The aluminum frame gaskets are a structural component and significantly affect the performance of aluminum frames. When replacing a gasket, the frame’s performance (e.g., water tightness) automatically changes. Each company that designs and produces aluminum profiles for doors and windows (e.g., Europa, Etem) suggests-indicates specific gaskets. They test the frame gaskets for their performance in certification laboratories abroad (e.g., air permeability).
However, many times, several frame manufacturers, in order to reduce costs, proceed as follows: They replace the recommended frame gaskets with others available on the market, thus changing the behavior (performance) of the windows.
See how the gaskets installed in aluminum frames affect their performance (water tightness, air permeability).
Aluminum frame gaskets must be replaceable
At this point, we should note that the gaskets in aluminum frames must be replaceable. However, this is not the case for all types of gaskets, e.g., bubble gaskets – foam bubble gaskets. This is because it is a material that, by its nature, wears out over time.
All types of aluminum frame gaskets
Let’s look below at the main categories of gaskets used in opening frames:
Central Sash Gasket
The central sash gasket is an EPDM rubber gasket installed in the center of the frame sash. It is difficult to replace with another one (unless there is none at all!). In most series, the central gasket is not miter cut (45 degrees) at the corners of the frame. Special solid corners are installed to protect the point where the frame is most vulnerable and where most water accumulates. It can be easily replaced in case of wear.
Solid corners prevent water accumulation at the corners of the frames. The central gasket adapts to the corner and offers better air permeability.
Foam Gaskets
Foam gaskets are the best and most expensive gaskets, used by most aluminum profile manufacturing companies. Their foam part serves to ensure that the gasket ‘sits’ entirely on the sash. They can be easily replaced in case of wear and are used in all tests in the measurement laboratories for frame performance. They are considered the most reliable frame gaskets.
Foam gaskets are the most expensive but also the best. They adapt better than bubble gaskets, offering better insulation, and can be replaced.
Foam Bubble Gaskets
The foam bubble gasket is a very cheap variation of foam gaskets. The foam element is completely absent from this particular gasket. It is mainly used due to its low cost and is considered a commercial gasket. It is very difficult to replace the bubble gasket in aluminum frames in case of wear.
Foam bubble gaskets, or simply bubble gaskets, were widely used in the previous decade. Manufacturing companies now recommend foam gaskets. Bubble gaskets have a low cost, but they cannot be replaced due to expected wear and tear over time. Furthermore, they do not have the same performance as foam gaskets.
Bubble Gaskets
Bubble gaskets are the cheapest gaskets for aluminum frames. Besides their low quality, they cannot be replaced in case of wear. Profile manufacturing companies (e.g., Europa, Alumil) prohibit their use (in glazing sashes), while allowing their use only in shutters.
Bubble gaskets are now used only in shutters. At least, this is what certified manufacturers do.
Glazing Gasket
The glazing gasket is installed between the aluminum profile (glazing sash) and the glass pane (glass) of the frame. Often, its complete absence and the use of silicone instead are observed, which, of course, profile manufacturing companies do not recommend – approve. Aluminum frame gaskets significantly affect the performance of aluminum frames. We must be careful with the offers we may receive.
The gaskets installed between the glass and the sash are essential. Caution: the use of silicone is not recommended.
White frame gaskets and colored gaskets
Many consumers wonder why there are only black frame gaskets on the market and not white or colored ones. The choice of black gaskets for aluminum frames has to do with their durability and resistance to solar radiation. By manufacturing white or colored gaskets for aluminum frames, their composition changes. Specifically, in the manufacture of white gaskets, different solvents are used, which are susceptible to solar radiation (yellowing), and for this reason, white gaskets are used in interior frames or constructions. Another reason for the difficulty in finding gaskets of a different color than black (e.g., white gaskets) is the cost issue. In any case, and for large constructions (many meters), it is possible to manufacture gaskets in all shades.
White frame brushes
In the market for sliding aluminum frames, white frame brushes are available, but their use is limited and avoided because white brushes retain dust and dirt, consequently turning gray or black over time.
