DIY Builds
Photo by Blue Bird Pexels Logo Photo: Blue Bird

Can you reseal a uPVC door?

You can replace window seals in your uPVC windows and doors. Doing so is very easy and doesn't require any tools. You will find you can remove and install most window seals with just your fingers.

How many 12 2 wires can you put in a outlet box?
How many 12 2 wires can you put in a outlet box?

Plastic Box Fill Capacities Capacities for two common sizes: Single Gang Boxes: A total capacity of 18 cubic inches allows for nine #14 gauge...

Read More »
How can I test myself for mold exposure?
How can I test myself for mold exposure?

A blood test, sometimes called the radioallergosorbent test, can measure your immune system's response to mold by measuring the amount of certain...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

What is a window seal?

A window seal is a rubber gasket which is typically installed in uPVC windows and doors. You will find bubble gasket seals are installed around the opening of a window or door. Whereas Wedge and E-gaskets are installed around the glass units.

Can window seals be replaced?

You can replace window seals in your uPVC windows and doors. Doing so is very easy and doesn’t require any tools. You will find you can remove and install most window seals with just your fingers.

What causes window seals to fail?

There are a number of reasons why window seals fail. The main reason is simply time and how long they’ve been installed for. This is because when a seal has been installed for a long period of time it flattens and loses its effectiveness. The second reason for failed window seals is shrinkage. Cold weather can cause your seal to shrink which pulls it out from the corners of your windows and doors. This can also cause the rubber window seal to become brittle and start crumbling overtime.

How long do window seals last?

Most window seals will last longer than 10 years. In fact, you will likely find that most window and door manufacturers will give you a 10 year guarantee. That being said, we recommend checking your window and door seals every 5 years.

Can a window seal be repaired?

If you’re looking to repair your window seal, sorry to say, this won’t be possible. Once window seals have lost their shape or become brittle the only thing to do is replace them.

Do windows with broken seals need to be replaced?

If you find your window seals are performing badly you should change them as soon as possible. Poor performing window and door seals will allow cold and draughts to enter your home. Depending on how bad your window seals are you may see a reduction in the cost of heating your home as a result of replacing them.

How can you tell if a window seal loses its seal?

Do wooden windows add value to a house?
Do wooden windows add value to a house?

Timber windows and doors can play a huge role in adding warmth, security, character, desirability and in turn add value. If you are in the process...

Read More »
How long do I need to live in a house to avoid capital gains tax UK?
How long do I need to live in a house to avoid capital gains tax UK?

However as a general rule of thumb, you should look to make it your permanent residence for at least 1 year i.e. 12 months (but it can be less and...

Read More »

Testing your window seals is quite simple. The easiest way to do this is to simply feel for draughts and cold coming in around your window. If you can feel a cold breeze around the seals of your window then your seal has flattened and is no longer effective. You can also remove a bit of seal from your window, if it’s squashed flat or you find it’s brittle and crumbling then you should be replacing them right away. The third way would be looking for shrinkage. Sometimes window seals will shrink and pull away from the corners. You will have big gaps in the corners of your windows or glass where the seal is no longer situated.

How do I keep cold air from coming in my windows?

The best way to stop cold air from entering your home is simply to replace your window seals. If your seals are more than 10 years old then they will almost definitely need replacing. Doing so will drastically increase the efficiency of your home. The second thing you can do is replace your window hinges. Failed window hinges won’t close tightly on to your window seals. With that being said, even after you have replaced your window seals, you may need to also replace the hinges to get the maximum benefit from your new seals.

How to fix condensation on the inside of windows.

When the weather drops cold you may notice you have condensation on your windows. We have a great article which provides information on how this happens and what to do to fix it. Read the article here. At GB DIY Store we stock a wide range of window seals and items to help seal your window and doors. Here’s a list of products you may find useful.

How do you pour a concrete pad on unlevel ground?
How do you pour a concrete pad on unlevel ground?

Mark off the area as usual and then dig it out to the required depth. The depth depends on what type of concrete you're using and whether it needs...

Read More »
What is a porch overhang called?
What is a porch overhang called?

A roof overhang consists of how far the roof extends beyond the outside wall of a house or other building. This overhang is also referred to as an...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
What is the 2 Year building regs rule?
What is the 2 Year building regs rule?

Under section 35 and section 35(a) of the Building Act 1984, if a person carrying out building work contravenes the building regulations the local...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Do you need an air vent in a shed?
Do you need an air vent in a shed?

Good vents in your shed are an absolute must, even if you are only using it for storage. Without a good venting system, your shed can experience...

Read More »