Self-Grip Top Seals

Self-grip top seals can be used to seal hatches to create a reliable seal that stops the ingress of water, air and other foreign objects. They are commonly used on inspection hatches within industrial and engineering settings, as well as hatches on boats and other marine vessels. As the top sealing bulb is located on the top of the self-gripping trim, these products are suitable for hatches that close down onto the top of a protruding panel edge. This motion compresses the sponge sealing bulb, minimising the chance of water ingress when the hatch lid is closed.

Manufactured as two parts, self-grip top seals used on hatches consist of a metal-reinforced self-gripping trim with a closed-cell sponge sealing bulb. The metal spine within the body of the edge trim helps strengthen the section and protects the underlying surface from bumps or other impact. As a flexible section, these products can be bent around gradual corners around the end of the hatch opening.

These products are available in a large selection of sizes depending on the required sealing bulb diameter and thickness of the panel edge. They can be fitted onto most materials commonly used for hatches, such as fibreglass, carbon fibre, wood or metal. You will need to select a sponge sealing bulb that is approximately 30% larger than the gap you are trying to seal. For example, if the gap between the hatch lid and panel edge is 10mm, you should look to use a section with a sponge sealing bulb around 15mm diameter. This will help create a dependable seal but reduce the chance of compression set.