces thermal transfer.
Besides moderating the temperature of buildings, window seals prevent water penetration and reduce external noise, making occupants more comfortable. Therefore, it is essential that seals are reliable at all times since the failure of a seal will make double or triple-glazing systems much less efficient.
2. Ensuring a Perfect Seal Against Weather and Elements
The performance of a double or triple-glazed window depends on the panes of glass being held apart the required distance and the inert gas not leaking from between them. This means that the seal has to fit perfectly and has to be completely reliable and durable. But the very variety of modern window styles means that standard seals are very unlikely to be able to cater for all needs efficiently.
Custom rubber seals are designed for the specific size of a window and therefore will ensure a perfect fit. This is particularly important since external windows are exposed to the elements and often have to withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent water getting into the property. A failure of the seal will result in the formation of condensation and mould, which are bad for the interior of the property and detrimental to the health of the occupants.
3. Vibration and Shock Absorption
When sound waves from outside strike a window, they produce a vibration that carries the waves to the interior of the property. The amount of sound passing through will be reduced if the windows absorb or redirect the vibration.
The sound-proofing of windows is achieved partly by having multiple panes of glass with gaps between and by thicker or treated glass. Efficient rubber seals are also important because any cracks or gaps will allow the sound to bypass the glass and enter the property.
4. Improved Aesthetics and Design Integration
Windows are designed not only for their efficiency but also for their good looks. They are available in multiple sizes, shapes and styles so that customers can choose the ones they want to blend in with their property and improve its appearance.
Custom rubber parts allow flexibility in design and can be made to fit in with both traditional and contemporary styles, however unusual they may be. They can also be manufactured in various colours so they blend in with the window frames and add to the visual appeal.
5. Enhanced Safety and Security
Windows have long been considered the weak points in a property’s overall security. Intruders have generally tried there first because they have been by far the easiest point of entry.
The situation has now changed with the introduction of double-glazing, security glass and multi-point locking systems. And custom rubber seals have added to the security, being difficult to remove so intruders cannot gain entry and are more likely to look elsewhere. The seals also comply with building regulations and safety standards.
6. UV and Ozone Resistance for Longevity
External windows, including the rubber seals, have to be able to withstand extreme weather without any degradation. That includes being exposed to UV rays from the sun, which can cause fading and cracking in some materials. Conditions are particularly challenging in coastal areas where there is salt in the air and an increased potential for ozone damage.
Many modern window frames are made from uPVC that resists the harmful effects of UV rays and other weather damage. Rubber compounds used for window seals are also resistant to weathering and UV damage, so will give a long life with no fading, corrosion or cracking.
7. Solving Unique Installation Challenges
Most windows are in place for many years and have to withstand severe weather without deteriorating or failing in any way. Custom rubber plays a major part in this by keeping windows weather tight and operating in an efficient manner. This keeps homes comfortable and saves energy by reducing the use of air conditioning or heating systems.
Innovative new window designs are being developed and designers are tending to push the limits for glazing systems, with frames often becoming slimmer and less obtrusive so views are uninterrupted. Window seals have to be able to keep up and the availability of custom materials made from specialist rubber compounds ensures that rubber materials can deliver tailored and effective solutions.
At Gulf Rubber, we have wide experience of the needs of the glass and glazing industry and can help to select the most suitable materials and develop seals that really do the job.
Get in touch for an effective and efficient solution.