Deep glazing channels, or deep U-channels, are seals with deeper pockets for shower doors or fixed panels of glass. Depending on the application, these U-shaped channels can help secure glass to a wall, ceiling, or floor. Widths suitable for 3/8” or 1/2” glass are available in various styles.
Commercial Glazing Seals for the Shower Door Industry
Vip Rubber and Plastic of La Habra, California (USA) makes deep glazing channels for shower door and panel manufacturers; however, we do not keep these products in stock for consumer sale. Minimum order quantities apply. Lead times may vary. If you are a door or window manufacturer, contact us to discuss your sealing application and to learn more about the deep U-channels that we provide.
Flex PVC Glazing Channels
In the shower door industry, deep glazing channels are usually made of Flex PVC, a more flexible form of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Flex PVC is available with an opacity that ranges from clear to opaque and is made with different amounts of plasticizers, additives that impart rubber-like properties.
With its good strength, high abrasion resistance, high clarity, and ability to resist water, Flex PVC is also a cost-effective material for deep U-channels. Although it is sensitive to oxidative and ultraviolet (UV) light degradation, these environmental considerations generally aren’t factors with indoor applications.
Santoprene Glazing Channels
Santoprene, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), can be used instead but costs twice as much as Flex PVC and extrudes at half the poundage per hour. Santoprene is a TPV that has an environmental resistance that is comparable to that of EPDM, but buyers need to weigh cost against performance.
Deep Glazing Channel Design and Installation
Deep U-channels for shower door and panels can have interior tongues for additional gripping. They may also have feet-like features at the top of each side. Deep U-channels are easy to install and can be pressed into place without tools. On the Vip Rubber and Plastic website, these glazing seals are grouped with other types of plastic extrusion profiles. You’ll find many other products there as well.