Push-in bulb seals are used in push-in backer applications. They enable a large amount of space to be taken up in the aluminum mullion, the part of the door frame or window frame that divides or separates the frame into different sections. Push-in bulb seals are easy to install and provide a long-lasting way to seal the area between the glass panel and the window sash or door frame.
Glazing Seals for Commercial Doors and Windows
Vip Rubber and Plastic of La Habra, California (USA) makes push-in bulb seals for commercial doors and windows; however, we do not keep these items in stock for low-volume consumer sales. Minimum order quantities apply. Lead times may vary. If you are a door or window manufacturer, we invite you to contact us to discuss your sealing application.
Push-In Bulb Seal Materials
Most push-in bulb seals are made of 70-durometer EPDM or Santoprene, a high-performance thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that is also a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). Durometer is a measure of hardness and specified according to the Shore A scale.
- EPDM is synthetic rubber that’s extremely durable, flexible, and weather-resistant.
- Santoprene has the properties of rubber but improved performance, including flexibility.
Additional push-in bulb seal materials include neoprene that meets the requirements of ASTM C864, a specification that covers preformed dense elastomeric compression gaskets and accessories for use in sealing and glazing applications.
Sponge materials can be used instead, but they don’t provide long-term performance. On the Vip website, push-in bulb seals are grouped with plastic extrusion profiles.
Compression Deflection for Commercial Door and Window Seals
The push-in bulb seal that’s shown on this web page lacks significant lateral compression deflection. It is rarely used but may be recommended for specialty applications. With its significant amount of give, this push-in bulb seal provides an alternative to sponge glazing tape.