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How to Install Rubber Seals and Window Seals: A Step-by-Step Guide

Available in a wide variety of sizes, Trim-Lok’s EPDM sponge rubber seals can be used anywhere a watertight, reliable rubber seal is needed, such as storage compartments, toolboxes, RV doors, boat hatches, windows or as a seal between a door and its jamb.

Used in the automotive, marine, transportation industries, and more, our rubber seals protect against weather damage from rain, snow, or extreme heat. Types of rubber seals offered by Trim-Lok:

  • D-shaped rubber seals
  • P-profile rubber seals
  • Ribbed and square profiles
  • Pedestal seals
  • Lid seals
  • Triangle sections
  • EPDM sponge rubber tubing
  • O-ring cord stock

 

 

Rubber Seal and Window Seal Installation

This instructional video will show you how to select and install rubber seals and window seals. Learn how to properly choose the correct rubber seal size and profile dimension and find the best adhesive option for your application.

How to choose your rubber seal size and profile dimension:

  1. Establish adhesion your needs: BT (if warranties are a concern) or HT (for static applications). 
  2. Select the right size seal for your application and establish the correct profile dimension:
    • Measure the distance between your door and jamb.
    • Place modeling clay in the four corners of your jamb and close the door (this will compress the clay).
    • Take calipers and insert them into the clay at each of the four corners.
    • Add the depth of the clay in each of the four corners and divide by four to find your closed-door jamb dimension.
    • Take that number and add 25–50%. This will give you the rubber seal profile size. It doesn’t need to be exact, but it should be close.

      Note: Our rubber seals are designed to work best at 25–50% compression of their original height. If you compress it more than that, the part will take a compression set, limiting its overall life and serviceability.

How to install window seals:

  1. Install at temperatures 50°F to 100°F.
  2. Mix a solution of one-part isopropyl alcohol and one-part water. Use a clean rag to remove all dirt and contaminants from the surface.
  3. Don’t peel back the seal liner all at once. Peel back the liner as you adhere the seal to the substrate.
  4. Once installed, apply pressure by hand or wooden roller.
  5. Wait 72 hours for full-strength adhesion.

Trim-Lok’s Custom Solutions

Need a custom fit? Request a sample to ensure the perfect rubber seal for your project. Trim-Lok’s products are customizable to meet your unique needs. We can work closely with you to customize a solution for your exact requirements. Explore our case studies to learn how we approach a custom project.

 

REQUEST RUBBER SEAL SAMPLE KIT