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How to fix rubber seal underneath the window?

During a recent DIY project, I noticed that the rubber seals on the exterior bottom of my windows aren’t properly sealed. There are visible gaps in the seals, and I’m looking for a way to fix this. I don’t think replacing the rubber seals is an option, as it seems like that would require removing the entire window.

I’m considering the following approach:

Use a foam filler to fill the large gaps under the seals.
Apply exterior silicone around the window frame for added sealing.

My main question is: What type of silicone would be best for this purpose? I’m also planning to seal a couple of other windows where I’ve noticed similar gaps. Also is it safe to seal around the window infills, since there appears to be a gap between the timber infills and the brick wall

Any insights or product recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

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Comments

EricL

Hello @SouthFieldSnoop

If the gap is very big then using self-expanding foam in that gap is what you need to use. However, in order to provide a good weather seal, I suggest using Selleys 290ml Grey Storm Waterproof Gutter And Roof Sealant. It delivers a waterproof seal on any almost material and can even be applied in the rain to stop leaks immediately. It’s ideal for sealing skylights, gutters, downpipes and windows, and can be painted over with water-based paint.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Jewelleryrescue

Hi @SouthFieldSnoop

Some good points you raise there in how these windows and frames arre assembled.

Your points

0,5 Yes those rubber seals are apart of the window and can not easily be replace plus they are barely scanning the brick gap any way. We will come back to this soon.

1 An expanding aerosol foam product will fill those large gaps under the seal or a lot of gap filler. Read on we may not have to do that.

2 It will be hard to silicon that area and make it look nice but read on.

You read on so here we are: I propose a flat black rubber strip cut to size and glued in place with clear storm silicon that will span across the old rubber and span out over the gap to the brick work with decent coverage of it all.

This will cover every thing and at the same time seal the gaps 🙂

If need be place the new strip out from the windowsill a couple of mm if the other brick work gaps bigger than the one in the photo.

Wipe the silicon messes off with a rag and turps.

Moroday 15 x 1.5mm x 5m Black Rectangle Rubber Roll I/N: 4000062 $12^.58

Selleys 290ml Clear Storm Waterproof Gutter And Roof Sealant Clear I/N: 1230165 $19^.99

https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-290ml-clear-storm-waterproof-gutter-and-roof-sealant-clear_p1230165

SouthFieldSnoop

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/46286#Comment_46286

Hi @Jewelleryrescue
I do like the idea of using a rubber seal to get a cleaner look, I found a similar product here with 38MM width, which would work in my case.
Does Selleys sealant work as an adhesive? If it does, how much contact area is required to ensure the rectangular rubber stays securely in place?

Jewelleryrescue

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/85225#Comment_85225

Hi @SouthFieldSnoop

I suggested clear silicon as it is less noticeable if a bit squeeze's out where it should not. Just wipe down the strip with a cloth.

Works as a great glue. You can spot dab the silicon all the way down especially the ends and it will hold a lifetime just sitting there. Small contact area but it will hold well.

I would like on my window to run a bead of silicon on the windowsill and the brick work to fully seal the length as this helps stop insect incursions as well as hot cold air and water. Large contact area to stop the everything.

EricL

Hi @SouthFieldSnoop,

Just letting you now that the Selleys 290ml Clear Storm Waterproof Gutter And Roof Sealant comes in a clear variant if you are after something without colour.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

SouthFieldSnoop

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/46327#Comment_46327

Hi @EricL , @Jewelleryrescue

I completed this over the weekend, and overall, I'm happy with the results. However, one thing I regret is choosing black silicon instead of the clear option suggested by the experts. I thought black would look better with the grey window frames, but in hindsight, clear might have been a better choice (less messy).

For the task, I applied a strip of rubber roll and siliconed it securely against the frame, the brick, and the sides. The work looks good so far, but I'll wait a couple of days to inspect for any gaps or areas that might need resealing and reapply if necessary.

I'll be applying silicon around the remaining window frames with gaps over the coming weekends.

Thanks again for the advice and insights—they were truly helpful!

Jewelleryrescue

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/85314#Comment_85314

Hi @SouthFieldSnoop

Nice work your black silicon not so bad actually managed it pretty well

Over all job win win win. Insects weather and looks 🙂

JacobZ

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/85314#Comment_85314

Hi @SouthFieldSnoop,

Thanks for the update on your project, you should be proud of the result.

Dark silicone can definitely get messy, but I think you've done a great job, and the silicone blends in with the surroundings nicely.

Congratulations on a job well done.

Jacob

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