Edge trims, or self-gripping seals, are used to protect the edges on panels, doors and glass. They are manufactured with a metal or plastic reinforced self-gripping spine so hold themselves in place without the need for additional adhesive or mechanical fixings. They are available in a range of different sizes designed to fit different panel thicknesses and sealing gaps.
This guide from Seals Direct discusses the different types of edge trim and provides an explanation of what measurements you need to take before purchasing a suitable replacement.
Video Demonstration
Whilst identifying and sourcing a replacement edge trim is a relatively straight forward process, there are quite a few stages that could cause confusion. It is often useful to watch the process be completed by someone else, prior to taking measurements from your own panel, edge, locker, door or enclosure.
This video demonstration from Seals Direct runs through the process of measuring the panel edge and trying to calculate the size of the gap you need to seal. We also look at the three different types of edge trim and discuss how they are manufactured.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Edge Trim
There are three types of self-gripping clip on edge trims;
1 – Edge Trims
2 – Edge Trims with Side Seals
3 – Edge Trims with Top Seals
Side seals and top seals are manufactured with a sponge sealing bulb which helps create a watertight seal when compressed. This sponge bulb is located on either the side or top of the edge trim, depending on the angle in which the lid closes against the section.
Not the product you are looking for? Take a look at our technical guide for identifying and replacing lip seals.
Step 2: Measure the Panel Thickness
Once you have identified the type of edge trim you require, measure the panel thickness. This is the edge that the profile will clip over.
We recommend using either a digital caliper or Vernier caliper to get a precise measurement of the thickness of this panel. This is to ensure that you purchase a product that is large enough to clip over the panel edge, but is not too loose and may fall off. You will need to take this measurement in millimeters.
For reference, most sheet metal is around 1.6mm thick and Perspex or glass is around 3mm to 6mm thick. However, there is no fixed rule and the thickness of your panel edge will be dependent on your application.
Step 3a: Edge Trim
If your existing seal does not have a sponge sealing bulb, you will need to use a standard clip on edge trim.
Use the measurement you took in step 2 to identify the best replacement section. These profiles are sold in a range of different sizes to fit different panel thicknesses from 1.5mm to 16mm thick.
View our range of Edge Trims.
Step 3b: Edge Trim with Side Seal
Your section may have a sponge rubber bulb located on the side of the edge trim. This is the part that creates the seal when the door or lid is closed. You will need to measure the diameter of this sealing bulb to identify a replacement product that adequately seals your door or enclosure.
Once you know the diameter of the sealing bulb, you can use this measurement along with the panel thickness to purchase a replacement section.
We recommend compressing the sponge sealing bulb by approximately 30%. This will create a good watertight seal and reduce the chance of compression set. You can calculate this by measuring the size of the gap between the two panel edges. If you do not have access to either a digital caliper or Vernier caliper, place a piece of blutac on one edge and close the door. Open the door and measure the squashed blutac. This will give you the size of the gap you need to seal.
View of range of Edge Trims with Side Seals.
Step 3c: Edge Trim with Top Seal
Your section could have a sponge sealing bulb located on the top of the edge trim. This top seal is the part that creates the seal when the door or lid is closed. You will need to measure the diameter of this sealing bulb to identify a replacement product that adequately seals your door or enclosure.
Once you know the diameter of the sealing bulb, you can use this measurement along with the panel thickness to purchase a replacement section.
We recommend compressing the sponge sealing bulb by approximately 30%. This will create a good watertight seal and reduce the chance of compression set. You can calculate this by measuring the size of the gap between the two panel edges. If you do not have access to either a digital caliper or Vernier caliper, place a piece of blutac on one edge and close the door. Open the door and measure the squashed blutac. This will give you the size of the gap you need to seal.
View our range of Edge Trims with Top Seals.
Replace your Edge Trim with Seals Direct
If you’re looking for edge trims, side seals or top seals the team at Seals Direct can help you find the correct product for your requirements. We are a leading supplier of rubber seals and trims, with an inventory of over 760 stocked products.
Contact our technical team by email at sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk or via phone on 01425 617722 for help and advice with selecting the best product for your application.